In this short but powerful episode, Dr. Ayers explains why safety leaders should lean into the employee’s own safety plan rather than imposing their own. When an employee tells you how they intend to perform a task safely, they’ve already bought into that plan — and that buy‑in is far more valuable than anything you could dictate.
According to the episode description, the leader’s role is to review, clarify, and support the employee’s plan, not override it.
Workers usually know how they intend to do the job. Starting with their plan builds ownership and trust.
Ask questions, look for gaps, and ensure the plan is safe — but don’t replace it with your own unless necessary.
People follow the plans they create. Using their plan increases engagement and reduces resistance.
Safety leadership is about influence, not control. Supporting the employee’s plan strengthens the relationship and improves outcomes.
Start with the employee’s safety plan. They already believe in it — your job is to refine it, not replace it.
