When Gio Jona entered the safety and health profession at just 18 years old, he never could have imagined the incredible journey that lay ahead. Now at 30, he may look young, but his experiences and studies have profoundly shaped understanding of the critical importance of safety and health in their organisation and community. Graduating with a Bachelor of Technology Major in Civil Engineering Technology from the Technological University of the Philippines Manila, Gio Jona worked part time as Safety Officer in construction at night, which ignited his passion for this field. He then pursued a Master of Technology at the same university to deepen his knowledge and commitment to the industry.

In 2024, Gio Jona has made meaningful strides in advancing safety and health within their organisation: - They embraced the Digital Age, empowering everyone to report, comment, and suggest improvements through QR codes, enabling them to proactively assess and resolve safety and health issues - Their safety officers now utilise QR codes for streamlined reporting, enhancing their safety protocols - Monthly safety and health meetings have been initiated with all engineers, foremen, and safety officers to identify hazards, prevent accidents, and share best practices that promote a culture of safety - They established monthly discussions for all safety officers, fostering collaboration and connection within their safety committee - A mental health break is now part of their culture, highlighted by an annual sports fest that encourages wellness and team spirit - They also have strictly enforced safety and health regulations, reinforcing their commitment to a safe working environment

We are in a remarkable digital age, and as a passionate young safety and health professional, Gio Jona urge his safety supervisor and committee to embrace these initiatives: - By utilising QR codes and links, they can seamlessly request safety training and report near misses, unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, and positive observations - Conducting regular safety and health inspections and audits will empower them to identify potential hazards and risks while ensuring their organisation adheres to the highest international standards. - Monthly gatherings of safety officers, engineers, and foremen will foster trust among them, creating a collaborative environment where they can learn and grow together in their commitment to safety and health

Addressing safety and health in their organisation can be challenging for him, but together, they can prioritise these vital values. By communicating the significance of safety and health step by step, Gio Jona believes they empower each team member to fully embrace the importance of safety and health in their organisation. This approach not only boosts their productivity but also fosters a safety culture where accidents are a thing of the past, enriching their collective knowledge about safety and health within their organisation.

His actions transformed their organisation’s approach to safety and health. Embracing the digital age to reduce workplace accidents, they prioritised safety training and routine inspections, cultivating a culture that empowered workers to proactively identify and address hazards. As a result, employee morale soared, and a strong sense of responsibility for their safety emerged. The establishment of safety and health meetings further enhanced collaboration and communication, ensuring that safety issues were addressed promptly and effectively. This commitment led to a significant reduction in accidents and injuries, creating a safer environment for everyone.

Gio Jona believes embracing all opinions and recommendations, harnessing digital technology to champion safety and health, leading by example in these vital areas, and above all, sharing a profound passion for safety and health are the defining traits of a true safety influencer.