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While the US Department of Labor reported
a small decline in the number of reported workplace injuries in
2007, there are still too many people who are either seriously injured
or killed while on the job. Workplace safety should concern everyone.
With continued education, strict adherence to job site safety procedures,
and adequate safety equipment, hopefully the numbers of injuries
will continue to decline.
While construction standards dictate the number
of emergency exits required in a commercial building, there are
no laws requiring an employer to provide a portable fire extinguisher
for the use of their employees in the event of an emergency. If
an employer does provide fire equipment, then there should also
be safety training for all members of staff to learn how to properly
operate the equipment.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OHSA) mandates that employers develop a work place fire prevention
safety plan. This plan must be available for all employees to
review, be discussed with any new hires, and educate the staff
about potential work site dangers.
The national Fire Prevention Week held each year
in October provides a great opportunity to promote jobsite safety
and education. Employers can hold safety training sessions to
reinforce the office’s fire safety rules, including the location
and operation of any extinguishers in the building. It is a good
time to practice safety drills and to ensure proper working order
of the fire system.
Some offices elect a staff member to be their
internal fire marshall. This individual makes sure that the fire
safety rules are current and compliant with safety guidelines.
They can make recommendations regarding the purchase of more detectors
or extinguishers. They may also suggest installing safety signs
at the work site to remind co-workers to take care. By rotating
this responsibility amongst the employees, it serves to remind
everyone to work together to make the jobsite safe.
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