When it comes to health and safety, the culture of the workplace plays a significant role in protecting employees. Creating an environment that appreciates its employees, and their safety, can have a significant impact on engagement, productivity, and job satisfaction. So, today, let’s discuss a few strategies to help cultivate a safe and healthy workplace culture.
What is workplace culture?
Workplace culture is commonly defined as: “a collection of attitudes, beliefs and behaviours that make up the regular atmosphere in a work environment.” Workplace culture considers the well-being of employees, and it can often determine how individuals will fit in and be successful within the work environment. In most cases, attitude, job satisfaction, mental health support and safety rely heavily on the culture of the workplace.
Strategies to cultivate a safe and healthy workplace
Leadership
No matter the industry in which you work, leadership is paramount. Having a strong commitment to safety among leaders is key to creating a culture of safety. To do this, they must keep safety at the forefront, effectively communicate its importance, and set the example for other employees. Safety should always be at the core of any business, as this will help ensure it is considered essential for all members of the workplace.
Engagement
While a strong safety culture begins with leadership, employee engagement plays a primary role as well. It is important to involve all workers in safety initiatives as it helps them feel valued. Allow the opportunity for employees to offer feedback, ask questions, and contribute to discussions about safety so that they feel a sense of responsibility in maintaining the culture of the workplace. Also, create a positive space where employees feel secure in voicing their concerns regarding issues, or potential hazards or risks they may encounter.
Communication
Safety and communication go hand in hand. Therefore, it is vital to maintain open avenues of communication between leaders and employees. Expectations should be clear, procedures should be taught effectively, and regular discussions and check ins should be second nature in the workplace. Regular training on safety protocols should also be a priority. Training can be an effective way to open the conversation, and allow opportunities for employees to ask for clarification, offer suggestions, and check in with one another.
Hazard Prevention
Of course, one of the best ways to cultivate a culture of safety is to prevent hazards from happening. Therefore, it should be expected that employees regularly check and assess potential hazards and make it a priority to address them.
Acknowledging those who make safety a priority and ensuring they are recognized for their contributions will not only help foster the overall culture, but it will also encourage others to employ the same behaviours. By educating your employees, everyone will be committed to the success of the organization.
Creating a culture of safety is key to success, and it involves every individual in the workplace. A workplace culture rooted in safety, accountability, and responsibility, will not only benefit the organization but its employees and leaders as well.