In every organization, the culture of safety begins and is continually shaped at the leadership level. The journey to robust safety management is paved with the philosophy of ownership — not just at the managerial level, but across every tier of the organization. This article explores the critical elements of fostering a safety leadership culture and emphasizes the indispensable role of personal responsibility in nurturing an environment where safety is paramount.
The Mirror and the Window: A Dual Approach to Safety Leadership
The cornerstone of effective safety leadership lies in the principle captured succinctly in the metaphor of looking first into the 'Mirror' and then out the 'Window'. This concept isn't just about finding faults or assigning blame; it's about recognizing the role of leadership in setting the tone for safety practices and then supporting the team in fulfilling their safety responsibilities.
1. Reflection Before Direction: Leaders must start with introspection. When things go awry, rather than casting blame outward, effective leaders evaluate their actions and decisions first. This reflection is crucial because the behavior of leaders sets the standard for the rest of the team. Leaders must ask themselves key questions: Are my actions reflecting the highest safety values I expect from my team? Do I provide the resources necessary for safe operations? Am I making the tough decisions that prioritize safety over short-term gains?
2. Shifting Perspective: After self-assessment, leaders should then look outward — the 'Window' perspective. This involves assessing the team not for faults, but for opportunities to reinforce and improve safety practices. It's about recognizing and nurturing the potential within the team to uphold and champion safety standards.
Cultivating Ownership Among All Employees
Ownership of safety isn't exclusive to those who hold managerial titles. It's a collective responsibility, vital for creating a sustainable safety culture.
Empowering Top Performers: Top performers often set the bar in workplaces. While they typically require less oversight, they still need recognition and opportunities for growth. Leaders should engage with these employees, validating their good practices and encouraging them to mentor others in safety.
Focusing on the Core: The bulk of any workforce, usually 70 to 80 percent, consists of solid, reliable employees. These team members are the backbone of any safety culture. They typically adhere to safety protocols but can grow complacent if not consistently engaged. Leadership should focus on this group, setting high but attainable standards and holding individuals accountable, thereby reinforcing a strong safety ethic.
Addressing Lower Performers: While it may be tempting to focus on the lower performers who often are the source of frequent safety issues, effective leadership involves providing opportunities for improvement before deciding on disciplinary actions. The goal is to elevate everyone's commitment to safety, not just to weed out problems.
The Power of Leading by Example
The most effective way to influence safety culture is by example. Leaders are always on stage; their actions and decisions are constantly observed and often emulated. When leaders consistently adhere to safety protocols, openly engage in safety discussions, and show genuine commitment to the well-being of their team, they set a powerful example for everyone.
Safety as a Shared Value
No organization can achieve a high level of safety without the collective effort of all its members. By promoting a leadership culture that values self-reflection, accountability, and personal responsibility, safety becomes a shared priority, deeply rooted in the organization's fabric. This approach not only enhances safety outcomes but also promotes a more engaged, informed, and committed workforce.
In cultivating a safety leadership culture, remember that every decision and action contributes to the overarching safety narrative of your organization. As leaders in safety, the commitment to look first in the mirror, then out the window, ensures that safety is not just a policy, but a core value lived daily by everyone.
Ken Chapman, Ph.D. and Tony Orlowski
Co-Authors, Safety Beyond the Numbers
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