In 1996, the Division of Safety and Hygiene mandated
that each association sponsoring a Group Rating Program promote and
encourage their group members to implement the Nine Key Safety Program
Parameters. These have been reviewed in the past, but it is time to take
a look at these program parameters again. These Nine Program Parameters
have proven successful for many companies and provide a general guide
for helping companies implement and manage an effective Safety Program.
However, for these to be effective they must be a part of an ongoing
continuous effort.
Step 1 - Written Safety Policy Statement
This should be put on the company's letterhead and signed by the
President or Chief Executive Officer and posted for all employees to
read. It should reflect the company's commitment to the Safety Program.
Step 2 - Visible Senior Management Leadership
Safety starts at the top and senior management should take an active
role in supporting and promoting the company's Safety Program. Safety
should be established as a Key Core Management Value.
Step 3 - Employee Involvement and Recognition
All employees should be encouraged to actively participate in the
company's Safety Program. Ideas and recommendations from employees that
will help improve the overall Safety Program should be encouraged.
Employees with good safety records should be recognized and rewarded.
Everybody likes to be recognized and the benefits are well worth the
cost.
Step 4 - A Program of Ongoing Communication
Every company should promote their Safety Program on a continuous
basis. Employees want to know how the company is doing. Post your safety
performance monthly. Also keep employees up-to-date on other changes and
updates in your company's safety efforts.
Step 5 - Orientation and Training
No company can have an effective Safety Program without a good
Training Program. All new employees should be trained in the following:
General Safety Policies, Job Specific Areas and OSHA Mandated Programs.
Ongoing refresher classes should be held on a regular basis to reinforce
your Safety Program.
Step 6 - Safety Program Coordinator
Each company should select an individual to oversee the Safety
Program. This individual should have good communication skills, believe
in the importance of the program and receive the necessary training
required. Also, this individual should receive the necessary support to
carry out his/her duties.
Step 7 - Written Safety Policies
Every Safety Program has to have a solid foundation. Written Safety
Policies and Procedures provide that foundation. A detailed written
Policy Manual can make the job a lot easier.
Step 8 - Medical Treatment and Return to Work
Although the vast percentage of accidents can be prevented, there is
always the possibility that someone will be injured. In this case,
internal first aid supplies should be available and up-to-date. In cases
involving more serious injuries, local medical facilities should be used
to provide the necessary treatment for injured employees. A policy to
return employees to work, Transitional Duty, should be established. This
will save the company money and get good employees back to productive
work quickly.
Step 9 - Program Evaluation and Assessment
The Safety Program, like every other program, should be reviewed on
an ongoing basis. Updates and improvements should be made as necessary.
Do not let the program's effectiveness diminish. Follow up! Remember —
Safety is an ongoing effort.
If you have any questions or need any assistance with
your Safety Program, please give me a call at 1-800-356-1274.
