Your coworker is not following safety protocols. How can you address the conflict without causing tension?

1 Assess the situation

Before you confront your coworker, take a moment to assess the situation. Is the safety violation serious or minor? Is it intentional or accidental? Is it a one-time occurrence or a repeated pattern? How does it affect you, your team, and your project? Depending on the answers, you may need to adjust your approach and tone. For example, if the violation is minor and accidental, you may want to be more gentle and supportive, while if it is serious and intentional, you may want to be more firm and assertive.

2 Choose the right time and place

Timing and location are important factors when you want to address a conflict with your coworker. Avoid confronting them in front of others, as this may embarrass them or make them defensive. Instead, find a private and quiet place where you can talk without interruptions or distractions. Also, avoid bringing up the issue when they are busy, stressed, or angry, as this may escalate the conflict or reduce their receptiveness. Instead, wait for a calm and neutral moment when they are more likely to listen and cooperate.

3 Use the right words and tone

The way you communicate with your coworker can make a big difference in how they respond to your feedback. Use the right words and tone to express your concern and expectations without blaming or attacking them. For example, you can use "I" statements to describe how their behavior affects you, such as "I feel unsafe when you don't wear your gloves" or "I get frustrated when you don't follow the SOPs". You can also use positive and constructive language to suggest solutions or alternatives, such as "Can you please wear your gloves next time?" or "Can we review the SOPs together?" Avoid using accusatory or negative language, such as "You are careless" or "You are breaking the rules".

4 Listen and empathize

Addressing the conflict with your coworker is not a one-way conversation. You also need to listen and empathize with their perspective and feelings. Maybe they have a valid reason or explanation for their behavior, such as lack of training, resources, or support. Maybe they are unaware of the consequences or implications of their actions. Maybe they have personal or professional challenges that affect their performance or attitude. By listening and empathizing, you can show them that you care and respect them, and that you are not trying to judge or criticize them. This can help you build rapport and trust, and make them more willing to cooperate and change.

5 Follow up and reinforce

After you address the conflict with your coworker, don't just assume that the issue is resolved. Follow up and reinforce your feedback and expectations. For example, you can check in with them regularly to see how they are doing, and offer your help or guidance if needed. You can also acknowledge and praise their progress or improvement, and thank them for their efforts or cooperation. By following up and reinforcing, you can show them that you are serious and consistent about safety, and that you appreciate and value their contribution and collaboration.