Occupational safety without communication is like a beautiful composition and a skilled player without an instrument
In my career, I have had the opportunity to observe the tireless efforts of occupational safety professionals to improve safety. Concrete results, and even the avoidance of a single accident, motivate them to carry on, but work will never be complete. A high level of occupational safety consists of precise processes, skillful safety management, the right attitude, and well-planned and executed communication.
Processes and rules are the foundation
Safety professionals identify risks in their operating environment and develop solutions to manage and mitigate them. The further we go from the most effective means of risk management, the elimination of risks, the more important the processes and rules that guide an individual’s actions become.
Experts create working groups to carefully work on policies, directives and process descriptions. This results in guidelines that, when followed, ensure the most important aspect: the health and safety of the personnel performing practical work.
Management example and general attitude are the key
The problem with safety work is usually not the lack of instructions, but the fact that they are not known or followed. We all surely agree that we wish to return home unharmed after a workday, yet we are still willing to take risks. Phrases such as ‘nothing can happen to me,’ ‘nothing has happened before,’ or ‘I’ll just do it quickly’ are common.
Individual’s decisions play a significant role in accidents, but the root causes are often elsewhere. Safety thinking, just like other work-life skills, can be developed. It can be practiced, strengthened, and, with the right attitude, also taught to others. There is no safety without safety management, but good safety management can exist without a safety manager. Key players in driving safety culture are supervisors, managers and top management, whose task is to get everyone to dance to the same beat.
Skillful communication embeds a new way of operating
When you have a beautiful composition and talented players, well-tuned instruments are needed, in other words, skillful communication. Otherwise, close to perfect instructions will remain buried in document libraries, never seeing the light of day nor becoming practical actions.
The main task of safety communication is to sell the concept of safety to its audience.
When there is a lot of instructions, it can be difficult to decide where to start. Technical details must be transformed into engaging language, and detailed instructions must be broken down into a format that is easy to remember. It is also important to ensure that the personnel remember what they have learned and incorporate the new way of operating into their daily routines. The solution is well-planned and executed long-term communication.
The main task of safety communication is to sell the concept of safety to its audience. The goal is to clearly describe the problem, spark interest, and present a solution that also benefits the individual.
However, safety communication is not only about advertising and selling. Repetition of the message at all levels of the organization is key to a high-quality safety culture. This means daily discussions, training, and practical measures until the correct way of operating becomes a routine and an inseparable part of daily activities: a beautiful and harmonious ensemble.
Communications Consultant
Tekir is a trusted partner in sustainability. Whether the problem is a lack of safety communication, difficulties in leadership, or the skills of spokespersons, we know how to improve your organization’s safety culture. Explore our sustainability services and get in touch.