German automotive manufacturer transforms safety program
At Ideagen, we are proud to share the compelling story of a German luxury automotive manufacturer that embarked on a remarkable journey of digital transformation in their employee health and safety (EHS) program. When facing the daunting challenge of outdated tools, including a cumbersome 26-year-old system
devoid of real-time updates, the company knew it needed a significant overhaul. This realization led them to partner with Ideagen, seeking a modern solution that aligned seamlessly with their strategic objectives. Thus began an impressive journey of transformation and success.
The challenges
The company's primary objectives were clear. First and foremost, they aimed to enhance engagement by leveraging intuitive mobile solutions. The clunky and outdated practices of paper checklists and manual entries needed to be replaced with user-friendly mobile platforms to drive stakeholder and employee participation more effectively.
Another crucial objective was to gain real-time data intelligence. With Ideagen EHS, the company achieved access to real-time data on both leading and lagging indicators of EHS performance across various organizational levels. This capability allowed for proactive decision-making, fundamentally shifting their approach to safety management.
Occupational health management also required streamlining. By integrating medical appointments and follow-up actions into their existing HRIMS or TPA systems, the company ensured seamless and coordinated health management operations.
Industrial hygiene monitoring could no longer be ignored. The Ideagen EHS enabled the company to proactively monitor crucial factors such as air quality, dust levels and noise, effectively mitigating workplace hazards.
The solutions
To meet these ambitious objectives, a comprehensive suite of solutions was implemented. Integrated incident and claims management processes were introduced, which significantly streamlined the reporting and follow-up activities, ensuring that every incident was documented and addressed promptly. Audits and inspections became more efficient, facilitated by a robust action and activity management system that allowed for better tracking and accountability.
Moreover, a keen focus on Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) management was prioritized to embed a culture of preventive safety throughout the organization, encouraging employees to adopt safer practices and reducing the likelihood of accidents. This multifaceted approach not only enhanced operational efficiency but also fostered a safer and more responsive working environment.
The achievements
With these initiatives in place, the automotive manufacturer reaped substantial rewards, demonstrating the effectiveness of their comprehensive approach to safety and performance improvement. The company witnessed a remarkable 35% reduction in Lost-Time case rates, which significantly enhanced workforce productivity and morale. Additionally, there was an impressive 81% reduction in Restricted-Duty incident rates, enabling more employees to perform their full range of duties with fewer limitations.
Furthermore, the manufacturer's focus on tracking leading indicators paid off tremendously, as they saw a staggering 220% increase in near-misses per recordable event. This proactive approach allowed them to address potential hazards before they resulted in more serious incidents. Work-related claims also decreased by 38%, reflecting the positive impact of their preventive measures.
The efficiency of their incident investigations improved dramatically, with an 80% increase in the number of investigations completed within 24 hours. This swift response not only helped in resolving issues promptly but also contributed to a safer work environment. Perhaps most remarkably, there was a 90% on-time closure rate for Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs), ensuring that identified issues were addressed and resolved effectively.
Moreover, the creation of audit programs through their innovative mobile app saw a 12x increase, showcasing the company's commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to safety protocols. These impressive results underscore the importance of a well-implemented safety strategy and its far-reaching benefits for the organization and its employees.
The outcome
Transitioning from reactive to proactive safety management was more than a procedural shift; it was a profound transformation of company culture. This change required a significant commitment from all levels of the organization, emphasizing the importance of anticipating and preventing potential hazards before they occur. Ideagen EHS played a crucial role in this transformation, empowering the organization to manage hazards and risks more effectively through advanced data analytics, real-time monitoring and comprehensive reporting tools.
By fostering a culture of safety and innovation, Ideagen EHS enabled employees to take ownership of their safety practices, resulting in a more engaged and vigilant workforce.
The company is now well on track towards its ambitious goal of zero incidents and zero accidents, reflecting its dedication to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
In this journey, Ideagen EHS has proven to be more than just a tool—it has become a pivotal partner in achieving remarkable safety standards and operational excellence. Through ongoing training and support, Ideagen EHS ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of safety management, ready to tackle new challenges and set higher benchmarks for success.