Setting Achievable Standards

The creation and communication of written standards is imperative to the prevention of accidents and injuries in the workplace. The first step of creating a successful Occupational Health & Safety Program is setting standards that will not only satisfy the minimum legal requirements, but will also address the specific needs of your organization. Creating standards indicates that leadership and accountability has been established and will demonstrate to workers and authorities that the organization has taken reasonable care considerations into the work being performed.

A standard should address two critical points, first being the implementation of company policy that provides a specific directive for a program element, the second being the provision of a procedure which provides specific instruction on the implementation of that program element. Company standards should define not only what is expected, but also who in the organization the standard applies to as well as identifying who is responsible for the implementation of that standard. A standard may also define requirements for communication, training and review of a particular program element as may be required. It is absolutely crucial that the health & safety program elements be practical and achievable.

Laws mandate the review of a company health & safety policy on at least a yearly basis. Take the time to review and evaluate your standards to ensure they meet or exceed expectations. This will demonstrate your ongoing commitment to the protection of your workers, property and processes in the organization.