Why is Workplace Safety and health important?

As the boss of the man in the video, Workplace safety and health is important to me because my employees’ well-being is the biggest concern. Their safety is my top priority. I will be the one held accountable if any of my employees get hurt at any time during work, whether accidental or on purpose. In this case, I have to submit a detailed report to The Ministry of Manpower, MOM and insurer within 10 days of the incident.

The most crucial thing to be done is to gather sufficient evidence and look for potential witnesses. This includes taking photographs of the area where the accident occurred and considering both side of the background stories from my injured employee and the employee who turned on the machine without having seen someone near it. As the boss, it is only right that I take responsibility and cover the medical expenses as well as my employee’s medical leave wages by the next payday upon receiving the original MCs.

I am also aware of the fact that every employee desire to work in a safe environment, in order to have a sense of security. A safe working environment will appeal to more employees to come forward to join my company. This further boosts the company’s image and reputation.

As an employer, it is only right that I monitor my employees’ safety and health as well as the working environment they are in. Should I, at any point feel that the working condition poses a threat to their safety and well-being, I must take immediate action to remove the threat my employees is facing. It is also my duty that I provide only safe plant. This includes machinery and tools, which my employees will be taking up professional training before officially operating them. In addition, ensure no maintenance works is going on before they turn on any machinery.

It is of utmost importance and priority that my employees are working in a environment they feel secure in, as much as possible, where any risks or injury to them is reduced to the minimum. This further motivates them to work harder, giving their best work performance, bringing the best for my company.

I realised that accidents can be fatal and i empathise with people who has suffered injuries during work. One example is the man in the shoelaces video. At the end of the day, they are the victims and i believe they will eventually recover but may take a long time to recover completely.

Next time i will access and look at the issue from a different perspective. As mentioned by Ms Joanne, this means that as the boss, it is important to first comfort my injured staff, ensure he is moved to a safer place, away from any dangerous hazards. However, it may not be necessary for me to cover his medical expenses and insurance.