• For safety management systems , the focus should be on quality rather than quantity . With particular reference to administrative controls , implementing “ more ” doesn ’ t always equal more value and may easily turn into the practice of just “ ticking boxes ” in order to get everything done .
• Focus on the quality of existing tools such as prestart meetings , inspections , and task observations to create meaningful and informative interactions on the job site .
• Establish a good reporting culture to ensure a transparent workplace and accurate incident data which will allow an analysis of hazard trends . Incident investigations are essential tools used to gain valuable learning and corrective actions to prevent incident reoccurrences .
Implementing
proven practices
First impressions are important , and they usually occur in inductions and onboarding . Thompson emphasizes that if introductions aren ’ t strong or informative , it can be difficult to raise a high standard of safety awareness later . “ Communication and consistency are key ,” she says . Thompson recommends seeking feedback to ensure that message delivery and receipt match . For example , no one can deliver a rushed , monotone induction and expect people to be passionate and knowledgeable about expected safety standards on-site .
Communication
In Thompson ’ s view , HSE professionals provide education , support , and motivation for safety awareness . An ability to communicate at all levels is extremely valuable . “ Construction brings us into contact with people from all walks of life ,” she notes . Because it does , “ we communicate with adaptive methods to equip all people with the relevant safety knowledge and resources .”
Knowledge
Awareness and understanding of safety gives people the confidence to carry out safe practices . People ’ s knowledge , or lack thereof , influences their behavior as an expression of choices , conscious or subconscious . Introducing personal responsibility awakens people ’ s awareness of their surroundings and , subsequently , their choices .
Educational planning
In a dynamic , fast-paced environment , construction creates simultaneous highrisk work fronts . “ Through educational planning , we can improve adherence to safety guidelines and processes ,” Thompson maintains . Poor planning or lack of knowledge may lead to frustration or resistance to high standard safety requirements . When people are familiar with and knowledgeable of safety guidelines , they are well equipped and prepared to incorporate strong safety practices in all scenarios . Forums such as high-risk workshops help incorporate safety practices into planning and ensure all participants work together proactively .
Promoting interaction
Thompson ’ s advice to safety leaders may sound familiar to anyone who has worked in the field for a while : “ Regardless of your role , be inspired to lead by example and motivate others with your consistent behaviors .” Being approachable creates opportunities for informal feedback and consultation . Importantly , “ act with integrity by following through with doing what you say you ’ re going to do ,” says Thompson , “ even the little things , and you will gain people ’ s trust and respect .”
Using these principles , Mirvac creates a positive , long-term safety culture where people are knowledgeable of safety guidelines , have avenues to seek feedback , and can build confidence in implementing safe practices which then become habitual .
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CONSTRUCTION SAFETY
RUBY THOMPSON HSE OFFICER
Ruby Thompson is originally from Western Australia , born in Kalgoorlie but grew up in Perth . She moved to Melbourne in 2017 and has lived there ever since .
Ruby has worked in HSE for nine years , starting in 2011 . The first half of her HSE career was in Surface Mining , the second half in Construction .
She completed a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Occupational Health and Safety , minoring in Psychology from Edith Cowan University in 2012 .
Ruby is driven by meaningful connection and influence which translates into industries like Construction .
People ’ s values and priorities regarding safety are contagious . She takes great personal responsibility of her impact as a HSE professional and believes the most powerful influence is through communication and consistency . She believes in equipping people with the knowledge to evolve their decisions around safety . Long-term impact is always her number one goal .