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How can hazard communication and reporting be effective in a multilingual workplace?

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Hazard communication and reporting are essential aspects of workplace safety, especially in industries that involve hazardous chemicals, materials, or processes. However, these tasks can become more challenging in a multilingual workplace, where workers may speak different languages and have different cultural backgrounds. How can employers and employees ensure effective hazard communication and reporting in a multilingual workplace? Here are some tips and best practices to consider.

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Francesco (Frank) Tancredi

Occupational Health and Safety Manager
David Brygider, MS

AVP at Cranemasters | Operational Risk Management | Environmental Health and Safety Expertise
Abdelrahman Talab

Health Safety Environment Site Manager @ Abuljadayel Co. for Contracting & Maintenance| Nebosh, Environmental…

1 Use clear and simple language

One of the key principles of hazard communication and reporting is to use clear and simple language that can be easily understood by all workers. Avoid using jargon, slang, acronyms, or technical terms that may be unfamiliar or confusing to some workers. Instead, use plain and common words that convey the meaning and urgency of the message. For example, instead of saying "MSDS", say "safety data sheet" or "information sheet". Instead of saying "PPE", say "protective equipment" or "safety gear".

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Francesco (Frank) Tancredi

Occupational Health and Safety Manager
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The supervisor sometimes speaks the same second language as their team or crew. The supervisor or other team member will be the de facto translator at orientations and training sessions. This will involve stopping the presentation frequently to allow adequate translation of the information. One time I had the company health and safety manual translated into Portuguese by a professional translating company. At another company my colleagues translated into Spanish the online safety orientation module and other documents. Other strategies may include hiring personnel who speak the other workplace language, or even better sponsoring English language classes at the workplace or encouraging course enrollment at schools and community colleges.

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Abdelrahman Talab

Health Safety Environment Site Manager @ Abuljadayel Co. for Contracting & Maintenance| Nebosh, Environmental Management, Safety Management
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In my experience Strategies for effective hazard communication and reporting in a multilingual workplace: 1) Multilingual training. 2) Clear and visual communication using symbols and diagrams. 3) Multilingual posters and signage. 4) Language support through bilingual staff. 5) Written translations of safety materials. 6) Multilingual safety committees. 7) Technology solutions such as multilingual apps. 8) Encouraging open dialogue. 9) Feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement. 10) Regular assessments to address language-related challenges.

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2 Provide multilingual materials and resources

Another important aspect of hazard communication and reporting is to provide multilingual materials and resources that can help workers access, comprehend, and apply the information. This may include labels, signs, posters, manuals, training materials, and emergency plans that are translated into the languages spoken by the workers. It may also include audio, visual, or interactive tools that can supplement the written materials and enhance the learning and retention of the information. For example, you can use pictures, symbols, colors, or sounds to indicate the type and level of hazard.

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3 Train and support multilingual workers

A third crucial element of hazard communication and reporting is to train and support multilingual workers in understanding and following the safety rules and procedures. This may involve providing orientation, education, and coaching sessions that are tailored to the needs and preferences of the workers. It may also involve assigning mentors, buddies, or interpreters who can assist and guide the workers in their daily tasks and in case of emergencies. For example, you can pair up workers who speak the same language or have similar skills and experiences.

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4 Encourage feedback and participation

A fourth essential component of hazard communication and reporting is to encourage feedback and participation from the multilingual workers. This may include soliciting their opinions, suggestions, and concerns about the safety issues and solutions. It may also include involving them in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the hazard communication and reporting system. For example, you can ask them to review the materials and resources, test the tools and equipment, and report any problems or incidents.

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5 Foster a culture of safety and respect

A fifth and final factor of hazard communication and reporting is to foster a culture of safety and respect in the multilingual workplace. This may include promoting the values, norms, and behaviors that support safety and health for all workers. It may also include recognizing, appreciating, and celebrating the diversity and contributions of the workers. For example, you can acknowledge their achievements, reward their efforts, and create opportunities for socialization and collaboration.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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David Brygider, MS

AVP at Cranemasters | Operational Risk Management | Environmental Health and Safety Expertise
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We should always try our very best understand/respect cultural differences. Training should be culturally relevant and sensitive to the diverse backgrounds of employees. Incorporate visual aids! Visual learning aids can be super effective in conveying complex concepts. Engage the workforce with interactive methods like role-play, simulations, and hands-on activities. These methods can be effective across different languages and cultural backgrounds. E-learning tools now support multiple languages. These platforms can also track progress and provide feedback in the learners’ native languages. Conduct regular assessments to gauge understanding and provide feedback. Train your trainers to be great communicators across languages and cultures.

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Shehan Atulugama

Military Engineer l Training Manager l Quality Assurance Officer l Occupational Safety & Health Officer | MIM(SL) AMITD(SL) MISM
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In a multilingual workplace, effective hazard communication involves using clear, simple language and visual aids. Provide safety information in multiple languages, considering the linguistic diversity of your workforce. Implement pictograms and symbols to enhance understanding across language barriers. Conduct regular training sessions in different languages and encourage employees to report hazards in their preferred language. Establish a confidential reporting system to ensure all employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns, regardless of language proficiency.

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John Savoia MIIRSM, MIIAI

Global Director, Occupational Health and Safety at TYLin
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Consider that the duties of an employer under OHS Legislation across the board in almost every jurisdiction contains a general duty clause. The clause, albeit worded differently within different Acts, basically requires that an employer take all reasonable precautions to protect workers. I would argue that providing safety instruction and hazard recognition in the language of the workforce is at bare minimum a reasonable precaution. We can’t expect to protect workers if they don’t understand the language used to identify hazards and report them. Using the language the workforce understands through translation of documents as well as a native/secondary speaker is not only reasonable, but ethical.

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How can hazard communication and reporting be effective in a multilingual workplace?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Use clear and simple language

2 Provide multilingual materials and resources

3 Train and support multilingual workers

4 Encourage feedback and participation

5 Foster a culture of safety and respect

6 Here’s what else to consider

Workplace Safety

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How can hazard communication and reporting be effective in a multilingual workplace?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Use clear and simple language

2 Provide multilingual materials and resources

3 Train and support multilingual workers

4 Encourage feedback and participation

5 Foster a culture of safety and respect

6 Here’s what else to consider

Workplace Safety

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