Date: April 25, 2025

Julie is a nurse at a large hospital. As she walks towards a patient’s room, she notices a large puddle of water on the floor. She carefully walks past it and shakes her head, muttering to herself that she should ask someone to clean up the spill after she has finished checking on the patient. A few minutes later, a health care aide slips in the water, landing on their back.

What could have been done differently? Sometimes small actions can have big impacts when it comes to keeping each other safe at work.

Everyone has a Role to Play

Every member of the organization has a role in preventing workplace incidents. By taking small actions, every person at every level of the organization can contribute to a positive safety culture.

Workers – If you see something, say something! If it is a small hazard, like a small spill, clean it immediately. Larger hazards should be brought to your supervisor’s attention right away. Put up signage notifying others of the hazard—such as a wet floor sign. Join your safety and health committee. Be an active part of the resolution process. Reinforce safe work procedures with your co-workers. Offer help if you notice others are not performing tasks safely.

Supervisors/Managers – Respond promptly to all concerns or hazards brought to your attention. If it’s a small hazard that can be corrected, ensure it's addressed as soon as reasonably practicable. For long-term corrective actions, make your team aware of the hazard and how to mitigate the risk until it can be controlled or eliminated. Provide training, monitor for safe work practices, and offer necessary resources to complete tasks safely.

Employers – Promote best practices and set a strong example. If PPE is required in certain areas, demonstrate your commitment to safety by using it. Provide the resources, time, and staffing to support safe work. Implement safety initiatives that show safety is part of how you do business. Make informal inspections routine. Support the safety and health committee by showing interest, attending meetings as a guest, or recognizing their efforts.

Committees – Connect with workers during inspections, invite guests to meetings, and consider safety campaigns to raise awareness. Always follow up on concerns brought to your attention.

Conclusion

We all have a role to play to ensure the safety of our workplace. By taking small actions every day, we can contribute to a stronger safety culture across the organization.