In researching for our book on safety culture, I have gone back to various books and articles from a number of sources.   A wide array of different concepts and ideas have been identified that might be of benefit to those that are trying to develop an effective safety culture.  I came across “Principles of Leadership” that have been used by the U.S. Military and  thought these would be good to share.  I have them on a leadership card I received many years ago.  As a note, a web search found that the principles have been widely published!

Why are these important to the development of a Safety Culture?  How do they impact on the development of a Job Hazard Analysis Process?  Without a strong foundation in core principles, the development of an effective safety  culture will be limited or erratic at best.  Having a foundation provides a way to work through issues where human fallibility may take us in an unintended direction.     In addition, as you review the list, reflect on how each impacts on how jobs are designed, hazards understood, and tasks and personnel are supervised.

1. Know yourself and seek self-improvement. Do you know what your weaknesses are? Do you know what your strengths are? Do you need improvement in the basic skills of writing, speaking, developing clear and logical presentations, basic computer skills, etc.? Do you know basic management principles and understand the statistical, financial or accounting methodology needed to better present an analysis?    Note that these are not specific technical areas but are universal in their application to all professions.  Do you have a plan for overall personal improvement?

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