It is a known fact that employees thrive in safe environments and jobs that keep them well-protected. However, it is also a reality that workplace accidents, especially non-fatal but serious accidents, are very common, with numbers averaging about 2.8 million incidents every year.
With workplace accidents occurring so frequently, it is also important to examine how this affects overall productivity. On average, a worker misses 8 days of work when an injury occurs in the workplace, totaling about 103 million workdays lost every year in the US to injuries and accidents.
These figures show that implementing proper occupational health and safety practices and meeting the OHSAS 18001 requirements improve productivity and overall morale. In this article, we explore OHSAS 18001 benefits and using health and safety management software to implement it.
What is OHSAS 18001?
Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Specification (OHSAS) 18001 is an internationally recognized set of workplace specifications for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.
This standard dictates the procedures, processes, checks and controls that must be in place to create a safe and secure work environment. It gives you a systematic framework to implement, document, measure and record health and safety related aspects in your workplace.
Benefits of OHSAS 18001
While OHSAS standards can be challenging to implement, when done right, there are many OHSAS 18001 certification advantages. Some of them include:
1. Reduced Workplace Accidents
One of the most immediate benefits of OHSAS 18001 certification is the reduction of workplace accidents. The standard requires you to establish a structured approach to identifying and managing risks, which means you’re actively preventing accidents before they happen.
By following these guidelines, you reduce the likelihood of injuries, which translates to fewer lost workdays, lower insurance premiums, and a healthier work environment. When your employees feel safe, they’re more focused and productive, which further contributes to a positive workplace culture.
2. Risk Management in the Workplace
OHSAS 18001 places a strong emphasis on risk management.By systematically identifying hazards and assessing risks, you develop a thorough understanding of potential threats to your workforce. This proactive approach allows you to implement controls that mitigate these risks effectively.
It goes beyond just preventing accidents, but focuses on being prepared for them. Whether it’s machinery malfunctions, hazardous materials, or ergonomic issues, you have a framework in place to address these risks. This level of preparedness can also protect you from legal liabilities, safeguarding your organization’s reputation.
3. Improved Processes and Productivity
Compliance with OHSAS 18001 encourages you to streamline your processes. The standard’s focus on continuous improvement pushes you to evaluate and refine your operations regularly. As you eliminate inefficiencies and enhance safety protocols, you’ll notice a natural boost in productivity.
Employees spend less time dealing with safety-related disruptions and more time focusing on their tasks. Additionally, well-defined processes make it easier for new employees to get up to speed, reducing the learning curve and ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
4. Compliance
OHSAS 18001 certification ensures that you’re always in compliance with local and international regulations. Navigating health and safety laws can be complex, but with a robust management system in place, you can stay ahead of the curve. The standard offers a clear structure for meeting legal requirements, lowering the risk of fines or penalties.
Beyond legal compliance, the certification highlights your dedication to safety, which can be a strong advantage when bidding for contracts or collaborating with clients who value health and safety.
5. Better Credibility and Brand Image
Achieving OHSAS 18001 certification enhances your organization’s credibility and brand image. It signals to customers, partners, and stakeholders that you take health and safety seriously. This can be a decisive factor when clients are choosing between you and a competitor.
A strong safety record, backed by a recognized standard, can differentiate your brand in a crowded market. It also builds trust with your employees, who are more likely to stay with an organization that prioritizes their well-being.
In today’s socially conscious market, your commitment to safety can also enhance your corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile.
6. Reduced Downtime
Accidents and safety incidents can lead to significant downtime, disrupting your operations and affecting your bottom line. With OHSAS 18001, you’re better equipped to prevent these disruptions. By maintaining a safe work environment and being prepared for emergencies, you minimize the chances of unexpected shutdowns.
This keeps your operations running efficiently and ensures your clients receive reliable service. Over time, reduced downtime can lead to substantial cost savings, making your organization more competitive.
7. Stakeholder Confidence
OHSAS 18001 certification boosts confidence among your stakeholders. Investors, partners, and clients are more inclined to engage with a company that emphasizes health and safety. This standard demonstrates that you have a systematic approach to managing risks, which can reassure stakeholders that their investment or partnership is secure.
Stakeholders want to know they’re associated with a responsible and ethical organization. OHSAS 18001 helps you build that trust, which can lead to stronger, long-term relationships.
8. Employee Engagement
When you commit to OHSAS 18001, you’re also committing to your employees’ well-being. This can significantly influence employee engagement. When employees feel safe and valued, they are more likely to be engaged in their work, leading to increased morale and productivity.
The certification process often involves employees at various levels, giving them a voice in safety matters and fostering a sense of ownership. Engaged employees are not only more productive but also more likely to stay with your organization, reducing turnover and the associated costs.
Health and Safety Management Software for OHSAS Compliance
Using health and safety management software for OHSAS 18001, compliance streamlines your processes. This software automates the tracking of incidents, risk assessments, and audits, reducing manual errors. You can stay ahead of compliance requirements without the ongoing concern of missing key deadlines.
The software delivers real-time data, enabling you to make swift, informed decisions. With immediate access to reports and analytics, you can spot trends and areas needing improvement.
This proactive approach helps you maintain a safer workplace, which ultimately reduces accidents and incidents.
Effivity’s software takes your OHSAS 18001 compliance to the next level. It offers an intuitive interface that makes managing health and safety effortless. With Effivity, you can automate your compliance tasks, track performance, and generate reports with just a few clicks.
To try Effivity’s health and safety management software, visit the website and schedule a consultation call today!
