Executives are powerful health & safety role models.
A senior manager’s behaviour at work sets an example that the organization’s employees will follow. Employees learn about health and safety values at work by watching how the senior managers talk about and use safety principles. Executives must be health & safety role models.
Role models are powerful teachers. People learn from them because they want to achieve similar goals and behaviours. A strong leader, who believes that a healthy workplace leads to business success, is a key component to a successful workplace safety program.
Senior managers who talk about and demonstrate support for the organization’s health and safety program energize staff. When one of the boss’ priorities is safety, employees will begin to value it as an important part of their job. Listening to an executive have a casual conversation about a health or safety issue sends a strong message to employees. Simple conversations and regular problem solving between managers and employees brings safety programs to life.
Executives should be aware that they are always being watched. They should consistently behave as role models. Ask employees if they are having problems at work and help them create solutions. When a hazard is spotted, act to correct it immediately. Refer to safety as a priority when talking to clients and customers.
Senior managers who truly believe employee wellbeing is a measure of business success can become great role models. By making the effort to use health & safety principles in their work practices, these executives help build safer and more productive workforces.
