Safety Leadership for Supervisors

Supervisors are a key part of the Internal Responsibility System and help to ensure that:

• Physical and psychosocial hazards are identified and addressed
• Physical and psychological incidents are reported and responded to
• Workers are supported and protected
• Employers meet their legal obligations

Strong supervisors act to prevent injuries, support workers after incidents, and help build safer workplaces.

As a supervisor, you are responsible for:

• Ensuring work is carried out safely
• Responding to hazards, concerns, and incidents
• Supporting workers with reporting and follow-up
• Participating in investigations and corrective actions
• Understanding and applying due diligence

You are not expected to have all the answers, but you are required to take action, ask questions, and document your work.

If an incident, concern, or hazard is reported:

1. Ensure immediate safety or direction to first aid 
   Address any urgent risks and support the worker
2. Ensure the incident is reported  
   Direct the reporting worker to follow your workplace reporting process
3. Document and escalate as needed
   Engage the appropriate supports, including critical incident support
4. Participate in follow-up activities
   This may include investigation and corrective actions
5. Communicate with the worker
   Keep them informed and supported

Taking timely and appropriate action is a key part of due diligence.

Due diligence means taking all reasonable steps to protect workers.

This includes:

• Being aware of hazards in your area
• Taking action when concerns are raised
• Following policies and procedures
• Asking for support when needed
• Documenting actions taken

Supervisors demonstrate due diligence through consistent, reasonable, and proactive decision making and taking all reasonable steps to keep workers safe.