Autumn Workplace Safety Tips

As the seasons change, and the weather begins to cool and the days begin to shorten, new seasonal hazards emerge. To help mitigate the risk these hazards pose, business owners should consider reevaluating your safety practices and reminding workers to be vigilant about the risks they may encounter during this season.

Here are 10 autumn workplace safety tips to help you get started:

1. Flu prevention:Fall marks the start of flu season. To help promote individual health, consider offering a free on-site vaccination clinic and encourage employees to practice good hygiene.
2. Ladder safety: Whether they’re at the job site, hanging decorations in the office, or cleaning gutters at home, employees should be reminded of best practices for ladder use. Be sure to stress the importance of choosing the right ladder for the job and maintaining three points of contact.
3. Prevent slips and falls: Keep walkways clear of leaves, which can become slick when it rains. For those living in colder climates, make sure sidewalks are cleared of ice and snow.
4. Prepare company vehicles: To prep for autumn and winter weather, replace wiper blades, check tires and fluid levels, and restock your emergency kit. 
5. Consider autumn road hazards: Rain, fog, fallen leaves, sunsets, and longer, darker nights are all common hazards this time of year.
6. Promote mental health:The holidays can be a difficult time for many people. Leaders should be on the lookout for signs of mental illness and, if employees need support, point them to the appropriate resources.
7. Improve indoor air quality: Simple steps everyone can take to improve indoor air quality include staying home if you’re sick, following the company’s smoking policy, and immediately notifying maintenance if something smells off or you suspect an indoor air quality issue. 
8. Use caution with candles: While a lighted candle creates a cozy atmosphere, it can also be a major fire hazard. Remind your teams that open flames should not be allowed in offices because of the potential for a fire.
9. Be safe with space heaters. If your workplace allows space heaters, educate employees on safe use practices. Consider requiring employees to request approval from a supervisor before using a space heater at work to ensure the proper precautions are followed.
10. General office safety: Inspect your smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. A small amount of effort now will ensure these are in good working order in the event of an emergency.