Influencing (un)safe behaviour

It’s important to first determine what we mean by safe and unsafe behaviour. What one person considers safe may be perceived as unsafe by another. We try to define this in, for example, house rules or a Safety & Health Plan.

Environmental factors & personal characteristics

As a safety expert, I see many factors in practice that influence (un)safe behaviour, which can be linked to environmental factors and personal characteristics. Factors such as organizational culture, social relationships, internal communication, training and leadership (leading by example) are environmental influences that affect (safe) behaviour. When it comes to personal characteristics, physical factors (health, fitness), psychological factors and social factors have a significant impact on safe or unsafe behaviour. In my role as a Safety Consultant, I speak with many different people who are exposed to safety risks daily. The diversity in knowledge & experience, motivation, personalities, viewpoints and beliefs is immense. This makes my work both challenging and varied, but it also requires adaptability, empathy and patience. Especially when it comes to behavioural change, patience is essential. If you want to influence or gain control over safe behaviour, my advice is to focus on one specific area (for example, social relationships or communication) and carry out targeted interventions in that area.

Personal responsibility

Finally, I strongly believe in the power of personal responsibility and imposing as few rules as possible. Ultimately, the key to safe behaviour lies in breaking habitual patterns and creating awareness of unsafe behaviour - by holding up a mirror and challenging people to reflect on their own actions.

Get in Touch!

If you’d like to learn more about Midas’ experiences as a safety consultant, or if you’re looking for advice on how to strengthen the safety culture within your organisation, feel free to contact Midas via [email protected].