TruckandTrackWinter2019FB

Truck and Track Winter 2019 www.truckandtrack.com 46 COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW2020 What does “safety culture” really mean? The short answer: It’s the safety measures your employees take when no one is looking. It’s both your theoretical values about safety, as well as the practical application of safety procedures that reduce risks for employees. Coordinating attitudes and actions to build a culture of safety doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. In fact, your existing safety procedures probably just need to be refreshed to incorporate a stronger “security net” without expending a ton of effort. Below are some effective, no-cost ways to promote safety that you can put in play quickly. By taking these steps, you can help better protect your employees, company, reputation, AND budget. BENEFITS OF A SAFETY CULTURE Reducing workplace injury—especially saving lives—is the critical benefit of having a culture committed to safety. Here are other big benefits to consider: ✓ ✓ Morale: Employees feel more fulfilled by their jobs and committed to their employer when they believe the company is invested in their well-being. ✓ ✓ Sustainability: Companies aremore likely to prosperwhen they can control costs related to unsafe practices (claims, litigation, insurance, inoperable vehicles, etc.). ✓ ✓ Compliance: Meeting mandatory regulatory requirements and achieving high safety scores is easier when you already have safety best practices in place. ✓ ✓ Accountability: When safety protocol is communicated and enforced, employees are much more likely to abide by the rules. ✓ ✓ Reputation: Companies that prioritise safety have trustworthy reputations that are void of negative press, attract job candidates, and foster positive public relations. Getting serious about safety may seem like a tall order with everything else on your plate. However, think of it more like starting a grassroots movement within your company—from your drivers to your leadership team. It will gather momentum once you give it an initial push. These five, effective methods will help you start that movement to build a culture of safety. Find out where you stand today Review your current safety protocols and statistics. Here are a few thought-starters to consider: ■■ When was the last time you updated your safety protocols? ■■ How are you budgeting for and addressing rising claims costs and insurance premiums? ■■ Are you familiar and compliant with all pertinent laws and regulations? ■■ Howmany incidents or collisions have you had this year? ■■ Are you currently monitoring, classifying, and coaching risky behaviours? If so, how? ■■ How do you communicate safety concerns and procedures? ■■ What is your lost-time injury rate? Prepare now to avoid disaster later There is a cost when you delay implementing strong safety procedures. There are also “hidden” costs you might not even consider until you are faced with the bill. Be proactive and infuse safety into your culture. When safety isn’t a priority, your organisation could also incur costs for: ■■ Fines and penalties ■■ Accident investigations and legal proceedings ■■ Loss of revenue ■■ Vehicle repair and leasing replacement vehicles 5 no-cost ways to enhance your safety culture