The total cost of workplace injuries was $167 billion in 2021, with a loss of 103,000,000 work days. These kinds of numbers demonstrate the importance of safety management in the workplace. Ensuring safety goes beyond mere compliance; it requires a comprehensive approach that fosters a culture of safety. Drawing insights from modern safety practices, here's an updated guide to crafting an effective employee safety program.
Tailored Program Development:
Customize your safety program to align with the specific needs and characteristics of your organization. Consider factors like industry, workforce size, operational complexity, and budgetary constraints. Incorporate innovative technologies and best practices to enhance effectiveness.1
Clear Objectives:
Define clear and measurable safety objectives that resonate with employees at all levels. Ensure alignment between these objectives and organizational goals to promote engagement and commitment to safety initiatives.2
Engaging Participants:
Identify key stakeholders and participants who play a critical role in achieving safety objectives. Engage employees through training, involvement in safety committees, and empowerment to contribute ideas and feedback.3
Focus on Core Themes:
Establish core themes or focal points for your safety program to provide clarity and direction. Whether it's promoting hazard recognition, encouraging near-miss reporting, or emphasizing continuous improvement, having a central theme enhances program effectiveness.4
Strategic Incentives:
Implement incentive programs strategically, offering rewards that motivate and resonate with employees. Consider utilizing gift cards from popular retailers like CVS/pharmacy and AutoZone, which provide tangible benefits while optimizing costs.5
By embracing these safety program guidelines, organizations can foster a safer and more productive work environment for all employees. For more guidance and resources on company safety programs, refer to the OSHA's recommended practices for safety program design.
Sources
1. Safety and Health Resource Manual - Michigan Municipal League. (2023, November 17). Michigan Municipal League. https://mml.org/programs-services/risk-management/risk-management-resources/safety_health/
2. Workplace Safety and Health: Better OSHA guidance needed on safety incentive programs. (n.d.). U.S. GAO. https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-12-329
3. The role of local government in protecting workers’ rights: A comprehensive overview of the ways that cities, counties, and other localities are taking action on behalf of working people. (n.d.). Economic Policy Institute. https://www.epi.org/publication/the-role-of-local-government-in-protecting-workers-rights-a-comprehensive-overview-of-the-ways-that-cities-counties-and-other-localities-are-taking-action-on-behalf-of-working-people/
4. Marlow, A. (2023, October 12). Is your safety incentive program effective? CBIA. https://www.cbia.com/news/hr-safety/safety-incentive-program-effective/
5. A Masterson, E., J Wurzelbacher, S., Timothy Bushnell, P., & Tseng, C.-Y. (2023). Workers’ Compensation Costs for Occupational Hearing Loss Claims in the United States, 2009–2013. Seminars in Hearing, 44(4). https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-1769587
