Implementing a digital safety solution is a significant step toward enhancing workplace safety, improving compliance, and reducing risks. A recent survey of frontline workers in manufacturing and warehouse jobs that was cited in Safety + Health Magazine, showed that over 50% of workers spotted 1-2 safety hazards per week. Furthermore, rapid response to hazards reports and real time communication with team members about safety hazards were the top two most recommended solutions to improving workplace safety.
Connected worker platforms that can digitalize safety reporting, training and visibility to corrective actions directly address the safety improvements that frontline workers prioritize. However, the success of such a system hinges on its adoption by the very individuals who will interact with it daily – frontline workers. If the system is not embraced by these workers, its effectiveness is severely compromised, leading to safety gaps and operational inefficiencies. To ensure successful adoption, it’s crucial to consider these implementation best practices.
Focus On Usability
A system that is difficult to navigate or requires cumbersome data entry can quickly become a source of frustration for its users. If the interface is not intuitive, workers may struggle to complete tasks efficiently, leading to errors or omissions in safety procedures. If hazard reporting is not quick and easy, workers may opt to delay using the digital solution increasing workplace safety risks. Over time, this frustration can result in a reluctance to use the system at all, undermining the safety protocols it was designed to enforce.
Solution: To improve usability, prioritize user-friendly design during the selection of the digital technology, and the design and implementation of the system. The interface should be clean, simple, and easy to navigate, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. Conduct usability testing with actual frontline workers during the evaluation, design and implementation phases to identify and address any potential issues. Data entry processes should be streamlined with features like drop-down menus, multi-choice or multi-select answers, autofill options, and error-checking prompts to reduce the burden on workers and ensure data accuracy.
Align Safety With Daily Flow Of Work
When the system does not align with the natural flow of work, it can create bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Workers may feel that the system is an additional burden rather than a tool designed to help them, which will slow adoption. Particularly when it comes to safety inspections and training, the workers should not be forced to alter standard processes that are proven to be effective, or to disrupt their flow of work to capture safety issues or benefit from safety notifications.
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