October 21 2018
By: Terry L. Mathis
We still are amazed that most of the workers we interview cannot accurately identify what the organization has recently done to improve safety, nor can they name the precaution they could take that would prevent the most accidents. Communicating post-accident data should not just be focused on sending a clear message, but on creating focus to prevent future accidents. When workers do not remember (or were not told) what to focus on, they don't focus. Without focus, safety is often just a bunch of platitudes such as, "Be careful" or, "Think before you act."
Focus needs to have two parts: What the organization has done and what the workers can do. If these two are not communicated or if the communication is not memorable (sticky), then the lessons from past accidents are not learned and will likely be repeated.
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.
