We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

601 Essentials of Occupational Safety and Health
Skip to main content

Safety and Health Programs

A workplace safety and health system includes many programs that describe what people, business owners, managers, and employees do to prevent injuries and illnesses at their workplace. A workplace safety and health program may be just a concept, but it is an important one. Effective management of worker safety and health protection is a decisive factor in reducing the extent and severity of work-related injuries and illnesses and related costs.

Variety of workers.
Employees will care about safety if management cares about employees.

An effective safety management system includes provisions for the systematic identification, evaluation, prevention and control of workplace hazards, and continuous improvement of its programs.

Elements of a Safety Program

An effective occupational safety and health program will include the following main elements:

  • Management commitment and Leadership
  • Accountability
  • Safety Involvement
  • Safety Communications
  • Hazard Identification and Control
  • Accident Investigation and Analysis
  • Safety Education and Training
  • Continuous Safety Improvement

Effective programs have clear principles that focus on priorities and guide program design. Developing an effective safety management system begins with conducting an initial baseline survey and evaluation of existing programs and policies within the company. The information gained from the baseline survey and evaluation can be used to improve weak policies, programs, processes, and procedures.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-1. Which activity is used to assess, evaluate, and improve the safety management system?