Tips to prevent accidents in the workplace

Health and safety at work are workers rights recognised under the Spanish Constitution. The prevention of occupational risks has also been a major concern in Europe for decades. Risk prevention systems are intended to prevent both occupational illnesses and accidents at work. This is a common objective of governments, companies and, of course, the workers themselves.

There are extensive and detailed regulations on the measures to be taken concerning the workplace, covering large industries to small businesses. Here are some practical tips to prevent accidents at work, so that our daily activities, whether in an office or on a factory assembly line, are made safer.

Plan for the prevention of occupational risks and training

Companies are required by law to produce and implement an occupational risk prevention plan, this plan may be more complex or simple depending on the level of risk associated with the activity of the company. Therefore, the first thing we have to consider is addressing and complying with this preventive planning, both on the part of the management and the staff.

It is essential to train employees so that they always behave in a safe manner with respect to the risks to which they may be potentially exposed in their work environment.

Also, as a worker, if you notice any type of risk, whilst following the protocols established for this purpose, you must inform those in charge so that the appropriate measures are taken.

Safety and cleaning procedures for work areas

According to the Ministry of Labour, an analysis of the various causes of accidents in Spain shows that vehicles and, in general, lifting and transport equipment, are the greatest cause of fatal accidents, with the exception of the construction industry, where it is falls from heights. Getting trapped in machines and equipment and being hit by objects and tools are the types of accidents that, after fatal accidents, are the most serious. Therefore, it is essential to strictly adhere to the safety measures, and use straps or ropes when working at heights.

Generally speaking, order and cleanliness in work areas and traffic routes are crucial in preventing accidents at work. The Ministry of Labour states that a suitable programme for order and cleanliness in the workplace should include five key points:

Prevention of occupational accidents at the office

In areas of more administrative, or office work, we should follow guidelines that help us avoid the accidents and illnesses that are more typical of this type of work, such as:

In addition to following the regulations and risk prevention plans, applying common sense and prudence in our day-to-day work might be the best advice to avoid accidents at work.