Here's how you can establish trust and credibility with your boss in ensuring workplace safety.

First you need to know the course and scope of work your company does to understand the specific hazards. The ability to show respect for the work done then applying appropriate risk/safety measures, with operations input, is essential.

Communication is crucial to ensuring that everyone engaged is aware of the standards for workplace safety. While there are many ways to communicate about safety, I personally like face-to-face meetings followed by emails as a way to sum up and function as a check and balance. But it is crucial to keep the audience in mind whenever there is a face-to-face exchange. It is important to remember that communicating with middle and top management is not the same as engaging with employees. As a result, we need to be flexible and adjust to the needs of the audience rather than waiting for them to do the same. Sometimes, we could even require a translation to assist in the local language to help with a better understanding of what transpired.

Although there are numerous answers to safety issues, not all of them are workable to use because every business is different. In addition to meeting the needs of upper management, solutions must also be feasible and acceptable for the ground level to adopt and execute. Solutions that appeal to only the upper management are frequently impractical to implement, which causes ongoing problems on the ground. Therefore, including stakeholders at different levels in the discussion / conversation will provide a comprehensive solution that will be accepted and supported at all levels.

Identifying safety concerns, assessing hazards and risk, is an ongoing part of the job. Coming at it with the mindset to see both the problem and the solution(s) shows you are capable and results-focused. It demonstrates that you can be trusted to both identify and resolve any arising concerns, which bosses always appreciate! Aim to come into any safety concern or incident-related discussion with solutions already thought out to the degree feasible. Begin with the end in mind.

One of the best ways to demonstrate management's leadership and attitude toward workplace safety is to "Walk The Talk." Businesses with strong safety cultures typically have strong leadership that sets a good example. It will never be easy to modify the workplace safety culture without the support of upper management. That being said, since we serve as a liaison between management and employees, safety professionals must always set an exemplary example. It is difficult to influence others if we do not take the initiative ourselves.

Leading by example is a powerful way to establish trust and credibility with your boss when it comes to ensuring workplace safety. By consistently adhering to safety protocols, actively participating in safety initiatives, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to creating a safe work environment, you not only set a positive example for your colleagues but also show your boss that safety is a top priority for you. This proactive approach can earn you respect and recognition as a reliable and responsible team member, enhancing your credibility in the eyes of your boss and reinforcing the importance of safety throughout the organization.