Running a design studio isn’t easy, even when it comes to the basic operations in terms of employee and financial management. However, things can get much more stressful when looking after employees and the property in which the design studio operates out of in terms of health and safety. If you are a design studio owner and you’re looking to tighten up on health and safety for the benefit of your business and its employees, have a look at some of the helpful advice below from Javier Burillo and what you can do to improve it.
Physical Hazards
Tripping hazards in the workplace account for the most workplace injuries, so this is definitely one of the most important health and safety aspects you should be looking at. Sometimes employees are irresponsible, but when it comes to physical tripping hazards, it’s crucial you’re on top. Keeping alleyways clear and hiding electrical wires/leads out of sight is a good start to preventing trips. Also, setting out employee responsibilities, so they know they have to keep their workstations clear at all times is a good step to take.
Fire Hazards
Anything and everything could be a possible fire hazard in the workplace. From dysfunctional hardware and lighting to other electrical faults and kitchen accidents – fire hazards appear out of nowhere. There isn’t always a lot you can do to prevent a fire from starting, but what you can do is get in contact with your local fire alarm engineers to ensure your alarms and sprinkler systems are in perfect working order, in case there is a problem. They will also be able to give you advice on what potential fire threats you have in the current working environment.
Chemical Hazards
Depending on what sort of design studio you own will depend on the sort of chemicals you use. If you are a web design studio, the chances are you won’t have many, but if you like keeping the working environment clean, you may have cleaning chemicals around that are not secure. Always check product labels to see the best way of storing them. Even small accidents can occur because you haven’t kept a particular product out of sunlight or in a cool, dry place.
Check the Health & Safety Legislation in Your State/Country
You may also find that some of your current working practices are illegal. This is something that could have been changed recently or just something you have overlooked because you are only a small studio design owner. However, whatever country or state you reside in, it’s important you check health and safety legislation to ensure you have everything under control. This could also give you further ideas to improve overall health and safety.
These are just a few of the important points to consider if you are looking to crack down on health and safety in the workplace. Just remember that if you are the design studio owner, you are responsible for the health and safety of yourself and any employees. If you overlook the above, you could end up with a lawsuit filed against you.