Most businesses today, regardless of industry, are struggling with a convergence of significant challenges unlike anything in recent memory. Developing strategies to address a persistent labor shortage, supply chain disruptions, and record inflation is a daunting but imperative endeavor. It is not just a matter of weathering the perfect storm – it is about staying on course and emerging to fair seas in sea-worthy condition.
When strong headwinds subside, strategies in place today will continue to contribute to overall organizational performance and success. In today’s rough seas, companies with sound engagement, recognition, and safety strategies in place are realizing their value, while those without are experiencing additional frustration.
June is designated National Safety Month by the National Safety Council (NSC), and for this reason our posts this month have focused on safety. Helping clients design and implement comprehensive employee safety programs has always been an important part of what we do – and never more needed than today.
Two factors mentioned above are contributing to an increase in on-the-job injuries to workers with less than three months on the job (Barry Bottino – Safety+Health). The labor shortage forces employers to fill open positions by turning to younger, inexperienced workers. Record inflation has also forced more mature workers to start jobs they’ve never done before. This increase in inexperienced workers – both young and older – increases the potential for injury, especially within the first three months to one year on the job.
Barry Bottino cites two industry professionals regarding imperative safety measures. Bruce Loughner, technical safety advisor for the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, recommends a robust onboarding program that includes a significant focus on safe attitudes and behaviors – one that exceeds minimal discussions about orientation and compliance. OSHA spokesperson Kim Darby recommends that “employers, regardless of industry, perform job safety analysis to identify the hazards inexperienced workers may face.”
A comprehensive employee safety program will certainly include these measures and will also encourage engagement on the part of all employees. It isn’t enough to rely on inexperienced workers to navigate a new and dangerous workplace alone. Workers should not only look out for themselves, but for their fellow employees.
