The Health and Safety Authority of Ireland addresses a few misunderstandings around the law regarding safety & health at work. These myths may be heard around the worksite or you may have even said them a few times yourself. The health and safety of everyone in your organization is top priority and no one is excluded from the training process. Let’s take a look at some of these common misconceptions.
1.“ Safety & Health at work will cost me and my business money.”
- True and False:
- Nothing is totally free, but view the money you spend on training your employees as an investment in your business. The safer a worksite is, the fewer accidents that will happen, which will lead to increased productivity and quicker results.
- The cost of an accident greatly exceeds the cost of health and safety training. According to a study done by HSA in 2011, on average each accident results in an average pay-out awarded of €27,102 and with 803 workplace claims that amount can quickly add up. This does not include the time away from work for the employee or the cost of replacing the employee while he/she is away.
- The time spent on training employees can be minimized with online platforms such as GoContractor which allows your employees to complete the training on their time before they arrive on site. For more statistic and information on the cost of an unsafe workplace, click here.
2.“Manual Handling? You mean spending a day being told how to lift up a box? What a waste of time.”
False:
- Almost every year, manual handling injuries are the most common non-fatal injury – they account for approximately one third of all injuries. Manual handling is an act that takes place in most work settings. However, it can pose more of a threat when lifting heavier objects. Using proper techniques and prevention methods can lower the risk associated with manual handling.
- The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work recently publish an article on prevention measures to use when handling object that include:
- Designing and organizing tasks to avoid manual handling completely, or at least restrict it.
- Using automation and lifting equipment.
- Organizing manual handling tasks in a safe way, with loads split into smaller ones, and proper rest periods provided.
- Providing information and training to workers on tasks, and the use of equipment and correct handling techniques.
- 3. “Safety & Health at work is just more ‘Red Tape’ hindering business!”
False:
- “Red tape” is described as tasks imposed on businesses that are costly, overly complicated and unnecessary.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set its mission “to assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.” Noncompliance for health and safety laws can result in hefty fines from the regulating authority in your country.
- A safe workplace does not have to be expensive; however, an unsafe workplace can be extremely costly and detrimental to your business. A case study done by InjuriesBoard.ie makes it evident of this.
- Graham, an electrician, was working on a building site when he was struck by falling debris and was knocked to the ground. He suffered significant soft tissue injuries to his neck, shoulder and back, and was unable to work for three months. He also required physiotherapy. He has since returned to work and was awarded €25,000 in General Damages and reimbursement for loss of earnings.
