Key Employee Risk Management Strategies for Leaders

Unsafe employee behavior can lead to injuries, legal liabilities, and even fatalities. As a leader, your role often includes providing clear structure and strong guidance to help promote workplace safety. Establishing and enforcing strong workplace policies, alongside regular training, can be beneficial to reducing dangerous practices in your work environment.

Here are five tactics business owners can consider adopting:

1. Establish a Risk Prevention Policy
   A clear, accessible risk prevention policy can set expectations for employees and employers. Update the policy regularly to reflect new safety standards, outline proper equipment use, emergency procedures, and acceptable behavior.
   
   
2. Conduct Safety Training
   Regular training can proactively address potential hazards. Host sessions frequently to cover workplace risks, equipment use, and emergency procedures. Interactive training encourages participation and ensures employees understand expectations.
   
   
3. Enforce a Zero-Tolerance Policy
   Unsafe practices, like not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), may need clear consequences. A zero-tolerance approach can foster a culture where employees prioritize risk management.
   
   
4. Provide The Right Tools
   Consider providing employees with necessary tools, such as checklists, hazard-reporting apps, and ergonomic equipment. These investments can reduce risks and show your commitment to employee well-being.
   
   
5. Promote Open Communication
   Create a culture where employees feel safe reporting hazards or near misses. You can offer anonymous reporting options and act quickly on concerns. Transparent communication can help to identify and resolve issues early.

Employing risk management strategies like these and putting your employee’s wellbeing first can help create a more safety-focused workplace.

Reach out to your local Federated Insurance® marketing representative today for more risk management resources. Federated® clients can access mySHIELD® for additional industry-specific resources.

This article is for general information and risk prevention only and should not be considered legal or other expert advice. The recommendations herein may help reduce, but are not guaranteed to eliminate, any or all risk of loss. Examples shown are for illustrative purposes only. The information herein may be subject to, and is not a substitute for, any laws or regulations that may apply. Qualified counsel should be sought with questions specific to your circumstances. ©2025 Federated Mutual Insurance Company. 

See original article on Federated Insurance's website.