Safety Tips

Independent bookstore owners face many different kinds of risks, from property to liability to workmens' comp. While it is impossible to eliminate all risk, there are many steps that can be taken to lower your exposure and lessen the possibility of a loss. Make the commitment and create a plan to make your bookstore a safe place for your employees and patrons, and protect your business.

Muscle Strains

Muscle, ligament, and tendon strains and tears — especially of the back — are common injuries sustained by bookstore employees. They are often caused by pushing, pulling, or lifting heavy boxes. To lessen the chance of injury, conduct training sessions to teach employees proper lifting techniques. Instruct employees to remove items from boxes that are too heavy and to ask for help when a job is too big for one person. Make sure there are a sufficient number of carts or dollies available to transport books from the stock room to bookshelves.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

According to OSHA, slips, trips, and falls constitute the majority of workplace accidents. To make sure your employees and customers have safe footing, practice good housekeeping. Keep debris and clutter off the floor, clean any spills immediately, and replace burned out light bulbs to ensure adequate lighting. All steps should be slip-resistant. Be sure to secure all mats, rugs, and carpets that do not lay flat. Bookstores that serve food or drinks should use open-grid floormats behind the counter.

Fires

Keep combustible items a minimum of three feet away from any heat source. If at all possible, avoid the use of space heaters and extension cords. At a minimum, if extension cords feel warm or appear worn, replace them. Check electrical cords for wear on a regular basis. Conduct fire escape safety drills so employees know what to do in the event of a fire. Instruct them to crawl low under smoke. During a fire, smoke and poisonous gases rise with the heat. The air is cleaner near the floor. If your clothes catch fire, don't run. Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over to smother the flames.

Water Damage

Regular inspection and maintenance goes a long way toward preventing costly water damage. Inspect underneath sinks and around the base of toilets for signs of water leaks. Be aware that hanging toilet bowl deodorants increases the chances for clogs, especially in newer low-flow toilets. Most water heaters only last 10 to 15 years. Check for wet spots on the floor near the water heater, which may indicate a rusted tank. If the floor feels soft, damage may be already occurring. Hire a professional for inspection and repair.

 

Our insurance representatives can help you determine the type of coverage that is right for your bookstore. Call us at 888-694-8585 for a free, no-obligation quote.