Staying safe on the job is key to ensuring your livelihood, especially if you have people depending on you, such as your spouse and children. Even the slightest workplace injuries can cause thousands of dollars in lost wages. Aside from costs, however, the experience of just being out of the job and the paperwork associated with the incident can be a taxing process that you can do without. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to avoid accidents. Armed with some workplace safety tips and deliberate efforts to practice them consistently, you can avoid misfortune in the workplace:

Acknowledge Presence of Risk

Different jobs have different levels of risk. Know what you’re in for when you apply for work. Certain labels including “safety-sensitive position” are used by employers today to warn interested applicants of the inherent risk that come with the job position. Knowing just how dangerous your job is will make you respect it and encourage you to follow the standard protocol set forth by the company rather than do shortcuts.

Take Regular Breaks

While working four hours straight without leaving your area might sound like a productive habit that everyone should aim for, it puts you at risk for burnout or physical injuries. Stay fresh and alert by taking regular breaks. Go for a five-minute stroll at a nearby park, buy something from the vending machine, eat a snack, etc. Whatever it is you decide on doing, be sure that the activity relaxes you. Allowing your mind and body to rest can, in the long run, result in better output.

Practice Proper Body Posture

Twisting and stooping can lead to body pains and, over time, cause serious musculoskeletal injuries. Request for ergonomically designed furniture, especially if your work involves sitting for the majority of the day. Use a standing desk so you can switch between sitting and standing to avoid blood clots from forming. When performing labor work, exercise proper posture when lifting heavy objects. Squat to pick up heavy objects and lift with your legs and not with your back.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough rest is essential for your mind and body to perform at optimal levels. If you lack sleep, you will lack the focus needed to pay attention at work. You will be prone to making mistakes that can jeopardize not only your health and safety but also the health and safety of your coworkers. As a general rule of thumb, get at least six hours of sleep to allow your body to recover.

Use Mechanical Equipment Whenever Possible

Sure, it sounds like a great workout to lift heavy boxes and run from point A to point B to move supplies. Yet, all you’re really doing is exhausting your body faster. Instead, use equipment and machinery whenever applicable. Rather than lift heavy boxes, use a forklift or pallet jack. Rather than work hard, work smart.

Know Where Everything Is

It’s a good investment of your time and effort to know where everything is located. You should know where the emergency exits are in the event of a fire or where the first aid kit is in the event of an accident. Knowing where supplies and tools are stocked is also a great way to move smoothly and, in the process, avoid accidents. In addition, know who to contact when an accident has occurred. Aside from your supervisor and employer, contact a personal injury attorney Tampa right away.

Staying safe on the job is not only the responsibility of your employer but also of the employees. Be a responsible employee by following these tips.