How do you promote health and safety in the workplace?
On 28 April, we celebrate the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. This day aims to raise awareness about the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. In addition to using safe machinery, protective clothing, and other approved equipment, it is also essential that employees exhibit safe behaviour. In this article, we share various tips on how you, as an employer, can create a safe and healthy working environment, and we are keen to show how GJ GROEP, can assist you with this.
1. Ensure a Risk Assessment and Evaluation (RAE)
A Risk Assessment and Evaluation (RAE) is a method to identify all possible occupational risks within your company or organisation. By identifying these risks, you can effectively address them and reduce the likelihood of accidents or health problems.
Every company with employees is obliged to identify occupational risks and assess their potential impact on staff. These findings must be documented in the RAE, including an Action Plan (AP). The AP describes the measures the employer will take to address risks.
2. Appoint a Prevention Officer
A prevention officer is an employee within the company who, in addition to their regular duties, is committed to preventing accidents and absenteeism. Appointing a prevention officer within your company can help to identify problems early, as this person is present in the workplace daily and is part of the company culture.
3. Have a Periodic Occupational Health Examination (POHE) or Preventive Medical Examination (PME) carried out
Similar to a Risk Assessment and Evaluation (RAE), the purpose of a POHE (Periodic Occupational Health Examination) or a PME (Preventive Medical Examination) is to prevent or limit as much as possible the health risks associated with work. By offering a POHE to your employees, you, as an employer, not only fulfil your obligations under the Working Conditions Act but also contribute to preventing occupational diseases as much as possible.
4. Provide Information and Training
In addition to identifying and effectively addressing risks, it is essential to properly inform your employees about their tasks and the associated safety and health risks. The topics discussed during this training are usually based on the Risk Assessment and Evaluation. As maintaining the RAE is also important, it is essential to repeat the training regularly.
At GJ GROEP, prevention is central to our occupational health services. In addition to absenteeism guidance, we offer a wide range of preventive services, including occupational health scans, workplace assessments, Risk Assessments and Evaluations (RAEs), vitality programmes, Periodic Medical Examinations (PMEs), Periodic Occupational Health Examinations (POHEs), certified confidential counsellors, coaching, and more!
Please contact us today for more information.
