Safety First is Good for Business
It happens too often
- businesses neglect safety, and someone ends up getting hurt. Putting profits
before people is becoming all too common in the business world and that is a
very bad thing. It isn’t just bad for the very obvious reason that no one
should have to fear getting hurt at work and potentially being injured for life
or worse, but also because people and profits are inextricably linked.
If you put off buying
those fire escape steel doors or you turn down that worker’s request
for ergonomic furniture that will help to prevent back injuries, then not only
are you not doing the right thing by your staff, but you’re putting your
business in jeopardy too. Not convinced? Just look at these very real reasons
why it pays to make workplace safety a priority:Litigation and Law Enforcement are Bad for Business
No matter what kind
of business
you’re running, there will be health and safety requirements that you need to follow
if you want to avoid litigation, and perhaps even persecution, which will, of
course, both be very bad for your business. So, although putting every possible
safety measure you can think of in place might be expensive, it is certainly
the right thing for you to do and it could very well save you money in the
long-term.
Your Employees Deserve it and will Respond to It
Quite simple,
ensuring that your workplace is as safe as it can be, whether that means adding
more fire escapes, installing
CCTV or simply ensuring
that the correct signage is in place, is the right thing to do. Not only that,
but when your staff feel safe and cared for at work, they will respond with an
increase in productivity, and they will, of course, be less likely to take time
out sick due to workplace injuries or to litigate against you for the very same
reason.
It Improves Public Image
If you think the
public couldn’t care less what happens behind closed doors as long as they get
the products and services they want at a price they’re willing to pay, you
couldn't be more wrong. More and more consumers are taking an active interest
in the ethics of their purchases, and if your company has a reputation for
treating staff poorly, you could see a swift drop-off in your sales.
It’s Your Reputation on the Line
In the business world, and as an
entrepreneur, you will know that one of your most important assets is your
reputation. If you have a good reputation, more people will be willing to work
with you, invest in your business, offer you advice and generally be amiable to
working with/helping you out. If your reputation is bad, no one will want to be
tainted by association, and you may find yourself left out in the cold.
The bottom line: our employees and your reputation are the best
assets you have and protecting them is not only your duty but the right thing
to do for everyone involved, including your company. So, don’t skimp on any and
all measures that are required to make your workplace safe.
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