ROB PIETRAS
Workplace Safety Division
Directorate of Analysis and Prevention
U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center
Fort Novosel, Alabama
As we usher in the New Year, this is the perfect time to reflect on the past and plan for a safer, healthier future in our workplaces. The U.S. Army is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all its personnel, and there's no better moment than now to reinforce our safety programs and strategies.
Reflect on the past year
Start by reviewing the past year's safety records and incidents. Identify areas where safety procedures succeeded and where there were opportunities for improvement. Recognizing these patterns can provide valuable insights into strengthening your safety program. Don’t forget to close out your OSHA 300 logs.
Set clear safety goals
New Year's resolutions aren't just for personal improvement — they're also essential for organizational safety. Establish clear, achievable safety goals for 2025. This could include reducing the number of mishaps, improving reporting processes or increasing safety training participation.
Enhance training programs
High-quality training is the backbone of an effective safety program. Ensure all personnel are up to date with the latest safety procedures and training. Consider introducing refresher courses or advanced training sessions that focus on specific areas relevant to your team's needs. Great news — the Army Safety Management Information System 2.0 (ASMIS 2.0) will be featuring a new role this year with the SOH Education and Training Activity.
Foster a safety culture
A strong safety culture starts with leadership but involves everyone. Encourage open communication about safety concerns and empower all personnel to take proactive steps in identifying and mitigating risks. Celebrating safety milestones and achievements can also motivate the team and reinforce the importance of safety.
Utilize ASMIS 2.0 for your SOH program management
ASMIS 2.0 enhances safety procedures and decision-making by providing accurate data and actionable insights, helping to reduce mishaps and allocate resources effectively. It supports continuous improvement in safety management through its user-friendly interface, data analytics capabilities and ongoing updates.
Regular inspections and audits
Conduct regular safety inspections and audits to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. These checks are crucial for identifying potential hazards and taking corrective actions before mishaps occur.
Engage in continuous improvement
Safety is an ongoing process. Encourage a mindset of continuous improvement by regularly reviewing and updating safety policies and procedures. Involve all personnel in these efforts, as their feedback and suggestions can be invaluable.
Celebrate safely
As you celebrate the New Year, remember to prioritize safety in all activities. Whether it's a team gathering or a family event, ensure safety procedures are followed to prevent mishaps and injuries.
By taking these proactive steps, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Let’s make 2025 our safest year yet! For more information on workplace safety, visit the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center website at https://safety.army.mil/ON-DUTY/Workplace.