SAFETY 360
Three Reasons why Managing Safety at work is Important
Moral Reason (First Publication)
Being moral involves adhering to the principles of right and wrong behavior, and this extends to workplace safety. Being SAFE is right, while being UNSAFE is wrong. Here’s how we can understand morality from a safety and health perspective:
- Employer Responsibility: Employers have a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone affected by their operations, including employees, contractors, visitors, and the local community.
- Employee Rights: Employees have the right to work in a safe and healthy environment. Preventing work-related injuries and illnesses is not just a requirement but a moral obligation.
- Preventing Suffering: It is crucial to prevent harm and suffering not only to employees but also to their families and friends. People come to work to support their families, not to face harm.
- Building Trust: A safe and healthy workplace fosters trust between employers and employees, creating a harmonious environment that is essential for success.
- Empowering Employees: Employees feel valued and empowered when their opinions and well-being are prioritized.
- Doing What’s Right: Preventing harm and illness is the morally right thing to do. Employers should approach health and safety with the right attitude, driven by moral considerations. Risk management in the workplace should be guided primarily by ethical values.
It is expected that employers demonstrate the correct attitude and approach to health and safety in their organization. Moral reasons should be the primary motivator in managing risks in the workplace.