You have gathered your employees into the boardroom to discuss the latest announcement in regards to health and safety issues. As with all subjects, there can be a mixed reaction from your audience. Some purely think it’s a waste of time and just want to get on with their work, whilst others embrace the opportunity to be involved.
Studies show that if you engage your employees and involve them in the decision making process, they will be more receptive. It conveys that you care about their thoughts and opinions and builds a connection between them and the action and intentions of the Company.
Participation in health and safety training may not be welcomed by all, but that’s okay. Some people like to watch from afar, but this doesn’t mean that they’re not interested in learning. Everyone has a responsibility to ensure the safety of themselves and their colleagues in their work environment and by providing the correct training and support everyone can feel as though they are participating in creating a safer, healthier workplace.
Here are a few great tips on how to get your employees on board and engaged in workplace safety:-
Lead by example. We all know that this is applicable to any situation. Whether it is parent and child to employer and employee. By setting a good example of how things should be done, we plant the seed for generations to come of how situations should be dealt with and the knowledge we share.
Listen to all opinions. Ensure you listen to what everyone has to say.
When you promise to do something, ensure you deliver.
Provide ongoing support and resources to your employees. Make sure they know who their point of contact is should they have any questions.
Set health and safety goals together as part of a team.
Delegate responsibility and provide training, support and grant authority to carry out the specifics that staff members have been made responsible for.
A little bit of recognition and reward goes a long way. Commend staff members that go the extra mile.
Be proactive rather than reactive. Don’t wait until it’s too late to get a harmonious health and safety plan in place with your employees on board.
With legislation compliance being of utmost importance, now is the time to stop and review your existing procedures and policies. You may believe that you have everything running smoothly, however, consistent revising, researching and refreshing is never a bad thing.
By collaborating with your employees you can reach solutions together. There may be hazards spotted by some that go unnoticed by others. Working together as a team ensures that health, safety, happiness and productivity all work in harmony with one another.