In the present-day world, several workplaces adopt a zero harm approach; however, the relevant questions are “what is zero harm training” and “what does it comprise?”
The concept of zero harm is frequently defined as operating a business or workplace without exposing any member of the workforce to injury. By implementing safe work systems, a business can assist workers in getting through their working life sans any injuries or suffering. To accomplish a zero harm policy, the entire organisation needs to embrace the concept wholeheartedly to succeed. This is zero harm training in its basic essence.
Because every business or workplace has diverse tasks and work environments, the risks to the workforce differ significantly across organisations and within different departments of the organisation. Simply put, there lacks a one-stop shop solution. The zero harm concepts is hence frequently linked to meeting the regulations and ensuring that all measures are implemented to mitigate or avoid any risks.
Culture plays a predominant role in accomplishing zero harm. Without an efficient “health and safety” culture, employees will not focus on a safe working environment and its importance. One of the primary ways in improving the “health and safety” culture is through education. If employees understand health and safety clearly, chances are higher that they will be more proactive. An organisation’s safety culture can improve to a great extent through the implementation of enhanced training programmes for the management team as well as the safety representatives.
Not all injuries are generally included in the concept of zero harm. The fundamental training is to remove any staff member from suffering serious injuries and even death. Therefore, even though it is highly advisable to include all types of injuries at the workplace, trivial injuries such as paper cuts are generally excluded from the zero harm concept. To implement the zero harm concept, training in this field is indispensable and of utmost significance.
In a medical lab, it is quite challenging and almost impossible to eliminate all risks. Zero harm training focuses on eliminating, isolating, and minimising potential risks wherever possible. For instance, some organisations may opt for less-hazardous chemicals or carry out modifications with regard to methods for eliminating risks stemming from exposure to harmful chemicals.
Some organisations isolate their staff members from extremely loud noises by incorporating sound barriers to effectively protect their hearing while testing a wide array of engines. Most importantly, staff members must work hard on minimising risks via the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as well as participating in revising and training procedures.
A fine example of this is usage of a vapour mask while conducting particular tests. Moreover, when it comes to a laboratory, an effective review of the chemicals and reduction of their volume need to be carried out to achieve a zero harm environment. In addition, all employees need to be trained with regard to the zero harm policy to achieve optimum results. After all, safety of the employees is priceless. Moreover, by being “proactive” instead of “reactive,” such a policy can be efficiently implemented.
There are plenty of resources available on online mediums to help achieve this unique concept. As mentioned previously, not all risks can be covered; however, there are ample ways for the workforce to carry out their roles and responsibilities in a safe and secure manner.
