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Supervisors are responsible for many tasks in the workplace. However, a supervisor's job is not strictly assigning tasks- supervisors must ensure a safe and healthful workplace for employees. Their responsibilities extend to the following:
- Orientation and Training- Training and instructing employees to perform their work safely is a vital supervisor responsibility. Supervisors should educate employees on what PPE is needed and how equipment is used, stored, and maintained.
- Enforce Safety- Accountability is crucial for supervisors when it comes to an effective safety program. Failure to enforce safe work practices and procedures is an invitation for accidents to occur. Employees must be encouraged to identify unsafe work conditions without fear of discipline from their supervisors.
- Correct Unsafe Conditions- "That isn't my job" is a sure sign that supervisors are not taking employee safety seriously. Supervisors must take immediate steps to correct unsafe or unhealthy hazards in the workplace. Turning a blind eye to hazardous conditions is never the answer.
- Prevent Lingering Unsafe Conditions- Supervisors are responsible for training and periodically reminding employees what to look for and how to report unsafe conditions. Near-miss incidents should always be reported, and corrective actions should be taken. If a hazard is identified, the supervisor must act.
- Investigate Accidents- Supervisors should always play a role in accident investigations. Once an employee reports an accident, supervisors must ensure proper steps are taken and assist in identifying root causes.
Leadership starts at the top, and it is no different when it comes to workplace safety. Supervisors who are accountable for the safety of their employees play a significant role in a successful safety culture.
Please reach out to our Loss Control Department if we can assist you in identifying how to improve your safety efforts.
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