When it comes to business, “balance” has more to do with the action on your accounts.  But the concept of balance applies to nearly every aspect of business operations.  Employees want a “work/life” balance.  Employers want a balance between investment and profits.  But there is another balance that many employers are working to create – the balance between safety and productivity.  Fortunately, we don’t have to give up one in order to get the other!

In fact, not addressing productivity and safety together can lead to bad – even deadly – results.  Having a safety issue can result in serious loss and downtime for productivity, to say the least.  On the job accidents also generate workers’ comp issues, potential fines from regulatory agencies, having to move less experienced workers into a position, lowered work morale (which naturally lowers productivity) and possibly bad press for the brand.  On the other hand, no one wants to be the safest company to go bankrupt!  So how is the balance met?

There are some key factors when it comes to determining proper safety protocols (beyond the usual industry regulatory requirements).  Creating a safety strategy helps employees make decisions when priorities seem to conflict.  It is important to identify where conflicting strategies exist.  Ask your employees!  They are on the front lines of equipment usage and can tell you whether a process is unsafe, even if you think you have the proper safety protocol in place.  Including employee voices is critical to developing a safety strategy that works and is used.

Safe production is something businesses often talk about, but don’t realize how easy it is to actually do.  It’s more than just reminding people how many days on the job the company is accident free.  It has to do with the equipment you are using as well.  For example, a PVC or stainless steel static mixer is not only more efficient in terms of production, but it reduces the amount of noise and vibration workers are exposed to.  Fewer moving parts mean less to clean and to get hurt on in the process.  Is it time for an equipment upgrade?

When it comes to productivity and safety, balancing both means enhancing both.  High end clients often demand a business has a successful safety record, and great safety means better morale in the workplace – and higher productivity.  Komax equipment can help you navigate the balance between safety and productivity all in the space of one carbon steel static mixer!