It is difficult to imagine leadership that provides meaning, gives direction, prioritises activities or builds community while disregarding the health, safety and wellbeing of the individuals concerned with these things. Senior managers make an important contribution to the development of a culture, a working environment and working practices that ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of the people.
Effective safety leadership involves
- Demonstrating commitment to safety by interpreting and implementing safety policies positively;
- Ensuring safety, health and wellbeing is integral to work planning and scheduling;
- being actively involved by being visible and taking responsibility;
- Communicating openly; and
- showing concern and appreciation for employees.
Managers are accountable for ensuring risks are managed and reduced to an acceptable level. This means that they need to understand and focus on the major risks within their sphere of influence.