TOOLBOX TALK

10 Tips for Supervising Safety

Print Date: ICA News 7/15/2009

In past Toolbox Talks, we have discussed the safety responsibilities of workers. This week
well discuss ten tips for supervisors to use when supervising safety.

Indiana Construction
Association

One North Capitol Avenue

Suite 1000
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
Phone (317) 472-6777
Fax (317) 472-6767
318 Main Street
Suite 401

1. Demonstrate a genuine concern for worker safety. Be sure your workers understand
and accept personal responsibility for safety. Provide them with the proper tools to
get the job done. Reinforce safety where required and lead by example.
2. Know the rules of safety that apply to the work you supervise. It is important to be
aware of the precautions required on the job. Attending safety training is a good
way to gain knowledge of safety hazards.
3. Anticipate risks that may arise from changes in equipment or methods. Use
available safety information and advice to help guard against new hazards. It may
be appropriate to conduct a periodic hazard assessment of tasks the workers
perform to determine the safest method and what personal protective equipment
is needed for each job.

Evansville, Indiana 47708

Phone (812) 477-0881
Fax (812) 421-5883
inconstruction.org

4. Encourage workers to help identify hazards on the job and recommend a solution.
Workers should be encouraged to never proceed with a job where questions of
safety remain unanswered. Workers should be made aware that providing input on
safety is not only allowed but strongly recommended.
5. Instruct your employees to work safely, with persistence and patience. When
workers are observed working in violation of the work rules, it is important to correct
the unsafe behavior immediately. Unsafe work practices that go uncorrected can
have long term effects on your safety program.
6. Follow up on safety issues and suggestions. It is important to keep workers involved
in the safety program. All safety suggestions and questions deserve a response.
When communication breaks down and supervisors do not respond to workers
suggestions, they can easily lose interest.
7. Set a good example. Demonstrate safety in your work habits and personal
conduct so that you don't appear hypocritical in the eyes of your workers.
8. Analyze all accidents and near-misses. When minor injuries go unheeded,
crippling accidents may strike later. Minor accidents and near-misses provide an
opportunity for safety improvements that could result in avoiding a serious
accident or fatality.
9. Recognize your role in the companys overall safety program. It is vital to know that
the companys safety director does not own the safety program and that your
involvement and input is welcomed and encouraged.
10. Embrace your supervisory role and carry it out. Remember that managing safety
on the job is as important as managing the project itself. One cannot survive
without the other. Safety on the job is an investment that always pays dividends.
Every effort that we make to prevent accidents on the job leads to a more productive
work atmosphere and can contribute to improved employee morale. Always work with
safety in mind!

Safety is Contagious - Catch On!

Quality People. Quality Projects.

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