Every year, almost 3 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses are reported. Your employer’s duty is to ensure your workplace is as safe as possible so you don’t end up becoming part of the statistics.
But what if you feel like they’re not doing their jobs? What if you have some legitimate safety concerns and you don’t know how to bring them up to your employer?
Here’s how to talk to your boss about workplace safety without worrying about getting fired.
Approach Your Direct Superior
You might think things will be handled best if you go straight to the top, but that can backfire on you. This can upset and offend your direct superior, which will create a negative and even hostile situation.
Even if you have a company safety director, you should first address your concerns with your manager. This gives them the opportunity to fix the issues without getting the higher-ups involved.
If your direct supervisor refuses to make reasonable changes, then that’s when you’ll need to go over their head.
Get Other Workers to Support You
The more voices there are, the better. This can help your boss see that it’s not just a concern you have, but instead, one the workforce shares.
Considering the problems involve their safety as well, it shouldn’t be too tough to find coworkers who will support your cause.
Do Some Research
If you need more backup, then it’s time to do some research. Check out the OHSA website and reread work safety materials.
When you can go to your supervisor with facts that back up what you’re saying, it’s more likely they’ll want to change things for better employee safety.
Approach the Issues Correctly
It’s understandable that you might be upset about some safety concerns. But if you approach your boss in the wrong way, it can really affect the outcome.
Before you speak to your employer, think of what you want to say. Consider how to present the issues without sounding accusatory and even come up with some solutions to show that you’re not putting everything on them.
When you’re constructive and have some solutions at the ready, this can make your employer more receptive to changes.
Enlist the Help of a Professional
When things get sticky, then it’s time to get the help of employment attorneys. They can advise you on how to proceed to improve workplace safety. And you’ll be able to do so without the fear of getting fired since these experienced lawyers can help you advance things legally and without crossing any boundaries.
And if you do end up getting fired for any reason, you can bet that these attorneys will be your advocate. They’ll ensure your rights are observed and will get you fair compensation if necessary.
Workplace Safety Is Paramount
Workplace safety is of utmost importance to ensure everyone is protected while on shift. So if you don’t feel comfortable with something, don’t be afraid to speak up. You never know if it’ll save someone’s life!
To learn more about job site safety, take a look at our other blog posts now.