As all safety professionals know, the best WHS systems and procedures in the world will not achieve the organisation’s safety goals if workers are not “on board” and using them correctly.
Every worker, manager and contractor has a part to play in making WHS systems effective; and convincing all these individuals of the relevance of the WHS requirements, and their part in achieving good outcomes, is a critical role of organisational leaders. Planning to achieve this organisation-wide support is essential, rather than just rolling out a new system and hoping it works.
An important consideration in avoiding the resistance which can undermine WHS systems is to appropriately consult with the workers involved. This is mandated in the harmonised Work Health and Safety Act sections 47-49, but it has always been critical to the acceptance and success of systems and procedures. Build this consultation in from the early stages of WHS system development, rather than trying to “retrofit” consultation after the key decisions have already been made.
Design the new or improved WHS system with care. Was the consultation undertaken such that workers will recognise the relevance of the system to their daily efforts? Has the “what’s in it for me” element been emphasised? Does the system suit the operational and compliance requirements of the organisation (rather than being an off-the-shelf product with a poor fit)? Is each procedure and form user-friendly so that the “path of least resistance” is to do the right thing?
The next step is to figure out how each organisational team or group of workers can best be motivated to take the new WHS system on board. This is where the organisational leaders’ knowledge of their people comes into its own. Is the culture focussed on compliance requirements or does everyone recognise the role of safety in achieving organisational goals? Does the organisation just require the CEO to show his/her support, or is it necessary to identify the informal leaders trusted by the point of risk personnel and convince them first?
Deliberation is also required on the best methods of communicating the requirements and use of the WHS system. QRMC explored this subject in the August edition of Insight.
It is then important that the WHS System is regularly monitored and reviewed for relevance, applicability and compliance to ensure that the system meets all current requirements and is still effective in managing safety risks.
Once all these keystones are laid in the foundation of the new WHS system, detailed development and implementation activities can be embarked upon with high expectations of overall success.
Please contact QRMC for more information.
