Safety leader says focusing on 'inexpensive yet effective things' can make a huge difference
In a recent COS TV interview with Kyle Nicholls, the senior director of environmental health and safety (EHS) at Triovest, we delved into the safety challenges faced by organizations in the services sector and explored strategies for promoting a culture of safety.
Triovest was honoured as the 2023 Safest Employer in The Services Sector at Canada’s Safest Employers Awards, making Nicholls' insights invaluable for health and safety professionals striving to enhance workplace safety.
Nicholls highlighted some of the unique safety challenges faced by organizations in the services sector, emphasizing the need for engagement and passion for safety among employees.
"Engagement, creating excitement around safety, and creating a passion for safety are essential," says Nicholls. He also recognized that the constant demands, priorities, and time constraints in the service sector can sometimes act against safety and emphasized the importance of overcoming these challenges. "How do we give our people the tools and the resources to recognize that safety is important?" Nicholls pondered.
Effective safety communication
Communicating safety messages effectively, and ensuring the information is retained, is no easy task and Nicholls admits "we haven't mastered it." He says believing you've mastered safety communication could lead to complacency, potentially resulting in safety issues.
Nicholls elaborated on their approach, mentioning annual safety training that utilizes an automated digital platform with interactive games and questions to keep employees constantly thinking about safety. Additionally, Triovest places safety-related postings throughout their office spaces and workplaces, aiming to provide constant reminders to their teams that safety is a top priority. "Don't stop thinking about safety in everything you do every day," Nicholls stressed.
Advice for the services sector
When asked about safety advice for other companies operating in the services sector, Nicholls offered practical guidance. "Focus on the small, inexpensive yet effective things you can do in safety," he suggested. He cited examples such as building signage, elevator postings, and messages in lunchrooms as small actions that, over time, make employees more consciously or subconsciously aware of safety in their daily tasks.
Nicholls says these small efforts can collectively strengthen a safety-oriented culture and result in more vigilant and safety-conscious employees.
Nicholls emphasis on engagement, constant reinforcement, and focusing on small but effective safety measures provides health and safety professionals with practical strategies to enhance safety culture in their organizations.
As we continue to prioritize workplace safety, learning from organizations like Triovest serves as a vital resource for professionals dedicated to ensuring the well-being of employees across various industries.
