An effective safety strategy is critical to maintaining a safe working environment, especially in high-risk maritime industries. Connecting with your team involves ensuring they are informed, adequately trained, equipped, and understand what it means to be safe on the job. We recently spoke with Joey Garza, safety manager at McCabe, Hamilton & Renny. Garza shared how she uses challenges as opportunities to build trust, emphasizes open communication, and celebrates the progress of her team to maintain a culture of safety and collaboration.
How did you get involved in safety?
Joey Garza: I was drawn to safety because it’s integral to protecting people and ensuring they can go home safely at the end of each day. I’ve seen firsthand how safety practices can impact lives and drive organizational success, and that motivates me to continually improve our safety culture.
How does challenging employees contribute to their growth and the overall success of the company?
Joey Garza: Challenging employees, even in small ways, can have a significant impact. For example, a simple challenge can foster empowerment and strengthen relationships. When employees feel encouraged to speak up and share their insights, it can lead to valuable contributions that help the company succeed. It’s about planting a mustard seed of confidence and watching it grow.
How do you handle situations where employees need to express concerns or provide feedback that may lead to further action?
Joey Garza: It’s important to create a space where employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns. When an issue needs to be addressed, I make sure to walk them through the process. I thank them for bringing it up and explain what will happen next. This approach helps prevent any surprises and maintains the trust that has been established. Communication is key in ensuring that employees understand the steps being taken and feel valued in the process.
How do you balance recognizing achievements with addressing areas for improvement in safety?
Joey Garza: It’s crucial to celebrate successes and recognize growth. There have been times when I felt overwhelmed and questioned my progress, but reflecting on achievements helps shift the perspective. For instance, I’m planning to acknowledge the team’s hard work with a special gift and a celebration. By highlighting their growth and contributions, we reinforce the positive aspects of our safety culture.
How do you ensure that safety measures are consistently followed and understood by the team?
Joey Garza: Ensuring compliance with safety measures involves continuous reinforcement and clear communication. For example, instead of just distributing safety shirts, we’re providing headlamps with our logo to ensure everyone has the necessary equipment. It’s about making sure that employees not only receive but also use the tools provided to maintain a high standard of safety.
What is your perspective on the responsibility of safety in your industry?
Joey Garza: Safety is a significant responsibility. It’s about more than just preventing incidents; it’s about safeguarding lives and livelihoods. The autonomy required in our industry means that everyone must be on the same page. It’s a matter of critical thinking and being proactive to ensure that safety protocols are followed, which can mean the difference between life and death.
Final Thoughts
Implementing robust safety protocols and fostering a culture of safety is essential for any organization. Joey Garza's insights highlight the importance of empowerment, communication, and recognizing achievements in achieving safety goals. By engaging with employees and continuously improving safety measures, organizations can create a safer work environment for all.
AEU Safety Resources
If you are a safety professional and ALMA member, we encourage you to check out our member resource center. There, you will find a wide variety of guidance documents, safety talks, videos, and other materials created to keep you and your teams safe.
