How can you encourage workers to take ownership of workplace safety?

2 Communicate safety goals and expectations

Another important strategy to encourage workers to take ownership of workplace safety is to communicate clearly and consistently the safety goals and expectations of your organization. You can use various channels and formats, such as posters, newsletters, meetings, emails, and intranet, to inform workers about the safety standards, rules, and regulations that apply to their work. You can also explain the rationale and benefits of following the safety guidelines, and the consequences of violating them. Moreover, you can provide workers with regular updates on the safety performance and progress of your organization, and celebrate the achievements and improvements.

3 Empower workers to take action

A third strategy to encourage workers to take ownership of workplace safety is to empower them to take action when they encounter a potential hazard, risk, or incident. You can do this by providing them with the necessary resources, tools, and authority to identify, report, and resolve safety issues. You can also encourage them to speak up, ask questions, and offer suggestions when they have any doubts or concerns about the safety of their work. Furthermore, you can support them to learn from their mistakes, and to seek and provide feedback on their safety behavior and performance.

4 Recognize and reward safety performance

A fourth strategy to encourage workers to take ownership of workplace safety is to recognize and reward their safety performance. You can do this by acknowledging and appreciating their efforts, contributions, and achievements in maintaining and improving the safety of their work. You can also provide them with tangible and intangible incentives, such as bonuses, prizes, certificates, or public recognition, for meeting or exceeding the safety goals and expectations. Additionally, you can create a positive and supportive work environment, where workers feel valued, respected, and cared for.

5 Lead by example

A fifth strategy to encourage workers to take ownership of workplace safety is to lead by example. You can do this by demonstrating your commitment, involvement, and accountability for the safety of your work. You can also model the desired safety behavior and attitude, such as following the safety rules, wearing the personal protective equipment, reporting and correcting the safety hazards, and participating in the safety activities. Moreover, you can inspire and influence your workers to adopt and maintain a high level of safety awareness, responsibility, and ownership, by providing them with clear direction, guidance, and support.

6 Promote a learning culture

A sixth strategy to encourage workers to take ownership of workplace safety is to promote a learning culture. You can do this by providing them with adequate and relevant safety education, training, and information. You can also facilitate their learning and development, by creating and using various learning opportunities, such as coaching, mentoring, peer learning, online courses, or workshops. Furthermore, you can encourage them to reflect on their safety experiences, challenges, and outcomes, and to apply their learning to improve their safety knowledge, skills, and behavior.