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Ensuring compliance at the store level for overall business safety

Understand the significance of using safety equipment, conducting regular safety training programs, and fostering a culture of compliance at the store level.
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By Trisha Sirju , 

Vice President, Senior Risk Consultant, Marsh Advisory

06/27/2024 · 5-minute read

Due to its familiarity and often shared space with the public, retail environments may seem like safer workplaces than others. However, there are many hazards that could endanger workers, including ergonomic issues, exposure to dangerous chemicals, slip, trip, and fall risks, and fire.

To encourage safer workplaces, every jurisdiction in Canada has developed occupational health and safety legislation. Ensuring compliance with safety regulations is of paramount importance. Store owners and managers have a responsibility to prioritize the well-being of their employees by implementing robust safety measures.

This article aims to highlight the significance of using safety equipment, conducting regular safety training programs, and fostering a culture of compliance at the store level.

Enforcing compliance with regulatory standards

Complying with regulatory standards is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative. In addition to federal and provincial legislation, employers may also be subject to regulations enforced by their municipality. Failure to comply can result in penalties, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. Franchisees may face additional safety requirements, outlined in their franchise agreements. By prioritizing compliance and thereby safety, store owners demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and secure work environment.

Prioritizing compliance with safety regulations brings numerous benefits to both employees and the store itself. It reduces the risk of workplace injuries, leading to fewer absences, lower workers' compensation costs, and improved employee morale. Compliance enhances the store's reputation, attracting customers who value safety-conscious businesses. Additionally, compliance mitigates legal and financial risks, protecting the store from potential lawsuits and penalties.

Nurturing a culture of compliance

Creating a culture of compliance is crucial for maintaining safety standards at the store level. Doing so involves instilling a sense of responsibility and accountability among employees. Store owners should encourage open communication, where employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns or suggesting improvements. Dedicate time each week to reinforce the importance of safety with your employees. Incorporate different safety trainings that reinforce best practices for you and your employees to follow during the course of your workday. Retailers who actively engage their work group in safety discussions tend to have fewer incidents, resulting in lower claims and less turnover. Fostering a safety-first culture also helps build trust with your employees and shows you value them, which may encourage greater diligence — both in their work and prompt injury reporting.

Ensuring that new employees are committed to safety starts with hiring people who already value those principles. Thorough background checks can offer insight into whether a potential employee may present additional risks to the work environment. Providing proper safety training when an employee starts a new job or new job tasks helps prevent injuries in the first place. Develop onboarding materials that provides a new employee with resources they can reference throughout their tenure.

Conducting regular safety audits and inspections can help identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety protocols. Promptly addressing these issues can prevent accidents before they occur.

Understanding the importance of safety equipment

Appreciating the role safety equipment, such as gloves, back braces, and hard hats, plays in protecting employees from potential hazards is crucial. Some safety equipment includes, but is not limited to:

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE): Retail employees should be provided with appropriate PPE based on the specific hazards present in the store. These items may include gloves, safety glasses, or face shields to protect against potential injuries from handling merchandise, using cleaning chemicals, or operating equipment.
  • Slip-resistant footwear: Retail employees often spend long hours on their feet and may encounter slippery surfaces due to spills or wet conditions. Slip-resistant footwear can help prevent slips, trips, and falls, reducing the risk of injuries.
  • Safety mats: Placing safety mats at entrances and areas prone to wet or slippery conditions can help absorb moisture and provide traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls for both employees and customers.
  • Fire safety equipment: Retail stores should have fire safety equipment readily available, including fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency exit signs. Regular inspections and maintenance of fire safety equipment are crucial to ensure their effectiveness in case of an emergency.
  • First aid kits: Having well-stocked first aid kits easily accessible in the store allows for immediate response to minor injuries or medical emergencies. Employees should be trained in basic first aid procedures and know the location of the first aid kits.
  • Lifting and handling equipment: Retail employees may need to lift and move heavy objects, such as boxes or furniture. Providing equipment like hand trucks, dollies, or lifting straps can help reduce the risk of strains, sprains, or other musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Security equipment: Depending on the location and nature of the store, security equipment such as surveillance cameras, panic buttons, or alarm systems may be necessary to ensure the safety of employees and deter theft or other criminal activities.

In addition to having appropriate safety equipment on hand, it is necessary to make sure workers are familiar with it and know how to use it correctly. Regular safety training programs are essential for preventing workplace injuries. These programs educate employees about potential hazards, safe work practices, and emergency procedures. By equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate risks, store owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Training should be ongoing, ensuring that employees stay updated on the latest safety protocols.

Compliance with safety regulations at the store level is crucial for safeguarding employee well-being and maintaining a thriving business. By prioritizing the use of safety equipment, conducting regular safety training programs, and fostering a culture of compliance, store owners can create a safe and secure work environment. Compliance not only protects employees from potential hazards but also brings numerous benefits to the store, including improved reputation, reduced costs, and legal protection.

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