Is it the company’s responsibility to keep employees safe or is it the responsibility of each employee?
It goes without saying that every employee is exposed to risks, regardless of where they work. To prevent accidents, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work has tried to identify the main risk factors:
- Lifting heavy loads;
- Performing repetitive movements;
- Static and uncomfortable postures for long periods;
- Exposure to uncomfortable conditions such as extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting and vibrations;
- Long and intense tasks;
- Lack of rest breaks;
- Lack of autonomy in carrying out work activities;
- Moral harassment.
Once the physical, biomechanical, psychosocial and even organisational factors have been identified, it becomes easier to take measures to prevent accidents. Employees become aware of the risks they run on a daily basis and are more likely to behave safely within the company.
So there is clearly a duality in terms of safety. The company is responsible for creating a safe and positive environment, while encouraging employees to carry out safe behaviours. But employees also play an important role by being responsible for maintaining these behaviours.
But we want to go further…
How can the company play an active role in creating a safe environment?
As Manutan says, the pandemic situation has brought about a new way of working, which means no travelling costs for the employee and therefore the possibility of working from anywhere. However, remote working is not entirely risk-free. The work is considered sedentary, which increases the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and mental illness. The way to prevent this type of illness is to ensure a balance between work and social life.
In face-to-face work, the company should always promote a positive safety culture, with the aim of encouraging good practices. Through PPE – such as gloves, helmets, reflective waistcoats, etc – CPE – including first aid kits, safety barriers, ventilation and temperature control systems – and appropriate floor markings.
If your company takes responsibility for you, you’re in the right place!
Work safe, work better!
