INVESTIGATION INTO SAFETY CULTURE AND ITS ROLE IN INDUSTRIAL WORKPLACES

Abstract

This study investigated the significance of safety culture in industrial organizations, focusing on the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that support a safe working environment. The research aimed to assess employee perceptions of safety culture within an industrial company operating in the environmental and waste management sector in Western Slovakia. A questionnaire survey and calibration interviews were used to collect data on key aspects such as personal responsibility, communication, leadership, decision-making, and ongoing safety education. The analysis of survey responses revealed that while employees recognized the importance of safety, significant gaps remained in areas like communication between management and staff and the effectiveness of training programs. Statistical evaluation showed inconsistencies in how safety protocols were perceived and applied across different job roles, indicating the need for more targeted communication and engaging training methods. Insights from the calibration interviews confirmed that fostering open dialogue and providing regular feedback were crucial for improving the overall safety climate. The study concluded that investing in a strong safety culture is essential not only for minimizing risks and accidents but also for enhancing employee satisfaction and organizational performance.