In a high-risk industry without a safety program, what should be your initial step?

In a high-risk industry devoid of a safety program, the most logical initial step is to identify at-risk employees to initiate safety efforts. Understanding who the at-risk employees are is crucial since they are likely to be exposed to the highest levels of hazard and danger in the workplace. By focusing on these individuals, an organization can prioritize safety efforts, effectively allocate resources, and create tailored training programs that address specific risks.

This step is vital before moving on to broader initiatives such as compliance with safety standards or implementing incentive programs, as these actions are predicated on a clear understanding of the workforce's vulnerabilities. Identifying at-risk employees enables HR and safety leaders to gather valuable data that can shape the development of a comprehensive safety program. Additionally, without first understanding where the highest risks lie within the organization, any attempts to manage safety issues could be misdirected and less effective. Implementing safety initiatives without this foundational knowledge could lead to ineffective solutions that may not adequately reduce risks in the environment.