Keeping workers safe during the holiday season: Here’s how

 

The upcoming holiday season may present some unique workplace safety concerns for your company. Spread the word on these specific holiday hazards to help your workers stay safe this time of year.

The holidays can create many chances for incidents and injuries, and employers should be aware of the dangers. One top concern for many facilities: Fire hazards. The U.S. Fire Administration said that over 400 people are killed and 1,650 people are injured from fire-related incidents this time of year.

Here are some Dos and Don’ts of keeping your office safe from fire hazards during the holidays:

• DO inspect all lights, electric decorations, smoke detectors and fire safety equipment before you begin decorating
• DO read manufacturer’s guidelines and DON’T overload electrical outlets
• DO unplug and turn off all lights and displays before leaving the office
• DO water Christmas trees often and remove any brown needles or branches. Consider spraying live trees with fire retardant and be sure artificial trees are flame resistant
• DO remember that plants like mistletoe, holly berries and certain ivy plants are poisonous and should be kept away from areas where children and pets may be able to gain access
• DO keep an eye out for trip hazards while putting up decorations. If you move things around to accommodate decorations, make sure paths are clear. Also, tape down any extension cords that might be in the way and clearly mark their presence
• DON’T put trees or other flammable decorations near fireplaces, candles or other sources of heat
• DON’T use staples or nails to hang strands of lights or extension cords
• DON’T use indoor lights for outdoor displays
• DON’T block exits, hallways or sprinklers with decorations, and
• DON’T let workers who drink during holiday parties drive themselves home. Instead, make sure there are designated drivers before the festivities begin.

Holiday Parties

Holiday parties are a fun tradition at many workplaces during this time of year. But, having a party doesn’t mean you should forget about safety. In fact, holiday parties pose specific safety concerns that you and your workers should be aware of. Here are some ways to keep your workers safe as they get into the holiday spirit:

• Make your office’s holiday party voluntary. If workers are required to come and someone gets hurt, your company is more likely to be on the hook for compensation costs
• To prevent incidents, send a memo to your workers before the party, reminding them of the company’s harassment policies. If you decide to serve alcohol, make it clear that drinking doesn’t serve as an excuse for breaking the rules
• Consider inviting spouses or significant others, as this may help keep potential questionable behavior in check
• Help workers plan ahead to get rides home with designated drivers or other transportation if they plan to drink
• Have designated managers keep an eye out for any dangerous or unruly behavior. Before the party, discuss how they should handle this kind of behavior if they see it, and
• When it comes to alcohol, limit the amount of time that drinks are served or the number of drinks each person can have. Offer non-alcoholic drinks as well.

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