See Something, Say Something Workplace Safety is simply a motto adopted in the workplace to promote safety awareness. As it is generally said, “Safety is everyone’s responsibility“, and part of the responsibility of an employee is to “Say Something“. Now the question is – What do you say?
As a very quick recap, one of the employee’s duties for Workplace Safety is – “Report every act or situation which you believe could affect your safety and that of others negatively”.
So now back to the question, what do you say? You speak out about actions, situations, or conditions that you feel could negatively affect your safety or that of others.
What is the “See Something Say Something Workplace Safety”
It is a safety quote or motto that encourages employees to prioritize their safety and that of others by looking out for safety concerns in the workplace (See Something) and reporting the same to a responsible person (Say Something) who is capable of deciding to mitigate the risk involved.
Origin of See Something Say Something
The slogan “If You See Something, Say Something” was originally implemented and trademarked by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (NY MTA) after a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. In July 2010, the NY MTA granted a license to DHS to use the trademarked slogan to implement a nationwide anti-terrorism campaign.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has used this national campaign to raise public awareness in two primary areas:
- Recognizing signs that may indicate a potential nexus to terrorism.
- How to report suspicious activity to appropriate law enforcement authorities.
Purpose and Benefits of See Something Say Something Workplace Safety
There are numerous purposes and benefits associated with See Something Say Something Workplace Safety, but the central point is that it helps make sure everyone goes home safe and happy. For this article, I will mention a few purposes and benefits:
- It encourages employees to be sensitive to hazards and not be hazard blind.
- It ensures early detection of non-conformities and dangers in the workplace.
- Identifying hazards early and managing the risk will result in a safer workplace.
- It boosts employees’ morale as it makes them believe they are valued.
- Reduces days lost to accidents.
- Keeps the organization in business as they tend to avoid fines and maintain high safety standards.
- It boosts productivity, etc.
Why is the “See Something, Say Something” Motto Important for Workplace Safety?
Though we have already stated some individual benefits, let us consider in broader terms, the importance of “See Something Say Something in Workplace Safety”;
1. Creating a Culture of Awareness and Responsibility:
This is achieved as it encourages the employees to always look out for things or situations that could hurt them, making them understand that safety is their responsibility. This acronym sets out clear expectations and goals, communicating openly and honestly, holding everyone accountable, leading by example, and providing feedback and recognition.
2. Preventing Potential Workplace Incidents
A set of employees who are aware of potential hazards and make an effort to ensure that the risks are being managed are invariably preventing potential workplace incidents.
The only language risk understands is management. When risks are not identified and managed, incidents are imminent; but when risks are identified and managed, incidents are prevented.
3. Prompt Reporting and Swift Action
This quote encourages prompt and swift reporting of workplace safety concerns. To encourage employees to keep rising to their responsibility of reporting safety concerns, some organizations give incentives to employees who report more verifiable safety concerns.
4. Building Trust and Collaboration
Lastly, it builds trust between the employees and the employers and also allows for a healthy collaboration. If I work where my safety is not taken for granted, I will be more relaxed and open because it tells me that my employer has my interests at heart.
How to Implement the “See Something, Say Something” in the Workplace
Some of the ways to implement this motto or quote are:
1. Employee Training and Education
Ensure that employees have adequate safety orientation after employment, and also organize job-specific training for them. Area to cover includes – Hazard identification, organization’s line of communication, safety procedures in place in the organization, emergency response plan, importance of PPE, need for authorization before operation, how to use PPE properly, etc.
2. Encouraging Open Communication Channels
Encourage the employees to communicate their safety concerns freely. You can achieve this by not being judgmental, attacking, or dismissing them when they bring up their safety concerns. Try to listen and see things from their point of view; otherwise, they may bottle down what they see next time, which could compromise the organization’s safety culture.
3. Providing Anonymous Reporting Options
Provide a medium for anonymous reporting, as some may not want to be identified due to what may be at stake.
4. Recognizing and Rewarding Reporting Efforts
Encourage employees by recognizing and rewarding their effort in reporting safety concerns in the workplace.
The Role of Management and Leadership in Promoting the Motto
- Leading by Example
- Providing Resources and Support
- Regularly Reinforcing the Motto’s Importance
In conclusion, creating a Safer Workplace through the “See Something Say Something Workplace Safety” is something every organization should adopt as it helps build a positive safety culture and, in the long run, helps prevent accidents.
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