The "R" in SMART: Is Your Goal Relevant?

Over the past few weeks, we've explored the Specific, Measurable, and Achievable aspects of SMART goals. Now, let's consider the crucial question of Relevance: Does your goal truly make business sense for your organization?

Consider the diverse needs of different industries. A construction company, for instance, is inherently high-risk and requires a comprehensive suite of safety programs. These might include Lockout/Tagout, Hazard Communication, Bloodborne Pathogens, Fall Protection, Operator Certification, Emergency Action Plans (EAPs), and Personal Protective Equipment. In contrast, a hotel might need some of these, while a typical office environment might primarily require only an EAP.

For a small office, an Emergency Action Plan is likely the most relevant safety program. Unlike dramatic portrayals in movies, the realistic goal during an emergency is to evacuate to the ground floor, not the roof. Helicopters have limited passenger capacity, and many rooftops aren't designed to support their weight. Therefore, focusing on training staff about emergency procedures—where to go, what to do, and who to call—is paramount.

Cost, Priorities, and Employee Participation

Beyond relevance, consider cost and priorities. It's essential to proactively include safety initiatives in your budget. For example, you might plan to replace furniture over several years to improve ergonomics. If you aim to train staff as safety instructors, budget for equipment, supplies, and training fees. During profitable periods, investing in safety equipment can also be a strategic expense to reduce taxes.

During lean periods when funds are scarce, a good starting point is to review the OSHA Top 10 most frequently cited violations. This list can help you prioritize where to allocate your limited resources, focusing on the violations most relevant to your workplace. Additionally, actively engage your employees. Their feedback is invaluable for creating a successful and relevant safety program.

Finally, if your organization operates within a larger entity, understand their priorities and funding. If your proposed safety program doesn't align with their overarching goals, you'll need to clearly articulate its relevance to gain their crucial support.

Reference: Ultimate Guide to SMART Goals The Ultimate Guide to S.M.A.R.T. Goals – Forbes Advisor