INJURY- FREE WORK ENVIRONMENT: MYTH OR REALITY?

Abstract

Sound management practices, and employee awareness and commitment, are the keys to eliminating workplace injury. In Esso Australia's production operations, the goal is NO INJURIES for both company and contractor employees. Achieving this goal entails significant commitment to putting safety first, and elimination of conflicting messages about the production versus safety priorities.

Throughout the last decade, Esso Australia has increasingly sought to heighten the safety awareness of all people working within and supporting its production operations. The emphasis has gradually moved from hardware safety to focusing on attitudes within the workforce — at the same time, however, ensuring that facilities meet industry standards.

Results in 1988 show a marked drop in injury days lost for the total company and contractor employee group in production operations.

A safe work environment is good business. Putting safety first need not cost money; indeed a safer workplace can be more efficient. Achieving a safe environment involves clear communication of goals and values, employee participation, delegation of authority, increasing accountability, effective incident investigation and follow- up, appropriate discipline, and recognition of positive contributions. Of paramount importance is a clear direction from top management that safety is the top priority.