Why the Injury and Illness Prevention Program is Important
What is an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP)? In an article contributed by the State Compensation Insurance Fund titled “Injury and Illness Prevention Program: Does Your Company Have One?” the author goes into detail on what the program should entail and why you should have one. In the state of California, for example, every employer is legally required to provide a safe and healthy workplace. In addition, in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, every employer should have an IIPP in writing.
What should an IIPP include? Listed below are elements an IIP should entail:
• Management commitment/assignment of responsibilities
• Safety communications system with employees
• System for assuring employee compliance with safety practices
• Scheduled inspections/evaluation system
• Accident investigation
• Procedures for correcting unsafe/unhealthy conditions
• Safety and health training and instruction
• Record keeping and documentation
Why does your company need an IIPP? The reasons are endless; employee safety being the number one priority. An employer’s responsibility is to control workplace hazards and correct unsafe conditions or practices. Materials and machines need maintenance; they need to be evaluated, and many times, they need to be replaced or fixed. Without an IIPP intact, it can be difficult to monitor small concerns that can turn into very dangerous situations. The article states, “In the eyes of Cal/OSHA, if it isn’t written down, it didn’t happen”.
The State Compensation Insurance Fund. “Injury and Illness Prevention Program: Does Your Company Have One?” EUCA Magazine. September 2009.
It’s terrifying to think that a simple slip or fall could cause so much long term damage. All it takes is one bad fall and the rest of your life is dramatically changed!
If you plan on staying open during the expansion process, companies have to be aware of the new dangers that can pose for employees. Whatever safety measures need to be installed are worth it! You don’t want to risk your employees safety during renovation and expansion.