GOOD 2

2

Workplace Safety

THE Name OF THE File: Argumentative Research Paper

Introduction

One of the key concerns in the workplace is the issue of workplace safety which affects millions of workers in the world over. As per the International Labor Organization, (ILO)(2019), over 2.78 million employees die due to workplace injuries and occupational diseases on an annual basis (ILO, 2019). Furthermore, workplace safety is more beyond life and death rather it is also about dignity, health, and sanity. Physical, mental, and social issues arise in workers facing hazardous working environments. These problems do not only affect the individual workers themselves but also the organizations they work in and society as a whole. As noted by Nielsen and Taris (2019) workplace safety has a great impact on productivity, performance, quality, reputation, sustainability, and social responsibility of an organization. Hence, workplace safety is a basic human right and it’s the responsibility of each employee to ensure workplace safety. Workplace safety involves good leadership, training, and safety policies at the organizational level. It will also argue that it is a vital element of the health, dignity, and well-being of the employees and their effectiveness in promoting business success and continuity.

Safety in the workplace is a human right

Therefore, one of the important reasons for workplace safety is the fact that it is a human right that guards workers’ dignity, health, and life. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favorable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment.” According to the HRC (2020), every worker has the right to work in a safe and healthy environment. Workplace safety is critical in maintaining the physical, mental, and psychological well-being of the workers towards their performance.

Unfortunately, many workplaces throughout the world frequently disregard or abuse these human rights. It is important to remember that the freedom of association, the right to organize, and the right to collective bargaining are all inextricably linked to the right to a safe and healthy workplace. With the use of these rights, employees can ask their employers for improved working conditions and voice their complaints.

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility

Workplace safety is crucial because it requires collaboration among employers, employees, governments, and other stakeholders. The Occupational Safety and Health Convention requires member states to create, implement, and assess a consistent national safety and health policy. Each employer must guarantee the workplace, machinery, equipment, and procedures under their control are safe and healthful. In addition, every worker is expected to collaborate with the employer and take part in implementing preventive measures, as stated in the HRC (2020) guidelines.

Unfortunately, many workplaces around the world fail to fulfill or coordinate these responsibilities. Many stakeholders lack occupational safety and health understanding, commitment, and resources, according to the WHO (2021). Additionally, there exists a disconnect between policy and practice, as well as between the formal and informal sectors. Participatory workplace safety measures like joint health and safety committees, worker representation, and consultation are needed. These methods can improve teamwork, communication, and legal compliance. For instance, a recent study conducted by Lyubykh et al. (2022) discovered that employee involvement, management commitment, communication, feedback, and training have a positive impact on workplace safety climate and safety behavior.

Workplace safety requires effective leadership

The third reason for workplace safety is it demands efficient leadership that promotes safe practices, safety culture, and safety climate within the organization. Safety culture is the shared values, beliefs, and norms that influence how employees think and behave about safety concerns. The safety climate is the perception and attitude of the employees to the prominence and priority of safety at work. As Nielsen and Taris (2019) state, leaders who can exercise the power and responsibility of enforcing safety influence both safety culture and climate. Yet, not all leaders can equally ensure workplace safety. There are some leaders who do not have the required knowledge, skills, and/or motivation for implementing safety policies and procedures. Some leaders might have conflicting and even competing interests that weaken the commitment to safety. There are also some leaders who might have a discouraging style and act negatively, or even authoritatively towards employees’ communications and participation. This implies that there should be a shift to safety leadership training and development programs that aim at improving the competence and capacity of leaders to influence safety outcomes. As an example, Duryan et al. (2020), and Lyubykh et al. (2022) have shown that safety leadership training enhances the leaders’ understanding, attitude, behavior, and skills about workplace safety.

Rebuttal of the Opposing Position

Those of the opposing view may argue that workplace safety is costly or impractical to implement or maintain workplace safety.  For instance, they may hold the position that the implementation of workplace safety measures is costly, time-consuming, and may require efforts that may be needed elsewhere in the company. They may further allege that workplace safety is of little importance or concern to many workers or employers, particularly in the informal sector and developing countries.

Nevertheless, there are several reasons why this position is flawed and weak. First, it ignores that workplace safety is a human right and shared duty that cannot be minimized. Second, it ignores evidence that workplace safety measures and programs can benefit workers and employers. Duryan et al. (2020) found that workplace safety initiatives reduce injuries, illnesses, absenteeism, turnover, compensation expenses, and improve productivity, quality, and reputation. Additionally, it does not address the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and what lies ahead. The pandemic has revealed the weaknesses and disparities in numerous workplaces and workers, highlighting the necessity for more robust and flexible occupational safety and health systems (WHO, 2021). Thus, the argument that workplace safety is too expensive or impractical is erroneous.

Conclusion

To conclude, this paper has posited that workplace safety is an essential human right and collective obligation that necessitates competent leadership, training, and appropriate policies at all organizational tiers. Safety at work promotes workers’ dignity, health, and life. Besides, it contributes to better organizational performance and sustainability. Workplace safety involves something more than mere life. It is also about respect, health, and living conditions. Physical, mental, and social problems experienced by workers in their workstations include injuries, illnesses, stress, anxiety, fear, and low morale. These challenges inflict damages not only on the individuals affected but also the organizations in which they operate and the whole economy at large. Organizations should focus on workplace safety because it affects productivity, performance, quality, goodwill, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. Hence, all parties must cooperate to ensure that every person works in a safe and healthy environment.

References

Duryan, M., Smyth, H., Roberts, A., Rowlinson, S., & Sherratt, F. (2020). Knowledge transfer for occupational health and safety: Cultivating health and safety learning culture in construction firms. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 139, 105496. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2020.105496

HRC. (2020). Workplace - HRC. Human Rights Campaign. https://www.hrc.org/resources/workplace

ILO. (2019, April 15). Safety and Health at the heart of the Future of Work: Building on 100 years of experience. Ilo.org. https://www.ilo.org/safework/events/safeday/WCMS_686645/lang--en/index.htm

Lyubykh, Z., Turner, N., Hershcovis, M. S., & Deng, C. (2022). A meta-analysis of leadership and workplace safety: Examining relative importance, contextual contingencies, and methodological moderators. Journal of Applied Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000557

Nielsen, K., & Taris, T. W. (2019). Leading well: Challenges to researching leadership in occupational health psychology – and some ways forward. Work & Stress, 33(2), 107–118. https://doi.org/10.1080/02678373.2019.1592263

WHO. (2021). COVID-19: occupational health and safety for health workers: interim guidance, 2 February 2021. Iris.who.int. https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/339151

1

THE NAME OF THE FILE : PROBLEM AND SOLUTION PROPOSAL

IT WAS 87%/100%

Addressing Workplace Safety Concerns at XYZ Manufacturing

Student Name

Institution

Addressing Workplace Safety Concerns at XYZ Manufacturing

Abstract:

This paper discusses a significant workplace problem at XYZ Manufacturing, focusing on safety concerns within the facility. It delves into the causes and consequences of these issues, describes efforts made to bring them to the attention of authorities, assesses the resolution status, and offers a comprehensive solution to address the persisting problems.

1. Introduction

Workplace safety is a fundamental concern that directly impacts the well-being of employees and the overall productivity of an organization. XYZ Manufacturing, a well-established company in the community, has been grappling with serious safety issues within its production facility (Schulte, 2020). According to a friend working in the company raised much need to address the safety concerns because it poses threat to human health and safety. This paper aims to shed light on the causes, consequences, actions taken, and proposed solutions for these problems, emphasizing the importance of rectifying them.

1.1 Problem Description

The primary issue at XYZ Manufacturing revolves around workplace safety. The causes of this problem are multifaceted. Inadequate safety protocols, a lack of comprehensive training, and outdated safety equipment contribute to an environment that places employees at risk. Consequences of this problem include workplace accidents, injuries, increased worker compensation claims, and a demoralized workforce. Financially, the company faces increased insurance costs and potential legal liabilities. Psychologically, employees suffer from anxiety and fear due to unsafe working conditions.

2. Efforts to Bring the Problem to Authorities' Attention

My friend working in XYZ Manufacturing has made efforts to address this problem by concerned employees. An email was sent to the company's management, highlighting the critical nature of the safety concerns and urging immediate action. My friend’s email reads like this:

Friend’s Email

Subject: Urgent Action Required: Addressing Workplace Safety Concerns

Dear Management Team,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing on behalf of a group of concerned employees at XYZ Manufacturing to bring to your attention some significant safety concerns that require immediate action. As dedicated members of the XYZ team, we believe that addressing these issues is paramount to ensuring the well-being of all employees and the continued success of our organization.

Problem Description:

The primary concern revolves around workplace safety. Our facility has experienced a series of incidents and near-miss accidents that have raised serious red flags. These incidents are directly related to several ongoing safety issues that need your urgent attention. The causes of these problems include inadequate safety protocols, a lack of comprehensive training, and outdated safety equipment.

Consequences and Ramifications:

The consequences of these safety issues are profound. Employees have been injured, resulting in increased worker compensation claims. Our financial situation is being adversely affected by rising insurance costs, and there is potential for legal liabilities if these issues persist. Moreover, the psychological impact on our employees is significant, as they work in an environment filled with anxiety and fear due to unsafe working conditions (Schulte, 2020).

Our Request:

We implore you to recognize the gravity of this situation and take immediate steps to rectify these safety concerns. The safety and well-being of our employees are non-negotiable, and we firmly believe that by addressing these issues proactively, we can safeguard our team and improve the overall workplace environment.

Immediate Actions Required:

Conduct a comprehensive safety audit to identify and rectify potential hazards.

Invest in updated safety equipment and technology to replace outdated machinery.

Implement a thorough safety training program, ensuring that all employees are well-versed in safety procedures and protocols.

Establish a systematic process for employees to report safety concerns anonymously to encourage accountability and safety consciousness.

Hold management accountable for workplace safety by implementing performance metrics tied to safety outcomes.

We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and request that you schedule a meeting with representatives from our concerned employee group to discuss these safety concerns in detail. We are eager to collaborate with management to ensure a safer working environment for all employees.

Thank you for your immediate action on this pressing issue. We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

FRIEND’S NAME

ROLE IN XYZ Manufacturing

3. Resolution Status

Following the submission of the email, the company took several measures to address the safety issues. These included the introduction of regular safety drills, an overhaul of outdated equipment, and a comprehensive safety training program. While these actions have mitigated some of the issues, the problem is not entirely resolved.

3.1 Remaining Issues

Despite the positive changes, XYZ Manufacturing still faces some residual safety concerns. There have been instances of near-miss accidents, and my friend and colleagues e report that certain areas of the facility require further safety enhancements (Schulte, 2020). For instance, the ventilation system in one section is subpar, and there are still older machines in operation that pose potential risks.

4. Proposed Solution

I believe that my friend should consider addressing the persisting safety concerns at XYZ Manufacturing by implementing the following measures:

4.1 Continuous Improvement

Regular safety audits and inspections should be carried out to identify and rectify potential hazards promptly. This would involve collaboration with the company's safety committee, composed of employees, to ensure that all areas are adequately assessed (Sorensen et al., 2018).

4.2 Updated Equipment and Technology

Invest in modern safety equipment and technology to replace outdated machinery and enhance overall workplace safety. This could include improved ventilation systems and the replacement of older machines with safer alternatives.

4.3 Ongoing Training

Maintain and expand the safety training program to ensure all employees are well-versed in safety procedures and protocols. This should include periodic refreshers and assessments.

4.4 Employee Feedback Mechanism

Establish a systematic process for employees to report safety concerns anonymously, fostering a culture of accountability and safety consciousness.

4.5 Management Accountability

Hold management accountable for workplace safety. Implement performance metrics that tie to safety outcomes, and reward managers for maintaining a safe working environment.

Conclusion

The workplace safety issues at XYZ Manufacturing are of paramount importance due to their adverse financial, psychological, and physical consequences. While some progress has been made in addressing these concerns, it is crucial to continue efforts to ensure a completely safe working environment (Sorensen et al., 2018). The proposed solution involves ongoing improvements in safety protocols, equipment, training, feedback mechanisms, and management accountability, all of which are essential to guarantee a secure workplace for all employees.

References

Schulte P. A. (2020). A global perspective on addressing occupational safety and health hazards in the future of work. La Medicina del lavoro, 111(3), 163–165. https://doi.org/10.23749/mdl.v111i3.9735

Sorensen, G., Sparer, E., Williams, J. A. R., Gundersen, D., Boden, L. I., Dennerlein, J. T., Hashimoto, D., Katz, J. N., McLellan, D. L., Okechukwu, C. A., Pronk, N. P., Revette, A., & Wagner, G. R. (2018). Measuring Best Practices for Workplace Safety, Health, and Well-Being: The Workplace Integrated Safety and Health Assessment. Journal of occupational and environmental medicine, 60(5), 430–439. https://doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000001286

2

Workplace Safety

THE Name OF THE File: Argumentative Research Paper

Introduction

One of the key concerns in the workplace is the issue of workplace safety which affects millions of workers in the world over. As per the International Labor Organization, (ILO)(2019), over 2.78 million employees die due to workplace injuries and occupational diseases on an annual basis (ILO, 2019). Furthermore, workplace safety is more beyond life and death rather it is also about dignity, health, and sanity. Physical, mental, and social issues arise in workers facing hazardous working environments. These problems do not only affect the individual workers themselves but also the organizations they work in and society as a whole. As noted by Nielsen and Taris (2019) workplace safety has a great impact on productivity, performance, quality, reputation, sustainability, and social responsibility of an organization. Hence, workplace safety is a basic human right and it’s the responsibility of each employee to ensure workplace safety. Workplace safety involves good leadership, training, and safety policies at the organizational level. It will also argue that it is a vital element of the health, dignity, and well-being of the employees and their effectiveness in promoting business success and continuity.

Safety in the workplace is a human right

Therefore, one of the important reasons for workplace safety is the fact that it is a human right that guards workers’ dignity, health, and life. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favorable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment.” According to the HRC (2020), every worker has the right to work in a safe and healthy environment. Workplace safety is critical in maintaining the physical, mental, and psychological well-being of the workers towards their performance.

Unfortunately, many workplaces throughout the world frequently disregard or abuse these human rights. It is important to remember that the freedom of association, the right to organize, and the right to collective bargaining are all inextricably linked to the right to a safe and healthy workplace. With the use of these rights, employees can ask their employers for improved working conditions and voice their complaints.

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility

Workplace safety is crucial because it requires collaboration among employers, employees, governments, and other stakeholders. The Occupational Safety and Health Convention requires member states to create, implement, and assess a consistent national safety and health policy. Each employer must guarantee the workplace, machinery, equipment, and procedures under their control are safe and healthful. In addition, every worker is expected to collaborate with the employer and take part in implementing preventive measures, as stated in the HRC (2020) guidelines.

Unfortunately, many workplaces around the world fail to fulfill or coordinate these responsibilities. Many stakeholders lack occupational safety and health understanding, commitment, and resources, according to the WHO (2021). Additionally, there exists a disconnect between policy and practice, as well as between the formal and informal sectors. Participatory workplace safety measures like joint health and safety committees, worker representation, and consultation are needed. These methods can improve teamwork, communication, and legal compliance. For instance, a recent study conducted by Lyubykh et al. (2022) discovered that employee involvement, management commitment, communication, feedback, and training have a positive impact on workplace safety climate and safety behavior.

Workplace safety requires effective leadership

The third reason for workplace safety is it demands efficient leadership that promotes safe practices, safety culture, and safety climate within the organization. Safety culture is the shared values, beliefs, and norms that influence how employees think and behave about safety concerns. The safety climate is the perception and attitude of the employees to the prominence and priority of safety at work. As Nielsen and Taris (2019) state, leaders who can exercise the power and responsibility of enforcing safety influence both safety culture and climate. Yet, not all leaders can equally ensure workplace safety. There are some leaders who do not have the required knowledge, skills, and/or motivation for implementing safety policies and procedures. Some leaders might have conflicting and even competing interests that weaken the commitment to safety. There are also some leaders who might have a discouraging style and act negatively, or even authoritatively towards employees’ communications and participation. This implies that there should be a shift to safety leadership training and development programs that aim at improving the competence and capacity of leaders to influence safety outcomes. As an example, Duryan et al. (2020), and Lyubykh et al. (2022) have shown that safety leadership training enhances the leaders’ understanding, attitude, behavior, and skills about workplace safety.

Rebuttal of the Opposing Position

Those of the opposing view may argue that workplace safety is costly or impractical to implement or maintain workplace safety.  For instance, they may hold the position that the implementation of workplace safety measures is costly, time-consuming, and may require efforts that may be needed elsewhere in the company. They may further allege that workplace safety is of little importance or concern to many workers or employers, particularly in the informal sector and developing countries.

Nevertheless, there are several reasons why this position is flawed and weak. First, it ignores that workplace safety is a human right and shared duty that cannot be minimized. Second, it ignores evidence that workplace safety measures and programs can benefit workers and employers. Duryan et al. (2020) found that workplace safety initiatives reduce injuries, illnesses, absenteeism, turnover, compensation expenses, and improve productivity, quality, and reputation. Additionally, it does not address the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and what lies ahead. The pandemic has revealed the weaknesses and disparities in numerous workplaces and workers, highlighting the necessity for more robust and flexible occupational safety and health systems (WHO, 2021). Thus, the argument that workplace safety is too expensive or impractical is erroneous.

Conclusion

To conclude, this paper has posited that workplace safety is an essential human right and collective obligation that necessitates competent leadership, training, and appropriate policies at all organizational tiers. Safety at work promotes workers’ dignity, health, and life. Besides, it contributes to better organizational performance and sustainability. Workplace safety involves something more than mere life. It is also about respect, health, and living conditions. Physical, mental, and social problems experienced by workers in their workstations include injuries, illnesses, stress, anxiety, fear, and low morale. These challenges inflict damages not only on the individuals affected but also the organizations in which they operate and the whole economy at large. Organizations should focus on workplace safety because it affects productivity, performance, quality, goodwill, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. Hence, all parties must cooperate to ensure that every person works in a safe and healthy environment.

References

Duryan, M., Smyth, H., Roberts, A., Rowlinson, S., & Sherratt, F. (2020). Knowledge transfer for occupational health and safety: Cultivating health and safety learning culture in construction firms. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 139, 105496. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2020.105496

HRC. (2020). Workplace - HRC. Human Rights Campaign. https://www.hrc.org/resources/workplace

ILO. (2019, April 15). Safety and Health at the heart of the Future of Work: Building on 100 years of experience. Ilo.org. https://www.ilo.org/safework/events/safeday/WCMS_686645/lang--en/index.htm

Lyubykh, Z., Turner, N., Hershcovis, M. S., & Deng, C. (2022). A meta-analysis of leadership and workplace safety: Examining relative importance, contextual contingencies, and methodological moderators. Journal of Applied Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000557

Nielsen, K., & Taris, T. W. (2019). Leading well: Challenges to researching leadership in occupational health psychology – and some ways forward. Work & Stress, 33(2), 107–118. https://doi.org/10.1080/02678373.2019.1592263

WHO. (2021). COVID-19: occupational health and safety for health workers: interim guidance, 2 February 2021. Iris.who.int. https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/339151