Keys to a Successful Safety Program

Safety is an intricate part of every operation or department within any organization. Many organizations have reduced their injury rates by implementing safety programs as an integral part of their overall risk management operation. Top management support, commitment and involvement are the keys to a successful safety program.

The written statement should include top management’s philosophy, commitment and expectations. Each location must have in place a formal organization to manage its safety and health program. Use annual planning to establish written goals, objectives and action plans based on current performance; however, numerical goals alone are not enough. Activities, programs and development of internal controls are needed to maintain a thriving and active safety and health program. It also helps to establish an incident investigation procedure, which at the very least must be performed for all occupational fatalities, lost-time injuries/illnesses and near misses. Continual education and training must be provided and effectiveness reviewed annually. Initial training must include an orientation to the organization’s safety program, philosophy and culture, along with job-specific training.

Maintaining a current safety and health policy is a very important step in keeping safety awareness alive.

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