Our safety culture and commitment starts with management. However, as an employee you share the responsibility to follow company safety policies and set a good example for your fellow workers.
The following characteristics are good examples of an employee profile that reflects a strong commitment to workplace safety:
You feel responsible for the safety of your coworkers as well as yourself.
You hold safety as a high company priority.
You are willing to go beyond the call of duty on behalf of the safety of others.
You comply with safety rules and regulations at all times.
You report all hazards, accidents, and close calls to your supervisor so that unsafe conditions or actions can be corrected.
You abide by company policies, which may include the use of personal protective equipment for specific tasks
You attend safety training and meetings with an open mind and acceptance to the instruction.
You operate equipment as trained and never without the appropriate guards or interlocks.
You learn to operate the emergency equipment in your work area. This may include the use of fire extinguishers, safety showers, and/or eyewash stations.
You maintain good housekeeping in your area to reduce clutter and fire hazards as well as reducing the chances for slips and falls.
You wear appropriate clothing for the work task—avoiding loose clothing and jewelry when operating machinery and power tools.
You are attentive to fellow coworkers and through positive communication address unsafe work behaviors or attitudes.
You never encourage coworkers to take unnecessary risks or to do something unsafe.
You are a “safety” mentor to new employees by setting a safe work example at all times.
You always stop and think before acting— especially whenever uncertain about the task or outcome of your action. Taking action without knowledge of the outcome could result in serious injury or death.
How do you measure up against this safe worker profile?
If you aren’t meeting these standards, it’s time for you to improve your safety attitude and safety skills. Remember to look out for your coworkers, especially any new employees. Help them form good safety habits.
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