Many employers screen each potential employee for drugs to make sure their office and work area are safe for everyone. Other employers have safety meetings, post rules and often have reminders about rules and safety concerns that are emailed to employees on a yearly basis. Is your company concerned about safety? Are you ready for an emergency incase there is a natural disaster? Here is a list of a few popular things companies should do to make sure their office is not just safe, but prepared.



? Prescreening ? Testing Employees for Substance Abuse

Several companies prescreen employees for drugs and alcohol to keep the workspace safe and customers/other employees safe. There are a variety of methods out there that companies use to test employees. Hair drug testing, has become one of most common forms of substance abuse testing, unlike urine analysis which is far more intrusive. It's not only a safety issue for your employees; it's also a legal issue. Statistically speaking, drug and alcohol accounts for a large percentage of accidents, deaths and money wasted. For a less intrusive way to prescreen for drugs and alcohol, look to Hair drug testing.

? Provide Health Insurance and Encourage Healthy Habits

Encouraging gym memberships, offering great health benefits and even placing a basket of fruit in the kitchen on a weekly basis are all great ways to let you know you care about your employees? health and that you believe in healthy lifestyles. Healthier employees mean healthier work environment and a happy, productive office.

? Emergency Exits- Fire Codes

Is your office properly quipped with safety features? Are your emergency exits properly lit? Is there an obstruction in front of an exit? How long has it been since you had a safety inspection in your office? A small amount of time and inconvenience can save you money and lives down the road.

? Earthquake Drills

As silly as it sounds, doing earthquake drills and fire drills is really important. Do you have a fire extinguisher? Does anyone in your office know what it is? Once a year or twice a year is sufficient enough to have your employees go through the motions. A simple reminder can save a life.

? 911 and Emergency Phone Lists

Do all of your employees have a phone list with emergency numbers? Even if there isn't a true emergency that requires 911, in case someone needs to be reached urgently, it's essential you give copies of the phone list to everyone.

? Food/Blankets

Worst case scenarios do happen. It is best that you and your company are ready for them. Use a cupboard in the break room or kitchen that your company can use for storing blankets, non-perishable food and bottled water. Even if a huge snow storm prevents everyone from being able to leave, you will still be able to provide your staff with basic necessities until help arrives.

Avoid lawsuits, avoid catastrophe and make sure your office is safe and your employees are happy. Testing your employees for drugs may seem intrusive and an invasion of privacy, and earthquake drills may seem like overkill, but promoting preparedness, safety and health shows that you care about your employees well being, not just the company's.