Minnesota workers may be interested in some information on how failing to have an overall strategy can affect workplace safety. Due to high turnover, this lack of strategic vision can lead to more accidents. Many workplaces that have remained accident-free may be in danger of future workplace accidents through complacency. Rather than waiting for an accident to happen in order to review workplace safety policies, experts recommend that companies take a look at their existing program sooner than later.
There are a few potential triggers for new accidents when a safety program is not updated regularly. While experienced workers familiar with safety procedures can generally assist newer workers in this area, too many new workers can lessen their ability to do so. When new hires are inadequately trained, through a lack of resources or complacency about accidents, unsafe working conditions can be the result.
One approach is to start with a vision statement for the overall safety program. Rather than simply thinking of this in terms of goals, like having no accidents, it is important to stating an actual strategy. This should include who is doing the training, what that training entails and what kind of company culture can maintain those safety ideals. The current safety situation at the workplace should then be compared with this strategic thinking. This will allow the company to better understand the changes that need to be implemented in order to maintain a safe work environment.
When these efforts fail, workplace injuries may result. In those cases, an attorney can determine whether an injured worker is eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits for the on-the-job accident. These benefits can include payment of medical expenses as well as a percentage of wages lost if the worker’s injuries caused an absence from the job.
Source: EHS Today, “When Organizations Outgrow Their Safety Programs”, Terry L. Mathis, Jan. 12, 2015
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