Written by Corrie Pitzer to present at the ASSP Conference & Expo
Orlando, FL
July 22-24
Abstract
Culture is a powerful force that shapes and influences behaviors at every level of an organization. However, when it comes to safety, the term “safety culture” may not fully capture the essence of what truly drives safety behaviors within a workplace. A more accurate term might be “risk culture,” as it better reflects how employees perceive, manage, and make decisions about risks in their daily operations.
This presentation will offer an in-depth exploration of what is commonly referred to as safety culture, focusing on how it is systematically created, the ways in which it impacts safety performance, and the different ‘types’ of culture that exist within organizations. A critical aspect of the presentation will be the measurement of these cultural elements, providing attendees with insights into how to assess and enhance their organization’s risk culture.
To build a powerful and effective risk culture, the presentation will outline six key pathways:
- Establish values: Establishing a common understanding of safety goals and risk management priorities that align with the organization’s overall mission.
- Set share vision: Motivating and engaging employees at all levels to take ownership of safety and risk management practices.
- Dare to differ: Encouraging innovation and creative problem-solving, even when it challenges the status quo.
- Empower the Frontline: Giving frontline workers the authority and tools they need to manage risks effectively and make informed safety decisions.
- Touch Hearts: Creating an emotional connection to safety that transcends mere compliance and fosters a genuine commitment to protecting oneself and others.
- Create readiness: Building a culture of care where the well-being of employees is prioritized, and safety is seen as a fundamental value.
In addition to these pathways, the presentation will also address the four ‘states’ of paralysis that can hinder organizational effectiveness:
- The Paralysis of Fear: Where fear of making mistakes or facing repercussions stifles innovation and open communication.
- The Paralysis of Protection: Where excessive caution leads to over-protection and limits proactive risk management.
- The Paralysis of Pretention: Where organizations put up a facade of safety without truly integrating it into their culture and daily practices
- The Paralysis of Atrophy: Where complacency and a lack of continuous improvement cause safety practices to stagnate over time.
Many organizations are unaware of the cultural state in which they operate and may not fully understand the “unwritten rules” that govern their approach to safety and risk management. This presentation will help attendees identify which state of paralysis their organization might be in and provide practical strategies for overcoming these barriers.
By attending this session, safety professionals, leaders, and managers will gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics that drive their organization’s risk culture. They will learn how to implement the six pathways to create a powerful, proactive culture that not only meets safety standards but also enhances overall organizational performance. The presentation will equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to transform their organization’s approach to safety, making it a fundamental part of their operational DNA. This is essential for anyone looking to build a resilient, safety-focused culture that adapts and thrives in an ever-changing environment.
Speaking Details
Session Title: How To Destroy Your Safety Culture – In 4 Easy Steps (or 6 steps to build it)
Date: July 22, 2025
Time: 4:15pm – 5:15pm (EDT)
Session #: 5062