Beyond the Binder: Crafting an Integrated Safety & Quality Policy That Drives Excellence

For many organizations, the OSH Policy is a document written to satisfy a regulatory requirement, then filed away. But at QSE, we see it as the single most important document in your operational system. It is the constitution that sets the intent, direction, and ambition for your entire Quest for Operational Excellence.
While local regulations set the minimum standard, we leverage the internationally recognized ISO 45001 framework to build a policy that is not just compliant, but truly effective. A well-crafted policy is the starting point for the Compliance pillar of our IMPACT Framework and the true foundation for everything that follows. 

So, what should go into a policy that actually works?

Commitment, Commitments, Commitments.....
The following is the commitment an organization is expected stick in their journey towards Safety Excellence

• A commitment to protect the safety and health of all members of the organization, who maybe affected by work being carried.
• A commitment to prevent work-related fatalities, disabilities and etc.
• A commitment to comply to relevant OSH laws and regulations, including other requirements to which the organization subscribes.
• A commitment to ensure that the organization will consult its employees and encourage their participation in any OSHA related activities.
• A commitment to continually improving its Safety performance.

Examples ( source: OSHMS-JKKP)

• Our organization is committed to take every reasonable effort to eliminate the hazards that cause accidents and injuries. 

• We recognize that all employees have the right to work in a safe and healthy environment, consistent with the national Occupational Safety and health laws and regulations and any other requirements the organization subscribes to

• The organization is committed to ensuring the safety, health and welfare of its employees and any other people who may be affected by the organizations operations. management’s commitment to improve the performance of the OSHMS

• The organization is committed to continually improve the OSH performance by improving the implementation of the OSHMS.

Missing Piece
One missing piece in development of the policy is lack of consultation from their employees. A policy that was created with feedback from employees will be a very effective tool to improve safety performance. 

Communication
Once a policy is signed off, it shall be communicated through the most effective method. This should not a be tick-box exercise.

Guiding Principle to OSH Committee
You have formed your OSH Committee. Where do they begin? What should be guiding them to ensure their actions are consistent with their organization direction? The obvious answer is the OSH Policy. The OSH Committee, shall truly understand the content and purpose of the policy and develop actions that is aligned with the policy.

With the above, your OSH policy becomes a living document. 
Refer to our resource section for an example of Safety Policy.

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