Impact of improved safety on productivity

Abstract

The research investigates if there is a relationship between a focus on improved safety and productivity. This relationship can help companies improve the approach in dealing with two variables that line managers battle with daily. Data was collected from 115 respondents and interview conducted with 6 senior managers in the petroleum industry. The research confirms that there is a relationship and that when a company focus on improving safety they could at the same time improve productivity. An investment on productivity could also improve productivity if they focus on it during design. These two variables support goal number eight of the United Nations sustainable development goals. The research also found that employees believe that the company is not doing enough to invest in safety and there is not enough belief in safety. The research also found that investing in productivity can also improve safety and employees and management with the right safety culture. Safety is a licence to operate and productivity is necessary for the sustainability of the business.