Noting that every dollar spent on safety sends $4 to $6 to the bottom line, a report by 3M recommends that companies invest in risk evaluations to identify on-site hazards, and put the best processes.
The processes can include personal protection equipment (PPE), says the authors of 3M’s Safety Outlook and Trends report.
The report says employers can increase worker comfort and compliance by providing respirators, hard hats and other equipment that work well together and fit each unique face and head shape.
The report reveals cutting-edge advancements in PPE manufacturing and fit-test systems for hearing and respiratory protection that allow health and safety managers to confirm that the PPE is suitable for each user.
“The safety and health professional must demonstrate to his or her employer that safety is not just compliance or regulation driven,” says Terrie Norris, president of the American Society of Safety Engineers. “He or she must demonstrate the financial benefits.”
The Safety Outlook and Trends Report was compiled based on a survey of safety and health professionals, 3M scientific research, and data from industry associations – including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, World Health Organisation, Occupational Safety & Health Administration, Home Improvement Research Institute, Home Safety Council, and Health & Safety Middle East.

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