Safety Program & Development Experts

SMG offers solutions tailored to your company’s needs, including safety program management and development experts.

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INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC EXPERTISE

Expert-led safety programs serving construction, manufacturing, utilities, health & pharma industries, and more.

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Safety Course Completions

A well-structured safety program is essential for maintaining a safe, compliant, and productive work environment. SMG’s team of safety program consultants excels in developing and implementing customized safety programs that meet regulatory standards, reduce risk, and foster a proactive safety culture. Whether your business needs a new program or updates to existing protocols, SMG has the expertise to provide effective solutions tailored to your industry. 

What is a Safety Program? 

A safety program is a structured approach to preventing workplace injuries, illnesses, and incidents. It includes comprehensive policies and procedures designed to identify hazards, assess risks, train employees, report incidents, and implement corrective actions. These core components create a foundation for a safer workplace and contribute to long-term operational success. 

The Benefits of a Proactive Safety Program 

Implementing a proactive safety program offers numerous benefits: 

  • Reduced Injuries and Illnesses: A thorough safety management program can significantly lower the number of workplace incidents. 
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to OSHA and industry-specific regulations, minimizing the risk of fines and legal issues. 
  • Improved Morale and Productivity: A safe environment promotes employee confidence and engagement. 
  • Lower Insurance Premiums: Reduced incidents lead to lower workers’ compensation claims, positively impacting insurance costs. 
  • Operational Continuity: Well-developed safety plans help maintain smooth operations even in the face of potential disruptions. 

Our Safety Program Development Process 

SMG’s safety program development process is tailored to each client’s unique needs. Here’s how we guide businesses through safety program creation and enhancement: 

  • Initial Consultation & Needs Assessment: We work with clients to understand their specific safety requirements and industry standards. 
  • Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment: We conduct in-depth assessments to identify potential hazards and evaluate risk levels. 
  • Program Customization: We develop comprehensive, site-specific safety plans, including emergency action strategies and specialized protocols (e.g., fall protection, and electrical safety). 
  • Implementation & Training: Our consultants assist with training employees to ensure effective application of the new or updated safety program. 
  • Regulatory Compliance Checks: We review programs to confirm they meet OSHA and other relevant standards. 
  • Ongoing Support & Program Audits: We provide continuous support and audits to ensure the program stays effective and compliant. 

Examples of Safety Programs for Different Industries 

Safety programs vary by industry due to different operational risks and regulations. Here’s how SMG tailors its approach: 

Construction Safety Program 

Construction sites are inherently high-risk environments, with potential hazards including falls from heights, equipment malfunctions, and structural collapses. SMG’s tailored safety programs for construction focus on comprehensive fall protection plans, clear safety protocols for operating heavy machinery, and stringent site safety audits. We work closely with construction teams to implement OSHA-compliant measures such as personal protective equipment (PPE) training, scaffold safety protocols, and emergency evacuation procedures. Our programs are designed to reduce incident rates and enhance overall worker safety through proactive training and risk management. 

Electrical Safety Program 

Electrical work carries significant risks, including electric shock, arc flash, and fire hazards. SMG develops specialized electrical safety programs that encompass hazard assessments, detailed lockout/tagout procedures, and the implementation of arc flash protection measures. We also provide in-depth employee training on safe work practices, PPE usage, and adherence to NFPA 70E and OSHA standards. Our programs include regular safety drills and continuous compliance checks to ensure that employees remain vigilant and well-prepared in high-risk electrical environments. 

Contractor Safety Program 

In industries that rely on contractors, maintaining safety and compliance across diverse teams can be challenging. SMG’s contractor safety programs are designed to ensure that third-party contractors meet the same rigorous safety standards as in-house employees. Our approach includes a comprehensive pre-qualification process that verifies contractor certifications, safety records, insurance requirements, OSHA logs and compliance documentation. We offer real-time safety oversight through GPS-enabled observations and automated incident reporting to monitor contractor performance on-site. By integrating oversight with proactive safety training and compliance checks, SMG’s contractor safety programs help minimize risks and promote a unified safety culture. 

Manufacturing Safety Program 

Manufacturing facilities face a range of safety challenges, including powered industrial vehicles operation, chemical handling, and potential exposure to hazardous substances. SMG’s comprehensive safety programs for manufacturing address these risks with targeted protocols that enhance worker safety and regulatory compliance. Our services include thorough equipment safety audits, lockout/tagout procedures, and detailed training programs on safe machine operation. To mitigate chemical risks, SMG implements robust hazard communication plans that comply with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and involve clear labeling, safety data sheets, and effective employee training. Additionally, our programs feature tailored emergency response plans that prepare teams for incidents such as chemical spills, fires, or mechanical failures, ensuring minimal disruption to operations and maximum safety for workers. 

Food Manufacturing Safety Program 

Food manufacturing presents unique safety challenges, including machinery risks, chemical exposure, and stringent food safety regulations. SMG’s tailored safety programs focus on comprehensive equipment safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and proper use of PPE to prevent contamination. Our programs align with OSHA, ensuring safe handling of chemicals and maintaining hygienic practices. We also implement emergency response plans for incidents like contamination or equipment failures, ensuring minimal disruption and protecting both employees and product quality. Through regular training and compliance audits, SMG helps food manufacturers maintain a safe and compliant work environment. 

Pharmaceutical Safety Program 

Pharmaceutical companies face unique safety challenges, including exposure to chemicals, biological hazards, and strict regulatory requirements. SMG’s safety programs for the pharmaceutical industry are tailored to ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, and other relevant health regulations. Our programs include risk assessments, safe handling procedures for hazardous materials, contamination prevention protocols, and training for maintaining sterile environments. By implementing these comprehensive safety measures, SMG helps pharmaceutical companies protect both employees and product integrity. 

Utilities Safety Program 

The utilities sector, including power generation, transmission, and distribution, encounters critical safety concerns such as electrical hazards, equipment failures, and environmental risks. SMG’s tailored safety programs for utilities prioritize electrical safety, emergency response planning, and routine safety audits to maintain compliance with OSHA and EPA standards. Our services include incident response training, lockout/tagout procedures, and strategic planning for natural disasters and potential operational disruptions. Partnering with SMG helps utility companies ensure the safety of their workforce and the continuous delivery of essential services. 

Process Safety Management (PSM) Program 

Industries involving complex chemical processes or hazardous materials require specialized safety measures to prevent incidents and ensure compliance. SMG’s Process Safety Management (PSM) programs are designed to meet OSHA’s PSM Standard (29 CFR 1910.119) and include thorough risk assessments, process hazard analyses (PHAs), and the development of operational procedures. Our PSM services feature key components such as conducting HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Studies) and What-If analyses to identify potential risks and recommend preventive actions. SMG also supports clients with comprehensive training for employees and management, ensuring everyone understands the processes and associated safety protocols. By integrating routine audits, incident investigation processes, and continuous improvement strategies, SMG’s PSM programs help clients maintain safe, compliant operations and mitigate the risks associated with hazardous processes. 

Renewable Energy Safety Program 

The renewable energy industry, including solar, wind, and other sustainable power sources, poses unique safety challenges that require specialized protocols. SMG’s renewable energy safety programs are designed to address the specific risks involved in installation, maintenance, and operation of renewable energy systems. Our programs include comprehensive fall protection plans for workers operating at heights on wind turbines or solar panel installations, electrical safety training to handle high-voltage equipment safely, and emergency response plans tailored to remote work sites. SMG ensures compliance with OSHA regulations and industry standards, providing thorough hazard assessments, lockout/tagout procedures, and regular safety audits. By implementing these targeted measures, we help renewable energy companies maintain a safe working environment, protect employees, and ensure seamless, compliant operations. 

Aviation Safety Program 

The aviation industry, encompassing maintenance, ground operations, and aircraft servicing, involves high-risk activities that require specialized safety protocols. SMG’s aviation safety programs are tailored to address the specific challenges of the industry, such as fall protection for ground crew and maintenance staff working at heights, proper handling and operation of specialized equipment, and adherence to stringent safety standards. Our programs include comprehensive training on hazardous materials handling, emergency response planning for incidents like fuel spills or mechanical failures, and regular audits to ensure compliance with OSHA and FAA regulations. By incorporating targeted safety measures and continuous training, SMG helps aviation companies safeguard their workforce, maintain operational efficiency, and uphold the highest safety standards. 

Agricultural Safety Program 

The agriculture industry involves unique safety risks, from operating heavy machinery to handling hazardous chemicals and working in extreme weather conditions. SMG’s agricultural safety programs are designed to address these challenges with comprehensive, customized protocols. Our programs include detailed equipment safety training, proper use of PPE, and lockout/tagout procedures for safe machinery operation. We also implement chemical safety and pesticide handling measures that comply with OSHA and EPA regulations to protect workers from exposure. Additionally, SMG emphasizes heat illness prevention strategies, emergency response planning, and safe animal handling practices. Through continuous training and regular compliance checks, SMG helps agricultural operations maintain a safe, productive work environment while meeting industry standards. 

Key Components of an Effective Safety Program 

An effective safety program developed by SMG prioritizes: 

  • Comprehensive Training: Educating employees on policies, procedures, and safe work practices. 
  • Incident Reporting & Corrective Actions: Ensuring incidents are documented, analyzed, and followed by corrective steps to prevent recurrence. 
  • Continuous Improvement: Regularly updating programs to adapt to new regulations, technologies, and operational changes. 
  • Customization & Scalability: Ensuring programs are tailored to industry needs and scalable for any business size. 

Start Developing Your Safety Program Today 

Partnering with SMG for safety program development means choosing comprehensive, strategic solutions that improve workplace safety and operational efficiency. Contact SMG today to start building a proactive safety program that meets your unique needs and regulatory requirements.

FAQs on Safety Programs

To help clarify some of the common questions, we’ve compiled a list of FAQs to explain how implementing a safety program works and why it’s essential for your business. 

How do you create a safety program?

Creating a safety program involves a comprehensive and systematic approach. At SMG, our experts begin by conducting an in-depth risk assessment to identify potential hazards specific to the client’s industry and operations. This step ensures that the program addresses real, relevant threats.
We collaborate with key stakeholders to develop tailored safety policies and procedures, including clear roles and responsibilities for employees and management. The program includes customized training materials, emergency response protocols, and an incident reporting system designed to make safety a priority. Finally, the program is reviewed against current regulatory standards to ensure full compliance and readiness for implementation.

What should a safety program include?

A robust safety program should be comprehensive, but the specific components often vary based on the industry and operational environment. At its core, a well-rounded safety program typically includes: 

  • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: Industry-specific procedures for identifying and assessing potential risks, such as chemical exposure in pharmaceuticals, electrical hazards in utilities, or fall risks in construction. 
  • Written Safety Policies and Procedures: Customized documents detailing safety protocols tailored to the particular industry and company operations, including compliance with relevant OSHA or industry-specific standards. 
  • Emergency Response Plan: Detailed, site-specific emergency plans that consider industry-specific incidents, such as chemical spills in manufacturing, arc flash incidents in electrical work, or equipment malfunctions in construction. 
  • Incident Reporting and Investigation: A structured system for documenting, investigating, and learning from incidents, tailored to the types of events common in the specific industry (e.g., machinery accidents in manufacturing or contamination issues in pharmaceuticals). 
  • Employee Training and Development: Continuous, industry-relevant training programs to ensure all employees understand and can apply safety practices. This might include specialized training for handling hazardous materials, electrical safety practices, or equipment operation protocols. 
  • Industry-Specific Protocols: Components that address unique hazards, such as respiratory protection in environments with airborne contaminants, lockout/tagout procedures for equipment-heavy industries, or biological safety measures in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. 

This industry-dependent customization ensures that the safety program not only meets regulatory requirements but also directly addresses the risks specific to the business, fostering a safer, more compliant workplace. 

How do you implement a safety program?

Implementing a safety program requires a structured, multi-phase process. First, SMG assists in rolling out the program by conducting comprehensive employee training that includes hands-on workshops, digital learning modules, and real-world safety drills. Next, we integrate safety practices into daily operations by embedding protocols into routine workflows and ensuring supervisory staff are equipped to enforce them. Regular communication and feedback channels are established to reinforce a culture of safety. Finally, SMG conducts periodic audits and reviews to monitor the program’s effectiveness, adjust for regulatory updates, and incorporate lessons learned from incidents to maintain high standards of workplace safety and compliance. 

How often should a safety program be updated?

Safety programs should be reviewed and updated at least annually or whenever there are significant changes in operations, new regulations, or after an incident. Regular updates ensure that the program remains effective, relevant, and compliant with current standards. 

Who should be involved in developing a safety program?

Developing a safety program should involve a cross-functional team that includes safety consultants, management, frontline employees, and, where applicable, external safety experts like those at SMG. Engaging various perspectives ensures a comprehensive approach that covers all aspects of workplace safety. 

What are some challenges in implementing a safety program?

Common challenges include employee resistance to new procedures, lack of management buy-in, inadequate training resources, and ensuring consistency across different sites. SMG helps clients overcome these challenges through customized training, leadership engagement, and scalable program designs. 

What are the key indicators of a successful safety program?

Indicators of success include a reduction in workplace incidents, improved employee engagement and participation in safety practices, positive audit results, and compliance with regulatory standards. Regular feedback and audits by SMG can help clients track these metrics.

Can SMG provide remote support for safety program development?

Yes, SMG offers flexible options, including remote consultations and digital resources, to help clients develop and implement safety programs efficiently, even when in-person support is not feasible.

Let Safety Management Group Help

For over 30 years, SMG has provided industry-leading general contractors, construction management firms, specialty subcontractors, and insurance firms with safety professionals to supplement their teams and manage their safety and operational programs.

Whether you need safety management, consulting, on-site safety support, safety training, safety management program development, EHS software and more, we can help. Contact us to discuss your safety needs for your next project.