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Employees Health and Safety Measures

INTRODUCTION
Every business has official responsibilities, in order to guarantee the health and safety of
its recruits and other people involved; protection of the work environment should be a
priority. It is not appropriate to bring about only the minimal of changes which barely
meet the legal requirements. Constructive changes will benefit and promote your
business.
Underprivileged health and safety acts as a safeguard against illnesses and accidents. It
may increase your business costs considerably. However, keep in mind that
disproportionate energy consumption not only harm yours employees health, but it also
damages

your

profits

as

direct

result

of

his/her

sick

leave.

Fine health, safety and environmental performances pay for themselves. They also
develop a good repute of your business in the eyes of your clientele, the local area and
community, and the hired staff.
Your reputation can be an essential benefit to your business. A good standing in the
community will facilitate you by making it easy to draw and maintain a hold on
customers. It will make hiring new employees more convenient. It encourages traders to
trust you; therefore, they will be more inclined towards forging an alliance with you.
Your approach towards health and safety plays a very important role in building up a
strong reputation. Many companies have acquired phenomenal success due to their good
will in the market. Others have suffered a loss of clients and in some cases; employees
turned against them because they were not well served. It is always beneficial for
businesses to adhere to the environmental etiquettes. Not only does it help in making
customers and improving employee motivation, but it also proves your commitment to
being a good citizen.
The best way to manage health and safety measures is by placing down all the steps that
need to be monitored and then supervising the daily activity of all the prescribed
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procedures. It becomes a moral responsibility on your part to constantly assess the
healthy and safe environment, which guards your reputation along with your employees who work hard to maintain your repute in the business market.
Once you have managed an assessment, you would be able to review all other probable
environmental threats. You should always update your evaluation on every occasion and
whenever something is modified - for example, if you purchase new equipment, hire new
employees, change your running performances and professional procedures. You should
look for potential health and safety or environmental problems. You should carry out mini
health assessments from time to time, so that there is no threat of any danger around your
workplace. Involve employees and encourage them to give you feedback for
improvements - options include a safety committee or a suggestion scheme. '
Keep up-to-date with what the most recent technology has to offer for new ideas and
ways to improve your health and safety parameters, whereby, diminishing any risk of
environmental clashes. Thus, it is very important to maintain health and safety in your
workplace; as it has a significant impact on the reputation of your business.
Getting hurt at work or becoming ill through work is not a pleasant subject to think about.
The reality is that 250 people a year lose their lives at work in Britain. In addition, around
156,000 non-fatal injuries are reported each year, and an estimated 2.3 million suffer
from ill health caused or made worse by work.
The mistake is to believe that these things happen in highly unusual or exceptional
circumstances that never occur in your workplace. This is not the case. Some basic
thinking and acting beforehand could usually have prevented these things from
happening.
Implementing health and safety measures doesn't have to be expensive, time consuming
or complicated, in fact, safer and more efficient working practices can often save money
but, more importantly, they can help to save lives.

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This guide shows you the kind of things which cause the more common accidents and
harm to people's health. It lets you see what applies to your work activities, and tells you
how you can get more help and information. This is especially important if you are in
charge of work activities, e.g. you are an employer, because you have legal
responsibilities.
The key to employee productivity is to keep them motivated. Employees can remain
motivated if they feel safe and healthy at their workplace. This says a lot about the
importance of workplace safety. Workplace safety is immensely important for the very
reason of improved productivity. Its only when the employees feel safe at work that they
can invest the fullest of their capacities and exploit the best of their potentials to work.
Workplace safety is the management responsibility. It involves the formation and
implementation of safety and health programs. Employee insurance schemes and
employee safety policies help cover the risk an employee might suffer at work. Jobs,
which put the safety of their employees on stake, should also provide the employees with
the safety costs. Workplace safety and health involves training programs that are meant to
teach the employees to handle risks. The employees need to be trained to react to
impending dangers, if any; they should be trained to face risks and deal with accidents at
work. Its important for the management of a company to heed the safety needs of its
employees through risk covers as well as training programs intended to minimize the cost
of risks. The management should ensure the health and safety of the employees by the
means of safety education programs. The importance of office safety can be promoted
through the formation of a safety committee that is assigned the responsibility to
employee safety. Safety committees are helpful in increasing employee involvement.
Violence at workplace gives rise to serious issues pertaining to office safety. Acts of
violence eclipse the atmosphere in the organization and can leave a permanent scar on the
companys image. Violence at the workplace is sure to lead to frustrated employees in
turn leading to a decline in their productivity. The management should implement strict
measures to prevent acts of violence at work. It should implement policies that safeguard
the employees against harassment, torture or ill-treatment from other employees. Safety
and health is important at a workplace also because human resource is the most important
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resource of an organization. Safety at a workplace, also known as office safety refers to
the safety of this valuable resource of an organization. Satisfied employees can earn for a
company what money cant buy. I am sure; you will agree with me, that human life is
priceless. It cannot be replaced by monetary compensations. An employer might be able
to replace an employee by another. But, what about the employees dedication towards
work? What about the expertise he/she has invested towards his/her work? Can they be
replaced? Definitely not! This makes it extremely important for an employer to cater to
workplace safety, and moreover, to the lives of the employees. Dont you think so?
Due to rapid industrialization, industrial workers are exposed to several types of hazards
and accidents. Every year lakhs of workers are injured due to mechanical,
chemical, electrical a n d r a d i a t i o n h a z a r d s a n d i t l e a d s t o p a r t i a l o r
t o t a l d i s a b l e m e n t . S o i n r e c e n t y e a r s , g r e a t e r attention is given to
health and safety due to pressure from government, trade unions, labor laws
and awareness of employers. The efficiency of workers depends to a great
extends on the environment in which the work. Work environment consists of all
the factors, which act and react on the body and mind of an employee. The primary
aim is to create an environment, which ensures the greatest ease of work and
removes all causes of worries. Occupational health and safety is a discipline with a broad
scope involving many specialized fields. In its broadest sense, it should aim at:
a) T h e p r o m o t i o n a n d m a i n t e n a n c e o f t h e h i g h e s t d e g r e e o f p h y s i c a l ,
m e n t a l a n d s o c i a l well-being of workers in all occupations.
b) T h e p r e v e n t i o n a m o n g w o r k e r s o f a d v e r s e e f f e c t s o n h e a l t h c a u s e d
b y t h e i r w o r k i n g conditions.
c) The protection of workers in their employment from risks resulting from factors
adverse to health.
d) T h e p l a c i n g a n d m a i n t e n a n c e o f w o r k e r s i n a n o c c u p a t i o n a l
e n v i r o n m e n t a d a p t e d t o physical and mental needs.
e) The adaptation of work to humans. S u c c e s s f u l o c c u p a t i o n a l h e a l t h a n d
s a f e t y p r a c t i c e r e q u i r e s t h e c o l l a b o r a t i o n a n d participation of
both employers and workers in health and safety programmes, and involves
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the

consideration

of

issues

relating

to

occupational

medicine,

i n d u s t r i a l h y g i e n e , t o x i c o l o g y, education, engineering safety, ergonomics,


psychology, etc.
Occupational health issues are often given less attention than occupational
safety issues because the former are generally more difficult to confront. However,
when health is addressed, so is safety, because a healthy workplace is by
definition also a safe workplace? The converse, though, may not be true - a socalled safe workplace is not necessarily also a healthy workplace. T h e i m p o r t a n t
point

is

that

issues

of

both

health

and

safety

must

be

a d d r e s s e d i n e v e r y workplace.Work plays a central role in people's lives, since


most workers spend at least eight hoursa day in the workplace, whether it is on a
plantation, in an office, factory, etc. Therefore, work e n v i r o n m e n t s
s h o u l d b e s a f e a n d h e a l t h y. U n f o r t u n a t e l y s o m e e m p l o y e r s
a s s u m e l i t t l e responsibility for the protection of workers' health and
safety. In fact, some employers do not even know that they have the moral and
often legal responsibility to protect workers.

HEALTH OF THE WORKERS:


Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not
merely the absence of diseases. Its a positive and dynamic concept which
means something more than the absence of illness.

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IMPORTANCE OF WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY


Workplace health and safety procedures are necessary for the well-being of both
employers and employees. Violence in the workplace is an ever-growing concern in
todays business community. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), homicide is the fourth leading cause of fatal occupational
injury in the United States. Diseases and other health concerns also affect a worker's
ability to effectively perform his job duties. It is important for employers to take the
necessary steps to protect employees from the health and safety concerns of todays
corporate community.

Health and Safety Hazards


Hazards are considered to be potentially dangerous substances or behaviors that can
cause harm or injury to an employee. There are several hazards employees can be
exposed to in the workplace. Health hazards can range from infectious diseases spread
from one worker to another to poisonous chemicals that are not properly stored and
maintained. For example, some industries are exposed to dangerous gases such as carbon
monoxide. These industries must follow specific safety procedures in the event of an
emergency situation involving the substance.

Health and Safety Enforcement


The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is responsible for enforcing
laws regarding safety in the workplace. OSHA is charged with ensuring employers
provide a healthy and safe work environment for their employers by establishing
guidelines and safety standards. They investigate complaints regarding safety violations
and ensure that any hazards or dangerous work environments are corrected.

Health Guidelines
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has created guidelines to help
employers and office workers understand how certain hazards can negatively impact the
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workplace as well as how emergency situations should be handled. These guidelines
assist companies that conduct potentially dangerous job duties or work with dangerous
chemicals with following the proper workplace procedures to prevent illness or injury.

Health and Safety Programs


Health and safety programs are an important part of preventing injury and illness in the
workplace. Health programs help employers and employees understand the potential
hazards they are exposed to on a daily basis. Effective health and safety programs educate
workers on the benefits of practicing proper workplace behaviors. For example, the
Safety Pays program helps employers determine the cost workplace injuries and illness
have on a companys profit margin. When companies understand the impact injuries have
on their bottom line, they are more inclined to implement programs to keep their workers
healthy and safe.

Employee Awareness
Workplace health and safety practices are important because they help prevent interoffice violence and raise employee awareness of the potential dangers they face. Violent
acts and behaviors of employees and other individuals within the workplace are cause for
concern because they threaten a companys overall well-being. Companies must take an
active approach in educating workers on the importance of practicing safe habits in order
to maintain a healthy and safe working environment.

IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYEES SAFETY


Employee safety should hold tremendous importance for every company. First and
foremost, every employee has the right to work in a safe and healthy environment. No
employees -- or their families -- should have to suffer because of avoidable dangers in the
workplace. By creating a safe and healthy workplace, companies also protect themselves.
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Employee Retention
An unsafe environment will probably make workers feel unappreciated. For instance, if
the company provides inadequate training about operating machinery, allows minors to
use heavy machinery or doesn't enforce a safety code, workers will probably feel the
company doesn't care about their well being. This may lead workers to feel less loyal to
the company and find work with companies that take better care of their employees.
Fewer workers will probably apply to work with the company, too, and the most skilled
workers will probably search for jobs elsewhere. Proper training will help employees feel
good about working for the company.

Company Finances
A company could run into serious financial trouble if an employee sues because of
workplace hazards or a resulting injury. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Act
(OSHA) require all employers to follow specific guidelines in creating safe workplaces.
Not following OSHA's rules could lead to serious legal and financial trouble. Keeping the
workplace safe involves a financial investment, but the investment will pay off by
ensuring the company avoids lawsuits and settlement payments. A newer company, or
one dealing with a hefty lawsuit, may not have the funds to continue operations if it falls
into such financial trouble. Additionally, keeping healthy employees healthy pays off by
avoiding higher insurance premiums that the employer might be subsidizing.

Company Productivity
Healthy employees who feel safe and comfortable in their work environment will work
more productively than employees who become injured or sick in the workplace. Fixing
workplace hazards will help to keep employees working at their best through each
workday, instead of taking time off to heal from an injury or illness. This holds true for
office workers as well as those working in jobs traditionally considered more dangerous,
because sitting for long periods of time each day can cause dangerous health disorders.
Office workers who are encouraged to take short breaks throughout the day to move
around may feel better, enjoy far better long-term health benefits and accomplish more
than workers who remain at their desks.
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Company Reputation
A company will quickly develop a reputation as negligent if it allows employees to work
among avoidable hazards. The company's customers, competitors and the general public
will probably perceive the company as unprofessional if they learn of the company's
safety oversights. Fewer people may purchase goods or services from the company as a
result, and the company may have a more difficult time securing any loans it might need.

IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYEES HEALTH


Human resource is the most important asset that a company has. This is why the
employees' health should be an important concern for all employers. This does not need
to be argued because several studies have proven time and again that healthy employees
are productive employees. Hence, if your company is slacking in this part, better include
workers' wellness now in your strategic action plan for next month or next year.
If you are clueless on how to go about this plan, consider hiring the help of business
consultants. These professionals can assist you in designing an employee health plan and
how to implement it. They can also help you find the right healthcare providers that meet
your needs and budget. Meanwhile, as to what kind of services and benefits should you
include in your company's wellness program to improve and maintain employee health,
there is a wide spectrum of actions or services you can choose from. However, you must
not forget to include in your plan the most important ones.
The most essential wellness benefits that must be included are health screening services,
such as annual physical check-ups, flu shots, blood tests, etc. These are basic services,
which can provide great financial relief to your employees.
Other valuable employee health benefits that can significantly boost productivity and job
satisfaction among your human assets are smoking and alcoholism cessation programs. If
one or a dozen of your employees are suffering from addiction to tobacco or alcohol,
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your productivity can be affected significantly. So make it a point to offer your
employees the opportunity to break free from these health issues.
There are many other health and wellness programs that can make a lot of difference to
your employees and your business as well. Healthy cafeteria dishes, diet counseling and
subsidized membership in gyms are just examples of those simple programs that will help
you ensure a healthy workforce at a fraction of a price you pay when an employee gets
seriously sick.

STATUTORY PROVISIONS
According to factories Act, 1948, the statutory provisions regarding the
health of the workers are stated in the sections 11 to 20. They are

Cleanliness (sec 11):


Every factory shall be kept clean by daily sweeping or washing the floors and workrooms
and by using disinfectants where every necessary. Walls, doors and windows
shall be repainted or varnished at least once in every 5 years.

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Disposal of wastes and effluents (sec 12):


The waste materials produced from the manufacturing process must
b e e f f e c t i v e l y disposed of wastes.

Ventilation and temperature (sec 13):


There must be provision for adequate ventilation for the circulation of fresh
air. The temperature must be kept at a comfortable level. Hot parts of
machines must be separated and insulated. The State Government may make
rules for the keeping of thermometers in specified places and the adoption of
methods which will keep the temperature low.

Removal of Dust and fumes (sec 14):


If the manufacturing process used gives off injurious or offensive dust and steps must be
taken so that they are not inhaled or accumulated. The exhaust fumes of
internal combustion engines must be conducted outside the factory.

Artificial humidification (sec 15):


The water used for this purpose must be pure. The State Government can
frame rules regarding the process of humidification etc. The water used for
humidification shall be taken from a public supply or other source of drinking
water and must be effectively purified before use.

Overcrowding (sec 16):


There

must

be

no

overcrowding

in

factory.

In

f a c t o r i e s e x i s t i n g b e f o r e t h e c o m m e n c e m e n t o f t h e Ac t t h e r e
m u s t b e a t l e a s t 9 . 9 c u b i c m e t e r s o f s p a c e p e r w o r k e r. F o r factories
built afterwards, there must be at least 4.2 cubic meters of space. The chief inspector
of factories can also prescribe the maximum number of workers who can work in each
work room.

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Lighting (sec 17):


Factories must be well lighted. Effective measures must be adopted to prevent
glare or formation of shadows which might cause eye strain.

Drinking water (sec 18):


Arrangements must be made to provide a sufficient supply of wholesome drinking water.
All supply points of such water must be marked drinking water. No such points
shall be within 20 ft. (or 7.5 meters) of any latrine, washing place
etc.Factories employing more than 250 workers must cool the water during the hot
weather.

Toilet facilities (sec 19):


Every factory must provide sufficient number of latrines and urinals.
T h e r e m u s t b e separate provisions for male and female workers. L a t r i n e s a n d
urinals must be kept in a clean and sanitary condition. In
f a c t o r i e s employing more than 250 workers, they shall be of prescribed sanitary
types.

Spittoons (sec 20):


A sufficient number of spittoons must be provided at convenient places, in a
clean and hygienic condition. The State Government may take rules regarding
their number, location and maintenance.

SAFETY OF THE WORKERS:


Safety is a measures or techniques implemented to reduce the risk of injury,
loss and d a n g e r t o p e r s o n s , p r o p e r t y o r t h e e n v i r o n m e n t i n a n y
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f a c i l i t y o r p l a c e i n v o l v i n g t h e manufacturing, producing and processing of
goods or merchandise

.
According to factories Act, 1948, the statutory provisions regarding the
safety of the workers are stated in the sections 21 to 41. They are

Fencing of machinery (Sec 21):


In every factory, every dangerous part of any machinery, every moving part
of a prime mover and every flywheel connected to prime mover the head-race
and tail-race of every water wheel and water turbine, and every part of an electric
generator, motor or rotary converter, every p a r t o f t r a n s m i s s i o n m a c h i n e r y ,
must

be

securely

fenced

by

safeguards

of

substantial

construction.
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Work on or near machinery in motion (Sec 22):


It is necessary to examine any part of the machinery while it is motion. The examination
and lubrication of the machinery, while in motion, should be carried out only
by a specially-trained adult worker wearing tight-fitting clothing.

Employment of young persons on Dangerous machines (Sec 23):


A young person should not be allowed to work at dangerous machines unless,
has been sufficiently instructed and received sufficient training.

Striking gear and devices for cutting off power (Sec 24):
In every factory, suitable striking gear or other efficient mechanical appliance
has to be provided, maintained and used to move driving belts.

Self-acting machines (Sec 25):


No travelling part of a self-acting machine in any factory and no material carried thereon
shall be allowed to run on its outward or inward traverse within a distance of 18 inches
from any fixed structure which is not a part of the machine, if a person is liable to pass
over the space over which it runs.

Casing of new machinery (Sec 26):


A l l m a c h i n e r y d r i v e n b y p o w e r, e v e r y s e t - s c r e w, b o l t o r k e y o r a n y
r e v o l v i n g s h a f t , spindle, wheel or pinion, spur, worm and other toothed or
friction-gearing has to be properly encased or guarded in order to prevent danger to
the workmen.

Prohibition of employment of women and children near cotton openers (Sec 27):
Wom e n a n d c h i l d w o r k e r s a r e p r o h i b i t e d t o b e e m p l o y e d i n a n y p a r t
o f a f a c t o r y f o r pressing cotton in which a cotton opener is at work.

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Hoists, lifts, lifting machines (Sec 28&29):


Lifting machines, chains, ropes and lifting tackles must be of
g o o d m e c h a n i c a l construction, sound material and adequate strength and free from
defects. They are to be properly maintained and thoroughly examined by a competent
person at least once in every 6 months.

Revolving machinery (Sec 30):


The maximum safe working peripheral speed of every grindstone or abrasive wheel
shall be permanently affixed. Safe working peripheral speed of every
revolving vessel, cage, basket, flywheel, pulley or disc has also to be ensured.

Pressure plant (Sec 31):


In any factory operation is carried on at a pressure above the
a t m o s p h e r i c p r e s s u r e , effective arrangements shall be taken to ensure that the safe
working pressure is not exceeded.

Floors, stairs and means of access (Sec 32):


In ever y factor y all floors, steps, stairs, passages and gangways
s h a l l b e o f s o u n d construction and properly kept and maintained.

Pits, sumps, openings in floors (Sec 33):


Every fixed vessel, sump, tank, pit or opening in the ground or in a floor, which may be a
source of danger shall be either securely covered or securely fenced.

Excessive weights (Sec 34):


No person is to be employed in any factory to lift, carry or move any load so heavy as is
likely to cause him injury.

Protection of eyes (Sec 35):


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The state government may require the provision of effective screens or suitable goggles
if t h e r i s k o f i n j u r y t o t h e e y e s i s c a u s e d f r o m p a r t i c l e s
or

fragments

thrown

off

in

t h e manufacturing process or from

exposure to excessive light.

Precautions against dangerous fumes (Sec 36):


In any factory, no person shall be allowed to enter any chamber, tank, vat,
pipe, flue or other confined space in which dangerous fumes are likely to be
present to an extent involving risks to persons.

Explosive or inflammable dust, gas (Sec 37):


All practicable measures have to be taken to prevent explosion by, effective enclosure
of plant and machinery, removal or prevention of the accumulation of dust, gas etc and
exclusion or effective enclosure of all possible sources of ignition.

Precaution in case of fire (Sec 38):


Every factory has to be provided with adequate means of escape in case of fire. Effective
and clearly audible means of giving warning in the case of fire have
t o b e p r o v i d e d . A f r e e passage-way giving access to each means of escape in case
of fire has to be maintained.

Power to require specifications of defective parts or tests of stability (Sec 39):


The factory inspector to serve on the manager of a factory to furnish
specifications of defective parts or he may order the manager to carry out
tests as he may specify and to inform him of the results.

Safety of buildings and machinery (Sec 40):


Every factory should adopt the measures to ensure the safety of the
b u i l d i n g s a n d machinery. The factory must employ the required safety
officers according to the number of workers working in the factory.
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Power to make rules (Sec 41):


The state government has the power to make rules to supplement the
provisions relating to safety contained in the act.

EMPLOYEE HEALTH SCREENING TOOLS: USES AND


IMPORTANCE
When an employee health screening test is administered, it covers standard
measurements of vital function. Most often, employees are aware that they have health
issues, but have not been tested to determine the level of severity or the risk to their
health that these problems represent.
The extent to which their health has deteriorated is often an ignored variable. Chronically
ill employees have come to accept their present level of illness as normal. The
documentation of health risks is necessary in order to be processed for treatment and
accessible for admission in employee health care initiatives.
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Most employee health screening tests, employee Health Risk Appraisals and employee
Health Risk Assessments take into account the following measurements:

Blood Glucose Level Blood tests review for the presence of Diabetes.

Blood Pressure Both readings are taken using the sphygmomanometer (yes that
is what it is called). Background medical information and previous blood pressure
history is noted.

Cerebrovascular/Stroke Condition Blood is taken to determine if there are


blood vessel abnormalities

Cholesterol Healthy cholesterol and unhealthy cholesterol readings are


screened using a blood sample. Diet choices and use of medication is recorded.

Coronary Disease Routine questioning detects heart health or previous heart


failure.

Demographic Information Gender, age, weight, height, shift, department, race,


marital status, and geographical location should all be part of the data collection
process. This kind of information makes further study of and improvements to
wellness programs more accurate.

Family History Thorough investigation of past health issues, previous surgeries


and patterns in the family tree help to detect the probability of future health
issues.

Feedback In order to promote an awareness of self-help options, the employee


health screener elaborates on the significance of any discovered health risks and
the solutions to reduce their impact.

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Forms All participants have the option to enroll in wellness programs and must
agree in writing to submit blood work and medical information for the purpose of
pursuing health promotion.

Physical Activity The amount and duration of exercise has a direct impact on
health risks

Referrals If participants have health issues, a referral form should be filled out
and signed by the employee. A requisition to ascertain the referral visit occurred
accompanies this form.

Stress Workplace stress has a huge impact on health and wellness. Determining
where the stress is generated can begin a solution-based plan to deal with and
reduce the incidence of work-related stress.

Surveys Data collection and its application is the foundation of every successful
workplace wellness plan. Internal promotion of surveys and recruiting employees
to participate in them can be pursued during the employee health screening.

Tobacco Use Nicotine addiction is a major focus in the wellness industry.


Employees will be assisted, at their prerogative, to get help to stop tobacco use.

Weight Body weight, height and fat ratios should be recorded for tracking
purposes and demographic referencing.

The Purpose of Blood Tests


There are government standards to adhere to for extracting and testing blood samples for
physical fitness and employee health screening. Extracting should only be done by a

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qualified professional. A blood pressure reading exposes two categories: systolic and
diastolic.
Systolic pressure is the higher/top number in the result. It is a measurement of the rate at
which the blood circulates through the arteries.
Diastolic pressure is the lower/bottom number and is a value for the rate at which the
blood circulates through the arteries between heartbeats.
Normal blood pressure is approximately 120 (systolic) over 80 (diastolic). Normal blood
pressure fluctuates a bit over the course of a day and should be lower during resting
times. High blood pressure does not follow this sort of pattern; it remains high during
resting phases. This is called hypertension.

The Purpose of Cholesterol Testing


Blood testing to determine cholesterol levels is a task for a skilled medical professional.
It requires a specialized program and applied field knowledge to interpret the results.
Similar to blood pressure testing, there are national guidelines to follow for testing and
evaluation.
Some cholesterol in the diet is considered healthy. These levels show up as HDL
cholesterol readings. Other cholesterol in the diet is unhealthy and is observable as LDL
cholesterol readings. Both blood pressure and cholesterol testing are key indicators of
cardiovascular disease. If there is a family history of heart disease and if the employee
uses tobacco, alcohol, has a high cholesterol reading and/or high blood pressure, this
places the employee in a high risk category as well as indicates a need for health
promotion efforts, nutrition counseling, exercise options and education.

OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS/DISEASE
What is an occupational disease?

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Occupational disease, any illness associated with a particular occupation or industry.
Such diseases result from a variety of biological, chemical, physical, and psychological
factors that are present in the work environment or are otherwise encountered in the
course of employment. Occupational medicine is concerned with the effect of all kinds of
work on health and the effect of health on a workers ability and efficiency.
Occupational diseases are essentially preventable and can be ascribed to faulty working
conditions. The control of occupational health hazards decreases the incidence of workrelated diseases and accidents and improves the health and morale of the work force,
leading to decreased absenteeism and increased worker efficiency. In most cases the
moral and economic benefits far outweigh the costs of eliminating occupational hazards.
This article discusses general occupational health hazards and the disorders they cause, as
well as the role of occupational health services. More detailed information about specific
disorders can be found in the articles dealing with human diseases and the structures of
the human body, such as cancer; infection; and respiratory disease.

These workplace health hazards can cause an occupational disease:

dust, gases, or fumes

noise

toxic substances (poisons)

vibration

radiation

infectious germs or viruses

extreme hot or cold temperatures

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extremely high or low air pressure

Workplace health hazards can cause three kinds of reactions in the


body:

Immediate or acute reactions, like shortness of breath or nausea, can be caused


by a one-time event, (e.g., a chemical spill). These reactions are not usually
permanent.

Gradual reactions, like asthma or dermatitis (skin rashes), can get worse and
persist when you are exposed over days, weeks or months. These reactions tend to
last for a longer time.

Delayed reactions or diseases that take a long time to develop, like lung cancer or
loss of hearing, can be caused by long-term exposure to a substance or work
activity. These reactions can be noticed long after the job is over.

Work-related accidents or diseases are very costly and can have many serious
direct and i n d i r e c t e f f e c t s o n t h e l i v e s o f w o r k e r s a n d t h e i r f a m i l i e s .
For workers some of the
Direct costs
Of an injury or illness are:
a) The pain and suffering of the injury or illness;
b) The loss of income;
c) The possible loss of a job;
d) Health-care costs. It has been estimated that the
Indirect costs
Of an accident or illness can be four to ten times greater than the direct costs, or even
more. An occupational illness or accident can have so many i n d i r e c t c o s t s t o
workers that it is often difficult to measure them. One of the most
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o b v i o u s indirect costs is the human suffering caused to workers' families,
which cannot be compensated with money.

Identifying hazards in the workplace:


Some occupational diseases have been recognized for man y years,
a n d a f f e c t w o r k e r s i n different ways depending on the nature of the hazard,
the route of exposure, the dose, etc. Some well-known occupational diseases
include:
a) Asbestosis (caused by asbestos, which is common in insulation, automobile brake
linings, etc.)
b) Silicosis (caused by silica, which is common in mining, sandblasting, etc.)
c) Lead poisoning (caused by lead, which is common in battery plants, paint factories,
etc.)
d) Noise-induced hearing loss (caused by noise, which is common in many
workplaces, including airports, and workplaces where noisy machines, such as presses
or drills, etc.)

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IMPORTANCE OF MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT ON


HEALTH AND SAFETY
In order to develop a successful health and safety programme, it is essential that there be
strong management commitment and strong worker participation in
t h e e f f o r t t o c r e a t e a n d maintain a safe and healthy workplace. An
effective management addresses all work-related hazards, not only those covered
by government standards. A l l
health

and

levels

of

management

must

make

s a f e t y a p r i o r i t y . T h e y m u s t communicate this by

going out into the worksite to talk with workers about their concerns and to observe work
procedures and equipment. In each workplace, the lines of responsibility from top to
bottom need to be clear, and workers should know who is responsible for different health
and safety issues.
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Importance of training:
Workers often experience work-related health problems and do not realize that the
problems are related to their work, particularly when an occupational disease,
for example, is in the early stages. Besides the other more obvious benefits of
training, such as skills development, hazard recognition, etc., a comprehensive
training programme in each workplace will help workers to:
a)

Recognize early signs/symptoms of an y potential occupational

d i s e a s e s b e f o r e t h e y become permanent conditions.


b) Assess their work environment.
c) Insist that management makes changes before hazardous conditions can develop.

Health and safety programmes:


Effective workplace health and safety programmes can help to save the lives
of workers by r e d u c i n g h a z a r d s a n d t h e i r c o n s e q u e n c e s . H e a l t h a n d
s a f e t y p r o g r a m m e s a l s o h a v e p o s i t i v e effects on both worker morale and
productivity, which are important benefits. At the same time, effective programmes
can save employers a great deal of money. For all of the reasons given below,
it is crucial that employers, workers and unions are committed to health and safety.
a) Workplace hazards are controlled - at the source whenever possible.
b) Records of any exposure are maintained for many years.
Both workers and employers are informed about health and safety risks in the workplace.
c) There is an active and effective health and safety committee that includes
both workers and management.
d) Worker health and safety efforts are ongoing.

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PRINCIPLES OF A SAFE WORKPLACE


In another article, we discussed using one of the tools available to assist in building a
Safety Culturethe ATTAM Approach: Assess Train, Teach, Assign, and Monitor. This
article will discuss the principles of a safe workplace.
An effective Safety Culture is built on a foundation of a common safety philosophy.
These 8 Principles below can provide direction to managers working on building a
safety culture in their group.
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1. Safety is an Ethical Responsibility


Ethics demonstrate our positive vision of what is right and what is good. It defines what
is "worth" pursuing as guidance for our decisions and actions. Workplace injuries and
deaths are too often seen merely as statistics. But when it happens to someone we love,
we suddenly see the reality of the horrible pain and suffering and its widespread effect. It
is our ethical responsibility to do what is necessary to protect employees from death,
injury, and illness in the workplace. This is the only foundation upon which a true safety
culture can be established in any workplace.
2. Safety is a Culture Not a Program
The combined commitment and participation of the entire organization is necessary to
create and maintain an effective safety culture. Every person in the organization, from the
top management to the newest employee, is responsible and accountable for preventing
injuries.
3. Management is Responsible
Management's responsibility is to lead the safety effort in a sustained and consistent way
by:
Establishing safety goals,
Demanding accountability for safety performance, and
Providing the resources necessary for a safe workplace.
Managing safety is the responsibility of everyone in management, from the first line
supervisor to the president.
4. Employees Must Be Trained to Work Safely
Awareness of safety does not come naturally; we all need to be trained to work safely.
Effective training programs both teach and motivate employees to be a productive part of
the safety culture.
5. Safety is a Condition of Employment
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The employer must exhaust every reasonable means to lead, motivate, train, and
provision employees to maintain a safe workplace. But, in the event the employee refuses
to take the actions required to work safely, the employer must utilize a system of
progressive discipline to enforce safety requirements and ensure the cooperation of the
employee or the removal of the employee from the workplace in order to protect the
employee and their coworkers.
6. All Injuries Are Preventable
Sometimes accidents occur without the apparent indication of fault or cause. But there is
always some chain of events that occurred leading up to the accident that, had we realized
the eventual outcome, someone could have interceded. The fundamental belief that
injuries are, by their nature, preventable is a catalyst that encourages us to prevent
injuries.
7. Safety Programs Must Be Site Specific and Reflect Audit Results
The purpose of the workplace audit is to discover and remedy the actual hazards of the
site before they can injure workers. Recurring hazard analyses, comprehensive
inspections, and aggressive investigation of accidents or near misses, will help to
discover potential workplace hazards and identify weaknesses in safety plans, programs,
policies, and procedures. Safety regulations and generic safety programs are not sufficient
means to discover hazards because they are not specific to the individual workplace. A
safety audit program is site specific. Whenever a safety deficiency is found, prompt
action is required both to overcome the hazard and to reinforce the message that safety is
more than a priorityit is a core value shared by all employees.
8. Safety is Good Business
Reducing workplace injuries and illnesses reduces the costs of workers' compensation,
medical expenses, potential fines, and the expenses of litigation. Effective workplace
safety is not an expense, its an asset.
A properly managed safety culture based on these 8 Principles of Workplace Safety will
produce employees who:
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Participate actively in training,
Identify and alert each other and management to potential hazards, and
Feel a responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.
Accepting safety as an ethical responsibility demonstrates a sincere concern for each
employee, which establishes the foundation for an effective safety culture.

WORKPLACE CULTURE - 7 STEPS TO A SAFER WORKPLACE


1. Write a company policy statement:
If you are committed to a safe workplace, you must say so. By writing and
sharing the policy, you let your employees know that safety is a priority. It doesn't
have to be long, but it must clearly state your company's stance.

2. Involve your employees:

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Involve your employees in identifying and resolving safety problems. Their
ownership will build safety across your company and make it more sustainable.

3. Create a hazard prevention plan:


First, decide what your potential safety hazards are. Look at what injuries have
happened. Second, it's time to make a plan to control each one:
o Name the hazard
o Describe a change to be implemented
o Determine who is responsible for correcting the risk
o Set a deadline for completion
o Provide funds (if necessary)
o Evaluate

4. Provide safety training:


Train your employees about hazards associated with their job. Provide safety
training for all new employees and for any employee who switches jobs or takes
on new tasks. MEMIC can help you design your own programs.

5. Review your workplace:


As with any plan, you must continuously review it to make certain that it is being
carried out and that it is working.
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6. Keep records:
In order to help you maintain your safety program, it is important to keep records
of your actions. You should:
o Take notes at safety meetings
o Keep notes of weekly safety talks
o Record all inspections and audits
o Document regular maintenance
o Maintain OSHA 300 form, which will also help track any accident trends
o Note all safety training activities
o Document all aspects of on-the-job accidents

7. Choose a medical provider:


MEMIC has developed a network of hundreds of medical providers who focus on
occupational injuries. It's important to begin a relationship with one before an
injury occurs. This helps the provider understand the nature of your
work, and speeds recovery and return-to-work.

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TOP 10 CAUSES OF WORKPLACE INJURIES


Fatigue
If someone is pushed -- or pushes herself -- beyond reasonable limits to stay on top of
workload, the results often are physical and mental exhaustion. This translates to
impaired judgment, slower reflexes in operating machinery or motor vehicles, a delayed
response to emergency situations and inattention to details and instructions.
Stress
Job security, finances, health issues and anxiety about personal relationships all factor
into the stress equation. When an employee's mind is too distracted by real or perceived
threats, he is not only more likely to make mistakes that could cause injury but also
invites an increased risk of a heart attack, stroke or hypertension.
Slips
Office kitchens and break rooms are common places for slips to occur because of the
number of liquids that get splashed there and are subsequently not cleaned up. Linoleum,
hardwood and tile flooring surfaces are particularly hazardous after they have been
mopped or waxed. Another consideration is the type of footwear worn by employees.
Trips
Items left sitting out in a high-traffic corridor, extension cords that are not properly taped
down and carpeting that has come loose all are contributors to tripping employees and
sometimes causing more than just stubbed toes. Poorly lit hallways and stairs are danger
spots, too, because they obscure the ability to see what is underfoot.
Toppling Objects
If tall pieces of furniture such as bookcases and filing components are not securely
anchored, an earthquake could cause them to pitch forward and dislodge their contents,
putting nearby workers in peril. Workplace injuries also can be caused by heavy objects
such as supplies and file boxes that are stacked on high shelves and are shifted
precariously to the edge each time they are put back or the structure gets bumped.
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Hazardous Materials
Protective clothing, eye wear and gloves are mandatory for employees whose jobs require
them to be around hazardous materials, chemicals and toxic waste. Slip-ups in these rules
can result in burns, explosions, respiratory diseases, blindness and skin infections.
Repetitive Motion
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common occurrence for workers engaged in repetitive
motion activities that put pressure on the median nerve, causing numbness and pain in the
fingers, wrists and hands. Typists, key data operators and beauty salon employees are at
particular risk for developing this excruciating condition.
Lifting
Many back injuries and pulled muscles that occur in the workplace are the result of
picking up something that is too heavy, not bending the legs, not asking a partner to assist
or trying to lift or hold a heavy object above the shoulders.
Workplace Violence
Despite increased security measures and limiting office access to individuals who have a
legitimate reason to be on the premises, innocent victims are often involved when
estranged spouses, disgruntled former employees or even total strangers with a vendetta
show up with an intent to commit harm. Managers and workers must likewise stay
sensitive to suspicious mail or packages, phone threats and evidence of any security
violations.
Collisions
Opening a door too quickly or turning a corner too fast are the frequent setups for
unintended collisions with co-workers. While it may not be with enough force to knock
one or the other unconscious, the potential for injury escalates if there are hot liquids,
sharp implements or heavy objects involved. Leaving file drawers pulled all the way out
is as dangerous at shin level as chin level, especially if a co-worker won't see it until the
point of impact.

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SUGGESTIONS
1) The company has to create the awareness for the workers regarding health and safety.
They have to provide effective arrangements to the workers for communicating

2)

their health and safety matters.


3) It

is better to provide frequent health and safety training, at least once in a year.

The company has to provide enough drinking water facility available at all the time.
4) The

management has to take necessary steps to reduce the stress level of the workers.

Orientation programmes can be conducted to make the workers to feel that their

5)

work environment is safe to work.


6)

The maintenance department has to maintain the machines properly to reduce lead-

time.
7) Proper
8)

training has to be given to the workers to avoid frequent accidents.

Meditation practices can be given to avoid electric shocks, finger injuries etc. due to

lack of concentration.
9) Safety
10)

committee has to be formed to monitor the health and safety issues.

The company has to conduct the regular inspections to ensure higher level

of safety in the workplace.

CONCLUSION
The Health & Safety program has been elaborated in order to prevent the risk of workrelated incidents and to facilitate the intervention of those concerned during the
construction job site. Health & Safety law requires employers to look after the health,
safety and welfare of their employees. They also must consider who could be affected by
their work, for example clients, contractors and visitors to their premises. Employers also
have a duty to identify, assess and control safety risks and must write down the
significant findings of their risk assessment if they have five or more employees.

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Providing a safe working environment need not be a difficult or time-consuming exercise,
particularly if in a low-risk environment. The most important thing is to make safety part
of our business culture driven by a commitment from the top of the organization. Benefits
of working safely include fewer accidents, reduced insurance premiums, a bettermotivated workforce and peace of mind. The affects was indicate that are three things are
for human, money and law. That is not only protecting the physically but its benefits for
the companies, do not spent extra money to recover the unwelcome accidents happened.
Employees whoever involved in construction works they have to know their right, safety
and health and what the company care and responsible on them. All those regulations and
conditions at site are important to everybody who was been at site, because they were
always in risk. The Company has to ensure that works under its control and carried out in
such a way to minimize the risk to the health & safety for employees and any other
person who could be affected.

BIBLIOGRPHY
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Importance-of-Health-and-Safety-in-theWorkplace&id=3602139
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/Employee_Health_and_Safety.htm

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http://www.wsib.on.ca/en/community/WSIB/230/ArticleDetail/24338?
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http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/424257/occupationaldisease/14274/General-health-education-and-surveillance
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