Some business owners/leaders may wonder if safety is an issue for small business (depending on the industry of course). But setting the bar for safety expectations from the start and making it part of the organizational culture is an important message for employees.
These days, there are lots of ways safety can impact an organization and it’s virtually impossible to be “too” careful. Letting staff know that safety is ALWAYS a priority is an important message. Do you expect your staff to answer their cell phones at all times (even while driving)? Have you ever cautioned them to only respond if they can do so safely?
If you have remote employees or meet in a public area (such as coffee shops or shared workspaces), have you ever talked about what they should do if they feel unsafe? Do they know what you expect in those situations? If you have parties that serve alcohol, do you limit the number of beverages and/or provide safe transportation?
If your employees work outside or in a warehouse or anywhere that temperature control is not definitive, have you discussed signs of heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke? If your employees work in an office environment, do they know what to do if they see a stranger someplace they shouldn’t be? With remote workers, have you talked about ergonomics—do they have the right furniture and/or equipment to limit risk or injuries? Do they know how to lift properly (even if lifting is minimal)?
What about stress? Do you or your staff ever experience stress (if the answer is no/never, please contact me so I can join your organization. 😊 ). Have you ever talked through ideas to limit stress (taking breaks, changing scenery
, EAP program, free resources, etc.)?
Safety awareness and training is not only for large (or small) offices with hazardous conditions and/or materials. A lone employee can get into a situation where they could be hurt. Look around and think about how to minimize risks and talk with your employees about your expectations for safety.
Making it clear that you care about their safety is the right thing to do.
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