Informal and Formal Observation Programs
An informal observation process is nothing more than being watchful for hazards and unsafe behaviors throughout the work shift.
No special procedure is involved. All employees should be expected to look over their work areas once in a while.
One of the most effective proactive methods to collect useful data about the hazards and unsafe behaviors in your workplace is the formal observation program because it includes a written plan and procedures. For example, safety committee members or other employees who may be assigned to complete a minimum number of observations of safe/unsafe behaviors during a given period of time. This data is gathered and analyzed to produce graphs and charts reflecting the current status and trends in employee behaviors. Posting the results of these observations tends to increase awareness and lower injury rates. But, more importantly, the data gives valuable clues about safety management system weaknesses.
Observation is important because it can be a great tool to effectively identify behaviors that account for 95 percent of all workplace injuries. The walkaround inspection, as a method for identifying hazards, may not be as effective as observation in identifying unsafe behaviors.
Note: An important policy for successful formal observation procedures is that they are not, in any way, linked to discipline. Observers should not discipline or "snitch" on employees: To do so ensures any observation program will fail as an accurate fact-finding tool. I recommend using only employees who do not have authority to discipline as observers in the program. If you must use managers or supervisors, make sure they do not observe in their own areas of responsibility, and make sure they understand the policy regarding "no discipline" as a consequence of an observation. It is also important for observers to express appreciation when safe behaviors are observed, and remind or warn employees to use safe practices if they are not performing a task safely.
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3-2. What is considered one of the most effective proactive methods to collect useful data about hazards and unsafe behaviors in your workplace?
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