Program Evaluation & Improvement - Action Item 1c

Leading indicators "track how well various aspects of the program have been implemented and reflect steps taken to prevent injuries or illnesses before they occur."

To determine leading indicators, OSHA suggests that employers track the following:

• Level of worker participation in program activities
• Number of employee safety suggestions
• Number of hazards, near misses, and first aid cases reported
• Time taken to respond to reports
• Number and frequency of management walkthroughs
• Number and severity of hazards identified during inspections
• Number of workers who complete required safety and health training
• Timely completion of corrective actions after a workplace hazard is identified or an incident occurs
• Timely completion of planned preventive maintenance activities
• Worker opinions about program effectiveness (from a safety climate or safety opinion survey)

OSHA also suggests that management take the following actions for leading indicators:

• Analyze performance indicators and evaluate progress over time.
• Share results with workers and invite their input on how to further improve performance.
• Share your experience and compare your results to similar facilities within your organization or through business or trade associations.

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