Safety in the workplace is a right all residents of Minnesota deserve to enjoy no matter where they work.
Unhygienic and disorderly workplace conditions could put you and your coworkers at risk of devastating injury and death. So, what can you do?
Look out for these dangers at your job
The workplace should stay clean, orderly and organized. This is a critical point of safety. If there is a lack of housekeeping in the workplace, you could fall victim to these risks:
- Slip and falls: Floors that are slippery or not clear of obstructions could cause you to slip.
- Falling objects: Poorly stacked materials could fall on you.
- Fire hazards: Exposed wiring or spills near electronics could start a fire at your workplace.
- Sharp objects: Protruding nails, splinters and broken glass may puncture your skin, causing bleeding and possibly infection.
- Equipment malfunction: Without regular maintenance, faulty machinery can malfunction and injure you.
These risks could cause severe or even fatal injuries. Your employer is responsible for keeping your workplace safe and danger-free. But what are your options if you witness poor housekeeping at your job?
Just say no!
Minnesota law grants you the right to refuse to work at your job site if continuing to do so puts you at risk of physical harm. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself, especially when it comes to your health and safety.
State law also forbids your employer from discriminating against you if you refuse to work after informing them of hazardous practices at your workplace and they have not corrected these.
Speak up
You are not alone in the workplace. While it’s your employer’s responsibility to keep your workplace safe, it’s also important that you know how to advocate for yourself and your coworkers to protect yourselves from hazardous workplace practices.
Consider the following:
- Inform upper management: Airing your concerns to your employer is a great way to correct lapses in workplace safety. After all, as mentioned above, it is their responsibility to keep your workplace safe.
- File a complaint: If you suspect that your workplace isn’t safe and your employer has failed to address it, you can contact the Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to act.
It’s also good to keep in mind that these tips don’t just apply to poor housekeeping, but other unsafe practices at your workplace.
Workplace safety is essential, and it’s important to remember that it is your employer’s legal responsibility to ensure workplace safety. However, you, too, can actively participate in keeping yourself and your coworkers from harm.