During the holiday season, many industries experience a spike in activity. While this is great for business, it also increases the risk of workplace injuries and accidents. From cold weather hazards to the stress of meeting deadlines, it’s important to take proactive steps to keep your employees safe during the busiest time of the year.
5 Things You Can Do
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time to stay vigilant about safety in the workplace. Making these five small changes can make a big difference in preventing accidents this year.
1. Create a Safe Environment
One of the best ways to keep your workers safe is by maintaining a hazard-free environment. Here’s how.
- Clear Walkways and Exits. Make sure that all walkways, exits, and work areas remain free of obstructions. Remove any clutter, cords, or equipment that could cause tripping hazards, and ensure clear access to emergency exits at all times.
- Address Winter Weather Hazards. In areas where snow and ice are common, prioritize keeping sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways free of slippery conditions. Use salt or sand to minimize the risk of slips and falls, and set up warning signs in areas that may still be icy.
- Maintain Proper Lighting. With shorter days and reduced natural light during the winter months, ensure that all workspaces, parking lots, and outdoor areas are well-lit. Regularly inspect lighting fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs to prevent accidents and enhance visibility.
2. Provide Seasonal Safety Training
Refresh your employees on safety protocols related to the holiday season.
Manual Handling
The holiday rush often brings an increase in tasks like lifting, carrying, and moving inventory. Take this opportunity to remind employees of proper lifting techniques to prevent strains or back injuries, which are all too common when rushing through these tasks.
As a matter of fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 40% of all work-related musculoskeletal disorders are related to back injuries.
So, be sure to stress the importance of using their legs, not their backs, when lifting, and always encourage teamwork for heavier loads to prevent injury.
Winter Driving Safety
One key area to focus on is winter driving safety. If your employees are required to drive for work, especially in regions prone to snow and ice, provide comprehensive training on safe winter driving practices. This should include reminders to reduce speed in icy conditions, maintain safe distances between vehicles, and know how to handle skidding or sliding on slick roads. Equipping your team with this knowledge can significantly reduce the likelihood of weather-related accidents.
Emergency Preparedness
Don’t overlook emergency response training. The holiday season can bring its own set of potential emergencies, whether it’s due to adverse weather or increased activity in the workplace. Ensure all employees are familiar with your company’s evacuation procedures, know where the closest emergency exits are, and are aware of the locations of fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
Taking these extra steps to reinforce emergency protocols can keep your workforce calm and organized in case an issue arises, ensuring their safety throughout the season.
Prepare your team for every situation with professional safety training from Safety by Design — contact us now!
3. Manage Increased Workloads
During the holiday season, longer hours and busier workdays can lead to stress and fatigue, increasing the risk of workplace accidents. To combat this, encourage employees to take regular breaks to stay alert and focused. Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents, so giving your team time to recharge is crucial.
Additionally, managing schedules effectively is important. So, avoid excessive overtime, which can lead to burnout and mistakes. If possible, rotate shifts to ensure that employees have time to rest and recover.
4. Recognize the Importance of Fire Safety
Integrate fire safety into your holiday preparations to protect both your workplace and your team.
- Check Electrical Equipment. Inspect all holiday lights and electrical decorations for damage, frayed wires, or wear. Make sure they meet safety standards and avoid overloading electrical outlets, as this can lead to overheating and fires.
- Place Decorations Safely. Position decorations away from heat sources like space heaters, radiators, and any exposed wiring. If your workplace has a live Christmas tree, keep it well-watered to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
- Have a Fire Safety Plan in Place. Ensure your team knows what to do in case of a fire. Review fire evacuation routes, ensure fire extinguishers are accessible, and conduct fire drills to keep everyone prepared during the holiday season.
5. Encourage Open Communication
Fostering a culture of open communication around safety helps prevent accidents before they happen.
- Encourage workers to report any safety concerns or hazards they notice right away.
- Ensure they know who to contact if an issue arises.
- Create opportunities for employees to provide feedback on how to improve safety procedures during the holiday season.
- Regular check-ins can help identify potential risks before they become bigger issues.
By taking these steps, you can help create a safer and more secure environment for your employees during the holiday season!
Prioritize Safety This Holiday Season
At Safety by Design, we’re committed to helping businesses like yours maintain a safe workplace year-round. As you prepare for the holiday rush, don’t let safety fall by the wayside. Whether you need seasonal safety training, staffing support, or an audit of your current procedures, we’re here for you.
