About Kuganesan Kanagaraja
With a decade of experience in HSEQ management across construction, oil & gas drilling, and manufacturing, I am a dedicated professional seeking to contribute to an organisation's safety culture. I excel in implementing and maintaining HSSEQ management systems, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. My role involves effective communication with various stakeholders, including management, clients, and workers, showcasing my strong public relations skills. Additionally, I have experience as a project coordinator, demonstrating my ability to strategise, prioritise, and problem-solve under pressure. I am eager to take on new challenges and make a positive impact in any organisation.
List the Safety and Health achievements/contributions you have achieved in 2023.
In 2023, I achieved several notable Safety and Health contributions in my workplace. One significant achievement was the successful implementation of a behaviour-based safety programme, which focused on identifying unsafe behaviours and reinforcing safe practices through positive reinforcement. This programme resulted in a measurable reduction in the number of workplace accidents and incidents. Additionally, I led a comprehensive review of our safety policies and procedures, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes to ensure compliance with current regulations and industry best practices. Another key contribution was the development of a safety training curriculum tailored to our specific industry needs, ensuring that all employees received the necessary training to perform their jobs safely. Furthermore, I played a key role in promoting a safety culture within the organisation by organising safety awareness campaigns and recognising employees for their commitment to safety. Overall, these achievements have contributed to a safer and healthier work environment for all employees.
Outline the Workplace Safety and Health initiatives that have been implemented by you in your workplace in 2023.
In 2023, I spearheaded several Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) initiatives in my workplace aimed at enhancing safety practices and promoting a culture of safety. One key initiative was the implementation of a comprehensive safety training programme for all employees, tailored to address specific risks and hazards in our industry. This programme not only provided employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely but also instilled a sense of ownership and responsibility for safety among them. Additionally, I introduced regular safety audits and inspections to identify and mitigate potential risks proactively. These audits were followed by detailed reports and action plans to address any findings promptly. Furthermore, I organised regular safety meetings and toolbox talks to keep safety at the forefront of everyone's minds and encourage open communication about safety concerns. Overall, these initiatives have led to a significant improvement in our workplace safety performance, with a noticeable reduction in accidents and injuries.
Describe and support in detail on how your influencing capability has assisted in the successful implementation of these initiatives.
In my role as a Health and Safety Manager with 10 years of experience, I have successfully implemented various initiatives to improve health and safety practices in the workplace. One key initiative was the introduction of a safety training programme. To ensure its success, I employed effective influencing strategies to engage stakeholders. I identified key stakeholders and tailored my communication to address their interests. I presented compelling data on the programme's benefits, such as reduced accidents and improved compliance. Building strong relationships, I involved employees in programme design, gaining their commitment. My influencing efforts led to the programme's successful implementation, significantly reducing accidents. This showcases my ability to drive change through effective communication and collaboration.
Describe and provide support on how your initiative impacted the Safety and Health management and performance of your workplace/community/industry that was above and beyond.
My initiative significantly improved safety and health management by implementing a comprehensive safety training programme. This programme not only reduced accidents but also enhanced safety culture and compliance. By involving stakeholders at all levels, I fostered a culture of safety ownership, resulting in increased awareness and proactive hazard reporting. This proactive approach led to the identification and mitigation of potential risks before incidents occurred, contributing to a safer work environment. Furthermore, the initiative improved safety performance indicators, such as reduced lost-time injuries and improved safety audit scores. This positive impact extended beyond our workplace to the broader community and industry, as our practices became a benchmark for safety excellence. By sharing our success stories and best practices, we influenced other organisations to adopt similar safety initiatives, ultimately raising safety standards across the industry.
In your opinion, what are the attributes of a safety influencer? Do share with us on how you have demonstrated these attributes in your daily work that will earn you the recognition of a WSHAsia Safety Influencer Award Winner in your workplace/community/industry.
Attributes of a safety influencer include strong communication skills, credibility, passion for safety, and the ability to inspire others. Demonstrating these attributes in daily work can lead to recognition as a safety influencer. For example, actively engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns shows empathy and builds trust, enhancing credibility. Sharing knowledge and best practices with enthusiasm and clarity demonstrates passion for safety, inspiring others to follow suit. Additionally, consistently advocating for safety improvements and leading by example can influence behaviour and attitudes, further establishing one as a safety influencer. Such efforts can lead to tangible improvements in safety performance, earning recognition as a Safety Influencer in the workplace, community, or industry.