Workplace Safety

Almost any crime that can happen at home or in your neighborhood can happen in the workplace. Commonsense prevention skills can help make life at work safer for us all. Be sure your employer has up-to-date emergency contact information for you.

Preventing Theft

Being in a work environment doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk for theft. Take certain precautions while at work to make sure you, your coworkers, and your patrons stay safe.

Secure your valuables.

Keep your purse, wallet, keys, or other valuable items with you at all times or locked in a drawer or closet.

Mark your stuff.

If you bring personal items to work, such as a coffee pot, media player, or phone charger, mark them with your name or initials.

Be aware of your environment.

Report any broken or flickering lights, dimly lighted corridors, doors that don’t lock properly, or broken windows to maintenance. Don’t wait for someone else to do it.

Be discreet.

Don’t advertise your social life or vacation plans and those of your coworkers to people visiting or calling your place of work. You never know who’s overhearing the conversation.

Professionalism

Even if you like and hang out with your coworkers, you can never be too careful in the workplace.

• Don’t share too much with your coworkers, especially salary information or dissatisfaction with another employee or boss. The workplace is not the place for drama. You are representing a business or a brand and should do so with maturity.
• Be known for working hard, not hardly working. Your coworkers and supervisors are references for future jobs and promotions. There’s a time and a place for having certain discussions or dressing certain ways.
• If someone is making you uncomfortable with sexual, racial, or other disparaging comments, report it to your human resources department. Harassment is against the law. Even if you’re brand new to the job, you need to report it.

Sharing your calendar

• Keep records of meetings, conferences, or events, and share your calendar with your supervisor.
• If you’re meeting with a client outside of the office, make sure your supervisor knows who you’re meeting and where.
• Be specific when scheduling out-of-office meetings in your calendar. Add addresses and names of others who will be joining you for the meeting.
• Be careful not to add overly personal information. If you have a doctor’s appointment, are meeting with an attorney, or have personal business with a bank, mark your calendar with “Appointment” or “Personal Time.” Not everyone in your place of work should know this kind of personal information.
• If you’re going to come in late or leave early, make sure your supervisor knows.