In a recent conversation with safety expert Simon Bown, he shared the three main improvements he observed in his organization after the implementation of Safety 2. His insights are valuable for any organization aiming to improve its safety culture.
Embracing Empathy: The Power of Supportive Language
First, Simon highlighted a shift in everyday language throughout the organization. He stressed how important it is to move away from a blame-oriented culture to one of empathy and support. The shift was evident in the way people began to ask supportive questions like “Are they okay?” and “What support can they be offered?” in response to unwanted events.
Building Bridges: The Rise of Trust in the Workplace
The second improvement, according to Simon, was a notable increase in trust levels. He pointed out that trust, an essential component in any organization, was visibly reinforced with the implementation of Safety 2, as reflected in the positive feedback from all levels within the organization.
From Knowledge to Action: The Evolution of Learning with Safety 2
Lastly, Simon mentioned the enhanced level of learning within the organization. Safety 2 has paved the way for new knowledge to be identified that could have potentially been overlooked with traditional investigation methods.
However, Simon emphasized a distinction between ‘new knowledge’ and ‘learning.’ He explained that ‘new knowledge’ is considered ‘learning’ only when a change has been implemented based on that knowledge.
These improvements are just the tip of the iceberg. Implementing Safety 2, as per Simon’s experience, instigates profound changes and propels an organization towards an environment where everyone feels safe and valued.
Simon’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement underlines the true essence of Safety 2. His journey serves as an inspiration for all organizations striving for a safer and more empathetic work environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Simon Bown’s reflections underline the transformative potential of Safety 2 in creating a supportive, trust-filled, and learning-centric culture within an organization. His experiences echo the broader industry’s need to shift from traditional, blame-based approaches to a more human-centric focus. By emphasizing empathy, trust, and learning, organizations can not only improve their safety practices, but also cultivate an environment that values every individual’s wellbeing and growth. These learnings serve as a roadmap for those looking to embark on their own Safety 2 journey, underscoring that the benefits are manifold and transformative, making the journey well worth the effort.