39 OHSE Tips for a Safer Workplace

Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment (OHSE) practices are essential for ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. Whether you’re managing a team or working as an individual contributor, understanding and applying OHSE principles can drastically reduce accidents, improve well-being, and create a culture of safety.

Here are 39 OHSE tips to help maintain a safer workplace:

1. Conduct Regular Risk Assessments

Identify hazards in the workplace regularly, assess the risks, and implement appropriate control measures.

2. Provide Adequate Safety Training

Ensure all employees are trained on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the use of safety equipment.

3. Enforce the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Make sure workers use the correct PPE, such as helmets, gloves, and eye protection, to reduce exposure to hazards.

4. Develop a Safety Management System (SMS)

Implement an SMS to ensure that health and safety processes are systematically managed across the organization.

5. Promote a Safety Culture

Foster an environment where safety is prioritized and everyone takes responsibility for it.

6. Ensure Proper Machine Guarding

Equip all machinery with appropriate guards to prevent contact with moving parts.

7. Implement Safe Work Procedures (SWPs)

Develop and follow SWPs for hazardous tasks to minimize risks.

8. Regularly Maintain Equipment

Schedule and perform maintenance on tools and machinery to prevent unexpected breakdowns and accidents.

9. Display Safety Signage

Use clear, visible signs to warn of hazards and guide employees on safe practices.

10. Promote Ergonomics

Set up workstations and tasks in ways that reduce strain and injury, especially for repetitive jobs.

11. Inspect Fire Extinguishers Regularly

Ensure fire extinguishers are inspected and accessible at all times.

12. Set Up Clear Emergency Exits

Keep emergency exits unobstructed and clearly marked in case of an emergency.

13. Provide First-Aid Training

Train employees in basic first-aid so they can respond effectively to workplace injuries.

14. Create an Incident Reporting System

Encourage workers to report near-misses, injuries, and unsafe conditions promptly.

15. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Maintain good airflow, especially in areas where toxic fumes or dust may accumulate.

16. Control Hazardous Substances

Label, store, and handle hazardous chemicals properly, and provide workers with appropriate information and training.

17. Implement a Lockout/Tagout System

Use lockout/tagout procedures to ensure that machinery is properly shut down before maintenance or repairs.

18. Monitor Noise Levels

Control noise exposure through engineering controls, and provide hearing protection when necessary.

19. Encourage Regular Breaks

Promote regular rest breaks to reduce fatigue and the risk of injury.

20. Establish a Zero-Tolerance Policy for Bullying and Harassment

Foster a respectful and safe workplace by addressing bullying and harassment immediately.

21. Conduct Safety Audits

Perform periodic safety audits to evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs and ensure compliance.

22. Use Non-Slip Flooring in Hazardous Areas

In areas prone to spills or moisture, use non-slip mats or flooring to prevent slips and falls.

23. Maintain Good Housekeeping

Keep the workplace clean and organized to reduce the risk of tripping or accidents.

24. Provide Access to Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Ensure that SDS are readily available for all hazardous materials used in the workplace.

25. Regularly Review Safety Procedures

Update safety policies and procedures as needed to adapt to changes in the workplace or regulations.

26. Practice Safe Lifting Techniques

Train workers in proper lifting techniques and encourage the use of mechanical aids for heavy objects.

27. Develop a Safety Committee

Establish a safety committee to involve workers in the development and implementation of safety practices.

28. Implement Environmental Controls

Minimize environmental hazards such as pollution, chemical spills, and waste mismanagement.

29. Create a Fire Safety Plan

Prepare and regularly practice a fire evacuation plan with all employees.

30. Ensure Electrical Safety

Inspect and maintain electrical systems, ensuring that wiring and equipment are safe and meet regulatory standards.

31. Monitor Workplace Temperature

Ensure that the workplace is kept at a comfortable temperature to avoid heat stress or cold exposure.

32. Use Appropriate Ladders and Lifts

Ensure employees use the right equipment for elevated tasks, and follow safety protocols for working at heights.

33. Provide Safety Training for Temporary and Contract Workers

Ensure that all workers, regardless of their employment status, receive the same safety training and access to PPE.

34. Manage Stress and Mental Health

Promote mental health awareness and provide resources for employees dealing with stress or burnout.

35. Incorporate Safety into Design

Include safety considerations when designing new workspaces or processes to minimize hazards.

36. Create an Incident Investigation Process

Investigate accidents and near-misses to determine root causes and prevent recurrence.

37. Use Safety Technologies

Incorporate technology, such as monitoring devices or automation, to reduce risks.

38. Hold Regular Safety Meetings

Schedule safety meetings to discuss hazards, share lessons learned, and update workers on new safety initiatives.

39. Continuously Improve OHSE Practices

Safety is a continuous process. Regularly evaluate your OHSE program and make improvements to keep up with best practices and new regulations.

Implementing these 39 tips can significantly improve the safety and well-being of employees while creating a productive and healthy work environment.

A proactive approach to OHSE not only prevents accidents but also enhances job satisfaction and organizational success. Make safety a priority today!