Ending Your Lab Safety Year on a High Note

As the year winds down, laboratory leaders often find themselves balancing the usual workload with holiday schedules, supply ordering, and end-of-year tasks. But amidst the whirlwind of activity, one key area should remain front and center: laboratory safety. Wrapping up the year with a focus on safety isn’t just about meeting compliance standards—it’s an opportunity to reinforce your culture of safety, recognize team achievements, and set a strong foundation for the year ahead.

But how can you end your lab safety year on a high note, ensuring that your lab team feels valued, prepared, and motivated for the challenges to come? There are some methods you can use.

First, before diving into new year initiatives, take a moment to assess the past year. What worked well, and what could be improved? When looking at accident and incident reports, were there any recurring issues? If so, identify root causes and develop targeted interventions. Review inspection findings from internal audits, accreditation agencies, or regulatory bodies. Address any outstanding corrective actions. Verify that all team members have completed their required training, and close any gaps you find. This reflection phase provides valuable insights and ensures you’re closing out the year without leaving loose ends.

Next, take a look at your lab safety policies and procedures for updates. Laboratory safety policies should evolve alongside changes in equipment, workflows, and regulations. Use this time to ensure that Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are current and reflect actual practices. Engage your lab team in identifying outdated or unclear safety policies. Check to see if new materials, processes, or technologies introduced new potential risks. If so, update your risk assessments accordingly. By aligning policies with the current state of your laboratory, you demonstrate a commitment to proactive safety management.

Celebrating safety successes at the end of the year is important, too. Recognition is a powerful motivator. Highlighting your team’s achievements in safety reinforces the importance of their efforts. Be sure to recognize individuals or teams for exemplary safety practices, such as reporting near-misses or suggesting improvements. If your lab reduced incidents or improved compliance, share those results during team meetings or in a newsletter. Did someone design a clever safety poster or come up with an innovative solution to a hazard? Acknowledge their contributions as well. Celebrating successes boosts morale, raises safety awareness, and encourages ongoing engagement in safety programs.

The end of the year is also a perfect time to address outstanding safety tasks that may have been sidelined. Conduct a thorough chemical inventory, disposing of expired or unnecessary chemicals according to your facility’s guidelines. Verify that eyewash stations, safety showers, fire extinguishers, and spill kits are in working order and properly stocked. Replace faded or damaged labels and signs to ensure they’re clear and compliant. Clearing these tasks from your list not only improves safety but also sets a standard of organization for the upcoming year.

Remember, lab safety is a shared responsibility, and the end of the year is an excellent time to foster a sense of ownership among your team. Hold a safety roundtable by inviting team members to discuss safety concerns and suggest improvements. Gather anonymous feedback on your lab’s safety culture, policies, and practices. Involve your team in setting safety goals for the upcoming year. This could include launching new initiatives, revising training programs, or addressing specific hazards. Engagement fosters collaboration and ensures that everyone has a voice in creating a safe work environment.

A successful safety program doesn’t stop at the calendar year. Use this time to lay the groundwork for a strong start in the new year. Schedule annual training by planning sessions to refresh key safety concepts, such as bloodborne pathogens, chemical hygiene, or emergency procedures. Setmeasurable goals like reducing near-misses by 10% or achieving 100% compliance with safety training. Update all emergency contacts to ensure they are current and accessible to your team. A little preparation now can save time and prevent confusion down the road.

Finally, make it a habit to end the year with gratitude. Laboratory work is demanding, and your team’s commitment to safety deserves acknowledgment. Start with written thank-you notes. A personal message to each team member can go a long way in showing your appreciation. Celebrate the year’s achievements in a relaxed setting, and remind your team how their efforts contribute to the lab’s success and safety culture. When people feel valued, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to safety.

Ending the lab safety year on a high note requires focus, organization, and a genuine commitment to your team’s well-being. By reflecting on the past, addressing current needs, and preparing for the future, you can create an environment where safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s a shared value. Take the time to celebrate successes, involve your team in decision-making, and express gratitude for their efforts. These steps not only close out the year on a positive note but also build momentum for continued safety excellence. Here’s to a safe and successful new year in the laboratory!

–Dan Scungio, MT(ASCP), SLS, CQA (ASQ) has over 25 years experience as a certified medical technologist. Today he is the Laboratory Safety Officer for Sentara Healthcare, a system of seven hospitals and over 20 laboratories and draw sites in the Tidewater area of Virginia. He is also known as Dan the Lab Safety Man, a lab safety consultant, educator, and trainer.