Safety and Health Programs: Recommended Practices

Safety and health programs give workplaces a proactive way to prevent injuries and illnesses before they happen. By identifying hazards, training employees, and encouraging a culture of prevention, these programs protect workers while also boosting productivity, morale, and overall business success.

The recommended practices are designed for use across a wide range of small and medium-sized businesses. They provide a clear, step-by-step approach to building an effective safety and health program, centered on seven core elements that define success.

Traditional approaches are often reactive, meaning issues are addressed only after an injury or illness occurs, a new regulation is issued, or an inspection uncovers a problem that requires correction.

Recommended practices recognize that finding and fixing hazards before they can cause harm is more effective. Start with a basic program and simple goals, then build from there. By setting clear goals, tracking performance, and evaluating results, you guide your workplace toward higher levels of safety and health.

Benefits of Safety and Health Programs

Implementing safety and health programs offers businesses a wide range of benefits, including:

• Preventing workplace injuries and illnesses
• Improving conditions with laws and regulations
• Reducing costs, including significant reductions in workers’ compensation premiums
• Engaging workers
• Enhancing their social responsibility goals
• And, increasing productivity and enhancing overall business operations

Getting Started: How Do I Get Started?

There are 10 simple ways to start your programs, including:

1. Establish safety and health as a core value
2. Lead by example
3. Implement a reporting system
4. Provide training
5. Conduct inspections
6. Collect hazard control ideas
7. Implement hazard controls
8. Address emergencies
9. Seek input on workplace changes
10. Make improvements

Core Elements

There are 7 core elements of every safety and health program, including:

1. Management Leadership
2. Worker Participation
3. Hazard Identification and Assessment 
4. Hazard Prevention and Control 
5. Education and Training
6. Program Evaluation and Improvement 
7. Communication and Coordination for Host Employers, Contractors, and Staffing Agencies 

Conclusion

Safety and health programs are more than just compliance requirements, they’re investments in people and business success. By taking a proactive approach, setting clear goals, and engaging employees at every level, companies can prevent injuries, boost productivity, and create a stronger safety culture.