Text version scenario

A project development manager often takes customers to construction sites. On one such visit, he noticed that a construction worker was using an electric power tool in an unsafe way. His first impulse was to say something; but as he was about to speak, he wondered what the customer’s reaction would be. How would this affect the costumer´s view on our safety work?  He decided to wait and bring it up later with the supervisor but was really not sure if this was the right decision.

Discussion question

• Have you had a situation when you have had to handle a safety dilemma when a customer was present?
• How did you approach it?
• What did you learn from it?

Things to consider

We can learn from these situations to help us truly live our values. While there are no clear-cut solutions, we can consider the following actions:

• Discuss and create relationships of mutual respect with all customers so that you feel empowered to speak to them, even in difficult situations.
• Display courage in speaking up about difficult issues.
• Discuss different ways in which you can communicate constructively with employees and customers on safety standards.
• Discuss ways in which you can use a difficult situation to enhance relationships with customers and employees

For guidelines on this topic read our Code of Conduct chapter on Health, Safety and well-being.