Implementing a culture of feedback and recognition can transform your workplace safety program. These elements are not just nice but essential for fostering an environment where employees feel valued and motivated. The link between feedback, recognition, and improved safety is clear—employees who feel appreciated are more engaged and committed to maintaining a safe working environment.
A Gallup poll report from workhuman.com found that incorporating recognition and appreciation in the workplace increased both employee satisfaction and productivity. It’s even been shown that employees who receive regular feedback and recognition are five times less likely to leave the organization. These stats impact safety, too. High turnover has detrimental effects on workplace safety. Incorporating recognition and appreciation into your workplace safety program is part of a concept known as Behaviour-Based Safety (BBS).
The Power of Behaviour-Based Safety (BBS)
Behaviour-Based Safety (BBS) is an approach that focuses on identifying and reinforcing safe practices rather than merely pointing out what goes wrong. By observing and encouraging positive behaviors, BBS helps reduce human error and workplace injuries.
Why Feedback and Recognition Matter
- Motivating Employees: Regular feedback and recognition keep employees motivated. Positive reinforcement helps employees understand the importance of their actions, encouraging them to maintain high safety standards.
- Reducing Turnover: According to Gallup research, employees who receive regular recognition are five times more likely to stay at their job. This stability is crucial for maintaining a consistent safety culture.
- Building Trust and Engagement: Employees who receive feedback feel valued and connected to their team. This sense of belonging boosts morale and productivity.
- Enhancing Learning Opportunities: Feedback highlights areas for improvement, enabling employees to learn and grow. When employees understand their strengths and areas for development, they are more likely to engage in safe work practices.
Implementing a Feedback-Rich Environment
To make feedback and recognition a part of your safety program, start by making it a habit to observe and document safe behaviors. Recognize these actions publicly to reinforce their importance. Provide specific feedback as soon as possible, highlighting what the employee did well and its impact on safety. Encourage employees to provide feedback on safety procedures, creating a two-way communication channel that can uncover insights to improve safety policies.
The Benefits of a Recognition Program
Investing in a recognition program can lead to significant benefits. A study found that companies with recognition programs have five times fewer recordable injuries. Recognizing employees’ efforts boosts morale and reinforces a culture of safety.
Practical Steps to Implement Recognition
Define clear criteria for what behaviors will be recognized and how, ensuring fairness and transparency. Use varied recognition methods, both formal and informal, such as verbal praise, awards, or small tokens of appreciation. Consistent recognition is key, showing employees that their efforts are valued over the long term.
A study in safe behaviours conducted by workhuman.com shows that companies that incorporate recognition in their safety programs have five times fewer recordable injuries than those that don’t. That’s a huge savings in lost-time hours. Adding recognition and appreciation to your workplace safety program is an investment in your workforce’s health, wellbeing, and career.
Start Today with BEST Safety Training
To enhance your safety program, download our FREE Feedback and Recognition Calendar, which offers monthly topics to guide your safety initiatives. By integrating feedback and recognition into your safety program, you can create a safer, more engaged workplace.
For tailored training solutions, contact BEST Safety Training online or call 226.777.7385. Visit our website for more information on our comprehensive safety programs.