Common Health & Safety Mistakes

When it comes to health and safety, most companies have the basics mastered – we know that from supporting our Hassle free customers, but even if you are confident you have covered everything, it’s easy fall into a few common pitfalls which can create bigger problems.

We’ve listed the most common health and safety mistakes we regularly see below, along with some steps you can take to avoid them:

1. Managing risks
Even routine tasks – like lifting boxes or moving office furniture – can cause injuries. Even printer toner. Regular reviews of risk assessments can go a long way in reducing risks. See our tip of the month on updating risk assessments

2. Staff refresher training
Skills and knowledge can fade, especially if you have not put into practice what you have learnt. For example, hopefully you will not have had to perform CPR since completing a First Aid course. Refresher courses help reinforce knowledge and keep everyone alert and up to date on new procedures

3. Updating your equipment 
Did you know even plasters have an expiry date? First Aid kits, Fire extinguishers, PPE – these items are only effective if they’re in good condition and kept up to date. Set a schedule to regularly check your safety equipment to avoid any surprises in an emergency.

4. Always report a ‘near miss’ 
A loose cable on the floor, a spill that wasn’t properly cleaned up – these small issues are easy to overlook but can lead to accidents. Get in the habit of reporting near misses before they become a full hazard – an accident waiting to happen

5. Mental health support 
Health and safety is not just about physical safety but mental safety too. Work-related stress is now the number one cause of employee sickness absence. The HSE The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 contains emphasis on employers’ responsibilities to take account of employees’ mental health in their first-aid needs assessment;

6. Fire Evacuation practice 
Everyone might be able to see the fire evacuation plan, but have they read and understood it? It’s wise to do a fire alarm test regularly so everyone knows a) what the alarm sounds like and b) what to do in the event of the alarms sounding.

In our experience, businesses find these few things the hardest to stay on top of. With training and raising awareness, you can help keep these issues under control ensuring a safer workplace for your team.