Health and safety is a critical yet often overlooked part of running a business. While it might not be the most exciting task, it’s essential for daily operations and compliance with legal obligations. At People Matters HR, one of the North West’s leading HR consultancies, we understand the importance of health and safety. Our growing health and safety offering helps protect and support our clients’ businesses. In this blog, we highlight five key reasons why you need to prioritise health and safety today.
It’s the right thing to do.
Health and safety in the workplace isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a moral responsibility. Every business owner should aim to ensure their employees go home healthy and safe at the end of each day. This means protecting staff physically and supporting their mental well-being too. Taking steps to improve H&S shows you value your employees and their welfare. Learn the first steps to improving health and safety in your workplace.
Customers care who they do business with
Price is no longer the only factor customers consider. Today’s customers, whether B2B or B2C, research potential suppliers carefully. Many prefer businesses that operate ethically and take corporate responsibility seriously. That means ensuring good practices in your workplace and across your supply chain. By prioritising health and safety, you build a reputation for being ethical and trustworthy.
It increases productivity
A safe working environment keeps employees happy and focused. When staff know their workplace is safe, they experience peace of mind, which improves their mental health. In contrast, unsafe environments harm well-being and reduce enthusiasm for work. This can lead to decreased productivity. By getting health and safety right, you create conditions for your workforce to thrive.
It sets you apart from competitors
Competition is tough in any industry. To stand out, you need to cover all bases. A strong record boosts trust in your brand and reputation. However, poor management can reduce profitability, lead to a loss of trade, and even result in business closure. Prioritising this area shows your commitment to excellence and reliability.
It’s incredibly easy to set up
If you don’t have the capacity to look after health and safety internally, there are many benefits to using an outsourced HR consultancy, including cost, level of expertise and productivity.
If you can find an outsourced HR company that will also look after your health and safety, this is better still. By offering an HR function, your consultancy will already have a deep understanding of the inner workings for your organisation and as an external sounding board, often a detailed overview of employee opinion. This can be useful when planning for health and safety, particularly in terms of culture change.