Injuries and illnesses can happen in any workplace, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take proactive measures to prevent them. An Injury & Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) is designed to help businesses prevent exposure to hazards and reduce the frequency and severity of workplace injuries and illnesses. IIPPs are now encouraged by laws and regulations in thirty-four states and many nations around the world.
Research shows that implementing an IIPP can lead to significant returns on investment, with each $1 invested in injury prevention returning $2 or more. Additionally, the implementation of effective workplace safety programs can improve productivity by up to 40%. It has been found that an average of $37,000 is saved for each prevented lost-time injury or illness, and each avoided occupational fatality saved $1,390,000.
The first step in implementing an IIPP is to provide leadership and communicate the priority of safety and health at work, as well as the commitment of those in authority and the responsibility of everyone involved in the program’s success. OSHA’s specific IIPP requirements include elements such as Management Leadership, Worker Participation, Hazard Identification & Assessment, Hazard Prevention & Control, Education & Training, and Routine Program Evaluation and Improvement.
When IIPPs are supported by management and an engaged workforce, they can lead to a reduction in the frequency of injuries and illnesses, as well as an increase in overall business productivity. These programs also improve compliance with existing regulations and can result in significant reductions in workers’ compensation premiums. Additionally, implementing these initiatives shows a commitment to safety and health that employees appreciate, leading to a boost in employee morale, reduced turnover, and greater employee satisfaction.
OSHA believes that IIPPs provide a strong foundation for workplace health and safety. By implementing changes in the way hazards are identified and controlled, other organizations can create a considerably safer and healthier workplace environment for all.
In conclusion, an Injury & Illness Prevention Program is a crucial element in creating a safe and healthy workplace environment. With the necessary steps in place, businesses can prevent exposure to hazards, reduce the frequency and severity of workplace injuries and illnesses, and improve overall business productivity.
For more information, check out the following infographic on IIPPs.