Earlier this week, we discussed the first fundamental reason for having someone on your staff—even if it’s you—dedicated to safety. Having a single point-person fulfill this role is critical to maintaining the clear, consistent communication that optimizes safety among your employees.
A second fundamental value is tied to your safety director. Having someone who is dedicated to everyone's safety improves your image at that nerve-wracking time when an OSHA inspector stops by to do an audit.
During this moment of truth with the inspector, your safety director would prove to be indispensable concerning:
- Coordination—A point person who is empowered to stay current on OSHA regulations can keep your employees informed about what to expect and what to do during an inspection. If you have this person on staff, your employees can focus on their daily work, yet quickly be prepared to respond during an inspection.
- Perception—If you have a dedicated safety director, you obviously take safety very seriously, creating an image that will be appreciated by OSHA. When your safety person steps forward to greet an OSHA inspector, you’re scoring points before that inspector even takes out a pen.
- Efficiency—Generally speaking, the faster the inspection, the better for the entire operation. When one employee is dedicated to compliance, all the documents and reports an inspector requests will be conveniently organized and easy to produce. That speeds the process along, easing the burden of the inspection experience and making the best possible impression on the auditor.
