Safety Culture – It Starts with You

On the minds of all Fleet Owners is the need to keep their drivers and other employees safe.  Creating a Safety Culture within the company can be the key to success in this area.  What is Safety Culture?  It is an atmosphere of conscientiousness in regards to safety practices and values.  How can Fleet Owners create that kind of culture within their companies?  Here are three practical steps to help you do just that:

1.) It starts with you.

Creating a Safety Culture starts with company leadership.  Depending on the size of your company, you as the Owner may need to fully take the lead in promoting best practices.  Or perhaps you can entrust that responsibility to a Safety Manager or someone who can give consistent and personalized attention to this area.  Regardless of whomever is taking the lead in this area, creating a Safety Culture within your company depends upon the consistency of the message and values, starting from the top.

2.) Maintain Consistency.

Investigating citations, roadside inspection issues or crashes, identifying any discrepancies or compliance issues and then determining the appropriate action are all important steps in ensuring a safety conscience environment.  The key lies in consistently addressing issues as they arise and taking the necessary action, including discipline and termination if the need arose.

3.) Celebrate success.

Employees who feel like their good conduct is recognized and rewarded will naturally perform better.  So let them know you’re proud!

 

Jan. 2019 Edition of Fleet Owners mag.  Your Company and Safety by Steve Vaughn