Here's how you can address an employee's safety concern effectively.

I'd start the conversation by thanking the employee for bringing up the Safety concern and acknowledging that Safety is a Team effort. I would ask the employee to outline the critical safety issue/s that they have and any proposed solutions to the problem. A good way to review the issue is to check whether it has been formally identified through a Hazard Identification and risk assessment process (HIRA). If it has been, go through the process together with the employee and key stakeholders, reviewing the Critical controls and any Life saving behaviours. Collectively review level of implementation of controls and review for adequacy. Thereafter agree on an Action Plan to address the issue and assign responsibility and timelines for closure.

Certainly! Listening skills are valuable not only in the workplace but in life as well. Any concerns or suggestions should be properly heard because safety is not just the responsibility of IMS/HSE personnel; it involves everyone and applies to everyone. Listening carefully and applying our own knowledge before implementing it at the workplace positively can build trust and foster open communication between safety personnel and other departments. The response from safety personnel is crucial, as everyone wants genuine safety. However, due to work pressure, safety can sometimes be overlooked. If safety personnel have a strong voice, good communication skills, and a commitment to innovation, it creates a win-win situation for the workplace

Evaluate the Risk After thoroughly understanding the employee's concern, it's essential to evaluate the associated risk. Determine the severity and urgency of the potential hazard. Is it an immediate threat to personal safety, or is it a broader issue needing long-term attention? Recognizing the level of risk will help you prioritize the concern and choose the appropriate action. Be sure to consider all aspects of the situation, including any potential effects on other employees or the workplace as a whole.

Involving experts is crucial! We need to focus on two aspects: 1.Experts in the specific field. 2. Experts with extensive practical knowledge. Involving experts is necessary for effective evaluation and resolution. This might involve consulting your company's higher level safety officer, engaging a third-party safety consultant, or seeking guidance from regulatory bodies.

Listen is concern and assess the risk involved. Suggest the corrective action to eliminate hazard or reduce the risk to acceptable level. Implement the best solution and give feedback to employees regarding the same to close the loop.