WORKPLACE SAFETY: RAISING THE BAR
The world we are in poses a lot of risks. The work we do likewise constitute a threat to our lives. Globally, more than 2.78 million people die as a result of work related accidents or diseases. There is an additional 374 million non fatal work related injuries annually. It is being estimated that the economic burden of occupational related injury and death is nearly four percent of the global gross domestic product of some developed countries. Conversely, the human cost of this adversity is enormous. Across the world, the level of safety attained in a work environment is a function of the level of investment employers and employees are willing to invest and commit to; no wonder in some quarters safety is top notch while in some places laxity and frequent workplace accidents is palpable. The reality about the health and safety of Nigerians is still in a messy state.
In Nigeria, our funny attitude towards workplace safety is disgusting. Many employers are only interested I making profit at the expense of the safety of the working environment which some regard safety as an expensive and avoidable undertaking. More laughable is the fact that in a deeply religious country like Nigeria, some people believe that workplace accidents are acts of God and their lives are protected by God alone; as such they are therefore not inclined to comply with safety regulations in the workplace.
At Safety Consultants and Solutions Providers (SCSP), workplace safety is a high – placed priority index. This is because workers spend the bulk of their productive hours at work; as such it is imperative that the working environment must be safe and protected. While it is almost impossible to completely eliminate workplace accidents, there are certain plans, preparations, and actions that can be taken to reduce them. It is our uttermost passion that those who come to work should return to their families unhurt or not mutilated.
On that premise, we make a re-awakening call that everyone has a role to play in that the work environment is safe to operate in. We charge business owners to invest in training their worker on how to protect themselves and rip off exposure to hazard while also maintaining healthy and safety policies. Business executives must actively foster and promote a strong culture of safety to be part of their enterprise DNA. Workers must freely identify and report potential hazards and safety violations as they bear the weight of any impending doom. There should also be aggressive campaigns by safety and health department or risk management department so that employers and employees are regularly apprised of the right practices they are to imbibe. We equally advocate for provision of safety equipments and safety signs in work places. Labour unions have a role to play by legally prosecuting workplaces that endanger the lives of workers. Employers also can make safety fun. This is by the use of safety themes, trivia, quiz and videos in teaching and practice of safety measures. Also, light competitions with prizes and company’s safety recognition awards are great motivators. This will boost employee confidence, help retain safety knowledge and minimise risks and accidents.
Safety Consultants and Solutions Providers (SCSP) is committed to eliminating workplace risks. We are determined in raising the bar in safety efficiency and promoting the wellbeing of workers for optimum productivity. As we preach safety, it is our utmost desire that everyone gets the vision and consciously work to promote and maintain a safe working hub.
