Occupational safety in the office – a topic that often seems less important than safety requirements in workshops. Nevertheless, it is of central importance, because knowing the correct escape routes, working ergonomically and removing tripping hazards are all part of safety in the office and thus part of VTG’s corporate culture.
“It’s about how we interact with each other in our day-to-day work,” explains Reiner Boll. ‘We want our colleagues to internalize the importance of safety measures and integrate them into their daily lives,’ adds Bernd Nawitzky. This means anticipating situations in order to avoid them if possible.
This starts with using a cell phone in the stairwell. “The reflex to check a message on the stairs is ubiquitous, but potentially dangerous,” says Reiner. Making employees aware of the risks is done with tact: through personal conversations rather than authoritarian instructions. “It’s not about disciplining others,” says Reiner.
Prevention through personal responsibility
An important part of VTG’s security strategy is promoting personal responsibility. “We want all employees to act consciously,” says Bernd. This also includes self-reflection: How do I move around the office? What risks could arise? Open discussion and sharing experiences are important tools for strengthening this personal responsibility.
Safety begins with small, tangible measures – whether it’s the correct use of personal protective equipment for business trips to workshops or to customers, or the creation of safety stations in the building at Nagelsweg in Hamburg, where fire extinguishers, first-aid kits and evacuation vests are bundled in a clearly marked location. “This provides orientation and increases the speed of response in an emergency,” explains Bernd.
Tips for a safe workplace in the office
✔️ No smoking and no open flames in the building
✔️ Keep escape and access routes clear
✔️ Do not move any furniture or lay any cables yourself.
✔️ No use of mobile devices on the stairs, and do not carry any heavy loads.
Ergonomics and digital working
Mobile and home working also present challenges. “An ergonomically correct workplace is essential for good health,” emphasizes Reiner. The main difference between working from home and mobile working is the responsibility for the working environment. While home offices require fixed, standard furnishings, mobile workers are more responsible for ensuring that they are well equipped. However, if necessary, employees can also turn to Bernd and Reiner at any time, despite their personal responsibility.
In addition, digitalization now plays a crucial role in occupational safety in the office: “Especially with mobile working, it is important that everyone knows how to react in an emergency,” explains Reiner. With the help of the DIVERA 24/7 app, first responders can be reached via a QR code and operations can be quickly coordinated. “This shows that digital tools and safety can go hand in hand.”
Respectful interaction and error culture
A vibrant safety culture is based not only on preventive measures, but also on respectful interaction with one another. “Nobody hurts themselves on purpose. Our aim is to talk openly about mistakes and learn from each other,” emphasizes Bernd. Psychological safety plays a crucial role here: “We can only sustainably improve if employees feel safe to express criticism or comments.”
“Occupational safety is more than just a regulation – it is an attitude that characterizes the way we work together.”
Bernd Nawitzky
To achieve this, Bernd and Reiner rely on dialog. “A friendly word or some appreciative feedback often achieves more than a written warning,” Reiner explains. The way they interact with each other is characterized by a willingness to pay attention to each other and to address grievances. “It’s not about wagging a finger, but about finding solutions together.”
Safety ambassadors in everyday life
The VTG vision is clear: all employees should be safety ambassadors and take responsibility for themselves and others. “Our measures are only successful if they become part of everyday life,” says Reiner. From ergonomic training to safety training – it is the many small steps that make the difference. Regular safety inspections also help to strengthen safety awareness.
The integration of safety into everyday work is supported by practical examples. “If we learn to recognize risks together and raise each other’s awareness, we will create a safe and healthy working environment,” adds Bernd. Occupational safety is more than just a regulation – it is an attitude that shapes the way we work together.
“Everyone should take responsibility for themselves and for others.”
Reiner Boll
DIVERA 24/7 App
Are you a first aider at VTG and want to show when you are in the building and therefore available? Then simply download the free app, DIVERA 24/7. 📱
You can find all the information on VIBES.
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