Best-in-Class Workplace Safety: A 2025 Report
Introduction
In today's rapidly evolving work environment, ensuring the safety and well-being of employees is paramount to any organization's success. A robust safety program not only safeguards employees from potential hazards but also fosters a positive work environment, boosts productivity, and enhances a company's reputation. This report delves into the realm of best-in-class workplace safety in 2025, examining companies worldwide that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to protecting their workforce. Through an analysis of awards and certifications, safety rankings, case studies, and best practices, this report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the key factors that contribute to achieving and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
Safety Culture: The Foundation of a Safe Workplace
Before delving into specific companies and their safety initiatives, it's crucial to understand the concept of "safety culture." A strong safety culture is the foundation upon which all successful safety programs are built. It's more than just adhering to rules and regulations; it's about creating an environment where safety is ingrained in every aspect of the organization, from the leadership level to frontline employees1.
Key elements of a strong safety culture include:
Leadership commitment: Leaders who prioritize safety and actively participate in safety programs set the tone for the entire organization2.
Employee involvement: When employees are involved in shaping the safety culture, they become more engaged and proactive in identifying and mitigating hazards3.
Open communication: A culture of open communication encourages employees to report safety concerns without fear of reprisal, fostering transparency and trust1.
Continuous improvement: A commitment to continuous improvement ensures that safety programs are regularly evaluated and adapted to address emerging challenges and best practices3.
Organizations that Give Awards or Certifications for Workplace Safety
Several organizations worldwide recognize and certify companies for their outstanding workplace safety performance. These awards and certifications not only serve as a testament to a company's dedication to safety but also provide valuable benchmarks for other organizations striving for excellence.
Rankings of Companies by Workplace Safety
While comprehensive global rankings for workplace safety are limited, some organizations and publications provide valuable insights into companies with strong safety records. These rankings often consider factors such as injury rates, safety programs, and employee feedback13.
Verified Market Research: This organization highlights seven leading industrial safety companies: ABB, Emerson Electric, Honeywell International, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, Siemens, and 3M. These companies are recognized for their innovative technologies and solutions that promote workplace safety13.
MarketsandMarkets: This market research firm identifies top workplace safety companies, including IBM, Honeywell, 3M, Hexagon AB, Appian, Microsoft, Bosch, and Cority. These companies offer various safety solutions, from AI-powered platforms to personal protective equipment14.
Haws Corporation: Haws Corporation highlights five of the safest companies in the United States: The AES Corporation, Alan Shintani Inc., Aqueos Corp., BL Harbert International, and The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory Inc. These companies prioritize safety through communication, policies, and continuous improvement15.
Companies that Have Won Awards for Workplace Safety in 2024 and 2025
Examining recent award winners offers a glimpse into the companies that have demonstrated exceptional workplace safety performance.
2024 Award Winners
Berry Global, Bigge Group, and Lam Research: These companies received Safety First Grants from Safety National for their innovative safety initiatives. Berry Global implemented radar sensors to enhance safety in industrial robot cells, Bigge Group installed an environmental monitoring system to address heat-related risks, and Lam Research improved warehouse ergonomics through new equipment16.
ESFM: Won the Best Overall Safety Program and Culture award from EHS Daily Advisor for its commitment to safety and innovative solutions17.
Saia LTL Freight: Received the Innovations in Safety Training Award from EHS Daily Advisor for its custom-tailored training content17.
Amazon: Won the Safety Technology and Innovation Award from EHS Daily Advisor for its Amazon Robotics program and the SI-GZ project to reduce musculoskeletal disorder risks17.
Bernards: Received the Moving Beyond Compliance Award from EHS Daily Advisor for its commitment to safety culture and BCSP certification17.
Orbia: Won the ESG Champion Award from EHS Daily Advisor for its efforts to eliminate injuries and reduce environmental impact17.
Atlas Energy Solutions, Ensign Well Services, Evolution Well Services, ProFrac Services, Liberty Energy, and Mattr: These companies were recognized by the Energy Workforce & Technology Council (EWTC) for their safety performance in the oil and gas industry18.
Numerous companies were recognized by Safe Employers for their outstanding safety records in Canada19.
Numerous companies were recognized by Gallup for their exceptional workplace environments, including safety20.
Numerous companies were recognized by the National Safety Council for their industry-leading safety records21.
2025 Award Winners
Incora: Shortlisted for the Best Health & Safety Project Award at the SHE Awards for enhancing compliance, streamlining safety procedures, and empowering employee engagement in workplace safety22.
Triversity Construction, The Great Lakes Construction Co., and O'Rourke Wrecking Company: These companies received awards from Allied Construction Industries for their innovative safety programs and outstanding safety performance23.
Chris Henderson of ESI, Inc.: Won the Achievement in Safety Leadership Award from Allied Construction Industries for demonstrating a commitment to inspiring change and revising safety programs23.
Matthew Harris: Received the Safety Professional of the Year (SPY) award from the ASSP Long Island Chapter for his contributions to environmental safety and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic24.
Case Studies: Learning from Success
Several companies have implemented successful safety initiatives that serve as valuable case studies for others. These examples demonstrate the positive impact of proactive safety measures on employee well-being, productivity, and overall business performance.
Manufacturing and Technology
Tesla: Tesla's "Safety First" culture emphasizes rigorous safety training, daily safety huddles, and a proactive approach to addressing concerns, resulting in a decrease in workplace incidents and increased employee engagement25.
Alcoa: Alcoa's transformation under Paul O'Neill prioritized safety, leading to a significant reduction in workplace injuries and a boost in productivity and profitability25.
DuPont: DuPont's STOP (Safety Training Observation Program) empowers employees to identify and report safety hazards, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability25.
Healthcare and Aviation
Massachusetts General Hospital: The hospital's "Safety Matters" campaign reduced medical errors and improved the safety of patients and healthcare workers25.
Singapore Airlines: Singapore Airlines' commitment to safety training and a robust reporting system has resulted in an impeccable safety record25.
Energy and Construction
Dalkia Energy Solutions: Dalkia emphasizes a "zero harm" approach to safety, focusing on employee well-being and environmental protection26.
Moss Construction: Moss Construction involves employees in shaping the organization's safety culture, leading to increased engagement and a safer work environment26.
Food Service
Texas Roadhouse: This restaurant chain prioritizes safety through continuous improvement, good communication, and innovative ideas26.
Best Practices in Workplace Safety
To achieve best-in-class workplace safety, companies should implement comprehensive safety programs and adopt best practices that go beyond mere compliance with regulations. These practices include:
Strong Leadership Commitment
Leaders must prioritize safety, actively participate in safety programs, and promote a safety-first culture. This includes setting clear safety goals, providing resources for safety initiatives, and holding employees accountable for safe practices2.
Employee Involvement
Encourage employee participation in safety committees, hazard identification, and safety improvement initiatives. This can be achieved through regular safety meetings, suggestion boxes, and employee-led safety audits27.
Hazard Identification and Assessment
Regularly assess workplace hazards, conduct safety audits, and investigate incidents to identify and mitigate risks. This includes identifying potential hazards, evaluating the likelihood and severity of those hazards, and implementing controls to eliminate or minimize them27.
Hazard Prevention and Control
Implement effective controls to eliminate or minimize hazards, such as engineering controls (e.g., machine guarding), administrative controls (e.g., work procedures), and personal protective equipment (PPE)27.
Safety Training and Education
Provide comprehensive safety training to all employees, ensuring they understand hazards and safety procedures. This includes initial training for new employees, refresher training for existing employees, and specialized training for specific tasks or hazards27.
Effective Communication
Communicate safety policies and procedures clearly, provide regular updates, and encourage open communication about safety concerns. This can be achieved through safety manuals, newsletters, toolbox talks, and online platforms1.
Continuous Improvement
Regularly evaluate safety programs, monitor performance, and seek ways to improve safety practices. This includes tracking incident rates, conducting safety surveys, and benchmarking against industry best practices27.
Proper Safety Equipment
Ensure employees have access to appropriate and well-maintained personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes providing the right PPE for the job, training employees on how to use it correctly, and ensuring it is regularly inspected and replaced as needed1.
Workplace Violence Prevention
Implement a zero-tolerance policy for workplace violence and provide training on recognizing and preventing violent behavior. This includes establishing clear procedures for reporting and addressing workplace violence incidents1.
Common Workplace Hazards
Understanding the different types of workplace hazards is crucial for developing effective safety programs. Common workplace hazards include:
Slips, trips, and falls: These are among the most common workplace accidents and can occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or clutter1.
Exposure to hazardous substances: Workers in various industries may be exposed to hazardous substances such as chemicals, dust, or fumes3.
Ergonomic risks: These risks arise from poor workstation design, repetitive motions, or heavy lifting, and can lead to musculoskeletal disorders3.
Machinery and equipment hazards: These hazards can include moving parts, sharp edges, or electrical hazards.
Fire hazards: Fires can occur due to faulty electrical wiring, flammable materials, or improper storage of hazardous substances.
Emerging Trends in Workplace Safety
The field of workplace safety is constantly evolving, with new technologies and approaches emerging to address existing and emerging challenges. Some of the key trends include:
Artificial intelligence (AI): AI-powered risk assessment tools can analyze data to identify potential hazards and predict accidents before they occur28.
Wearable sensors: These sensors can monitor workers' movements and environmental conditions to identify potential risks and provide real-time feedback29.
Safety management software: This software can help companies manage safety data, track incidents, and improve safety training.
Mental health: There is a growing focus on mental health in the workplace, with companies implementing programs to address stress, burnout, and other mental health concerns.
Workplace Safety Standards in Different Countries
Workplace safety standards vary across countries, with different regulations, enforcement mechanisms, and cultural approaches to safety. Some key considerations include:
European Union: The EU has a comprehensive framework for occupational health and safety, with directives covering various aspects of workplace safety. For example, the Framework Directive 89/391/EEC sets minimum health and safety requirements for employers in the EU, while other directives address specific hazards such as noise, vibration, and manual handling30.
United States: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the primary agency responsible for setting and enforcing workplace safety standards in the United States. OSHA regulations cover a wide range of hazards, from fall protection to hazard communication30.
International Labour Organization (ILO): The ILO provides guidance on international health and safety laws for specific countries, offering recommendations and standards to promote safe work practices worldwide30.
ISO 45001: This international standard for occupational health and safety management systems provides a framework for enhancing employee safety and minimizing workplace risks. It emphasizes a proactive approach to safety, with a focus on hazard identification, risk assessment, and continuous improvement31.
Germany: The Occupational Health and Safety Act (Arbeitsschutzgesetz) in Germany requires employers to assess and mitigate workplace hazards, provide safety training, and inform employees about safety measures32.
France: The Labor Code (Code du travail) in France sets standards for workplace safety, including requirements for risk assessment, training, and prevention of accidents32.
India: The Factories Act in India covers various aspects of workplace safety, including hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety management systems32.
China: The Law on Production Safety (LPS) in China sets standards for workplace safety, requiring employers to identify and evaluate hazards and take steps to eliminate or reduce them32.
The Role of Government Agencies
Government agencies play a crucial role in enforcing workplace safety standards and promoting safe work practices. In the United States, OSHA conducts inspections, investigates accidents, and issues citations to employers who violate safety regulations33. Similar agencies exist in other countries, such as the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) in the European Union and Safe Work Australia in Australia. These agencies work to ensure that employers comply with safety laws and provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees.
Safety Records of Select Companies
This section provides further details about the safety records of some of the companies mentioned earlier in the report.
Atlas Energy Solutions
Atlas Energy Solutions has demonstrated a commitment to safety, as evidenced by their winning 1st place in Group III (2,500,000 to 8,000,000 Exposure Hours) at the 2024 Energy Workforce & Technology Council Safety Awards18. The company has also publicly emphasized its commitment to safety following incidents at its facilities, stating that no injuries or environmental impacts occurred34.
Ensign Well Services
Ensign Well Services has a strong safety record, having won several safety awards. In 2024, they were the 1st place winner in Group II (150,001-2,500,000 Exposure Hours) at the Energy Workforce & Technology Council Safety Awards18. They also received a President's Award from the same organization18. However, it's worth noting that there have been reports of fatalities on drilling rigs contracted by Ensign36.
Evolution Well Services
Evolution Well Services has also been recognized for its safety performance, winning several awards from the Energy Workforce & Technology Council18. The company emphasizes safety as a core value and promotes a "pleased, but never satisfied" culture that continually seeks to improve safety practices37.
ProFrac Services
ProFrac Services has a strong safety record, as indicated by their winning 1st place in Group IV (8,000,001-15,000,000 Exposure Hours) at the 2024 Energy Workforce & Technology Council Safety Awards18. The company uses the TenStreet electronic system for DOT Employment Verifications, which helps ensure efficiency and compliance39.
Liberty Energy
Liberty Energy has achieved a low Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) of 0.49 in 2023, which is significantly lower than the industry average40. The company emphasizes a "collective responsibility" approach to safety, where all team members are involved in maintaining a safe work environment40.
Mattr
Mattr prioritizes security and safety in its operations, with a dedicated 24/7 incident response team and a focus on privacy by design41. The company adheres to the MATTR Security Framework (MSF), which is aligned with industry standards such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and SOC 2 requirements41.
Synthesis and Conclusion
This report has identified several companies that demonstrate best-in-class workplace safety in 2025. These companies have implemented comprehensive safety programs, adopted best practices, and achieved recognition for their outstanding safety performance. Key takeaways include:
Proactive Approach: Leading companies prioritize safety by going beyond mere compliance with regulations and actively seeking ways to improve safety performance. For example, Berry Global implemented radar sensors to prevent accidents in robot cells, while Bigge Group installed an environmental monitoring system to mitigate heat-related risks16.
Employee Engagement: Engaging employees in safety initiatives is crucial for creating a strong safety culture and identifying and mitigating hazards effectively. Companies like Moss Construction and Texas Roadhouse involve employees in shaping their safety culture and encourage open communication about safety concerns26.
Continuous Improvement: Best-in-class companies continually evaluate and improve their safety programs to ensure they remain effective and adapt to changing workplace conditions. For example, ESFM fosters a culture of continuous improvement through regular forums and feedback mechanisms42.
Technology and Innovation: Companies are increasingly leveraging technology and innovation to enhance workplace safety, from AI-powered risk assessment tools to ergonomic equipment. Amazon's robotics program and SI-GZ project are examples of how technology can be used to improve safety and reduce risks17.
By learning from these examples and implementing best practices, organizations worldwide can improve workplace safety, protect their employees, and enhance their overall business performance. This includes fostering a strong safety culture, actively identifying and mitigating hazards, providing comprehensive safety training, and embracing new technologies and approaches to safety management.
References
1. Best Practices to Ensure Workplace Safety: The Ultimate Guide - Pulpstream, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://pulpstream.com/resources/blog/workplace-safety
2. How Workplace Safety Improves Performance - MIT Sloan Management Review, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/how-workplace-safety-improves-performance/
3. A Comprehensive Guide to Workplace Safety Best Practices - Safe T Professionals, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://safetpros.com/comprehensive-guide-to-workplace-safety-best-practices/
4. www.abc.org, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.abc.org/Safety/National-Health-and-Safety-Excellence-Awards#:~:text=The%20ABC%20National%20Health%20and,National%20Health%20and%20Safety%20Committee.
5. Safety Recognition Awards - OCWR - Office of Congressional Workplace Rights, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.ocwr.gov/employee-rights-legislative-branch/occupational-safety-and-health/safety-awards/
6. NSC Safety Awards and Recognition, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.nsc.org/workplace/get-involved/awards-recognition
7. Safety Awards - CHWCA, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.chwca.org/safety-awards/
8. Awards and Honors | Membership - ASSP, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.assp.org/membership/awards-and-honors
9. Safety & Health Fundamentals Certificate Program | OSHA.gov, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.osha.gov/training/certificate
10. National Association of Safety Professionals | Safety Training, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.naspweb.com/
11. Professional Certificates - OSHA Authorized Safety Training for the Workplace in California Nevada Arizona Hawaii and Guam, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://osha4you.com/professional-certificates/
12. Workplace Safety Training Courses - American Red Cross, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/organizations/workplace-safety
13. Top 7 Industrial Safety Companies - Verified Market Research, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/blog/top-industrial-safety-companies/
14. Top Companies List of Workplace Safety - IBM (US) & Honeywell (US) - MarketsandMarkets, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/workplace-safety-market.asp
15. 5 Safest Companies in the United States - Haws Corporation, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.hawsco.com/blog/5-safest-companies-in-the-united-states/
16. Safety National announces 2024 grant winners - Insurance Business America, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/news/breaking-news/safety-national-announces-2024-grant-winners-516739.aspx
17. Safety Standout Awards 2024: Meet Our Latest Honorees! - EHS Daily Advisor, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://ehsdailyadvisor.blr.com/2024/08/safety-standout-awards-2024-meet-our-latest-honorees/
18. EWTC Announces 2024 Safety Awards Recipients - Energy ..., accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.energyworkforce.org/ewtc-announces-2024-safety-awards-recipients/
19. 2024 Winners and Excellence Awardees - Canada's Safest Employers Awards, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://safestemployers.com/winners-and-excellence-awardees/2024-winners-and-excellence-awardees-2/?utm_campaign=CEO%20Leadership&utm_content=305685589&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&hss_channel=fbp-137372079687596
20. Announcing the 2024 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award Winners, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.gallup.com/workplace/642581/announcing-2024-gallup-exceptional-workplace-award-winners.aspx
21. NSC Honors 35 Organizations with 2024 Industry Leader Awards - National Safety Council, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.nsc.org/newsroom/nsc-honors-35-organizations-with-2024-industry-lea
22. Incora Shortlisted for Best Health & Safety Project at the SHE Awards!, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.incora.com/news/incora-shortlisted-for-best-health-safety-project-at-the-she-awards/
23. ACI Safety Awards 2025 – Allied Construction Industries, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://aci-web.com/aci-safety-awards-2025/
24. Announcing the 2024/2025 Safety Professional of the Year (SPY) Award Recipient: Matthew Harris! - ASSP Long Island Chapter, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://li.assp.org/2025/01/announcing-the-2024-2025-safety-professional-of-the-year-spy-award-recipient-matthew-harris/
25. Case Studies in Workplace Safety: Real-Life Examples of Successful Safety Initiatives, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.fitforwork.ca/case-studies-in-workplace-safety-real-life-examples-of-successful-safety-initiatives/
26. 3 Examples of Companies With Great Safety Culture - AlertMedia, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.alertmedia.com/blog/safety-culture-examples/
27. A safe workplace is sound business | OSHA.gov | Occupational Safety and Health Administration, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.osha.gov/safety-management
28. Senate report blasts Amazon workplace safety record | Wellbeing | HR Grapevine USA | News, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.hrgrapevine.com/us/content/article/2024-12-18-senate-report-blasts-amazon-workplace-safety-record
29. AI and Automation: Revolutionizing Occupational Safety and Radiation Measurement New Book by Deepinder Sethi Explores the Transformative Power of AI in Workplace Safety - FinTech Futures, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.fintechfutures.com/techwire/ai-and-automation-revolutionizing-occupational-safety-and-radiation-measurement-new-book-by-deepinder-sethi-explores-the-transformative-power-of-ai-in-workplace-safety/
30. International Health and Safety Legislation - Arinite, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.arinite.com/international-health-and-safety-legislation
31. ISO 45001 and Workplace Safety Regulations Around the World - deGRANDSON Global, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://info.degrandson.com/blog/iso-45001-and-workplace-safety-regulations-around-the-world
32. Health and Safety Laws in Different Countries, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.internationalsafetyconsultants.com/health-and-safety-laws-in-different-countries/
33. OSHA Applies Outside of the U.S. - Navigating Global Workplace Safety Regulations, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://avtech.com/articles/27233/osha-navigating-global-workplace-safety-regulations/
34. Kermit Facility Operational Update - Atlas Energy Solutions Inc., accessed on February 25, 2025, https://ir.atlas.energy/news-events/press-releases/detail/34/kermit-facility-operational-update
35. Operational Update - Atlas Energy Solutions Inc., accessed on February 25, 2025, https://ir.atlas.energy/news-events/press-releases/detail/33/operational-update
36. An Ensign guy was hit in the head by a part of the derrick during rig move. He's brain dead. Someone find me an article about it. - Reddit, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/oilandgasworkers/comments/zgmvke/an_ensign_guy_was_hit_in_the_head_by_a_part_of/
37. Evolution Well Services: Home, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://evolutionws.com/
38. About us - Evolution Well Services, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://evolutionws.com/about-us/
39. Contact - ProFrac, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://profrac.com/contact/
40. Annual Report - Liberty Energy, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://libertyenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Liberty-Energy-Annual-Report-2023-web.pdf
41. MATTR Security | Digital Security Framework with Privacy by Design, accessed on February 25, 2025, https://mattr.global/security
42. ESFM Crowned for Best Overall Safety Program & Culture - ESFM ..., accessed on February 25, 2025, https://www.esfm-usa.com/esfm-crowned-for-best-overall-safety-program-culture/