It is well established that in organizations where a formal and structured SMS approach to managing safety failed, the #1 cause of the failure was the lack of leadership and commitment from the most senior management personnel. Often these individuals lack experience working within a formal SMS structure and have never been taught or even seen how they play a crucial role in the development, implementation, and day-to-day management of the SMS. In fact, many of these failures demonstrate that far too many senior managers believe “safety is safety’s job.” Here is some advice from the ISO 45002:2023 Implementation Guide that all workplaces can learn from regarding senior management’s role in the safety and health of their workers…
Top management should engage in, promote, communicate, and monitor the performance and effectiveness of the OH&S management system. How this can be applied depends on various factors, such as the size and complexity of an organization, management style, and organizational culture.
The term “top management” is defined in ISO 45001:2018, 3.12 as the “person or group of people who directs and controls an organization at the highest level.” They are accountable and responsible for the overall performance of the management system and for supporting other workers to demonstrate
leadership and commitment within their areas of responsibility. In other clauses, there are examples of further direct top management responsibilities, including the OH&S policy, organizational roles, responsibilities, and authorities, as well as management review. If the management system scope covers only part of an organization, then top management refers to those who direct and control that part of the organization.
Top management should consider integrating OH&S requirements in general business processes and when setting mission, vision, and values. These elements should be included in forming the organization’s overall business, strategic direction, and operational plans where appropriate.
Top management’s commitment also means providing physical and financial resources and direction. It includes active involvement, removing barriers that can limit worker participation, leading others to support the OH&S system, and communicating the importance of effective OH&S management. It also means ensuring that processes for effective consultation and participation are established.
Another specific requirement for top management is to ensure that workers are protected from reprisals when they report OH&S issues such as injuries, ill health, unsafe conditions, near misses, or risks and opportunities related to OH&S or the safety management system.
Source: BS ISO 45002:2023
