The Challenge Of Getting Everyone More Involved In Safety

02.13.2023 | JJ Keller Management Suite

A common challenge for safety professionals is getting employees and supervisors more involved in safety and more supportive of safety. Reasons that employees and supervisors don’t support safety could include that they don’t understand the value, or they simply choose not to engage and instead focus on production or other priorities. Perhaps the question should not be “how do we get everyone to participate?” but rather “how can we get them to CHOOSE to participate?” One possible answer could involve showing them the value of safety.

Incentives With Purpose

Employers commonly offer incentives for participation in safety activities, such as hosting a pizza party, offering prizes, or using similar methods to get employees more involved. These efforts do encourage participation, at least for the duration of the event, and may help demonstrate that the company values safety. Unfortunately, some employees participate for the payout, then return to the job without increasing their long-term investment in safety. Events and activities can be worthwhile by increasing participation and awareness, and even making safety “fun.” However, workers should not participate only for the free food or prizes. While you have their attention, consider how to show them the value of safety and how it impacts them personally.

We Do This For You

Obviously, employers must comply with OSHA regulations, and injuries take away from profits. An unsafe work environment creates other consequences such as increased turnover, decreased job satisfaction, and decreased productivity. These all cost the employer time and money. But beyond that, you just don’t want anyone getting hurt!

Some employees might express opinions like “the company only cares about money.” While every employer needs to