Global Challenges for Occupational Health and Safety Professionals
When considering the most foundational skillset in the industrial workplace, the answer must be “safety.” Safety leaders worldwide would assert this, given the dire consequences of neglecting it. Despite not perceiving their workplace as unsafe, millions of workers suffer from occupational accidents and work-related diseases annually. Poor safety conditions account for the majority of these incidents.
The Global Context of Occupational Health and Safety
Global occupational health and safety (OHS) is inextricably linked to the dynamics of economic globalization. As the global market expands, the disparity between developed and underdeveloped countries becomes more pronounced, affecting workers’ safety across the spectrum. This issue is also prevalent in developed nations due to untrained migrant workers in sectors like construction and agriculture. For too long, Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) have been viewed in isolation rather than as a driving force for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and overall business success.
The Multifaceted Threats to Worker Health
Accidents are not the only threats to workers’ health. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), work-related stress and psychosocial risks are growing concerns for companies and workers worldwide. However, these issues are largely preventable through improved working conditions. Here, we explore the most significant challenges faced by workplace health and safety professionals today.
Key Challenges in Occupational Health and Safety
1. Navigating the Complex and Changing Regulatory Landscape
Challenge: EHS experts must stay updated on ever-evolving compliance rules at local, national, and global levels. This requires constant vigilance and the ability to stay current with industry changes. Understanding these legal frameworks and their impacts can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Non-compliance can lead to severe consequences, including legal repercussions, financial penalties, and reputational damage.
Solution: EHS specialists must develop robust strategies to stay informed about new and evolving regulations. They should establish a flexible system to maintain compliance in this complex environment, involving consistent communication with all stakeholders.
2. The Details are in the Data
Challenge: Data is crucial for measuring safety, encompassing incidents, inspections, and compliance. However, the volume and complexity of data can be overwhelming.
Solution: Implementing data analytics tools can streamline data management, prioritize critical issues, and provide actionable insights for informed decision-making. These tools help EHS professionals collect relevant data and confidently interpret and report it to stakeholders.
3. Employee Engagement
Challenge: Engaging employees in safety programs is critical but challenging. Even with the best strategies, if employees are not on board or lack understanding, safety efforts can fail.
Solution: Effective communication is key. Employees are more likely to engage in safety practices if they understand the vision and how specific activities impact goals. Creating feedback channels through KPI achievements, recognition, and opportunities for suggestions can enhance engagement.
4. Digital Transformation
Challenge: Managing supply chains on spreadsheets is outdated and prone to errors, which can be costly and dangerous, especially in high-risk industries.
Solution: Adopting a contractor management platform can streamline operations and reduce risks. Partnering with experts who understand your business needs can lead to tailored solutions that enhance efficiency and safety.
5. Visibility into the Supply Chain
Challenge: The global nature of supply chains makes consistent and full visibility difficult, increasing safety risks and potential non-compliance.
Solution: A supply chain risk management solution can provide comprehensive visibility. Good software allows real-time data collection and ensures compliance, enhancing worker safety across multiple job sites and contractors.
6. Emergency Preparedness
Challenge: Developing and maintaining effective emergency response plans is complex, especially given the unpredictability of emergencies like wildfires.
Solution: Detailed and well-defined emergency response plans covering a range of scenarios can be lifesaving. This requires risk assessments, cross-functional team engagement, regular training, and continuous updates to the emergency plan.
7. Change Resistance
Challenge: Implementing new safety policies can face resistance from employees uncomfortable with change, hindering the development of a strong safety culture.
Solution: Understanding the reasons behind resistance and addressing them with empathy and strong communication can mitigate this issue. Providing avenues for employees to voice concerns, such as anonymous feedback opportunities, can increase awareness and participation in EHS initiatives.
Improving Workplace Safety Culture
Safety leaders face numerous challenges in the modern industrial workplace. To improve a workplace’s safety culture, leaders must implement comprehensive safety programs that educate workers on the knowledge and skills necessary to stay safe. Influencing others to prioritize safety can significantly reduce accidents and enhance industrial efficiency and productivity.
Conclusion
Occupational health and safety professionals play a crucial role in ensuring a safe working environment, which is foundational to industrial workplace success. By addressing challenges like regulatory changes, data management, employee engagement, digital transformation, supply chain visibility, emergency preparedness, and change resistance, EHS specialists can foster a culture of safety.
At FRISK, our experienced HSE consultants and organizational psychologists bring expertise from global organizations across Africa, Europe, and the Nordics. We are dedicated to helping you navigate these complexities with tailored strategies that fit your needs. Contact us today to discover how we can assist you in building a safer, more sustainable workplace.
Together, we can make a significant impact on workplace safety and environmental health.