Whether it is at a construction site, a loading dock, a factory floor, a network server room, or an office cubicle farm, a safe work environment is essential to the overall success of any enterprise. Not only does a safe and healthy environment promote productivity in the workforce, but it also prevents accidents, lawsuits and, in extreme cases, serious injuries and loss of life.

This customizable policy, written by Mark W. Kaelin for TechRepublic Premium, represents consensus best practices based on several HR standard-setting organizations, including the Society for Human Resource Management and the Nonprofit Risk Management Center.

Featured text from the download:

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS

For IT professionals, the greatest risk of injury in the workplace revolves around the usual occupational hazards of slipping, falling, and fire. IT pros should maintain a clean and orderly workspace and know the evacuation plan in case of fire. Furthermore, they should use common sense when it comes to reaching high or otherwise hard-to-reach places and use a ladder where appropriate, not a makeshift apparatus.

Electrical and mechanical systems should always be maintained and replaced by a professional who is trained and certified to do the work. Just because someone can fix the electrical panel does not mean they should.

OFFICE ENVIRONMENT

Maintaining health and safety in the workplace also refers to the office environment. Each employee should take the necessary steps to ensure their workstation is clean and clutter-free. Chairs, desks, monitors, and other office equipment should be adjusted for ergonomic comfort. If new chairs, desks, lighting, etc., are required to achieve proper ergonomics, the employee should contact their supervisor immediately.

Enhance your workplace safety with our six-page policy document. Previously priced at $19, this is now available for download at just $9. Alternatively, enjoy complimentary access with a Premium annual subscription.

TIME SAVED: Crafting this content required 12 hours of dedicated writing, editing, research, and design.