Workplace Safety Tips
Making Your Work Environment Safe and Healthy

Every year, hundreds of people in Ireland are injured while performing work-related tasks. While you can never predict when an accident will happen (that's why they're called "accidents"), it's important to note that there are steps one can take to lower the chance that you are injured while at work.

1. Know your environment.
Pay attention to the machinery around you. Know what each piece of machinery does, know who operates it, know how to shut it off if needed, and try to keep informed of the machine's maintenance schedule and what is done to maintain the machine. Knowledge is always your best ally when it comes to workplace safety.

2. Know your company's procedures for accidents at work.
Know who to call in case there is an accident involving a co-worker or visitor to your work site. Know what your company expects of you, and what you should do in case of an accident.

3. Keep yourself informed of potential hazards.
Keeping a watchful eye on areas where the risk of injury is high can be a big step toward avoiding workplace injury. Keep note of loose railings and hand-holds, unstable raised areas, possible tripping hazards, and other potential risks. Report your findings to the head of maintenance or your supervisor. This action protects not only you, but your fellow workers, as well.

4. Inspect your work area daily.
When you arrive at your work area everyday, check any potential danger areas and make sure your machinery is working properly and that all your safety gear (if needed) is in good condition. Again, this is a simple thing to do that can lower your chance of being injured on the job.

5. At the end of the work day, report any maintenance issues or problems with your machinery to the head of maintenance.
Again, this is a simple, quick thing to do that can prevent workplace accidents for you, and for anyone who operates the machine after you.

Even those who work in office buildings can significantly decrease the likelihood of a workplace accident. For instance:

1. Keep a close eye out for obstructions.
This is important to do all the time, but it is especially important to watch for them on stairwells, in hallways, and in car parks.

2. Check that large office machinery is stable and secure.
This is especially important in the cases of large copying machines, heavy printers, and appliances in food preparation areas.

3. Watch out for water and other spills.
Look for this around washrooms; near entries and exits - especially in wet or cold weather where snow may have melted; in car parks; and in food preparation areas. While these may be areas where spills and standing water are most prevalent, keep a sharp eye out for spills elsewhere, as it is becoming more commonplace for people to eat at desks and other work areas.

4. Be careful around moving objects.
Watch for problems with lifts and escalators, and keep loose clothing or bags away from the doors or moving parts.

Above all, use common sense at the workplace, as in all areas of your life. Stay safe by being aware of who and what is around you and what everything is doing... you will lower your risk of injury at work significantly simply by being attentive and aware.

If you have been injured at work, however, your first call should be to your solicitor. Only your solicitor can help you through the maze of legal ins and outs of a personal injury claim in Ireland. Be sure to give your solicitor as much accurate information as possible about the accident, along with names and contact information for relevant persons, witnesses, and medical professionals. The more information your solicitor has, the better he or she will be able to help you through this trying time.

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