Top 10 Must-Have Safety Products for Every Workplace

1. First Aid Kits

Paper cuts, blisters, splinters—small stuff adds up fast if you don’t have the basics on hand. First aid kits aren’t just a nice-to-have; OSHA requires them. In fact, nearly 1 in 3 nonfatal workplace injuries in 2023 resulted in time off work (BLS). Having well-placed, fully stocked kits on site can help treat minor injuries quickly and keep your team on the move.

2. Fire Extinguishers

No surprises here, if something catches fire, you want to be ready. Fire extinguishers are legally required and should be placed where people can grab them quickly (without sprinting through the whole building). Bonus points if you hold a quick training so everyone knows which one to grab and how to use it.

3. Emergency Exit Signs & Lighting

In an emergency, no one should be asking, “Where do I go?” Proper exit signs and backup lighting guide people to safety when the lights go out or the alarm goes off. They’re not just helpful, they’re part of your compliance checklist. Well-lit, well-placed signs = less chaos, more calm.

4. Safety Signage

Wet floors, high voltage, forklift traffic—whatever the hazard, clear signage helps your team steer clear. Safety signs are simple way to communicate risks and keep everyone on the same page. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive about safety, not just reactive.

5. Fall Protection Equipment

Working at heights? Then fall protection isn’t optional, it’s essential. Falls are consistently among the top 3 most common OSHA violations every year. And it’s not just about rooftops: ladders, mezzanines, and even loading docks can pose risks. A harness or guardrail system might seem simple, but it’s one of the easiest ways to prevent costly downtime and injury claims.

6. Spill Kits

Spills happen. Whether it’s oil, chemicals, or just a knocked-over coffee, having a spill kit on hand means you can clean it up quickly and safely. It’s not just about cleanliness; it’s about preventing slips, falls, and potential chemical exposures.

7. High-Visibility Apparel

In busy environments with moving vehicles or machinery, being seen is being safe. High-visibility vests and jackets ensure that your team stands out, reducing the risk of accidents. It’s a simple addition that can make a big difference.

8. Respiratory Protection

Dust, fumes, and airborne particles can pose serious health risks. Respiratory protection, like N95 masks or respirators, is crucial in environments where air quality is compromised. In 2023, respiratory protection violations were among OSHA’s top 10 most cited standards, highlighting the importance of proper equipment and training.

9. Protective Gloves

From cardboard cuts to chemical exposure, hand injuries are one of the most common issues in the workplace. The right gloves help prevent all kinds of problems—burns, scrapes, contamination, you name it. In fact, the CDC reports that up to 40% of workplace injuries involve hands. Choosing gloves that match the task (cut-resistant, chemical-safe, thermal, etc.) isn’t just about safety—it also helps your team work more comfortably and confidently.

10. Eye & Ear Protection

Loud tools, flying debris, chemical splashes; protecting your eyes and ears should never be an afterthought. Eye protection (like safety glasses or face shields) and hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) are some of the simplest ways to prevent injuries that can lead to long-term issues. In fact, eye injuries alone cost U.S. businesses over $300 million a year in lost productivity and medical bills (NIOSH).

And if your workplace handles anything hazardous, an eyewash station is your backup plan. You hope you never need it, but if something gets in someone’s eyes, you’ll be glad it’s there (and easy to reach).

Ready to get started? Contact our Industrial Team at industrial@innovativeos.com.