12 tips for a safer small business
Workplace safety doesn’t have to be difficult – these tips provide a great start to make your workplace safer. They’re the result of the 12 OHS hazards that our inspectors most commonly see during their visits to small businesses.
And if you would like more practical advice to identify and fix these hazards in your business, read our publication 12 Ways to Make Small Business Safer
1. Fire Ensure extinguishers are in place, maintained and clearly marked for type of fire. All fire exits are clear and exit signs illuminated.
2. Electrical Plugs, sockets, switches are in good condition. Floors are clear of extension cords, which are tested and tagged. Safety switches are hardwired into electrical switchboards.
3. Chemical Workplace chemicals register and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are current. Chemicals are handled and stored to MSDS guidelines, and employees who use chemicals are trained in their safe use.
4. Slips, trips and falls Work areas are kept clean, uncluttered and well lit. Employees wear suitable footwear.
5. Storage and racking Racking systems are stable and in good condition, and they display and comply with the specified Safe Working Load. Safe access is provided to storage areas.
6. Noise Eliminate or reduce noise from loud processes or equipment. Where applicable, hearing protection is available and signage indicates it must be worn.
7. Forklifts Forklift operators have a current licence and always wear a seatbelt. Forklifts are checked daily and regularly maintained. Traffic management plans and signage are present, and pedestrians are physically separated as much as possible.
8. Heights Mezzanine floors have safe access and fall protection, handrails are secure and steps are well maintained, platform ladders are industrial grade and comply with standards.
9. Manual handling Hazardous manual handling is eliminated. Adequate space is provided for work or storage and trolleys are used to move items. The work area is between knee and shoulder height, and is close to the worker’s body.
10. First aid A first aid box is readily available and appropriately stocked. Qualified first aid staff are available and known to staff. Sufficient amenities are present for all staff.
11. Asbestos All asbestos is correctly labelled and an asbestos register is prepared and up to date. Asbestos in poor condition has been removed by a licensed asbestos removalist.
12. Machinery Safe access to machinery and equipment is provided. Moving parts cannot strike or reach people, and other hazards associated with machinery such as fumes, chemicals and noise have been assessed.
