Workplace safety might seem like something controlled entirely by your employer, but some things are in your control. Simple adjustments to your daily habits can help prevent injuries and help you manage stress. By taking better care of yourself, you can reduce risks and contribute to a safer working environment.
It might seem like a stretch to connect the two, but incidents are more likely if you struggle with stress or are constantly under pressure. The decisions you make outside of work, such as what you eat or how much sleep you get, influence your ability to focus and response times.
Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. By creating a bedtime routine that helps you wind down, you’re likely to have a deeper sleep. If you’re fatigued during the day, take short breaks to refresh your mind. Even a five-minute walk or stretch can help reset your focus and reduce the chances of making an error.
When you’re stressed, your mental and physical responses aren’t as sharp. Stress causes tension in your muscles, reducing your flexibility and making you more prone to strains or sprains. It can also cause you to feel anxious, which might distract you from focusing on the task at hand, increasing the chances of mistakes or accidents.
Physical fitness can make you look and feel good by helping to improve flexibility and strength. Incorporate regular exercise like walking, swimming, and cycling to help maintain muscle health and boost endurance. Additionally, investing in ergonomics, like standing desks, can reduce the likelihood of strains or more serious injuries.
A diet high in processed foods and sugars may give you a quick energy boost, but it often leads to a crash later, leaving you feeling sluggish and distracted. Eating lean proteins, fibre-rich food, and healthy fats will keep you energised. For example, swap a sugary breakfast for oats with nuts and fruit for slow-releasing energy. Making small adjustments to your diet, like carrying healthy snacks or drinking water regularly, can help prevent fatigue and enhance your overall safety at work.
No matter how careful you are, accidents do happen. If you do experience an injury at work, knowing your rights can help you secure the compensation you’re entitled to. Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment, and if they fail to do so, you have the right to seek compensation. Understanding this can help you take the right steps if you need to report an accident and ensure you’re not left to manage the aftermath alone.