As an employee, you count on your workplace to provide safe conditions. But it's also up to you to take measures to protect yourself from harm at work. In this post, we'll explore some smart strategies you can use to maximize safety on the job. From speaking up about hazards to using protective gear, a few simple habits go a long way to keeping you injury-free.

1. Speak Up About Hazards

If you notice something unsafe in your workplace, don't stay silent. Immediately alert your supervisor and/or your company's safety officer so the hazard can be addressed. Point out things like slippery floors, blocked fire exits, frayed electrical cords, inadequate ventilation, and missing machine guards. Speaking up can prompt quick fixes that prevent injuries. And if hazards still aren't corrected, a work accident attorney can help you take further action.

2. Follow All Safety Rules

Make a point to completely adhere to your employer's safety policies and procedures. Don't ever take risky shortcuts or break rules meant to protect you, even if it seems quicker. Something as basic as ignoring a "hard hat required" zone can leave you vulnerable to a serious head injury. Make smart safety choices and set a good example for coworkers. A work accident attorney can investigate if loosely enforced rules contributed to an injury.

3. Use Protective Equipment

Always use personal protective equipment (PPE) required for your job tasks. This includes safety gear like hard hats, protective eyewear, respirators, gloves, and footwear. Inspect PPE before each use to ensure it's in serviceable condition. Report any damaged or ill-fitting PPE to your supervisor right away and ask for replacements. Your PPE helps shield you from chemical, impact, temperature, respiratory, and other on-the-job hazards. A work accident attorney can determine if inadequate PPE led to injury.

4. Lift Properly

Back injuries from improper lifting affect countless workers each year. Always use proper lifting form - bend your knees, tighten your core, grasp the load firmly close to your body, and slowly lift by straightening your legs. Don't attempt to lift overly heavy or awkward items alone - ask for help. Use lifting belts, hand trucks, carts, and other aids when required by the task. Take steps like stretching to warm up before doing prolonged lifting. A work accident attorney can get compensation if poor lifting equipment or training causes a back injury.

5. Be Aware of Hazardous Materials

Know which chemical products or hazardous substances you work with, and closely follow safety protocols. Insist on adequate training for safe handling and use. Wear specified protective equipment like gloves, goggles, or respirators. Report any chemical leaks, spills, or odors right away. Be mindful of hazard labels and safety data sheets. Don't cut corners that could expose you to toxins or flammable/explosive materials. A work accident attorney can determine negligence if you're injured due to contact with hazardous materials at work.

6. Report Early Signs of Pain

Don't ignore soreness or pain that arises while doing your job tasks. Report it promptly to occupational health staff and your supervisor, even if it seems minor. Early reporting allows proactive steps like light duty, physical therapy, ergonomic adjustments, assistive devices, or technique modifications to help prevent small discomforts from developing into injuries requiring time off or surgery. Don't delay until the pain becomes severe. A work accident attorney can make sure even minor on-the-job injuries are properly handled.

7. Prioritize Situational Awareness

Stay alert and attentive while operating machinery, working at heights, directing vehicles, or doing tasks that affect others' safety. Avoid distractions and fatigue. Keep workspaces tidy to prevent trip hazards. When in doubt, pause work until safety can be maximized. Lapses in awareness put you and your coworkers at risk. A work accident attorney can investigate if inadequate training or oversight led to an injury caused by inattention.

Making smart safety choices like speaking up, fully using PPE, lifting properly, and staying focused helps keep you injury-free on the job. Your workplace should provide a hazard-free environment, but you also play a key role. Use all resources available to maximize your safety, and speak to a work accident attorney if you are injured so that your rights are protected. While no one wants to think about being injured on the job, it does happen. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, employers reported 2.8 million injury or illness cases. If you've been injured on the job, you need a work accident attorney to help you. Call us now at Harris Injury Law for a consultation.