There are several ways that changes in the economy can affect job site safety. When the economy is doing well, there may be increased demand for construction and other work, which can lead to a rush to get projects completed. This can sometimes result in shortcuts or an emphasis on speed over safety.
On the other hand, during an economic downturn, there may be less construction and other work available, leading to a decrease in job opportunities. This can cause financial pressures for workers, which can also lead to an increased risk of accidents if workers feel pressure to take on tasks that are outside of their skill level or to work longer hours than is safe.
Want to know how to keep your employees safe as the economy changes?
Right now we are in the middle of the perfect storm, we are short of workers for the amount of work that is being contracted, and the economy is changing, forcing many to believe that things are going to tighten up. We have a scenario where workers who were already working fast to keep up with unprecedented demand, are now being distracted by worries over job security, and an imagined need to work quickly and take on work outside of their usual skillset.
During tis time employers need to maintain a strong focus on safety and provide the necessary resources and training to ensure that workers can work safely and effectively.
What do top employers do when employees are faced with a crisis?
Talk to your employees about their job security, and the insecurities they feel, but might not be comfortable asking you about. Remember, your employees are talking about it anyway, if they are doing it without you, you are missing an opportunity to lead them in the direction you would like them to go, a safer, healthier, more productive work environment.
Comentários