Keeping up with the latest workplace safety trends is essential for any business. Unfortunately, accidents happen, and when they do, it’s important to know the latest trends in workplace safety so you can be prepared.
By being aware of up-to-date health and safety concerns, you can take steps to protect your employees and create a safe working environment. Here are some of the top workplace safety trends and changes that are happening today.
The Importance of Workplace Training
One of the most important things you can do to maintain a safe workplace is to ensure all your employees are properly trained on how to safely perform their job duties.
In recent years, there has been an uptick in the number of businesses requiring employees to complete online safety training courses prior to starting work. Not only does this help reduce the number of accidents, but it also helps protect your company from potential liability issues.
Usage of Technology for Safety Training and Tracking
One of the biggest workplace safety trends is the use of technology for safety training and tracking. With the rise of online learning platforms and the ubiquity of smartphones, employers have more opportunities than ever before to provide safety training to their employees.
There are now many apps and online tools that can be used to track employee safety compliance and report any incidents that occur. This allows employers to quickly address any potential hazards and improve their workplace safety programs.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with their environment. This includes everything from the design of office furniture to the layout of workstations. Improving ergonomics in the workplace can help reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain.
Thee Rise of Automation
Another trend that is impacting workplace safety is the rise of automation. As more and more businesses look for ways to improve efficiency and cut costs, many are turning to automated solutions such as robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
While these technologies can help improve productivity, they also come with their own set of safety concerns. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards associated with automation and take steps to mitigate them.
Employee Wellness
Employee wellness programs are becoming more common as companies look for ways to promote healthy lifestyles among their employees. These programs often include things like fitness challenges, healthy eating initiatives, and smoking cessation programs. Implementing an employee wellness program can help improve morale and reduce healthcare costs.
An Increase in Employee Assessment Testing
As businesses continue to prioritise productivity and efficiency, the demand for employee assessment testing — including audiometry assessments — is on the rise. These tests can help companies determine areas of strength and weakness in their workforce, allowing them to adjust training programs and allocate tasks accordingly. However, it’s important to note that these tests should not solely be relied upon to make hiring or promotion decisions.
While they can provide valuable insight into a person’s skillset, they may not capture qualities such as empathy or creativity that could make them a valuable asset to the team. In addition, it’s crucial to ensure that assessment tests are fair and free from bias in order to truly evaluate an individual’s potential.
By utilising staff assessment testing as a tool for potential growth rather than strict evaluation, organisations can see significant improvements in overall performance and workplace satisfaction.
An Increase in Mental Health Issues
Another current trend affecting workplace safety is an increase in mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
According to a study by the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (cited in Aihw.gov.au 2022), 1 in 5 (21.4%) adults in Australia suffers from some form of mental illness. This can lead to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and an increased risk of accidents.
To combat this trend, many businesses are now offering employee assistance programs (EAPs) which provide counselling and other resources to help employees deal with mental health issues.
Summary
By understanding the current trends in workplace safety, employers can take steps to create a safer environment for their employees. Slips, trips, and falls are still one of the most common types of accidents in the workplace, so it’s important to regularly inspect workspaces for hazards and train employees on safe navigation.
Additionally, ergonomics and mental health are two growing areas of concern that should not be ignored.
By taking steps to address these issues, employers can create a safer and more productive workplace for everyone involved.
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Marshall Thurlow
Marshall Thurlow is Director and Founder of Orion Marketing Pty Ltd. He is a digital marketer with expertise in SEO, website design, content marketing and project management. With over 15 years of experience spanning government, not-for-profit and the private sector, he is well equipped to lead teams to success.
