SAFE TO THE CORE

Engaged Team Members Take Workplace Safety to Heart

By Steve McKenney

At Roseburg Forest Products safety or “Safe to the Core”, is one of the company’s core values. It is our experience that when team members feel engaged and invested in their work, they are more likely to also take workplace safety seriously and feel a sense of pride in what they do. Engaged team members understand that their well-being and the well-being of their colleagues depend on maintaining a safe working environment. In this article, we will explore the importance of engaged team members in promoting workplace safety and how organizations can foster a culture of caring through team member engagement.

The Link Between Engagement And Workplace Safety

Engaged team members are those who are committed to their work, are highly motivated, and are actively involved in their job roles. They genuinely care about the success of the company and take ownership of their responsibilities. This level of engagement can be leveraged to enhance workplace safety for several reasons:

1. Increased Awareness: Engaged team members are more likely to be aware of potential safety hazards in their work environment and are more apt to intervene if they observe colleagues engaged in at-risk behaviors. They pay keen attention to their surroundings, actively identify risks, and take proactive measures to reduce the potential of loss. Whether it's reporting a faulty piece of equipment, highlighting an unsafe work practice, or suggesting improvements, engaged team members see safety as everyone's responsibility.

2. Improved Compliance: Team members who feel engaged and connected to their work are far more likely to follow safe work practices and comply with regulatory requirements. They understand that these are in place to protect them and their colleagues from harm. Engaged team members take workplace safety seriously and are less likely to take shortcuts or engage in risky behaviors that could compromise safety.

3. Timely Reporting: Engaged team members are not afraid to speak up when they notice a safety concern. They understand the importance of reporting near misses, incidents, or potential hazards promptly. By promptly reporting safety issues, engaged team members help prevent incidents and enable the Company to take appropriate corrective actions.

Fostering Team Member Engagement For Workplace Safety

Organizations must focus on methods to engage team members if they want to create a culture of caring. Here are some strategies to foster team member engagement and promote safety:

1. Effective Communication: Transparent and open communication is essential in engaging team members. Regularly share information regarding safety incidents, procedures, and updates. Encourage team members to provide feedback and suggestions on safety matters.

2. Training and Education: Invest in comprehensive safety training programs to ensure team members are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify hazards and respond effectively. Offer ongoing education and refresher training to keep safety top of mind.

3. Recognition and Rewards: Acknowledge and reward team members who actively contribute to maintaining a safe workplace. Recognize their efforts in safety meetings, newsletters, or company-wide announcements. Implement incentive programs that encourage safe behaviors and actively involve team members in safety initiatives.

4. Empowerment and Collaboration: Involve team members in safety committees or teams to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for workplace safety. Encourage them to actively participate in safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments. Engage team members in finding solutions to safety challenges and empower them to make suggestions for improvement.

5. Lead by Example: Managers and supervisors play a crucial role in setting the tone for safety. Lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to safety practices. Encourage open dialogue, address safety concerns promptly, and provide the necessary resources to maintain a safe working environment.

Engaged team members who prioritize workplace safety create a positive feedback loop. As team members see the organization's commitment to their well-being, they become more engaged, leading to increased safety awareness and compliance.

In conclusion, engaged team members play a vital role in promoting workplace safety. By fostering team member engagement through effective communication, training, recognition, empowerment, and leadership, organizations can create a culture of safety where team members are committed to maintaining a secure and healthy work environment. Remember, safety is everyone's responsibility, and engaged team members take this responsibility to heart.

Steve McKenney is the Western Regional Safety Manager at Roseburg Forest Products Company and the current Chair of the APA Safety and Health Advisory Committee (SHAC).