World Day for Safety and Health at Work is an annual international campaign to promote safe, healthy, and decent work conditions. Your safety and wellbeing is always a top priority. Consider these tips for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace environment:

Keep correct posture. When sitting for extended periods of time try to maintain good posture. Poor posture can cause back problems, neck pain, and other types of body discomfort. You should also properly lift heavier objects. To do this keep your back straight and lift with your legs. Never force yourself to lift something that is too heavy and consider asking for help.

Be aware of your surroundings. Whether you work in an office, garage, airport, etc. make sure you check what’s around you. This will help eliminate risk of an accident occurring. Also be sure not to place anything in walkways or somewhere that may cause someone to become injured.

Take breaks regularly. You are more prone to an incident when tired. Tiredness will also keep you from bring aware of your surroundings and increase risk of injury. Use the breaks allowed to you to get in the right headspace to perform your task.

Keep emergency exits clear. Part of being prepared is knowing where to safely exit. Make sure there is nothing preventing people from evacuating the building in case of an actual emergency.

Avoid taking shortcuts. By fully following workplace procedures you greatly reduce any chance of becoming injured. It is also important to make sure you are aware of any new or updated safety procedures.

Always wear the proper protective equipment. Whether it’s earplugs, eyewear, or protective clothing it is meant to keep you safe. Skipping this step could cause an injury that may have been preventable.

If you have a topic for Wellness Wednesday be sure to email us at Elements@nfta.com