Communication and Safety

Importance of Workplace Safety Communication

Proper communication is crucial for a job to run safely and efficiently. When communication is insufficient or missing totally, there can be many adverse consequences for employees and the company as a whole. Recognizing the safety communication tools for work tasks and the work environment is important to ensure the proper messages are being received.

Tools to Communicate in the Workplace

When someone says communication, the first thing you may think about is speaking words to another person or sending an email. These are just two ways to communicate, but there are many more ways found at work. Some other examples of communication and safety messages include posters, labels, warnings, bulletins, pictograms, JSAs, SOPs, body language, etc.

Depending on any number of factors, each of these tools of communication can be very critical to help improve workplace safety.

Effective Safety Communication

Effective communication and safety go hand in hand. If there is no communication for a given work task, then safety is also missing. Some common tools for communicating a safety message:

• Training is a way to communicate how to do a task and how to do it safely and is one of the first methods of communication used when preparing for a work task.
• JSAs are important tools to communicate the steps of a job task, the associated hazards of each step, and the mitigation actions to be able to work safely.
• Safety meetings and workplace safety communications or toolbox talks discussing work tasks and the associated hazards of the work are very important for work crews. Paying attention to the safety meeting information and safety protocols can protect you during your work task that day or sometime in the future.
• Labels are found on almost every piece of equipment, tool, and chemical in the workplace. Manufacturers put these health and safety information labels on for a reason. They often relay some of the most important safety information regarding the hazards and safeguards of that product.

There are many other ways to advocate safety communication in the workplace. Verbal communication is also very important. When you see a situation where someone could be hurt, or there could be property loss, you should always speak up. Have a conversation with the individuals involved in the task to voice your safety concerns. Involve the right personnel to correct a situation before any serious negative consequences occur like employee injuries.

Summary

Recognize all the different tools used in the workplace to communicate safety information effectively. Appreciate the time and resources dedicated to developing and using these safety communication tools every day. Embrace the safety message they are conveying to keep you working efficiently and safely. When there are communication barriers or communication is not used to its fullest potential, there can be an increased chance of injury. Never be afraid to speak up when it comes to health and safety on the job.