Creating a culture of safety

Abstract

Most injuries are not caused by faulty equipment, they are caused by an employee’s behaviour. OSHA regulations require the employer to provide a safe workplace. Accidents also cost an exorbitant amount of money. Much of the employee’s behaviour is caused by the hidden culture in the company. This culture needs to change to reflect the importance of safe behaviour. Employees must realize that safe behaviour is their own responsibility. Changing the employee’s behaviour takes a number of steps. Current practices must be evaluated. Management must be committed to the programme. Rewards and disincentives are often used. Overall, employee awareness and accountability must be raised.

Citation

Dilley, H. and Kleiner, B.H. (1996), "Creating a culture of safety", Work Study, Vol. 45 No. 3, pp. 5-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/00438029610115451