6 Tips That Will Protect You, Your Loved Ones, and Your Colleagues From Exposures to Hazards

Sometimes we need reminders of the things that seem obvious. There is a potential for risk exposure in all aspects of our lives, not just at work and home. Now, this does not mean that we must peek around every single corner and constantly worry about the what ifs. However, we should keep in mind that our actions and inactions have consequences. Here are a few pointers for preventing exposure to hazards no matter where you are.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings. This advice is meant to be more general. Safety is not just for the workplace. There plenty of daily activities that we do without thinking that could have hazardous or potentially fatal outcomes. Understand where you are and what you are doing. Whether you’re driving to the store or out for a walk.

See Something Say Something. Communicate any hazards that you see. Whether it’s at work or with a family member, be sure to point out any hazardous situations or behaviors to avoid exposure to incidents. What would you think if you were injured from action that could have been prevented? How would you feel someone was hurt and you could have done something about it? Some may need to touch fire more than once until they figure out how hot it is, but are you willing to gamble someone else’s livelihood or life?

Think Long Term. As adults we should have a very good understanding that our actions have consequences. When we’re being impulsive, we tend to make decisions that we regret. Don’t just think about how a decision will affect you right now. Think about the possible ramifications a week or even a month down the road. Who are you affecting? Who is watching you? Meaning, are your actions setting a good example for anyone who may be following your lead?

Consider The Risks. There may have been times when we’ve taken risks to maybe save time or money. These risks might have the potential to be lethal or have an adverse effect on why you took the risk in the first place. For example, running a red light to get to work on time, or neglecting car maintenance to save money, only to spend more later. Make it a habit to slow down and reconsider if what you’re doing is worth the risk.

Minimize Risks. Accidents can be prevented. You just have to make it a habit to be vigilant. The more you do it the easier it becomes. Don’t miss the little things while searching high and low for the big hazards. Catching the small things may eliminate or prevent the big things from occurring. Most accidents are an accumulation of small oversights. Pick that object up from the floor now and not later. Push that coffee mug away from the edge of the counter.

Think of Likely Scenarios. We know that being safe isn’t something only meant for work. Potential hazards, which we can prevent exposure, can be anywhere, including our own homes. With that being said, it is unnecessary to exaggerate the danger of a hazard to incite fear. The likely scenario from spill in the store would be someone possible slipping, which could bring about injuries to areas such as back, head, or wrist, from trying to break the fall. That scenario already sounds like one you would want to avoid. This is especially important to remember when notifying the others around you about a risk that their taking. How likely would you be to listen if some were to provide you with a safety example that sounds like it might have come from an episode of Tom and Jerry?

Thank you for reading and have a safe, accident free, and Happy Thanksgiving!