Todd Jerome Jenkins, MS, CSP, SMS, CHST, STSC

Safety Aficionado & Ph.D. Student

Building Safety

Building safety in the workplace is an essential aspect of ensuring the well-being of people, including visitors. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), numerous potential hazards are associated with buildings, including electrical, fire, and structural hazards. Therefore, employers must take steps to identify and mitigate these risks.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that in 2019, over 116,000 non-fatal injuries and illnesses occurred in private industry buildings. This underscores the importance of ensuring that buildings are safe and free from hazards.

Employers can take several steps to improve building safety in the workplace. First, it is essential to ensure that electrical systems are correctly installed and maintained. Electrical hazards can be deadly and are responsible for numerous workplace injuries and fatalities each year. OSHA provides guidelines for electrical safety in the workplace, including regular inspections and maintenance of electrical equipment.

Second, employers should have a comprehensive fire safety plan, including regular fire drills, employee training on responding to a fire and installing appropriate fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers.

Third, building owners and employers should ensure that the structure of the building is sound and that any potential hazards, such as loose or unstable building components, are addressed promptly.

Fourth, it is essential to ensure that building access is secure and that visitors are appropriately vetted before being granted access to the premises.

Finally, employers should encourage workers to report any potential hazards or unsafe conditions and should take prompt action to address these concerns.

Building safety in the workplace is critical to protecting employees and visitors from injury and harm. By implementing appropriate safety measures and protocols, including regular inspections and maintenance, employers can create a safer work environment and reduce the risk of workplace injuries and fatalities.

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