Putting Safety First in 2020: A Guide for Business Owners

If you’re a business owner, your employees’ health and safety should be at the forefront of your mind. And this couldn’t be more true in 2020. The covid outbreak is obviously one of the major health concerns on people’s minds today. However, it’s not the only issue you should worry about when it comes to your employees. Luckily, by making a plan and following it, you’ll be able to greatly minimize risk and keep everyone safe.

Make a safety plan and stick to it

This may seem obvious, but it’s vital to remember. Your employees look to you for guidance, and if they see that you don’t respect certain guidelines, they’ll probably follow suit. Instead, set a good example and show that you take your safety and theirs seriously.

Covid-19

You may have already opened your business again, since each state is following different guidelines. If not, be sure to lay out a specific plan outlining what you’re doing to prevent the spread of covid-19 in the workplace. To make an infectious disease preparedness plan, this guide created by OSHA has important information to take into consideration. You’ll want to include details such as regular cleaning practices, encouraging the use of masks, and urging them to stay home if they have any symptoms. Other social distancing guidelines may need to be added depending on what sector of business you’re in.

Water safety

While most people are focused on viruses and other diseases that may spread, another important concern is water safety. If your employees use the sink at work or drink from a water fountain, this should be at the top of your priorities. Hydration is one of the keys to health, after all. Instead of letting this important element of business safety slip, make sure you have a plan.

Two main dangers to protect against when it comes to leaving a business vacant for several months are mold and Legionnaires’. That’s because both issues are likely to occur in moist, humid environments. And unoccupied buildings provide ideal circumstances for both to grow.

Mold

Mold thrives in moisture, and often grows in walls, carpets, ceiling tiles, and pipes. Some types of mold are easier to get rid of than others, but it’s best to avoid it in the first place. To avoid mold, make sure you keep your building in top condition; control moisture levels, clean thoroughly after flooding, repair leaks, and monitor air flow/ventilation.

Legionnaires’

Legionnaires’ is an issue that you may not have heard of. This is a dangerous disease caused by Legionella bacteria. It often grows in wet places: showerheads, sink faucets, cooling towers, and large plumbing systems. It spreads through tiny droplets of water, when water gets into the lungs when drinking.The best way to avoid this disease is ensuring your business has a properly working water management system.  If you manage a business and prioritize employee safety, this should be in the forefront of your mind when opening up again.

Prevention is key when it comes to the safety of your business

This is a lot of information, but luckily you don’t have to implement these plans alone. Keeping your employees safe is vital, and it never hurts to get professional help to do so. When maintaining your business’s water management system, be sure to choose a company you can trust with certified technicians.  When it comes to avoiding the spread of disease, following and respecting CDC guidelines is crucial. Most importantly, set a good example to employees how seriously you take their health and safety. They’ll likely follow your lead.