Safety is often perceived as merely a set of rules or mandatory attributes that must be followed. In reality, the essence of safety goes much deeper--it is a fundamental human need.
This perspective aligns with Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which places safety immediately after physiological needs. Before a person can perform optimally, a sense of security must first be met, both physically and psychologically.
In workplace practice, the primary challenge of a safety system within an organization lies not in how comprehensive its policies are, but in how effectively they are implemented. Policies without execution remain nothing more than documents. Consistent implementation, on the other hand, is what brings policies to life.
Many organizations have solid safety systems on paper. However, challenges emerge when these systems are not translated into everyday behavior, or when they stop at being mere slogans. This is why behavioral change is essential to building a strong safety culture--whether at home, in the workplace, or within larger organizations.
PTFI’s experience as a mining company demonstrates that strengthening safety culture has contributed significantly to improvements in safety performance over the past two decades. The company’s Fatal Risk Management (FRM) journey, which began in 2017, further shows that a systematic approach, continuous learning, the use of technological advancements, and the active involvement of employees and contractors can drive meaningful change in workplace safety. At the same time, it is important to recognize that no single solution can prevent all incidents. Continuous improvement remains critical. Because in the end, safety starts with me.
Becoming a good safety practitioner begins with integrity and leading by example. What we expect from others must first be practiced by ourselves. When each individual takes responsibility and sets a positive example, a strong culture can grow naturally.
- Eman Widijanto, Vice President of the PTFI Mining Safety Division
Note: This article is based on the talk show “Safety Culture: Safety Is Not Just Style, but a Culture” held as part of the 2026 Safety Month (BK3N), featuring Eman Widijanto, Vice President of the PTFI Mining Safety Division, on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
(Adeline Nathania)
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