Taking Action
A safety management system (SMS) is just like any system. It has four main components: structure, inputs, processes, and outputs.
Employers must understand that each of the four components must be properly managed for the SMS to succeed. This module will discuss important actions management can take to develop and maintain these important components. The first critical need is for management to demonstrate a real commitment to safety, not just with words, but with serious action: spending serious time and money on the safety function.
Demonstrate Commitment to Safety and Health
Establish policies and procedures: You will need to write a policy statement signed by top management describing the organization's commitment to safety and health. The signed policy should also pledge to establish and maintain an effective safety and health program for all workers. Here are a few things to remember:
- Communicate the policy to everyone.
- Consider safety and health in all business decisions.
- Be visible and set an example by following all safety procedures.
- Begin work meetings with a review of safety and health items on a "to-do" list.
Define program goals and objectives: Write general safety goals and specific observable-measureable objectives that focus on actions that will improve workplace safety and health.
- Emphasize proactive injury and illness prevention rather than reactive injury and illness rates.
- Develop long-term strategies and short-term tactics to achieve the goals and objectives.
- Assign tasks and responsibilities to people, setting time frames, and determining resource needs.
Provide resources: Provide the necessary resources needed to implement the safety and health program, pursue program goals, and address identified program shortcomings.
- Estimate the resources needed to establish and implement the program.
- Allow time in workers' schedules for them to fully participate in the program.
- Integrate safety and health into planning and budgeting processes and align budgets with program needs.
- Provide and direct resources to operate and maintain the program, meet safety and health commitments, and pursue program goals.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-1. When developing a safety management system, write _____.
You forgot to answer the question!