According to a new study by EcoOnline, 42% of managers reported increased workplace incidents over the holiday season. However, only one out of ten organizations took any additional steps to combat this.
In the UK, holiday hazards include fatigue from heavy workloads and extended hours (38%) as well as weather-related dangers (38%) and increased stress due to employees working to meet deadlines at the end of the year (34%). Many businesses take preventative measures. However, 11% of managers admit that they do not take any extra precautions during the holiday season.
For those who are, the strategies they use include: weekly team briefings (32%) and access to mental support (32%). They also conduct regular maintenance checks of equipment and machinery (30%).
Technology Against Holiday Hazards
According to the research, technology may play a part in reducing workplace risks during seasonality. The most effective solutions were identified by respondents as safety inspections (40%) and training and learning resources (41%).
As 42 percent of companies report higher incident rates over the holiday season, 67 percent increase their investments in health and safety during this time. In the next three-five years, investments are expected to be focused on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (39%), safety cameras with analytics (35%), and mobile safety apps (37%).
Helen Jones, Chief Customers Officer at EcoOnline said that “these findings highlight the added pressures on EHS frameworks over the holiday season.” The two-pronged strategy of fostering a safety culture is evident. It relies on employee feedback and technology, such as observational tools and comprehensive reporting.
Different Holiday Safety Spending
The study also examined differences in the UK and US regarding holiday workplace safety. In North America where OSHA regulations govern safety practices 46 percent of respondents report increased risks during the holiday season. This compares to 42 percent in the UK where regulatory frameworks such as COSHH and ISO 45001 impose more stringent safety obligations throughout the year.
North American companies are more likely than UK businesses to spend on holiday health and safety initiatives. 71 percent of North American firms report higher seasonal investments, compared with 67 percent of UK firms. These figures indicate that European organizations may benefit from robust systems which reduce the need for seasonal adjustment.
Jones says that while holiday hazards in North America and UK are different, their consistency underscores the fact that they are systemic risks, which require systematic solutions. “Especially during high-pressure periods of the year, such as the holiday season, using advanced technological solutions can reduce preventable accidents and create a more supportive, safer environment for all employees,” says Jones.
