Occupational accidents occur regularly. In fact, the International Labor Organization estimates 2.3 million cases each year, resulting in costly workers' compensation claims, medical expenses, and lost productivity.

As a business owner, you are responsible for ensuring your employees' safety. This means creating and enforcing policies that will minimize the risk of injury in the workplace. But where do you start? What are the best practices for ensuring safety in the workplace? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Define expectations and roles

The first step in employee safety is to create a culture of well-being in your workplace by defining expectations and roles. Everyone in your organization should know what you expect of them when it comes to their welfare.

For example, you may want to create a policy that requires employees to wear protective gear when working with dangerous materials. You should also clearly communicate who is responsible for enforcing safety rules and investigating accidents.

When you clarify their roles and expectations, you can create a shared understanding of what it means to be safe in the workplace. As a result, your employees will be more likely to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of their colleagues.

Jewelry allows us to express ourselves and often holds sentimental value. Have you ever wondered about the differences between homemade jewelry and mass-produced baubles? There’s a lot that goes into creating these different types of jewelry.

Understanding the differences between the two can help you decide which piece to next add to your collection. Here are some factors to consider when choosing handmade jewelry and mass-produced pieces.

1. Differences in Production

Handmade jewelry is crafted by an individual. These pieces are usually unique. You can make them yourself or find them at places such as farmer’s markets, craft shows and online.

Alternatively, mass-produced baubles are made by machines and factory workers in assembly lines. For this reason, there are many copies of each item that is produced. An example of mass-produced baubles is costume jewelry that you can purchase at a clothing or department store.  

2. Differences in Materials

Mass-produced jewelry is often made with low-quality materials. It’s even common for customers to have allergic reactions to the alloys in these pieces, or for fingers to turn green from poor quality rings. This is because larger companies try to cut costs and raise their profits, meaning quality is not a top priority.

Moreover, manufactured jewelry tends to break down faster. Gemstones are usually fake and may not have the best color or clarity. You might only wear these pieces a few times and then throw them away, which means they may not be a good investment.

Homemade pieces are usually constructed with higher-quality materials that come from trusted and reputable jewelry-making supply companies. Whether you make a piece yourself or buy from a crafter, you know exactly what you’re getting. Some handmade jewelry may even come with a certificate of authenticity. Additionally, these pieces can last for many years, as they are less likely to tarnish or break. 

It is no secret that the job market is changing rapidly. Employees need to nurture their skills continuously to keep up with the competition and ensure long-term success. According to a study by Burning Glass Technologies, "Employers are seeking workers with specific skill sets and employees who can adapt quickly to changes in the marketplace." Employees must invest in their career development to stay ahead of the curve.

There are numerous benefits of career development for employees. First and foremost, it enables employees to stay current with the latest trends and technologies in their field. Additionally, it helps employees build on their existing skills and learn new ones. This step can make them more valuable to their employers and increase their chances of securing a promotion or a new job. Furthermore, career development allows employees to explore different areas of their field, which can help them find their passion and pursue a career they love.

Ultimately, the importance of career development is vital. Employees who take the time to invest in themselves will remain better equipped to succeed in today's competitive job market. And with the rapid pace of change, they must never stop learning. Here is how you can do it.