Why keeping people safe should be every retailer's top priority

Here’s a test for every retailer out there - are you ready? 

Picture a customer coming into your store. Now imagine the first thing you want them to do...what is it?

We’re guessing it might be to notice your new displays - even pick up something immediately and head for the till. Wrong!  

What you should be thinking is ‘stay safe’- that’s right. Because your first priority as a retailer should always be to look after your customers. As well as encourage their loyalty. And ensure your employees are properly cared for too - of course.

Health and safety in your store

So what are the most common health and safety hazards on shop floors - and what can you do to limit risk? 

Slips, trips and falls

These are the single biggest cause of retail accidents - but the risks can be controlled by:

●     Keeping floors clean and clear

●     Keeping aisles, working areas and stairways clear 

●     Keeping floor surfaces dry and debris-free

●     Cleaning up spillages and debris straight away

●     Placing warning signs when the floor is slippery

●     Keeping flooring in good repair 

And remember to train your staff in how to keep floors safe too. That means everything from picking up debris to clearing up spillages. It can seriously reduce the risk of preventable accidents, so it’s really essential every retailer does this.

Hazardous substances

Some items of stock and chemicals used for cleaning can be hazardous, poisonous and harmful. To limit risk: 

●     read labels and follow instructions carefully

●     obtain material safety data sheets from suppliers

●     provide employees with adequate training and protection 

●     never mix chlorine bleach with other cleaning agents and

●     store all chemicals in original containers

Fire

Preventing fire should be at the top of your health and safety priority list.

Firstly, ensure you remove all obstructions from exit routes - including stock or accumulated packaging, for example. This could prevent escape and provide fuel for any potential fire outbreaks. So make sure all exits are clear, and regularly check that they stay that way.

Other major fire hazards include exposed wire from lighting or computers, stored chemicals - or combustible materials left near a heat source.

To limit risks:

●     control sources of ignition and keep combustibles to a minimum

●     frequently remove rubbish

●     keep escape routes clear and emergency exists unlocked 

●     provide fire extinguishers and make sure employees are trained in how to use them 

●     have the electrical system periodically checked by someone competent

●     install at least one fire curtain (multiples in larger stores)

You should also Instruct employees on emergency and evacuation procedures - and arrange regular practice. It’s a legal requirement in terms of your duty of care - so it’s essential to comply with this at all times.

“It has to be said,” according to David Rowland, Head of Marketing at Engage EHS, “that the responsibility for health and safety starts with the directors of a business. However, if they get this right, and instigate a cultural shift in their company, the benefits can include greater brand loyalty and a higher bottom line.”

We hope this post has helped flesh out the importance of customer and employee safety in retail.  And why it’s important to comply with all the appropriate guidelines - as an employer.

Health and safety should be embedded in every retailer’s planning and practices, after all. So why not make this the time you revisit your own?