Evert Bulcke has joined a podcast with leading industry experts to delve into the critical topic of safety in logistics. Joined by Serge Gregoire, CEO of Utraco the discussion explored how technological advancements, cultivating a safety-focused culture, and strategic investments are reshaping the industry. Together, they addressed the multifaceted approach needed to create safer, more efficient workplaces.
Safety is a Business Imperative
Safety isn’t just a moral obligation in logistics; it’s the foundation of a thriving operation. Ensuring the well-being of employees not only protects the workforce but also directly impacts operational efficiency and profitability. A safer warehouse is a more productive one. Accidents, incidents, and unsafe practices lead to delays, damages, increased insurance premiums, and absenteeism, creating a substantial rise in operational costs.
The Role of Technology and Building a Culture of Safety
In recent years, technology has transformed workplace safety, allowing logistics companies to proactively address potential risks. Modern safety solutions can now provide real-time alerts to employees when unsafe behavior occurs. For instance, forklift drivers can receive immediate warnings about dangerous turns, speeding, or being too close to other vehicles or workers. This type of proactive system, like Rombit’s Digital Driver Coach, focuses on supporting drivers instead of merely monitoring them. Such an approach not only boosts safety but also promotes acceptance and trust in these new technologies.
However, technology alone isn’t enough. A robust culture of safety must be ingrained at every level of the organization. “Safety is a core value,” emphasizes Serge Gregoire, CEO of Utraco. Yet, translating this value into everyday actions remains a continuous challenge. “It’s an ongoing process of making people aware of what’s going wrong and what the risks are,” he explains. This involves clear communication, regular training, and an unwavering commitment from leadership to prioritize safety.
Overcoming Complacency: The Human Factor
One of the biggest hurdles in maintaining safety is overcoming the complacency that often sets in during routine tasks. “People get used to things and then become a bit less careful,” notes Evert Bulcke, CEO of Rombit. This complacency affects everyone, from new hires to experienced employees, creating blind spots to potential dangers. Continuous training and reminders, combined with technological reinforcements, are crucial to keeping safety at the forefront of people's minds.
The Benefits of Investing in Safety: Real Business Cases
Some operational managers still view safety investments as a cost burden, believing that safety measures might slow operations down. The truth, however, is that “safe companies are also quality-driven and productive companies.” Investing in safety is a long-term strategy that leads to lower operational costs, fewer incidents, and higher productivity.
Take the example of Rombit’s Digital Driver Coach. The application costs roughly €2 per forklift per day, but some customers have reported savings of up to €10 per forklift daily due to reduced damages and incidents alone. This isn’t just about preventing accidents, it’s about enabling efficiency through proactive measures.
Examples of Companies That Invested in Safety
1. DHL Supply Chain: DHL invested heavily in safety training and digital solutions, including using wearable technology to track worker movements and assess risks. The company also deployed predictive analytics to identify potentially hazardous conditions. As a result, DHL saw a significant reduction in injury rates, enhancing both employee well-being and operational efficiency.
2. Walmart: Walmart’s distribution centers implemented autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to handle repetitive and hazardous tasks, reducing the risk of injuries. By automating such processes and focusing on employee safety training, Walmart achieved a notable decrease in workplace incidents, creating a safer work environment while boosting productivity.
3. Kuehne + Nagel: Kuehne + Nagel introduced a comprehensive safety program across its global facilities, including digital monitoring systems for forklifts, regular safety audits, and extensive employee safety awareness campaigns. Their efforts led to a sharp drop in reported incidents, resulting in cost savings and increased operational reliability.
Government and Business Collaboration: A Joint Effort for Safety
Governments have a pivotal role to play in fostering a safer logistics industry. By implementing stricter regulations and offering financial incentives for companies that invest in safety, governments can drive widespread change. Serge Gregoire advocates for mandatory safety features on trucks, such as lane assistance and blind-spot detection, which would elevate safety standards across the industry and create a level playing field.
A Vision for the Future: Embrace Safety for Long-term Success
Safety in logistics isn’t just a necessity, it’s an opportunity. By integrating safety into every aspect of operations, managers can create a workplace that thrives on both efficiency and well-being. The impact is clear: fewer accidents, higher employee satisfaction, reduced costs, and a more productive workforce.
When companies embrace safety not as a cost but as an investment in their future, they set the stage for growth and resilience. Through a combination of cutting-edge technology, a strong safety culture, and collaboration with regulatory bodies, logistics companies can pave the way for a safer, more successful industry.