Promoting Safe and Healthy Workplaces

Creating a safe and healthy workplace is a top priority for Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) Managers. This responsibility extends even to seemingly low-risk office environments, as occupational illnesses and injuries cost businesses over $170 billion annually in the United States alone. A comfortable, well-ventilated, and secure workplace not only safeguards employee well-being but also significantly boosts productivity and job satisfaction.

Here are some essential tips to protect your most valuable assets—your employees—and foster a culture of safety in offices around the world:

1. Expertise in EHS Challenges

To ensure a safe and productive workspace, EHS Managers must be well-versed in the unique challenges of hybrid work environments. This includes addressing ergonomic considerations for employees with unassigned office seats and varying home office setups. Additionally, EHS professionals should develop emergency response strategies tailored to varied workforce presence and in many cases cultural or regional nuances in location and populations. Prioritizing overall employee well-being while balancing the demands of hybrid work is crucial.

2. Leveraging External Resources

EHS Managers should equip themselves with the right resources to effectively implement and support EHS programs. Consider bringing in external support as an extension of your internal teams. Collaborating with experts can provide fresh perspectives and solutions to complex challenges with a global or local lens while enhancing workplace safety.

3. Cultivating a Safety Culture

Fostering an open and collaborative culture of safety in the workplace is essential. Prioritize people-first safety policies that not only protect employees but also safeguard your brand reputation. By encouraging employees to actively participate in creating a safer environment, you can build a strong foundation for long-term workplace well-being.

4. Ergonomic Workstation Setups: Ensuring that employees have ergonomic workstations is essential for preventing musculoskeletal issues and promoting overall health. Provide adjustable chairs, ergonomic keyboards, and monitor stands to support proper posture. Encourage employees to set up their workspaces to minimize strain on their neck, shoulders, wrists, and back. Conduct ergonomic assessments to identify and address individual needs. Ergonomics in the workplace extends beyond office setups, to retail, warehouses, data centers, manufacturing and more.

5. Emergency Response Programs and Drills: Safety goes beyond physical health; it also encompasses preparedness for emergencies. Conduct regular fire drills and emergency evacuation exercises to ensure that employees know how to respond in critical situations. Post clear evacuation routes and emergency procedures in visible locations throughout the workplace. Make sure to account for cultural considerations when developing global programs and understand local environments. 

6. Proper Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial for reducing eye strain and enhancing overall well-being. Ensure that workspaces are well-lit with natural or artificial light. Consider adjustable lighting options that allow employees to customize their lighting levels to suit their tasks.

7. Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage employees to stay hydrated by providing easy access to clean drinking water. Promote healthy eating habits by offering nutritious snacks and meal options in the workplace. Educate employees about the importance of balanced nutrition in maintaining their energy and focus.

8. Mental Health Support: Recognize that mental health is a vital component of overall well-being. Offer mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs or stress management workshops. Encourage open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma and provide a supportive environment for employees.

9. Risk Assessments: Ensure that the work environment is safe and well-maintained by conducting risk assessments. Regularly inspect equipment, electrical systems, and infrastructure for potential hazards. Address any issues promptly to prevent accidents and injuries.

10. Safety Training and Education: Continuously educate employees about workplace safety. Offer training sessions on topics such as fire safety, first aid, and ergonomics. Keep employees informed about safety protocols and encourage them to actively participate in safety initiatives.

11. Remote Work Safety: As remote work becomes more prevalent, EHS Managers should extend safety measures to home offices. Provide guidelines and resources to help remote employees set up safe and ergonomic workspaces. Encourage regular breaks and movement, even in remote work settings.

12. Feedback and Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement by soliciting feedback from employees. Encourage them to report safety concerns or suggest improvements. Regularly review safety protocols and make adjustments based on feedback and changing circumstances.

By implementing these additional safety tips, EHS Managers can create a comprehensive and holistic approach to workplace well-being. Prioritizing safety and health in the workplace not only protects employees but also contributes to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity, and a positive organizational culture. Remember that a safe and healthy workplace is an ongoing commitment that requires the collaboration and dedication of everyone in the organization.

While these tips are critical for all workplaces, one universal element transcends office settings: the importance of incorporating more physical movement into daily routines.

The Role of Movement in Workplace Health

Insufficient physical activity ranks as a significant risk factor for mortality, and its annual global healthcare cost reaches a staggering $24.7 billion. EHS professionals should prioritize movement within the workplace due to its pivotal role in protecting employee safety and well-being.

Here are some insights into how EHS professionals can combat the issue of inactivity and promote a healthier workplace. Check out the full blog on movement practices from Antea Group USA here.

1. Encouraging Microbreaks

Microbreaks are brief, frequent breaks throughout the workday that encourage employees to move more. These breaks combat the sedentary nature of many jobs and promote physical activity. Encourage employees to take short walks around the office, perform stretching exercises at their desks, or engage in simple movements like squats or lunges. The benefits of microbreaks include improved circulation, reduced musculoskeletal issues, increased energy and focus, stress reduction, and enhanced productivity and creativity.

2. Digital Tools for Movement

Several digital tools can help remind employees to take microbreaks. Fitness trackers can be programmed to notify individuals to move at regular intervals or challenge them to achieve a set number of steps per hour. Productivity tools, such as task timers, can also prompt workers to take breaks after a specific time period. These tools seamlessly integrate movement into the work environment, making it easier for employees to remember to take microbreaks.

Incorporating regular movement into the work routine offers numerous physical, mental, and productivity benefits. It enhances circulation, supports musculoskeletal health, boosts energy and focus, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being. Frequent breaks can enhance productivity and creativity by combatting mental fatigue and encouraging fresh thinking.

In conclusion, as EHS professionals strive to create safe and healthy workplaces, integrating movement into daily routines is a proactive measure that can significantly enhance employee health and well-being. Whether you work in an office or a hybrid environment, prioritizing physical activity is key to a thriving and productive workforce.

Check out more on our Podcast with this episode on Bridging Occupational Safety Across Borders!

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