The new year is the perfect time to reinforce workplace health and safety practices, update training, and ensure everyone is aligned with the latest health and safety protocols. Here’s how you could prepare:
1. Conduct a year-end safety audit
Analyse trends from the previous year. Were there recurring issues or near-misses? Use this data to identify areas needing improvement.
Assess if existing safety protocols are still relevant and effective and address any gaps.
Examples of year-end safety audit checklist items:
- Plan the audit – Define the scope and objectives, review previous audits and incident reports.
- Inspect the workplace – Assess equipment condition, ensure fire safety systems are operational, storage and handling of hazardous materials.
- Review your safety programs – Evaluate employee training records, review emergency response plans and ensure the availability and condition of PPE.
- Gather employee feedback – Interview or send out employee surveys to gather feedback on safety procedures and culture.
2. Update training materials
- Check for regulatory updates: Ensure that your training reflects any new health and safety regulations or standards.
- Incorporate lessons learned: Include examples or scenarios from real incidents to make training relatable and impactful.
- Refresh digital resources: Update eLearning modules, handbooks, or videos with the latest best practices.
3. Plan a kick-off session
- Host a safety refresher workshop: Organise an interactive session to revisit critical safety policies, discuss updates, and re-establish expectations.
- Engage with activities: Use quizzes, role-playing, or hands-on demonstrations to make the session memorable and engaging.
- Set team goals: Collaboratively define health and safety objectives for the new year.
4. Prepare for new risks
It’s important to prepare your team for upcoming challenges and changes. This includes addressing risks associated with seasonal shifts and emerging trends that could impact workplace safety. Here are some examples:
Seasonal health and safety considerations
Cold weather hazards
- Educate employees on the dangers of slips, trips, and falls due to ice or snow.
- Ensure walkways and parking areas are regularly cleared and salted.
- Provide appropriate winter PPE, such as insulated gloves, boots with traction, and thermal clothing for outdoor workers.
Flu season preparedness
- Promote flu vaccinations through on-site clinics or partnerships with local healthcare providers.
- Reinforce hygiene practices like handwashing and sanitising shared spaces.
Emerging trends
New technologies
- Introduce wearable safety devices, such as sensors for detecting falls or monitoring worker vitals in high-risk areas.
- Train employees on how to use new safety tools effectively and ensure they understand their benefits.
5. Create a 12-month plan
A dedicated focus each month keeps safety education relevant, engaging, and comprehensive. It helps address diverse aspects of workplace safety over time.
Examples of monthly themes:
- January: Winter weather safety (slip prevention, heating equipment checks).
- February: Ergonomics awareness (proper workstation setup, lifting techniques).
- March: Emergency preparedness (evacuation drills, fire safety).
- April: Stress management and mental health (resources, support systems).
- May: PPE usage and maintenance (cleaning and replacing worn gear).
- Customise themes to align with your organisation’s specific risks and goals.
Regular check-ins
- Why this matters: Continuous feedback and progress evaluation ensure your plan remains effective and adaptable to new risks or challenges.
Implementation
Quarterly Progress Reviews:
- Assess the success of monthly themes and training.
- Gather employee feedback on safety concerns or improvements.
- Evaluate incident reports or near-misses to adjust priorities.
Action Plan Updates:
- Based on quarterly reviews, refine upcoming monthly themes or training schedules.
- Address emerging risks or trends identified in the reviews.
About AssessNET
Whether you are looking to solve a specific health and safety need or totally re-engineer your health and safety software platform, we can tailor AssessNET to suit your requirements. Because it’s modular, you can add to the system quickly, relevantly and cost-effectively.
