Construction jobsites can be dangerous environments that pose a risk to workers’ physical and mental health. While safety protocols and procedures are in place to prevent accidents, incidents and near-misses can still occur. It is crucial for employers to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of their workers, and one way to do this is through the implementation of incident and near-miss coaching on construction jobsites.
Incident and near-miss coaching is a proactive approach to safety that involves reviewing and analyzing incidents and near-misses, identifying the underlying causes, and providing coaching and support to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. By implementing incident and near-miss coaching on construction jobsites, employers can create a culture of safety, reduce the risk of accidents, and promote the mental health and wellbeing of workers.
Implementation of incident and near-miss coaching can be achieved through various methods. One approach is to hire a dedicated safety professional to conduct the coaching and provide ongoing support. Alternatively, employers can train existing employees to act as coaches or partner with a safety organization to provide the training.
To ensure the success of implementing incident and near-miss coaching, employers can use behavioral science principles such as the social norms theory and the Hierarchy of Controls. The social norms theory suggests that individuals’ behavior is influenced by their perception of what is considered typical or normal within their social group. By creating a culture of safety and coaching, employers can encourage workers to prioritize safety and promote a sense of shared responsibility for safety on the jobsite.
The Hierarchy of Controls is a framework for controlling hazards that emphasizes the importance of eliminating or controlling hazards at the source. By focusing on hazard prevention rather than incident response, employers can reduce the risk of accidents and promote a culture of safety.
Employers can also use positive reinforcement to encourage workers to engage with incident and near-miss coaching and prioritize safety. This can include offering incentives such as recognition, bonuses, or additional time off for completing coaching sessions or engaging in safe work practices.
Implementing incident and near-miss coaching on construction jobsites can have a significant positive impact on workers’ mental health and wellbeing. By promoting a culture of safety and coaching, employers can reduce the risk of accidents, promote shared responsibility for safety, and create a more supportive work environment. By using behavioral science principles and offering incentives, employers can encourage workers to engage with incident and near-miss coaching and prioritize safety.
Sources:
Construction Safety Council. (n.d.). Incident & Near-Miss Coaching. Retrieved from https://www.buildsafe.org/incident-near-miss-coaching
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2017). Hierarchy of Controls. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/hierarchy-controls
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2018). Safety and Health Topics: Construction. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/construction
Society for Human Resource Management. (2018). Safety First: Near-Miss Reporting Can Improve Workplace Safety. Retrieved from https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/risk-management/pages/near-miss-reporting-improves-workplace-safety.aspx
Social and Behavioral Sciences Team. (2016). Behavioral Insights for Development: Incorporating Behavioral Insights into Development Policy. Retrieved from https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/sites/default/files/microsites/ostp/sbst_2016_annual_report_final_0.pdf
