Workplace Health, Safety and Wellbeing a Top Priority
At Hire Standard we are keenly aware of and committed to workplace health and safety. The health and safety of our temporary employees is something we take very seriously. We have each of our temporary candidates go through a safety orientation before going to any job site. We also ensure the companies where we send our employees have safety programs and training of their own and that our temps are included in that.
Today, April 28, we recognize the National Day of Mourning, which is marked annually to remember those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or illness on the job, or experienced a work-related tragedy. In 2021, 178 people lost their lives to workplace related injuries or illnesses. With care and attention, many of these tragedies can be prevented and avoided.
We also want to draw attention to the updated Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and regulations which took effect Dec. 1, 2021. The updates eliminate duplication and simplify language. This makes OHS laws easier to understand and follow, resulting in healthier and safer workplaces and supporting investment attraction and job creation. Workers continue to have the same rights and protections under the revised OHS laws.
Along with employee health and safety comes employee wellbeing. This is also an area to draw attention to in order to ensure your employees are thriving and not just surviving or even declining. Employees who are happy and healthy will be safer and more productive on the job. Gallup has some wonderful resources on cultivating employee wellbeing. When your employees know their Strengths they are more likely to advocate for themselves and know what they need to be at their best.
As employers, set aside time to review your health and safety policies and programs to ensure they are up to date and that your employees are made aware of their rights and responsibilities. By focusing on your employees' wellbeing, you will gain your employees' trust, respect and loyalty. Let's all do our part to create safe and supportive workplaces.