Weekly Safety Minute: Accountability
Accountability is one of the cornerstones of a strong safety culture in construction. It’s not just about following rules, it’s about taking ownership for your actions, your choices, and the safety of the people around you. When accountability becomes part of our daily mindset, safety shifts from being a requirement to being a shared value.
In our line of work, accountability starts with recognizing that every task—no matter how routine—carries responsibility. Each of us plays a critical role in identifying hazards, following safe work practices, and ensuring the job gets done the right way, not just the fastest way. If you notice something unsafe, speak up. If you make a mistake, own it and correct it. Accountability isn’t about blame—it’s about integrity and care for your crew.
Supervisors and foremen show accountability by leading through example—showing up prepared, reviewing safety plans, addressing hazards immediately, and ensuring their teams have what they need to work safely. Field workers demonstrate accountability by following procedures, using PPE correctly, completing pre-task plans honestly, and supporting their teammates when something doesn’t look right. When everyone holds themselves and others to the same standard, safety becomes a natural part of how we work.
A lack of accountability often starts small: skipping a pre-task discussion, walking past a trip hazard, or assuming “someone else will fix it.” These moments can snowball into serious incidents. On the other hand, consistent accountability builds trust. It shows your team that safety isn’t optional, it’s expected—and that everyone can be counted on to do what’s right, even when no one is watching.
Tips for Building Accountability on the Jobsite
- Follow through: If you commit to a safety action or correction, make sure it’s done before moving on.
- Be honest in reporting: Report hazards, near misses, and incidents accurately—don’t hide or downplay issues.
- Own your role: Whether you’re leading a crew or running conduit, your actions directly affect team safety.
- Encourage feedback: Invite others to call out unsafe acts, including your own. Accountability works both ways.
- Recognize positive examples: Point out when someone goes above and beyond for safety—it reinforces good habits.
- Pause when unsure: If something doesn’t seem right, stop and ask for clarification before proceeding.
Key Takeaway:
Accountability means taking ownership of your actions and looking out for your team. Every decision—big or small—either strengthens or weakens our safety culture. Choose to strengthen it, lead by example, and make safety everyone’s responsibility.