Safety is a Team Sport – 8/25/25

Safety E-Quick Tip

OWYN Safety Management Platform

: Safety is a Team Sport                                   

Safety is not just an individual responsibility; it’s a team sport. Just like any successful sports team, everyone has a role to play in creating a safe environment in the workplace. When we work together—employers, employees, and safety professionals—we can create a culture of safety that protects everyone.

The Importance of Teamwork in Safety

Imagine a basketball team. Each player has a position, but they all work together to achieve a common goal: winning the game. In the workplace, our common goal is simple but crucial: keeping everyone safe. Just as a missed shot can lead to a loss in sports, a lack of communication or failed safety procedures can lead to accidents in the workplace.

What Does a Culture of Safety Look Like?

A culture of safety is one in which everyone feels empowered to speak up about safety concerns. In this environment, employees are encouraged to report unsafe conditions without fear of retribution. Employers are proactive in addressing safety issues and regularly seek feedback from their employees.

In a culture of safety, everyone is looking out for one another. Employees remind each other to wear their personal protective equipment (PPE) and check in on one another during high-risk tasks. Employers take the time to get to know their employees and their unique strengths and weaknesses and tailor safety training to meet their needs.

What Would It Take to Get You Involved?

As you think about how you could contribute to a culture of safety, consider these questions:

• What do you think would help you feel more comfortable reporting unsafe conditions?
• What would it take for you to feel comfortable asking employees for feedback about safety?
• What would help you feel empowered to remind a colleague to wear their PPE?
• What would it take for you to feel comfortable investing in safety training and resources?
• What would it take for you to feel comfortable recognizing employees for their contributions to safety?
• What would help you feel more comfortable asking your employer for safety training?

Safety is a team sport. Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe environment, and everyone should feel empowered to speak up about safety concerns. When we work together—employers, employees, and safety professionals—we can create a culture of safety that protects everyone.

Let’s commit to being part of the solution.

Employer/ Employee QuickTip

Safety is a team sport; everyone has a role to play in creating a safe workplace, so let’s work together to prioritize safety and communicate openly about concerns.

Management QuickTip

To foster a culture of safety, prioritize open communication and collaboration with employees, empowering them to voice concerns and contribute to a safer workplace.

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Stay Safe – You’ve Got This!

Your OWYN Safety Solution Team

Keith B. Dague, President