Effective Workplace Safety Equals Long-Term Company Cost Savings

Workplace and facility safety is of utmost importance to the well-being of employees and the smooth running of businesses. However, facilities may hesitate to spend money on site and workplace safety, leaving it too late before an accident occurs. This hesitation can lead to catastrophic consequences, both for employees and for the business itself.

In this blog, we will explore why facilities hesitate to spend money on site and workplace safety and the impact this has on their employees and businesses. We will also look at historical accidents and statistics to support our arguments, providing insight into the importance of prioritizing facility and workplace safety.

The Cost of Safety

Workplaces may hesitate to spend money on new innovative or more effective workplace safety measures, due to the upfront cost. Safety measures can be expensive and facilities may feel that they cannot justify the expense, especially if they have not experienced any accidents in the past.

However, this way of thinking is short-sighted, as accidents can happen at any time and the cost of an accident can far outweigh the cost of implementing workplace safety measures.

According to the government Health and Safety Executive website (HSE), the total cost of workplace injuries and ill health in the UK was £18.8 billion in 2019/2020. This includes the cost to individuals, employers, and society.

Furthermore, businesses that prioritise safety are more likely to attract and retain employees, as well as maintain a positive reputation in the industry. This can lead to increased productivity, higher profits, and long-term success.

Proactive workplace safety measures results in a return on investment.

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The Impact of Accidents

Workplaces that hesitate to spend money on effective workplace safety measures are putting their employees at risk. Accidents in workplaces and on site can be severe and life-changing and can even result in death. In 2022/23, 135 workers were killed at work in the UK and 565,000 working people sustained injuries, according to the Labour Force Survey.

Historical accidents provide insight into the devastating impact preventable accidents can have on individuals and their families. In 2006, a warehouse in Warwickshire, UK, caught fire, resulting in the deaths of four firefighters. The cause of the fire was attributed to a lack of safety measures, including inadequate fire safety procedures and poorly maintained equipment.

The impact of preventable accidents is not only felt by individuals and their families but also by businesses. Accidents can lead to costly legal battles, compensation claims, and damage to the company's reputation. In the long term, this can lead to decreased productivity and lower profits.

Poor workplace safety measures can result in preventable accidents.

Regulations and Standards

Workplaces that hesitate to spend money on workplace safety may also be failing to meet regulations and standards set out by governing bodies. In the UK, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 sets out the legal requirements for employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all their employees. The act requires employers to provide safe systems of work, training, and protective equipment.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal action, including fines and imprisonment. However, the most significant consequence of failing to comply with regulations is the risk of accidents and the disastrous impact they have on individuals and businesses.

All employees legally require effective workplace safety solutions.

Summary

In conclusion, workplaces that hesitate to spend money on effective safety measures are taking an unnecessary risk with the well-being of their employees and the success of their businesses. The cost of safety measures may seem high, but the cost of an accident can be much higher, both financially and emotionally.

Prioritising safety can lead to increased productivity, higher profits and a positive reputation in the industry. On the other hand, failure to comply with regulations and implement safety measures can result in legal action and devastating consequences. By understanding the value of the investment for effective workplace safety, the choice to ensure the future of the business, prioritising the safety and happiness of your employees is just a call away.

If you feel inspired to learn more about the various workplace safety options available for your facility or warehouse, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and request a call or visit from one of our advisors here, or send us a email at info@warehousesafetysolutions.co.uk IRE: info@warehousesafetysolutions.ie

Looking for more inspiration? Take a look our featured Case Studies...

"Wincanton are always looking for more effective ways to ensure warehouse personnel safety, to increase the awareness of their material handling equipment. Personnel safety is a crucial aspect of the day-to-day operation of a warehouse, and any collision between pedestrians and MHE has a high risk of serious injury. Wincanton felt it was crucial to be proactive and implement new ways to increase personnel awareness of the enviroment they are about to enter."

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We have a full range of safety solutions that range from safety floor markings & projected marking systems to industrial safety barriers and surface floor repairs.

With our unique product range, we can cover all elements of health & safety across your facility or site to keep your workforce or assets safe at all times. Simple solutions for self-delivery through to nationwide safety fit-outs by approved contractors. Do contact us to discuss more bespoke enquiries.

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