MODULE 1: MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT

Be smart...be proactive

A proactive strategy emphasizes anticipation. It means taking action to make sure accidents never happen in the workplace. There are no excuses for an accident. A proactive response to safety and health in the workplace occurs before an accident has occurred.

The Proactive Process: Identify - Anticipate - Analyze - Recommend - Implement

The proactive improvement process first identifies a hazard and anticipates the possible injury. The hazard is analyzed, recommendations proposed, and corrective actions and system improvements are implemented.

The proactive improvement process predicts to prevent. Proactive strategies look forward. By emphasizing accident prevention, management sends a message of caring to all employees. The safety professional attempts to identify and analyze hazardous conditions and unsafe behaviors in order to predict future accidents. Proactive strategies are always less expensive than reactive strategies. Remember, proactive programs are implemented to prevent future injuries and illnesses.

Here are some examples of proactive safety and health programs:

o Accident analysis program to primarily determine system weaknesses,
o Hazard investigation - inspection program,
o Wellness program,
o Recognition program,
o Safety committee/team,
o Education and training,
o Job Hazard Analysis,
o Hazard communication program,
o Lockout/Tagout program,
o Confined Space program, and
o Accountability program,