Safran Observes the World Day for Safety and Health at Work
Every year on April 28, the United Nations World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally.
This awareness-raising campaign focuses international attention on the magnitude of these problems, and on how promoting and creating a safety and health culture can help reduce the number of work-related injuries and deaths.
This year, the theme of this key observance is: “A safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and right at work."
In the following Q&A series, Health, Safety, Environment (HSE) experts at two Safran sites in the United States share their unique perspectives and insights about the importance of the HSE function within their organizations.
Faye Guler
Senior HSE Manager
Safran Aerosystems Evacuation
Faye has been working at Safran for 11 years, and has a total of 25 years of experience in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) sector. She currently is the Senior HSE Manager for Safran Aerosystems Evacuation and the HSE Coordinator for Safran Aerosystems’ Safety Division.
- Can you give examples of an initiative that you are proud of?
In 2014, I was assigned to execute a workstation risk analysis task for three sites. I was only two years on-site and was not very familiar with all the processes. I created 3-Tier level processes to receive feedback from all levels of employees for the identification of activities and associated risks. I felt very grateful to have received support from site management and the Industrial Engineering department. Overall, 90 people worked together as a team across three sites concurrently on these 3 Tiers. This project led to us winning the 4th Quarter Board Management Award and 2014 President’s Award.
- What is your favorite HSE moment?
Our annual Safety Day celebration is one of my favorites. We run this event at three sites concurrently on October 20. Every year, our HSE team spends great effort to get ready for this event. Seeing many participants having fun while raising awareness of safety is a great joy.
- How can employees promote a culture of safety & health in the workplace?
Employee engagement and participation are crucial pillars in boosting a positive safety culture at our sites. We encourage our employees to propose practical quick-fix ideas using systems such as Kaizen and QRQC (Quick Response Quality Control), in order to increase safety. Rewarding their participation and implementation of these ideas contributes to improving the safety culture at our sites.
Jose Luis Espinoza
SE Manager
Safran Cabin
Jose Luiz started his career with Safran at EZ Air Interior Limited, a joint venture between Embraer and Safran Cabin in Chihuahua México, where he worked for six years. He then moved to Safran Cabin in Santa Maria, where he has been the HSE Manager for the past three months.
- How did you get into the field of HSE?
When I was attending my university, I took a safety and environment course that changed my perspective on the industry. I then obtained part-time jobs in safety and environment to gain more experience in the field. Since then, I have never stopped learning new things because HSE and lean manufacturing are my passions.
- How would you summarize your role in one sentence?
As an HSE manager, I provide the strategic direction and vision for the organization and empower employees to take ownership of HSE activities.
- What is your favorite HSE moment?
I have two favorite moments. The first is when someone thanks me for our support or training, and I see the positive impact on their daily practices in the workplace. The second is when I see my co-workers participating with passion in HSE activities.
- How can employees promote a culture of safety and health in the workplace?
The most important way is leading by example, which inspires and motivates others to prioritize HSE performance. The other basic way is through communication, which must be precise and convey valuable information.
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