As famously noted by Machiavelli, introducing new practices and leading change can be challenging. This holds especially true in workplace safety, where communication is about disseminating information and ensuring it is effectively received and understood.
Consider the various forms of communication we use daily, from verbal interactions and meetings to written emails and signs. Unfortunately, meetings often become time-consuming without yielding clear takeaways, especially in safety contexts. It's crucial to ensure that key messages are delivered, retained, and understood by employees.
The 'exposure rate' concept in marketing – repeating a message to make it stick – also applies to safety communication. If a safety message is critical, it must be conveyed repeatedly to emphasize its importance.
Adapting communication tools to the evolving workplace culture is essential. If these tools become misaligned with the culture or ineffective, they should be reconsidered or modified. For instance, an innovative approach used by a company involved family members in safety messaging, creating personalized and impactful reminders for employees about workplace safety.
Non-verbal cues, body language, and written communication also play significant roles. However, the effectiveness of these methods varies. For example, overusing emails can lead to losing important messages amidst digital clutter.
When discussing the role of safety training, emphasize that it should go beyond mere attendance and focus on actual knowledge transfer and application in daily practices.
When using bulletin boards, posters, and newsletters to communicate safety messages, the key is to inform, engage, and make safety personal and relevant to each individual.
Finally, the importance of feedback and accountability in safety communication is crucial. Gathering employee feedback and addressing concerns promptly can significantly enhance safety practices.
Effective communication in safety requires a multifaceted approach tailored to each workplace's unique needs and culture. It's about making safety personal, engaging, and a core value in every organization.