Think safety, work safely

In early June, all of our employees at MackayMitchell Envelope Company in Minneapolis were presented with a large Snickers candy bar with a note that read, “NO SNICKERING — EVEN ROUTINE TASKS CAN HURT!”

Turns out our Safety Committee came up with this idea because we had three recordable injuries, two from simple slip-ups during everyday tasks. These weren’t from dangerous jobs, just familiar ones where focus slipped.

The message went on to warn employees, “Don’t rush. Don’t guess. Stay sharp, even on the ‘easy stuff.’ Safety is no joke. You’ve done this a hundred times — do it like it’s the first. THINK. FOCUS. STAY SAFE.”

What a perfect time for this message, since June is National Safety Month. Safety is a collective responsibility. Every individual plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe work environment. Safety is a state of mind. Accidents happen during an absence of mind.

Dr. Rob Long said, “The real enemy of safety is not noncompliance but non-thinking.”

Safety is absolutely critical in any company. It serves as the foundation for a productive and sustainable work environment. Here’s why safety is so important:

• Protecting employees. The primary goal of workplace safety is to protect employees from harm. Ensuring a safe work environment means minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries, which can have serious physical and emotional consequences for employees.

• Legal and financial implications. Neglecting safety can lead to legal issues and financial penalties. Companies are required to comply with occupational safety and health regulations, and failure to do so can result in costly fines and lawsuits.

• Enhancing productivity. A safe work environment boosts employee morale and productivity. When employees feel safe, they are more likely to focus on their tasks without the distraction of worrying about potential hazards.

• Reputation and trust. A company’s commitment to safety reflects its values and priorities. By prioritizing safety, a company builds trust with its employees, clients and the public. A strong safety record can enhance a company’s reputation and attract top talent.

• Reducing costs. Investing in safety measures can lead to significant cost savings. Preventing accidents reduces the expenses associated with medical treatments, workers’ compensation claims and equipment repairs.

As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Years ago, I visited a factory with a strong emphasis on safety protocols, yet the management realized that complacency could easily set in over time. To combat this, they implemented a unique approach: a “Safety Day” event.

During this event, employees participated in various activities designed to simulate potential hazards in a controlled environment. One of the exercises involved navigating an obstacle course while wearing safety gear. The goal was to highlight the importance of wearing protective equipment and following safety guidelines.

One employee, who initially thought the exercise was unnecessary, had a revelation. While maneuvering through the course, he stumbled and realized how crucial his helmet and gloves were in preventing injury. This experience changed his perspective, and he became a vocal advocate for safety measures.

The “Safety Day” not only reinforced the importance of vigilance but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among employees. It reminded everyone that safety is a collective responsibility, and even small precautions can make a significant difference.

Inspired by this approach, I took a page out of their playbook. In one of our companies, we were expanding our manufacturing operations. The increased production came with a corresponding rise in potential safety hazards. I noticed that while our safety protocols were in place, they were often treated as mere formalities rather than critical components of our operations.

So I initiated a comprehensive safety awareness campaign. We conducted workshops and training sessions that emphasized the real-life consequences of neglecting safety measures. We also encouraged employees to share their own experiences and suggestions for improving safety.

During a routine inspection, a team member identified a minor issue with a piece of machinery. Thanks to the heightened awareness from our campaign, he reported it immediately. We discovered that it could have led to a significant accident if left unaddressed.

This proactive approach not only prevented potential injuries but also fostered a culture of safety where everyone felt responsible for each other’s well-being. The campaign led to a noticeable reduction in workplace incidents and improved morale, as employees felt more secure and valued.

And that is nothing to SNICKER at!

Mackay’s Moral: Safety is not just a rule; it’s a way of life.

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Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times bestseller “Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive.” He can be reached through his website, www.harveymackay.com, by emailing [email protected] or by writing him at MackayMitchell Envelope Co., 2100 Elm St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.