The workplace environment is the mainstay of a happy workforce. Ideally, your employees should feel safe and comfortable at work. But it takes a lot of work to create a perfect workplace. The conditions in some industries are inherently demanding and risky, and you cannot do much to change them. With the risks of injuries and illnesses looming large, employees are unable to give their best. Besides missing out on productivity, you can expect low loyalty and retention as well. Even worse, unsafe workplaces are open to legal risks that can have far-reaching implications for your business. Here are some reasons every business owner should be vigilant about safety.
Employers have the duty of care
The success of a business depends on the safety and well-being of employees. People tend to be more productive, efficient, and loyal when they feel cared for. At the same time, employers have a legal duty of care towards their employees. Breaching this duty has legal consequences, and it can lead to penalties for neglecting safety. Moreover, businesses have to comply with health and safety regulations. Failing to do it can land you in a fix with massive penalties and fines for non-compliance. Understanding your duty of care and fulfilling it can prevent these issues and ensure the smooth running of your business..
Unfair dismissal of injured workers is illegal
As a business owner, you must go the extra mile for your employees. The way you treat them reflects in your brand image. Most mishaps at the workplace are unavoidable, so you cannot expect to steer clear of them altogether. But you must support the injured workers in every way you can. Unfair dismissal of injured workers is illegal and ethically wrong. Injured employees can collaborate with work injury solicitors to file lawsuits for compensation. Moreover, failure to provide safety, compelling people to work over legal limits, and ignoring their competencies are intentional torts. Indulging in any such act can land your business in immense legal trouble, so it is better to be fair and just to your workers.
Businesses are responsible for visitor safety
Unsafe workplaces are risky for the employees, but they also endanger visitors on their premises. Slip and fall accidents in offices and retail spaces, and mishaps in parking lots can bring personal injury lawsuits worth millions. Service-related accidents are a cause of concern for hospitality businesses. The worst part is that such incidents can tarnish your reputation for good. It is crucial to implement adequate and relevant safety measures on the premises to keep everyone safe, be it employees or customers. The last thing you want to face is a lawsuit and reputational damage only because of intentional negligence.
The legal risks of unsafe workplaces are more daunting than you imagine. Beyond bringing lawsuits that could lead to hefty compensation claims, workplace mishaps impact your reputation as an employee and brand. Going the extra mile with safety can protect your business from these implications and ensure success in the long run.
