Safety-Centric Culture: A Core Value for Workplace Safety

When it comes to safety in the workplace, organizational culture can be quite literally a matter of life and death. The tragic history of BP, one of the world's largest oil producers, serves as a stark reminder of this reality. BP's safety record has been marred by several incidents, including a devastating explosion in 2005 that claimed the lives of 15 workers and injured 180. This was just one in a series of safety incidents that plagued BP's operations, eventually costing the company $54 billion in damages when the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded in 2010.

However, there's a shining example of how a troubled safety culture can be transformed. When Marathon Petroleum, the fourth-largest oil refiner in the U.S., acquired the same BP plant, they embarked on a journey to institute a culture centered on safety. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable. The contrast between BP's troubled past and Marathon Petroleum's commitment to safety is a testament to the power of organizational culture.

The Power of a Safety-Centric Culture

A safety-centric culture is not only about preventing accidents but also about protecting employees, enhancing productivity, and safeguarding a company's reputation. It's about instilling a mindset where safety is not just a part of the job but a core value that everyone in the organization embraces.

For Marathon Petroleum, the cultural shift from BP's troubled past to a safety-centric approach was a strategic imperative. The cost of accidents and the loss of lives were simply too high to ignore. The same holds true for every organization, regardless of its size or industry.

Purpose-Driven Culture and Safety

Many of the world's most successful and engaged organizations maintain a purpose-driven culture. This culture is built on a clear mission and values that resonate with employees. When a company's mission is not just a statement but a driving force, employees tend to be more engaged and safety-conscious.

Employees who align with their company's mission are more likely to approach their work with thoughtfulness and attention to detail. This, in turn, contributes to a culture of safety. Purpose-driven organizations have demonstrated time and again that a clear sense of mission not only inspires employees but also keeps them safe.

Employee Involvement and Safety

A key aspect of creating a safety-centric culture is actively involving employees in safety measures. Front-line employees are often the best at identifying and preventing potential hazards. They offer valuable perspectives on organizational problems and are well-versed in safety practices.

Leaders should encourage employees to watch for hazards, report safety concerns, and provide feedback. Importantly, leaders should act on the information they receive, demonstrating that employees' opinions matter. This collaborative approach not only helps prevent safety incidents but also fosters a sense of ownership among employees.

Steps to Create a Culture of Safety

Creating a culture of safety doesn't happen overnight, but it's a strategic imperative that's worth the investment. Here are some steps to get you started:

1. Identify and Address Risks:

Begin by identifying safety risks specific to your industry and workplace. Conduct thorough assessments and prioritize areas that require immediate attention.

2. Define a Clear Safety Mission:

Define a clear safety mission and values that resonate with your employees. Make sure everyone understands the importance of safety in achieving the company's goals.

3. Ensure Open Communication:

Establish open channels for employees to report safety concerns and provide feedback. Create a culture where speaking up about safety is not only encouraged but expected. Use familiar communication tools such as chats, news feeds and social walls.

4. Provide Training and Resources:

Empower employees with the knowledge and resources they need to make safety-conscious decisions. Regular safety training and access to relevant information are essential. Provide these resource digitally and ensure they are easily accessible to all employees.

5. Review and Improve:

Regularly review and improve safety policies and procedures. Involve employees in the process to ensure that safety measures are effective and up-to-date. 

Leveraging Employee Engagement Apps for Enhanced Workplace Safety

In the digital age, technology is a powerful ally in transforming the way organizations manage their safety culture. Employee engagement apps, equipped with various features that facilitate real-time communication, feedback gathering, surveys, knowledge sharing, and more, have the potential to significantly boost workplace safety. Here's how these apps can contribute to creating a safer and more engaged work environment:

1. Live Communication and Reporting:

Employee engagement apps allow for instant communication and reporting of safety concerns. Workers can quickly share their observations, report hazards, or seek immediate assistance, fostering a culture of vigilance and quick response to potential dangers.

2. Feedback Gathering and Continuous Improvement:

These apps facilitate the collection of employee feedback on safety practices, procedures, and overall workplace conditions. Employees can provide real-time feedback, which can be used to identify safety issues and continuously improve safety measures.

3. Safety Surveys and Assessments:

Employee engagement apps enable organizations to conduct safety surveys and assessments, helping to gauge the effectiveness of existing safety programs. Survey results can inform safety initiatives and pinpoint areas that require additional attention.

4. Knowledge Sharing and Training:

Apps can serve as a platform for sharing safety resources, digital manuals, training materials, and best practices. Employees can access valuable safety information at their fingertips, ensuring they are well-informed and capable of making safe decisions.

5. Safety Alerts and Notifications:

Being able to push safety alerts and notifications in real-time can be crucial. This is particularly useful in critical situations, such as weather emergencies or evolving safety procedures, ensuring that all employees are promptly informed and can take appropriate actions.

6. Performance Analytics:

Employee engagement apps often come with performance analytics features. These analytics can help organizations track safety incident trends, identify areas with frequent incidents, and measure the impact of safety initiatives. With Empact you can also track which manuals are read the most and which get neglected. If you want to make data driven decisions towards better workplace safety then book a demo with us.

8. Employee Involvement and Ownership:

By providing employees with a platform to actively participate in safety discussions, these apps encourage a sense of ownership and responsibility for workplace safety. When employees feel that their inputs matter, they are more likely to be proactive in identifying and mitigating safety risks.

Incorporating employee engagement apps into your organization's safety strategy not only streamlines communication and reporting but also empowers employees to play an active role in keeping the workplace safe. This digital approach fosters a culture where safety is not just a compliance requirement but a shared responsibility among all members of the organization. With real-time communication, access to knowledge, and the ability to contribute to a culture of safety, these apps offer a powerful solution for enhancing workplace safety and overall employee engagement.

In conclusion, creating a culture of safety is not just an option but a strategic imperative for every organization. The lessons from the transformation of the BP plant acquired by Marathon Petroleum remind us that safety culture can be changed, and the benefits are immeasurable. By actively involving employees, aligning with a clear mission, and taking strategic steps to enhance safety, organizations can protect their most valuable assets – their employees – and ensure their long-term success.

Don't wait to make safety a priority. Start today and create a culture where safety isn't just a goal; it's a way of life.