Why would anybody write a whole book on safety?
The reality is, every organization has a “safety culture” — whether good or bad. What all organizations need is a culture of safety, where everyone takes personal responsibility for their own safety as well as those around them.
Regardless of the industry you work in, or what country you may live, no one ever wants to get hurt on the job — or any other time, for that matter. To create an environment where individuals are motivated to work safely, be personally accountable for their actions and willing to provide feedback to their teammates requires a commitment at all levels of an organization.
It’s interesting to note, while Walt Disney declared his theme park would be the “happiest place on earth,” he designated safety as the number-one value. His picture of perfection was that guests would leave the park wearing the same smile they had when they arrived hours earlier. As a result, he created a culture of safety while establishing an environment of courtesy and friendliness that all of us have grown to know and love.
Whether you are in the energy sector, mining, engineering and construction, or just care about the people around you, Safety 24/7 provides the tools necessary for creating the foundation of a great organization, no matter what your mission may be.
After reading this book, I am a raving fan of the work Bob Lorber and Greg Anderson have done. Bob has been a friend and colleague of mine for over 25 years. As coauthor of Putting the One Minute Manager to Work, he made a major impact by helping millions of people put the three secrets of the One Minute Manager into practice. I have known Greg since he was a teenager. His father, Gordon Anderson, is one of the most creative and innovative managers I have ever known. Greg has obviously inherited those good genes. This book is the culmination of Greg’s experience and Bob’s fine mentoring.
Thanks, Greg and Bob, for focusing our attention on this vital aspect of running a great organization – and on the need for each of us to be aware of the importance of Safety 24/7.
Ken Blanchard
Co-author of The One Minute Manager®
San Diego, California
January 2006