{"id":21939,"date":"2022-06-01T00:00:06","date_gmt":"2022-06-01T00:00:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/?p=21939"},"modified":"2022-06-15T17:48:51","modified_gmt":"2022-06-15T17:48:51","slug":"veterinary-safety-planning","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarybusiness.com\/veterinary-safety-planning\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Keys to a Successful Safety Meeting"},"content":{"rendered":"

In my article \u201cCalculated Risks\u201d<\/a> [April\/May 2022], I discussed many of the internal and external threats inherent in the delivery of veterinary services and the need for a solid risk-management plan. A critical but often overlooked component of such a program is routine safety meetings. Not only are they essential for your employees\u2019 well-being, but they also are required by law. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates that all businesses, no matter their size, hold safety meetings. A company with 10 or fewer employees may engage a committee, while larger ones must have team meetings. The sessions must be scheduled regularly to comply with OSHA regulations<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Regardless of the timing, safety meetings serve as a reminder to employees to be mindful of their activities and follow the measures that are a part of your organization\u2019s safety policy.<\/p>\n

I encourage practice administrators to view the meetings as an opportunity to review specific risks and safety protocols. The meetings also allow team members to discuss safety concerns and solutions.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, many veterinary practices are not in compliance with the gatherings. One reason is that few things create less excitement within a clinic than a team meeting, particularly when the title includes the word \u201csafety.\u201d The sessions are almost universally perceived as tedious, unproductive and, to experienced team members, unnecessary interruptions in an otherwise busy workday. However, that doesn\u2019t need to be the case. Proper planning can make the meetings short and informative and enhance a practice\u2019s safety culture.<\/p>\n

What makes for a good safety meeting? These five components.<\/p>\n

1. Consistency<\/h3>\n

Attendance should be mandatory for all team members and a part of everyone\u2019s job description and annual performance review. In addition, the meetings should be held on the same day and at the same time each month, if possible, to afford everyone the ability to schedule accordingly.<\/p>\n

What is the best time for a safety meeting? Put yourself in your team members\u2019 shoes. Many practices hold the meetings during the lunch hour. Though it\u2019s convenient from a workflow standpoint, consider the downside of a lunchtime slot:<\/p>\n