Correctly functioning machines and devices, protective gear and equipment, cleanliness and good order, up-to- date safety instructions, as well as constant monitoring, reporting and improving form the foundation of an excellent workplace safety culture.

Yet this is not enough. In most workplace accidents the root cause lies in unconscious human errors. People do not follow the safety instructions or ground rules, they do not acknowledge risks and they do not intervene when they see actions or habits that are endangering safety. They are accustomed to the status quo and do not see the value of safety in their everyday rush.

Developing your workplace safety culture requires determination, clear goals and continuous work. Above all, it requires leadership. In an excellent safety culture people develop and improve safety together, proactively. Managers and foremen have common understanding and skills needed to involve their teams in developing safety. Everyone takes responsibility – of themselves, others and their workplace. Making safety observations, intervening, and giving and receiving feedback is a part of daily life.

When people dare to intervene in a constructive way and raise safety issues to discussion, they help each  other  to learn. This has a direct positive impact to the work climate.