Safety First: A Retailer's Guide to Enhancing Peace of Mind

As a retailer, placing the safety and comfort of your employees and customers is your first priority. Conducting regular safety audits of your retail space will not only serve to increase the comfort and safety of those working in or visiting your retail space, but also will help you to minimize your exposure to legal liability. The Benefits of Regular Checkups Some hazards are overt, while others are less obvious. For instance, spills – liquid or otherwise – are usually apparent and should be immediately cleaned to avoid slips and falls. If an employee suffers a workplace injury, the claim is typically processed by the state workers' compensation system. If, however, a shopper or delivery person incurs an injury while visiting your store, the matter can quickly evolve into a personal injury lawsuit. You can reduce your exposure to legal liability by visually inspecting your premises daily to discover any hazards. By doing so, you will be able to discover risks that can turn into costly mistakes. Documenting your safety policies and practices will add a further layer of protection should a mishap occur. In the event of litigation, you will want to be able to demonstrate your diligence in keeping your store clean and safe. Having evidence of your attention to the safety of your space is crucial since it can mean the difference between ordinary negligence and gross negligence, which carries the potential for significant punitive damages. Evaluate Potential Risks The retail environment can present diverse risks. Flooring, storage and shelving are just a few areas that demand close attention. Here are some specific items that warrant focused consideration: Flooring. Spills are only one type of floor hazard. Merchandise and boxes can easily fall into an aisle causing a worker or visitor to trip and fall. Similarly, uneven flooring, buckling carpet and unmarked steps can result in injuries. Vigilant inspection of these areas enables you to identify vulnerable areas in your store, and offers you the opportunity to promptly rectify hazards with appropriate signage, cleaning or repair. For example, "wet floor" signs and reflective stripping can provide adequate warning and minimize the risk of injury. Shelving and Storage Units. Merchandise stored on high shelves presents the risk of toppling onto customers and workers. Faulty brackets and merchandise displays can cut or injure, as well. Consistent evaluation of these less-obvious components for safety and stability is central to your overall safety inspection. Fire Dangers. Another vital concern is fire hazard. Improperly stored materials located in close proximity to a heat source can combust or cause fires. Exposed wiring can also present a fire danger. Audit your store for these risks and be sure to locate fire extinguishers in potentially hazardous areas. You will also want to ensure that your employees are trained to use extinguishers in the event of a fire. Lighting. Poor lighting can contribute to both injury and shoplifting. The variety of lighting fixtures available to merchants can allow you to create an inviting atmosphere for shoppers, while also providing a safe and secure space. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). Many retailers have stores located in malls or buildings with few or no windows. Manufacturers often treat merchandise with harmful chemicals that can be released into the atmosphere. Off-gassing can cause headaches, nausea and other symptoms. Additional indoor air quality issues include mold and bacteria. A mechanical air system that circulates fresh air in your store is another element that is fundamental to your premises' health and safety. And Finally . . . Good employee training will help workers not only know how to use those fire extinguishers, but also serve your need to build a reliable team of safety auditors. Teach your employees to consistently evaluate the premises for potential hazards. Offer CPR and First-Aid training classes. Where and when appropriate, ensure your staff is wearing safety shoes or suitable footwear. For clientele, a decorative entrance mat can serve the dual function of reducing mud and water from being tracked into the store, while also being warm and inviting. Create a safety checklist to incorporate these steps into your daily routine and you will find yourself enjoying greater peace of mind, as well as a space where staff and visitors can feel safe and comfortable.