Changing the way people act isn't something that happens overnight. It's not as straightforward as flipping a switch on a machine; it's more about delving into the intricate maze of the human mind. It's a rare occurrence for two individuals to have the same thought simultaneously, unless they're both driven by a common goal and are adhering to a specific safety procedure or process. This is the core principle of Behavioral Based Safety (BBS) in the context of workplace safety.
➤ Translating Goals into Actions
The journey towards behavioural change, or more specifically, Behavioral Based Safety, commences with setting a goal. This goal serves as a beacon, guiding our thoughts towards safety measures. However, merely setting a goal doesn't lead to change in behaviour. It's like having a safety policy without any enforcement. The goal needs to be supported by a consistent safety routine. The goal needs to be reinforced by a consistent safety routine. As a renowned cricketer once said, "Process is more important than result". To transform our safety-focused thoughts into actionable safety behaviours, we need a daily routine or safety procedure, a key component of BBS.
➤ Connecting Thought and Safety Action
We can infer that our behaviours are a mix of our thoughts and actions. It's like the two sides of a coin, both equally important in shaping our behaviour. If either of these elements is missing or ineffective, achieving a change in safety behaviour, or implementing BBS, becomes a daunting task. This is where safety training steps in, bridging the gap between thoughts and actions, and making safety compliance a reality.
➤ Turning Mistakes into Learning Opportunities
Even the most knowledgeable individuals, like teachers, occasionally make mistakes. But their strength lies in their ability to identify their errors and make necessary corrections. This is the cornerstone of risk management and a fundamental aspect of BBS. Now, imagine a scenario where our employees could adopt this practice - identifying their own mistakes and rectifying them. This could lead to a significant reduction in workplace accidents, thereby enhancing the safety culture.
➤ The Ultimate Goal - Building a Safety Culture
In the end, it all boils down to creating a safety culture where everyone is aware of the safety guidelines and standards. A culture where everyone learns from their mistakes, shares their experiences, and collaborates to improve safety practices. This is the essence of accident prevention and ensuring health and safety at the workplace, and the ultimate goal of BBS.
It's time for us to reflect on this concept and unite in our efforts to foster an environment that encourages learning, sharing, and innovation. Together, let's revolutionise the concept of safety management through the power of Behavioral Based Safety (BBS).