A safer environment for older workers

“Businesses must act now to accommodate and provide a safer working environment for the aging worker or their bottom line will be impacted negatively,” says American Society of Safety Engineers president Jack H. Dobson, Jr.

Older workers have the lowest number of workplace injuries, but the highest number of fatalities, due to falls and being struck by objects, according to Department of Labor figures.

The ASSE offers these suggestions for creating a safer workplace for older workers:

* Raise the level of illumination
* Eliminate heavy lifts, elevated work from ladders and long reaches
* Reduce noise levels
* Use large video displays
* Install skid resistant material for flooring and stair treads to reduce falls
* Increase task rotation to reduce repetitive motion
* Utilize hands free volume adjustable telephone equipment