June is National Safety Month. For workers in Texas, it’s a great opportunity to learn more about how to avoid accidents and stay safe on the job. As the # 1 provider of workers’ compensation insurance, Texas Mutual is committed to helping you return home safely every day. That is important to us and to you. After all, job safety isn’t just about protecting yourself and your coworkers, it’s about protecting the families who depend on you. That’s why we pride ourselves on providing information and resources that make business healthier and safer throughout Texas.
Accidents affect employees in all industries. In 2019, 5,333 American workers died on the job and 2.8 million were injured. At Texas Mutual, we believe that every accident on the job is a tragedy. Fortunately, most are preventable and we are here to help.
During National Safety Month, we are asking Texas workers to learn 9 simple steps to lower the risk of injury and to return home safely.
Nine steps to prevent accidents:
Rest well. It is easier to have an accident if you are tired. Get enough sleep and take regular breaks during your work day.
Eat well and stay hydrated. Good nutrition not only improves your health, it helps you stay focused and alert at work. Remember to drink plenty of water, especially if you are working outside in a hot environment.
Keep on moving. Sitting in the same position for a long time is not healthy. In front of a computer or behind the wheel, be sure to get up, stretch, and walk to exercise your joints and improve blood flow.
Ergonomics. Practicing good posture and adjusting your chair or keyboard to the correct height will reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries. Consider using an ergonomic chair or elevated desk to help with back and shoulder pain.
Get training. Before starting any job, make sure you know how to do it safely. If you have questions about a step, ask a supervisor or manager for more information.
Keep alert. Staying alert reduces the risk of accidents. Focus on getting even routine jobs done correctly and avoid taking shortcuts. Also, pay attention to your surroundings and report any potential hazards immediately.
Wear safety gear. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, gloves, safety glasses, and personal fall prevention systems. Make sure all safety devices are in place before using ladders, tools, and machinery.
Make a plan. Preparation is required to know what to do in an emergency. Know where fire exits and fire extinguishers are located and know the proper response procedures during a crisis.
Keep your place clean. Maintaining an orderly workspace with clear aisles (without cables or objects) and with cargoes and boxes properly arranged is important to prevent accidents. Keeping your work area and your person clean will reduce the risk of transmitting dangerous viruses such as COVID-19.
Remember that all jobs can be done safely with the right information, equipment and training. By making small adjustments to your security routine, you can protect yourself and those around you. For more stories of Texans in different fields of work who are improving their lives to work safer every day, go to Texas Mutual “At Work” Success Stories.
–
