January 18 2021
By: Terry L. Mathis
You, as a safety professional, are playing a video game. The game has four levels. Are you content to stay at level 1 or 2, or would you like to max it out? You cannot get to the next level unless you have demonstrated competence at the lower level. Each level presents new challenges that require new skills and new approaches. Ready to begin.
Level 1 is getting control by putting the basics of safety in place: Doing risk analysis and utilizing the hierarchy of controls - elimination, substitution, establishing engineering controls, developing administrative controls, plus required PPE. 
Level 2 is getting the workforce into compliance: training, establishing accountability and enabling supervisors.
Level 3 is developing competence through coaching, clarification of roles, and teamwork building.
Level 4 is pursuing excellence through forming partnerships, creating ownership, and developing powerful metrics to predict and prevent accidents.
Analyze which level you have risen to and begin to set your goals on attaining the next level. Enjoy the game and celebrate your wins!
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.
