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An important part of making small retail stores safe for workers and customers is to identify the safety hazards. Often safety hazards associated with retail stores are considered to be low risk but when accidents do happen they can put extra financial burden on the business.

As one of the leading pedestal fan manufacturers, here’s a list of common hazards and precautions small retail store owners can take to prevent them:

• Slips, trips and falls: One of the most common causes of injuries and accidents in small retail stores are slips, trips and falls. Poor lighting, trailing cables, unsuitable floor rugs, uneven floor surfaces and clutter could be some of the reasons for people tripping or falling. To ensure that people move around your retail store safely, keep aisles, working areas and stairways clear and free of objects such as boxes, cables or garbage. Clean up spillages immediately. When the floor is slippery, warning signs should be placed. Keep the flooring in good condition.
• Fire: To prevent a fire, all inflammable materials such as chemicals, spray painting, welding, combustible dusts and flammable liquids should be properly stored. As electrical problems are a major cause of fires, ensure that you schedule regular maintenance to keep the electrical system in safe and working order. All fire alarms should be in working order. Smoking should be restricted to designated areas. When a fire occurs, all employees should know the safety protocols such as raising an alarm and make their escape. Keep escape routes clear and emergency exits unlocked. Fire extinguishers should be strategically placed.
• Manual handling: Loading, unloading and manual handling of heavy goods can lead to injuries and accidents. Reduce manual handling by providing mechanical aids such as dollies, carts and lifting devices. Organize the work in such a way that employees do not have to reach or twist when lifting loads. Make sure that heavy items are not stored above shoulder height. Safety ladders and steps should be provided.
• Machinery: Many injuries occur due to improper use of machinery. If you have machinery in your retail store, make sure all employees are trained to operate machines. Ensure machines are not operated by inexperienced people. Unplug all equipment before cleaning or maintenance work.

There may be other hazards present in your workplace- so do not confine your list to just those mentioned above. Outline hazards particular to your workplace and take necessary precautions depending on the nature of the risk itself.