Priority vs. Value

December 24 2017
By: Terry L. Mathis

Many organizations have bought into the idea that safety should be a value and not just a priority. The thought is that priorities change and values do not. Thus, if safety results are bad, it becomes a higher priority and if results get better, its priority diminishes. While this basic philosophical point is legitimate, the real measure of success is in how it is implemented.

Priority vs. Value

In all too many organizations, all that changes is wording. Basic safety practices remain virtually unchanged and the gap between what leaders say and do widens. Such a widening gap actually hurts safety. It demonstrates insincerity and duplicity. Safety is spoken but not practiced. It is critical that leaders demonstrate what they preach to workers. If you are going to say safety is a value be sure you strategically plan how you are going to demonstrate it.


Terry L. Mathis

Terry Mathis, Founder and retired CEO of ProAct Safety, has served as a consultant and advisor for top organizations the world over. A respected strategist and thought leader, Terry has authored five books, numerous articles, videos and blogs, and is known for his dynamic and engaging presentations. EHS Today has named him one of the '50 People Who Most Influenced EHS' four consecutive times. Business leaders and safety professionals seek Terry's practical insight and unique ability to introduce new perspectives that lead to real change.





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