After being out of the workplace for over a year, many businesses are opening back up and employees are coming back. Many offices allow their employees to do a hybrid of remote work and going to the office. While plenty of others are either doing 100% remote or 100% in the office. Those who are going back to the office for good or are planning to do a hybrid version of visiting the office may be worried about staying safe while the world is still undergoing this pandemic. These tips are vital in staying safe when having to go back to the workplace.
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Check to see what sort of protections your employer has
At the beginning of the pandemic, were there any safety protocols? Are there any protocols right now for your company? This is incredibly important to figure out as this is going to be necessary to keep you and everyone else in the office space. Ask your employer what sort of safety measures they have such as cleaning protocols, sanitizer, masks, social distancing, as well as other possible rules.
Avoid using public transport when commuting
If you were having to use public transport to get to and from work, it may be best to ask what other options could be put into place. Public transport, especially during rush hour isn’t the safest as people are crammed together in a tight space. Nobody can keep their distance when this is happening. However, if you have to commute, try to ask for a ride from a coworker, leave early to avoid rush hour, or even try to cycle to work.
In addition, if you decide to drive to the office each day, you must ensure that you stay safe on the road. After being home for so long, many drivers will be nervous and may make mistakes. So make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and drive cautiously. If you are involved in an accident, you should consider contacting a personal injury lawyer to help you gain access to sufficient compensation. Personal injury claims can be accessed by people who have been injured in an accident as a result of another person’s negligence or misconduct.
Ask the employer about safety protocol
While it’s true that COVID-19 is still a major issue, another one that is raising questions would be general safety at work. Is there a safety officer present? Is there an urgent care facility close by? Is there a first aid kit? How about fire alarms or carbon monoxide detectors? There are multiple aspects of safety and your employer needs to make sure that the environment is safe enough for all types of emergencies that could take place.
Always keep your workspace clean
Keeping your workspace clean is one of the smart tips to help you reach your health goals. A clean desk leads to a clean healthy mind. This includes making sure there isn’t any clutter but also being sure that it’s sanitized as well. Keeping hand sanitizer and wipes at your desk at all times will drastically help in keeping safe and healthy during work.
Speak up about your concerns
Since you’re having to go to work, it’s understandable that you have a lot of questions. If you feel unsafe at your job then you have to speak up. Think about it, is risking your health or even your life worth it for your employer? If you feel unsafe or if someone is making you feel unsafe you must speak up about it. You don’t even have to be completely confrontational if you’re wanting to indicate your intent either. Sure, there is always a risk of raising your worries but your life comes first, your health comes first, and your safety comes first.
