PHYSICAL AND PYSCHOLOGICAL SAFETY

How would you feel if the people you cared for most in the world were working for you, being led in the manner you lead, in the environment you help to create?   I have said this often and will continue to say this, every person that walks through our doors is loved and cared for by many people. They are sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends… Leaders have a legal, moral, and ethical obligation to ensure that everything within their power is done to ensure people go home the same way they came in, safe, sound, healthy, albeit, maybe just a little more tired than when they walked in. 

Throughout my 36-year career there are two key items that I believe leaders must focus on to ensure the optimal workplace environment.

·       Physical safety

·       Psychological safety have always espoused the philosophy shared many years ago from the former chief of staff of the US Army, General Peter Schoomaker stating that, "Soldiers aren't in the Army, they are the Army." With this in mind I have always felt that, “our people aren't IN your company, they ARE your company.” 

Let’s look at each of these.

Psychological safety- is found in the belief that you won't be punished or humiliated for sharing thoughts and ideas, questions or concerns. Integral to this are the shared understanding and values of the people that others on a team will not humiliate or embarrass (most especially leaders), reject, shun, or punish another team member for speaking their mind. Not only does psychological safety ensure team members can contribute without attribution, it also ensures leaders are getting vital information they need to ensure they make solid and well vetted decisions. In his book, "Its' Your Ship”, Captain US Navy Retired, Mike Abrashoff says of this, “The moment I heard about it [the tragic sinking of a Japanese fishing boat off Honolulu by the submarine USS Greenville], I was reminded that, as is often the case with accidents, someone sees possible danger but doesn’t necessarily speak up. As the Greenville investigation unfolded, I read in a New York Time’s article that the submarine crew ‘Respected the commanding officer too much to question his judgment.’ If that’s respect, then I want none of it. You need to have people in your organization that can tap you on the shoulder and say, ‘Is this the best way?’ or ‘Slow Down,’ or ‘Think about this,’ or ‘Is what we are doing worth killing or injuring somebody?’” –Michael Abrashoff 

Leaders do this by creating an atmosphere of inclusion, respect, and kindness. Leaders must work to establish rapport and trust with their team. This can be done through, 1:1 lunch with staff. Team "brown bag" lunches, and coffee. Leaders throughout history have found that "breaking bread" with their teams is an ideal way to build relationships and connections that keep leaders informed AND connected to what is happening within their organization. 

           1. Make it a priority

           2. Facilitate (everyone speaking up)

           3. Establish norms for how failure is handled

           4. Create space for new ideas (even wild ones)

           5. Embrace productive conflict.me steps outlined by the Center for Creative Leadership list 5 key things to help create           psychological safety.

Physical safety -One of the most critical aspects of a business is to ensure the safety and well-being of their team. In this regard, leaders must ensure all aspects of safety are adhered to in the workplace. No matter the industry, leaders MUST ensure that safety procedures and protocols are followed. Whether its ensuring safety boots are worn on the warehouse floor or forklift training and inspections happen, to providing active shooter training and safety evacuation drills, leaders ensure the safety of their teams. One of the old US Army Training Circulars (TC) for Noncommissioned Officers (NCO's) (TC 22-6) stated that NCO's are the "standard bearers and standard enforcers of an organization. I would submit that all leaders are tasked as such in any company and discipline and vigilant in regard to safety, and all things, goes a long way to showing people how much you care about them. With that, here are some key safety measures to keep in mind:

           1. Use tools, equipment, and machinery property.

           2. Report unsafe conditions

           3. Wear all necessary safety gear/PPE

           4. Keep workplace clear of clutter

           5. Stay hydrated (even in the winter and cooler months, it becomes more difficult to detect when you are not sweating as much)

           6. Practice good posture when sitting and lifting.

           7. Take regular breaks

           8. Be aware of your surroundings

Remember, our people are our family, and we must work daily and be discipled in ensuring their safety. How would you feel if the people you cared for most in the world were working for you, being led in the manner you lead, in the environment you help to create? I hope the answer is, “I would be proud and happy to have them here with me!”