How to Construct a Safety Management System (SMS) That Promotes Safety Culture in Your Organization

Abstract

Organizations spend considerable resources building robust Safety Management Systems, yet may struggle to develop a strong Safety Culture. The effect can ripple throughout the organization, particularly affecting employee safety, as well as product quality, productivity, engagement, and retention. This paper introduces the four basic components and most critical cultural preconditions of a successful SMS. It then provides recommendations aligned with each of the four basic components to guide management toward creating the kind of work environment that empowers and engages employees at all levels of the organization. Building a strong Safety Culture is simply good business, and the research conducted here culminates in a checklist for safety managers and executives who are committed to creating an environment that promotes a resilient Safety Culture within their organization.