Earlier this week, we shared the first five tips for promoting a safe workplace.
Read on for the next five tips.
5. Involve All Employees
It’s important to involve all staff in creating a safe workplace, as they have valuable insights into risks and areas for improvement. When employees contribute their ideas and feel heard, they are more likely to take responsibility and be motivated to adhere to the agreed-upon standards of behaviour.
6. Start Meetings with Safe Space Rules
Establishing safe space rules at the beginning of a meeting promotes a respectful and open atmosphere where colleagues feel safe to speak freely. This doesn’t need to take long. Once you have agreed on a set of rules, you can briefly remind employees of them at the start of each meeting.
7. Staff Training
Training on social safety for staff increases awareness and knowledge about creating a respectful and safe workplace. It teaches employees how to recognise bullying, discrimination, and other inappropriate behaviour, and how they can help prevent it. This fosters a culture of inclusion and respect, reducing conflicts and ensuring everyone is aware of the relevant rules and procedures.
Read more about the training programmes offered by Fairspace.
Pro-tip
Working in a large company? Consider a Training of Trainers approach, where employees are trained to deliver internal training sessions. This can reduce the need to hire external experts.
8. Appoint a Trust Person
By 2024, every organisation with 10 or more employees must comply with the requirement to have a trust person. This person is available to staff who experience harassment at work, conflicts, or stress, playing a crucial role within the company. The responsibilities of a trust person include listening and providing support, as well as guiding and advising employees.
9. Appoint Social Safety Ambassadors
Social safety ambassadors play a key role in promoting a safe and respectful workplace within the company. Here’s how to get started:
- Select passionate employees who are dedicated to social safety and provide them with training on relevant policies, communication skills, and how to address problems.
- Clearly define their role, such as organising workshops or serving as a point of contact for employees with questions or concerns.
- Ensure they have the resources and support needed to perform their duties effectively, including access to relevant information and regular meetings with management.
- Encourage ambassadors to promote initiatives and involve them in developing policies and procedures. This will enhance their visibility and impact within the organisation.
10. Remember, You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Companies often rush to judge reports of harassment, which can lead to disproportionate decisions and further issues. It’s important to take the time to thoroughly investigate the situation and hear from all involved parties before taking action. Hasty judgments can unfairly harm those involved and undermine the company culture. Seeking external help can provide objective guidance and expertise in resolving complex situations, ensuring a fair and considered approach that protects both the interests of those involved and the integrity of the organisation. This, in turn, leads to greater trust from employees in the company.
