For some, your home is your workplace, and for others, it’s a place where you live with your family, roommates, or even alone. Either way, safety never stops! Although you may clock out when you finish work for the day, this doesn’t mean that safety practices are also done. Safety at home is just as important as safety while on the job.
When you prioritize safety, even when you’re not working, you can help develop a better safety attitude. This can prevent injuries from occurring while at home that may impact your ability to not only perform your job but to also do the activities that you love!
Just like in the workplace, when you maintain good safety practices at home, it creates a sense of comfort, security, and pride in your space. Use the action items below:
HOUSEKEEPING
- Ensure all chemicals are properly stored and labeled, as well as out of reach from any children and/or pets. Make sure to consider items like cleaning supplies,
aerosol cans, paints, car supplies, medicine, etc. - Use a schedule for household chores so they don’t pile up. Letting chores pile up can be overwhelming and sometimes even lead to more work. Instead, stick to a routine that will allow you to tackle a bit of cleaning each day. Break chores out into daily (i.e., making your bed, doing dishes), weekly (i.e., vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom), and monthly/quarterly (i.e. deep cleaning items like wiping baseboards or clearing drains, changing your furnace filter).
SHELVING AND STORAGE
- Follow proper instructions when installing shelving. Make sure the shelving unit can withstand the weight of the item(s) you wish to put on it. If you are unsure, ask for help!
- Use proper containers when storing items and label them accordingly. Stack fragile items last. Annually inspect for any water damage, pests, or broken items.
SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS
- Maintain clean and dry floors. Clean spills up immediately. Ensure rugs aren’t rolling up at the ends.
- Have cords tucked away. Don’t leave items in front of doorways or at the top of stairs.
- Have adequate lighting with switches easily accessible and at the top and bottom of stairs. Install handrails where needed and be mindful of your movements.
This is not to say that you must maintain a meticulous home at all times. We’re all human, messes are inevitable, and some things are out of your control. Instead, consider incorporating proper safety habits into your day-to-day activities to enhance your life by decreasing the likelihood of hurting yourself and feeling safer while at home.
Looking for an expert Health and Safety Consultant? Let us help you reduce the risk of accidents by providing a complete solution. Contact us now!