When you work in care, safety is a top priority for the people you support, the colleagues you work alongside and you.

That’s why good safety practice starts the moment you enter the workplace. Remind yourself where fire exits are, check equipment, and notice if anything is out of place.

Safety is not only about what can be seen in the workplace. It’s also about protecting your body. Care work can be physically demanding, and lifting or moving someone without the right technique can leave you with more than just sore muscles. The training you have attended is there for a reason, use the right equipment, and never feel bad for asking for help.

Some safety hazards are obvious, like, a wet floor, a faulty hoist, a box blocking a corridor. Others are more subtle, like changes in a services user’s behaviour. A sudden shift in mood, increased agitation, or withdrawal can be an early warning sign. Spotting a hazard early can help keep everyone safe.

Another aspect of safety is PPE – gloves, aprons, masks. Safety isn’t only about avoiding accidents, it’s about being fit to do your job well. That means taking your breaks, eating properly, and recognising when you’re tired or stressed.

Workplace safety is a shared job. Speak up when you spot a problem, trust your instincts if something feels wrong, and remember the safest teams are the ones where everyone looks out for each other.