There is a good chance that your organization also has plans to create an (even) safer working environment for employees this year . Perhaps even with the ambitious goal of "zero accidents." But is that just a nice intention, or a serious and achievable goal?
Working together to reduce accidents
After all, good intentions have a reputation for often falling by the wayside. And with zero accidents, the unfeasibility quickly becomes apparent: industrial accidents will always happen. And when absenteeism due to excessive psychosocial stress is taken into account, the goal is sometimes no longer achievable by January 2. I therefore hope that there is a well-defined and serious goal. And I express the wish that 2026 will be a safer year for everyone.
How wonderful would it be if, at the end of this year, we could look back on a period with fewer industrial accidents? Ultimately, we are all working together to improve overall safety within Dutch industry.
One goal, big differences
Even when organizations pursue the same goal, we see major differences in practice. Sometimes it is not possible to get everyone on the same page when it comes to new safety plans. Sometimes management has other priorities. And sometimes there is resistance or a lack of understanding on the work floor. These differences make it clear that safety cannot be taken for granted and that there is no standard solution.
Safety requires attention and repetition
As a safety expert, I am constantly looking for effective tools to increase safety awareness and consciousness within organizations. This is necessary in order to develop a good safety policy. I am convinced that this can only be achieved if safety is structurally on the agenda. Call it belief in the power of repetition.
From intention to behavior
Research from the University of Scranton shows that 25% of New Year's resolutions fail within the first two weeks of the new year. Ultimately, less than ten percent actually succeed in achieving their goals. This applies to personal resolutions, such as exercising more or quitting smoking, but also to organizational goals. I hope for a better score when it comes to safety. By making safety a standard agenda item in consultation meetings, regularly organizing workshops or toolbox meetings, and investing in targeted safety training, the effect will ultimately become noticeable. Employees need to see and experience that their organization is seriously investing in safety.
Start with the basics: the RI&E
A logical and indispensable starting point is to carry out a RI&E (Risk Inventory and Evaluation). By providing insight into risks and specifying concrete action points, you create the basis for targeted and lasting improvements in the field of safety and health.
Continuing to work together on safety
Would you like to discuss workplace safety, increasing safety awareness, or implementing and following up on a RI&E? Please feel free to contact us.
Written by Hans van Kempen, safety expert at PDG Health Services
