Insights from a business leader: The benefits of conducting a health and safety audit in the workplace
As a business owner or manager, you know that workplace health and safety is a top priority. Creating the optimal work environment not only protects your employees from harm, but also helps to improve productivity and reduce costs associated with injuries and illnesses. One key tool for ensuring a workplace is meeting relevant standards is a regular health and safety audit.
The time I’ve spent working in a range of different business settings has taught me some valuable lessons. In this article, I will explore some of the key aspects of workplace health and safety audits to help you feel ready for anything.
BENEFITS
Identify potential hazards and risks
A health and safety audit can help you identify potential hazards and risks in your workplace. This can include anything from unsafe equipment or processes to poor ventilation or lighting. In some cases, it can help to identify ergonomic issues that can cause musculoskeletal disorders. By identifying these risks, you can take steps to address them and prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.
Improve compliance with regulations and standards
A health and safety audit can help ensure that your workplace complies with relevant regulations and standards. This can include legal regulations as well as industry-specific standards. By staying compliant, you can avoid fines and legal implications, in addition to creating a safer workplace for your people.
Boost employee morale and engagement
Conducting a health and safety audit shows your employees that you care about their well-being and are committed to creating a safe and healthy work environment. This can boost morale and increase engagement among your workforce, which can in turn lead to improved productivity and staff retention.
Reduce costs associated with workplace injuries and illnesses
By identifying potential hazards and risks, you will have the opportunity to take steps to address them. This could serve to reduce costs associated with workers' compensation claims, medical expenses, and lost productivity due to absence.
Enhance your organisation's reputation
A workplace that prioritises health and safety will enhance its reputation, both among employees and in the wider community. So, by demonstrating your commitment to creating a safe and healthy work environment, you can attract and retain top talent, and improve your brand image.
CONSIDERATIONS
When and where
Whether you're onboarding new staff, changing roles and settings, or arranging travel, you'll find there's an important health and safety angle - such as PPE, equipment, or adjustments - that needs considering. Milestones like this, as well as any changes to your employees’ personal circumstance e.g., maternity, periods of high stress, or returning to work after an illness should trigger action. A risk assessment is advised to ensure that no potential problems are overlooked. It's also easy to assume that all is well when an individual appears to be performing their job comfortably in their new home office. But would that still be the case after extended periods of time at the same desk? Display screen equipment is just one element that may cause issues after hours of use, so performing thorough workstation assessments is a great preventative measure.
Bring your team along
It is important to engage staff in your processes. Be sure to make every employee aware of your policies, and to understand their own responsibilities in relation to them. E-learning platforms are available to help deliver training, where necessary.
Failure to comply should result in clearly stated disciplinary consequences, but this needn't feel daunting if health and safety practices are built into your day-to-day activities and workplace culture. Remember it's not just about the documentation; implementation is key and as long as all staff know and apply safe procedures at each stage of their work, compliance will be second nature to your business.
At the end of the day, it's both your employee's wellbeing and your business's reputation which are at stake when it comes to health and safety. The reassurance of knowing you are compliant is precious and can save time and money in the long run. So, it's worth doing it right, first time.