Vector Solutions, a leading provider of training and performance solutions, has released its groundbreaking report titled “The State of Industrial Worker Safety and Well-Being.” This comprehensive study surveyed full-time professionals across various crucial roles within industrial organizations in the United States, shedding light on significant gaps in worker education and safety precautions that demand urgent attention.
The research comes at a pivotal time for the U.S. manufacturing industry, which is projected to face a critical shortage of 3.8 million workers over the next decade. To mitigate employee turnover and foster a conducive work environment, it is imperative for employers to prioritize worker safety and instill confidence in their abilities. According to Vector Solutions’ findings, safety ranks as the second most important factor for workers to remain in a job, surpassed only by pay.
Despite the paramount importance placed on safety by workers, the study reveals alarming statistics. Nearly half (46 percent) of respondents believe their employers could do more to reduce safety incidents, while a staggering 83 percent perceive their company’s safety protocols as mere checkboxes rather than genuine commitments to employee well-being. This perception underscores the urgent need for employers to demonstrate a sincere dedication to safety and professional development, lest they risk losing talent to competitors.
Moreover, while the research highlights significant safety concerns among workers, a notable 58 percent believe that additional training would enhance workplace safety. Other key findings from the report include:
81 percent of respondents report that training increases their inclination to stay at the company.
62 percent believe that good training enhances job satisfaction.
57 percent attribute safety issues to driving seasoned workers away, exacerbating the skills gap.
44 percent identify safety issues as hindrances to hiring, exacerbating the labor shortage and skills gap.
Half of non-native English speakers indicate that their company does not offer training in their native language.
Non-native English speakers are 27 percent more likely than their native counterparts to feel pressured to prioritize productivity over safety.
Non-native English speakers are 127 percent more likely to report discomfort in reporting workplace hazards.
100 percent of respondents stress the importance of safety training in fostering a safe workplace.
50 percent express dissatisfaction with their company’s training, with those in electrical maintenance being particularly critical.
Alarmingly, 29 percent of respondents considering leaving their job cite dissatisfaction with training as a significant factor. These findings underscore the imperative for industrial organizations to prioritize comprehensive safety training programs to ensure the well-being and retention of their workforce.