Recent report identifies challenges facing health and safety leaders
The holiday season brings joy and celebration, but it also ushers in heightened workplace hazards, according to recent research by EcoOnline. Their study identifies fatigue, weather-related risks, and stress as the top three hazards during this period, with 45%, 40%, and 39% of respondents, respectively, flagging these issues.
Helen Jones, chief customer officer at EcoOnline, emphasizes the critical need for proactive measures. "This time of year is particularly challenging," she states. "Workers face increased workloads and personal obligations, leading to significant fatigue and stress. In North America, and especially in Canada, severe weather further compounds these risks."
To mitigate these hazards, Jones highlights the importance of regular training and communication. "Ongoing training and awareness are the biggest factors in successfully addressing these risks. Regular toolbox talks and updates remind people of the dangers, especially fatigue," she explains. Jones stresses the role of management in identifying signs of fatigue among workers and responding appropriately. She adds, "it's also about individual responsibility—workers need to take sufficient breaks and self-monitor."
Leveraging technology for safety management
EcoOnline’s research points to a growing reliance on software solutions to enhance safety. Tools that integrate audits, risk assessments, and training are particularly valuable. "Our software connects identified risks with recommended training, ensuring health and safety managers don’t need to manually connect the dots," Jones notes. This efficiency ensures timely and targeted interventions.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also emerging as a game-changer in environmental health and safety (EHS) practices. "AI supports tasks like generating safety checklists and completing risk assessments in seconds, which previously took hours. It doesn’t replace human oversight but enhances efficiency and accuracy," she says.
Increasing investments in safety
The study reveals a promising trend: 71% of organizations increase EHS spending during the holidays. However, a concerning 10% still lack the necessary software tools to manage risks effectively. "These organizations miss out on the visibility and performance insights that others gain through technology," Jones warns. She advocates for broader adoption of digital solutions to enhance safety outcomes.
Holiday hazards demand immediate attention from health and safety leaders. Investing in training, adopting technology, and fostering a culture of vigilance can transform seasonal risks into opportunities for safety improvements. As Jones aptly puts it, "Raising awareness and equipping teams with the right tools is the golden thread for reducing risks and protecting workers during the holidays."
By taking these steps, workplaces can ensure that the holiday season is marked by celebration and safety alike.
