Safety Commit Delivering Hits

Safety Commitments and the Effectiveness of Safety Programs in Construction

The construction industry is keenly focused on minimizing workplace accidents and promoting a culture of safety. Companies like Skanska emphasize the importance of measuring safety through both lagging and leading indicators. Lagging indicators, such as incident rates and lost time accidents, provide valuable data for assessing safety outcomes, while leading indicators, like participation in safety training programs and site visits, predict future safety performance. This holistic approach demonstrates a dedication to fostering an Injury-Free Environment where all workers return home safely each day.

Leading by Example

Effective safety programs require strong leadership and commitment from the top echelons of management. Skanska leaders conduct over 1,200 executive site safety visits annually, underscoring the importance of visible leadership in maintaining a safe work environment. This proactive approach sends a powerful message about the company’s safety priorities, which permeates all levels of the organization.

Innovation in Safety Practices

Consigli Construction exemplifies this commitment with its S.A.F.E. program, which stands for Staying Accident-Free Every day. At the heart of this program is a commitment to safe behavior, starting with leadership and cascading down to every project team member. Consigli’s strategy includes daily safety stretches to prevent musculoskeletal injuries and the integration of subcontractors into the company’s safety culture. Additionally, the use of predictive technology helps identify and mitigate potential safety incidents proactively, creating a robust safety environment.

Ongoing Engagement and Training

Regular safety meetings and training are critical in maintaining a team’s preparedness to handle emergencies. Leading safety professionals emphasize the importance of structured safety training and meetings to keep best practices top of mind. By introducing new safety topics regularly, organizations can engage employees in long-term preparedness efforts and cultivate a culture of accountability for safety goals.

The Role of Leadership in Building Trust

Management plays a pivotal role in creating an environment where employees feel comfortable delivering bad news early. Leaders must demonstrate empathy and care for their employees, fostering an atmosphere of trust and psychological safety. This is achieved through transparent communication, recognition of good intent, and public praise for employees who report issues early. By doing so, organizations can foster a culture where safety concerns are freely shared and addressed promptly.

The Impact of Humor in Safety Training

While safety training is a serious topic, injecting a dose of humor can help make these sessions more engaging and memorable. Humorous safety videos can provide essential lessons while also entertaining the audience, making them more effective than traditional training methods. This approach acknowledges the importance of EHS compliance while maintaining a lighthearted approach to communication.