Safety interactions are meetings aimed at increasing safe behaviors and reducing risks in the workplace. They demonstrate leadership's commitment to safety, improve risk awareness, encourage safe actions, and recognize positive safety practices. When conducting a safety interaction, one should plan topics in advance, create a comfortable environment, introduce the purpose, set ground rules, present information through various formats, engage participants through questions and discussions, address any concerns, facilitate discussion, summarize key points, and follow up with feedback and resources. A case study example involves discussing proper personal protective equipment use and getting workers' reactions.

1. Safety
Interacti
ons
By Sougata Pal
BOE, NPTI, MBA,
Asset Optimisation

2. Safety Interactions are comparable with ‘behavioral safety’
processes in that they address people’s actions in the workplace,
aiming to increase safe behaviors and reduce shortcuts and
unsafe acts.
Safety Interactions

4. Engaging and risk focused
•Demonstrate leadership commitment and set clear expectations
•Improve risk awareness and personal ownership for safety
•Encourage people to think about the consequences of their actions
•Recognize and encourage positive behaviors
•Get commitment to improve work practices and reduce risk taking
•Drive continual learning and improvement in how work is done

6. How to conduct safety interaction
• Conducting safety interactions is an important aspect of maintaining a safe and secure
environment. Whether you're organizing a safety meeting, conducting a safety training session,
or engaging in safety discussions, here are some steps to help you conduct effective safety
interactions:
• 1. Plan and prepare: Determine the purpose and objectives of the safety interaction. Identify
the topics you want to cover and the desired outcomes. Prepare any materials or visual aids
you might need, such as presentations, handouts, or videos.
• 2. Create a conducive environment: Ensure that the space you choose for the safety interaction
is suitable and comfortable for all participants. Arrange seating in a way that promotes
engagement and discussion. Consider using visuals, such as safety posters or diagrams, to
reinforce key messages.

7. • 3. Start with an introduction: Begin the safety interaction by introducing yourself and
explaining the purpose of the session. Establish a positive and inclusive tone to encourage
participation and open communication.
• 4. Set ground rules: Establish clear ground rules for the interaction to maintain a respectful and
safe environment. Encourage active listening, respect for different viewpoints, and
confidentiality when discussing sensitive topics.
How to conduct safety interaction

8. • 5. Present information: Share relevant safety information, procedures, policies, or best
practices. Use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon or technical terms that might
confuse participants. Present information in a variety of formats, such as slides, videos,
case studies, or interactive exercises, to cater to different learning styles.
• 6. Encourage participation: Engage participants in the safety interaction by encouraging
questions, comments, and discussions. Create opportunities for them to share their
experiences, insights, and concerns related to safety. Actively listen to their inputs and
validate their contributions.
How to conduct safety interaction

9. • 7. Address questions and concerns: Respond to questions, clarify doubts, and address
any concerns raised by participants. If you don't have an immediate answer, assure
them that you will follow up and provide the necessary information or support.
• 8. Facilitate discussion: Encourage open dialogue and discussion among participants.
Foster a non-judgmental environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing
their thoughts and experiences. Guide the discussion to ensure it stays on topic and
relevant to the safety objectives.
How to conduct safety interaction

10. • 9. Summarize key points: Summarize the main points discussed during the safety
interaction. Highlight key takeaways and emphasize any critical information or actions that
participants should remember or implement.
• 10. Follow-up and evaluation: After the safety interaction, consider providing participants
with resources, such as handouts or online references, to further reinforce the safety
messages. Seek feedback from participants to assess the effectiveness of the interaction and
identify areas for improvement in future sessions.
• Remember, conducting safety interactions is an ongoing process. Regularly reinforce safety
practices and engage in open communication to ensure a safe and secure environment for
everyone involved.
How to conduct safety interaction

11. SI: Case Study: How to do SI with them?
PPE Reaction of people