Speaking SafeWork with Tony

Glencore’s first priority in the workplace is to protect the health and wellbeing of its employees. To achieve this, we must identify and manage health and safety hazards in our workplace. In order to help realize this goal, we launched SafeWork to provide a common global foundation to build our culture of safety worldwide.

Speaking SafeWork connects with Glencore employees asking them about SafeWork, and safety in general. In this interview, Speaking SafeWork connects with Tony, Supervisor, Logistics, at Raglan Mine.

Tony: I compare SafeWork to any big publicity campaign launched by a marketing company; we have a logo and name that aims to relay a critical message. For us, the campaign has kept safety at the forefront of everything we do; it helps connect all of our safety actions and keep a positive momentum behind our efforts. Often these internal campaigns have a tendency to die off or change over time; new slogans, new ideas, etc. SafeWork has been consistent with its message since its launch. This has helped us maintain discussion on the topic demonstrating that safety remains the number one topic every day. 

Tony: The fatal hazard protocols are founded on real things, and are difficult to debate; they are what they are. The protocols give us markers, or guidance, on what we need to work on. As an example, if we examine a certain task we begin with which protocols can be applied, giving us a starting point in our discussion and indicating what questions need to be asked. And everyone on a particular task is included, so we are all asked to reflect on what it means to each of our respective roles. When you bring these perspectives together into a discussion, it engages everyone, which is more likely to bring about corrective actions.

Tony: SafeWork gave us a new élan, and renewed positive momentum. It wasn’t just about speaking to safety; there were concrete actions being taken. We tackled each protocol systematically reviewing each one, engaging in discussion with all relevant employees, taking questions and circling back with responses and background information to help drive their implementation.

Moreover, SafeWork brought renewed rigour into our safety investigations giving us the necessary markers to begin discussions and analyze cases. SafeWork brings everyone into the fold to find solutions by upholding personal responsibility. It’s not just about bringing issues to someone’s attention, but bringing solutions to the table too. 

Tony: At a previous workplace, injuries and scars realized on the job were considered a badge of honour. And my brother, who also works in the mining industry, has suffered injuries, including one that resulted in him being off work for six months. Lessons like that show that you must accept safe practices both at work and at home. 

So, I keep protective glasses everywhere at home; the garage, the basement, attic, etc. In the past, when taking on certain tasks, like cutting firewood, I would have just been focused on getting it done quickly. Now, I am not even capable of taking on a task like that without putting safety first. And I share that message with my family.