Safety is an issue for workers in most industries throughout Texas and other states. Companies of all sizes want to reduce workplace injuries and accidents. Of course, this goal requires thoughtful planning and execution in order to be achievable. Safety experts recommend that all businesses have an injury prevention plan in place.
Specifically, an Injury and Illness Prevention Program, or IIPP, identifies potential safety problems on the job. The plan also details ways that workers can be protected. While IIPPs are not a requirement in this country, reports show that 15 states require companies to have them in place. In addition, 19 more encourage workplaces to document their prevention plans.
Several states have sample IIPPs available as a template for other corporations to use as they develop their own. As each business is unique, each safety program needs to be individualized as well. A variety of factors must be taken into consideration in a plan, such as number of employees, the working environment and length of work shift. Anything the company has been doing to promote or encourage safety is a wonderful place to start when writing an IIPP.
As the summer months approach, heat is frequently a hazard in many working environments. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration offers training to businesses to help them proactively prevent heat illness. The organization also provides technology to help companies adequately plan their outdoor work while monitoring the potential heat index for their areas.
While IIPPs or other safety programs are often established, workplace injuries can still occur. When someone has been injured on the job, it would be beneficial to contact a Texas personal injury lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney can discuss the situation and recommend how best to proceed in the litigation process.
Source: ohsonline.com, "Developing an Effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program to Proactively Address Heat-Related Risks -- Occupational Health & Safety", Terry DeRise, March 2, 2018