Many businesses are only able to run effectively if they hire employees to work in shifts so that the business experiences as little downtime as possible. If you are one such business, then one of the most important things you can do is to ensure that your shift workers are kept as safe and healthy as possible because they are your most important company asset.
Shift work is often harder and comes with more risks than a regular 9-5 job, and that being the case, here are some top tips to help keep your shift workers safe, starting right now:
1. Consider offering transport
If your employees have to get to and from work very late at night or very early in the morning, then it can be a good idea to lay on transport for them in the form of a coach or carpool. That way, you know they are safe from any would-be criminals on the streets, and you know they will not be having to contact a hit and run injury lawyer any time soon due to driving when overly tired, or being hit in the dark, for example. It’s a nice benefit for shift workers to have, and one that will undoubtedly help to keep them safe.
2. Employ the buddy system
The buddy system is a golden oldie for a reason. It keeps your employees safe and makes the whole experience of working shifts a lot more fun too. When you send out employees in pairs, then there is always someone on hand to help if the other has an accident or gets into trouble, and staff will feel more secure when working late at night, for example.
3. Offer regular breaks
It is always a good idea to offer your shaft workers lots of regular, short breaks. Although you should let regular workers have a break or two throughout the day, it is even more important to give shift workers lots of time out because shift work can play havoc with the body clock, meaning they get tired more quickly and more often. Regular breaks will help keep them safe and refreshed while also keeping your productivity levels high too.
4. Offer subsidized gym memberships
If you can afford to do so, offering your shift working employees subsidized gym memberships is not only an attractive benefit that will help to attract more people to work for you, but it is also a good way to keep them safe and healthy. Working shifts is not always the best thing for one’s ea;th, but the fitter an employee is, the more likely they will be able to cop[e with shifts, and stay productive. Subsidizing healthy food and drinks will also be helpful to this end.
5. Install a great security system
Installing an amazing security system is sensible if you have shift workers because businesses become more vulnerable at night. Ensuring only employees can get into the building will help them to feel, and be, more safe.
Shift workers need extra care and attention, so look after them!
