Page 86 - OHS, June 2024

SAFETY CULTURE
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Building a Safety Culture That Works: More Than Just Rules and
Procedures
Construction safety culture can transform by prioritizing leadership, employee engagement and proactive measures beyond traditional rules and procedures.
BY JARED ANDERSON
The construction industry thrives on a robust safety cul- ture. Cultivating an effective safety environment goes be- yond adhering to policies and procedures and pursuing incident-free days. While metrics and measures have their place, the genuine concern for the well-being of everyone on the worksite is the real driving force. It is about taking proactive steps to prevent incidents and prioritizing the safety of the individual and the organization.
The journey toward effective safety management begins with all employees, from the CEO to the superintendent, acknowledging their responsibility to each other and their loved ones for a safe work environment. Organizations must commit to fostering a safe environment for employees, subcontractors and the community, ensuring everyone returns home.
To bring about strategic changes in safety management, organi- zations must engage and educate leaders, identifying opportunities for improvement within the company.
Laying the Groundwork for Effective Safety Management
Investing in corporate leaders, field leaders and frontline workers forms the foundation of an effective safety culture. Successful orga- nizations empower their leaders with the right resources, recognizing that strong leadership requires proper support in management, leader- ship and communication skills, especially in leading safety initiatives.
Effective safety management — and the systems supporting it — hinges on leadership involvement in building genuine and trusting relationships. An elevated level of engagement and com- mitment throughout the organization is vital for the success of a
84 Occupational Health & Safety | JUNE 2024
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