By K C Pawling, Road Safety and Loss Prevention Specialist
I recently read an article about how leadership behavior sets the safety tone for an organization. This got me thinking about those I would view as leaders and their role in a safety program. So, we are going to unpack this just a little.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a leadership as: “The office or position of a leader.” With this definition in mind, if I were to ask you who are the leaders of your county, most of you would give me a list of the county elected officials, department heads or even supervisors of the various districts or crews within your department. Now let me ask, who are your safety leaders? Again, elected officials, department heads and all the members of the county’s safety committees would be recited OR even no one at all.
When I read articles like this and tie the definition of leadership together with it, I feel like it is putting the responsibility of our safety into someone else’s hands. While I understand and agree that the formally designated leadership of any organization should be concerned about and play a critical role in a good, effective safety program, this should not be the be-all and end-all.
I have always thought leadership should not only fall on the shoulders of individuals with the office or position of leader. I believe that all of us play the role of leader in our daily lives. The following is a definition of leadership that better fits my belief of leadership:
Leadership is the ability of an individual or a group of people to influence and guide followers or members of an organization, society, or team. Leadership often is an attribute tied to a person’s title, seniority or ranking in a hierarchy. However, it is an attribute anyone can have or attain, even those without leadership positions. It is a developable skill that can be improved over time.
You have probably figured out by now where I am going with this. We are ALL leaders regardless of our office or title. We all have the opportunity to guide and influence those we interact with daily. We should not leave our safety and our family’s well-being to someone else. There is always someone watching and we are influencing them whether it is intentional or not. Influence them in the right direction, lead by example.
Regardless of your organization’s commitment to a safety program, which I do hope is a good one, commit yourself as an individual to good, safe practices. If you are not in the habit of safe practices, start. Just as leadership is an attribute anyone can have or attain, so is safety consciousness. Make a commitment, educate yourself, be aware and take responsible actions. Safety consciousness is not confined to your workplace; it extends to your personal lives and your family’s well-being. Let us start 2025 with the right attitude and intentions.
If I can help you with your safety and loss prevention efforts, reach out to me at [email protected] or 402-310-4417. Have a safe and happy New Year!
