Communicating The Importance of Safety Protocols

Clear, consistent communication regarding safety is crucial if accidents and injuries are to be reduced and hopefully avoided.  It is only human nature for a person to forget or cut corners if there is no one there to monitor them.  Vigilance  requires ongoing surveillance to make sure that everyone is on the same page.  Although all the benefits are not obvious in day-to-day operations, good communication in the workplace that is two way (speaking AND listening) can reduce injuries, improve morale and actually improve productivity in many cases.  Please consider the following points:

• Is there a safe way for workers to communicate safety/hazard concerns?

• Do employees feel appreciated for taking the time to point out potential safety issues?

• Do employees perceive safety as part of their job or simply more rules and regulations imposed on them by management?

• Do workers feel comfortable with coming directly to you if there is an imminent safety issue that needs to be addressed?

• Do you take the time to explain why a certain process has to be followed due to the safety benefits involved?

• Do you have a truly open door policy regarding safety?

• Do you understand that different cultures and values since different workers will have vastly different experience in safety related matters?

• Are you using the same “safety language” so that there is little or no chance of misunderstanding what is expected?

• Do you meet regularly with workers to reinforce different points?

• Just how important is safety to you and your company?

Beware of rewarding “XX number of accident free days” since it can result in under-reporting and bring in other complications.  Please note the preceding is suggestive only since regulations will vary by government entity.  It is highly recommended that reader consult with local SME (subject matter experts) on any safety related topic and use the preceding as a starting point.  Go to www.osha.gov for more information or use a search engine for local and state regulations. 

Your comments and questions are always welcome. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean…

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.