As with any other business organisation, retail stores have to operate safely. They are expected to provide an enjoyable shopping atmosphere that is kept safe and well maintained. This includes all businesses, whether they are big retail outlets like Target or Walmart or small corner stores. Whenever a store invites people to shop with them, it has a legal responsibility to keep the customers free from harm at all times.
However, this is not always the case, and injuries happen all the time in retail stores. Below are a few things you can do to avoid accidents in a retail store.
Keep Workspaces Clean and Tidy
Workers are more prone to injuries in an unclean and cluttered workspace because it is always difficult to manoeuvre around messy areas efficiently and safely. Ensure that your staff adhere to simple practices such as running computer cords or cables efficiently and properly, so they don’t create tripping, slipping and falling hazards.
Beware of Fire Hazards
There are many potential fire threats in a retail store. Any exposed wires to lighting or machines, unsuitable storage of chemicals in a back room and combustible material left near a heat source could cause a fire in your retail store. In order to prevent any fires, keep fire extinguishers in your store and ensure that every employee knows how to use them. Plan regular checks of fire extinguishers to ensure they operate properly.
Keep Air Quality Safe
Retail stores are often located in buildings such as malls, with no windows to open for ventilation. Without proper ventilation, the air in a retail store may begin to collect fungus, bacteria, mould or other types of unwanted vapours from used products and viruses in the workplace.
To keep the quality of air safe in your retail store you should install a mechanical system that circulates airflow in and out of your store. If you have one in place already, check that it’s in optimal working condition and if it is not, call a professional to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Be Prepared for Crime
The safety of your employees and customers is very important. You need to take steps to keep them safe from crime at all times. Take necessary measures such as installing a security alarm system, setting up CCTV cameras in different corners of your store and hire a capable security guard who can monitor your store.
Lighting can Lead to Accidents
Low lighting may lead to the atmosphere you are looking for in your retail store, but it can lead to crime and accidents. Poor lighting in your retail store can make it easier for thieves to steal from you without being seen clearly. It could also be difficult for employees and customers to see things which may cause slips, trips and fall hazards. There should be adequate lighting in your store from the front to the back at all times.
Conclusion
Safety within a retail store is a black and white issue for retailers. Whilst it is important to be aware of dangers, it is also vital to act quickly when you identify any issues and that your employees are trained to do the same. In case an accident happens, make sure that you protect your business against claims to cover damages and legal costs.
Being aware of dangers, taking extra precautionary measures, anticipating and responding to potential risks can help reduce the likelihood of your employees or clients sustaining injuries. This will benefit you, your customers, your business and employees in the long run.
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