Manufacturing in America is booming right now. In the last year, we’ve seen a swift expansion in the sector, with technological advancements slotting in seamlessly with traditional tools and equipment.
However, it’s these traditional tools that many business owners are paying particular attention to. Running a manufacturing business requires a focus on safety and hazards, especially in environments where heavy machinery and equipment are common.
As a business owner, you know that ensuring the safety of your staff is a top priority. As well as protecting your employees, concentrating on easing any risks also contributes to a more productive and efficient work environment.
If you’re looking at ways to make sure your business is safe, follow these top tips.
Invest in equipment
The cost of equipment can be substantial. However, investing in quality tools and machinery can help to reduce the likelihood of an accident and minimize the risk of equipment malfunctions and breakdowns.
Quality equipment often comes with a warranty, detailed safety instructions, and support from reputable manufacturers.
Thoroughly research the manufacturer’s safety track record and check that they comply with industry standards and regulations. Also, choose equipment that has emergency stop buttons, automatic shut-off mechanisms, and clear safety guards.
Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)
Whether it’s helmets, gloves, safety glasses, or ear protection, PPE can significantly reduce the risk of harm to your employees. As a business owner, it’s crucial to provide the necessary PPE free of charge.
Asking employees to bring their own PPE can lead to inconsistencies in quality and compliance – and there are certain areas of compliance that you must be aware of as a business owner.
Regularly check the PPE needs of your workforce and ensure they have access to the right equipment for their tasks.
It’s worth setting aside time to carry out training sessions on the proper use and maintenance of PPE too, as this will to maximize its effectiveness.
Regular training
In addition to training staff in how to use PPE, ensure all staff, including new hires and visitors, undertake comprehensive safety training that’s relevant to their roles and the workplace environment.
This training includes understanding emergency procedures, equipment operation, hazard identification, and proper use of safety equipment.
Carry out regular refresher courses to keep safety protocols fresh in employees’ minds and encourage open communication where employees can report safety concerns or near-miss incidents.
Whether you need to train staff in the use of industrial controls or run a refresher on how to operate a forklift truck in a warehouse, this is a vital step in reducing risks in the workplace.
Correct signage
Clear signage is a simple yet effective way to enhance safety in your manufacturing facility. Safety signs should be placed in areas where staff can clearly see them, and they need to alert employees and visitors to potential hazards.
Ensure that all safety signs are easy to read and comply with relevant regulations. Regularly inspect and replace signs that are faded, damaged, or no longer relevant.
Additionally, the introduction of color-coded signs for different types of hazards should be considered to improve understanding and compliance among employees.
