A Safety Management System (SMS) is a systematic approach to managing safety, including the necessary organizational structures, accountability, policies and procedures.  A process used to determine the viability of a project or procedure based on the experiential application of clearly defined and repeatable steps and an evaluation of the outcomes. The goal of a systematic approach is to identify the most efficient means to generate consistent, optimum results.

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It has been well established that an effective safety and health program is the best way to reduce workplace injuries.  The elements of an effective program should include the following:

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1. MANAGEMENT LEADERSHIP: Assigns safety and health responsibility and authority to supervisors and employees and holds them accountable.

2. WORKER PARTICIPATION: Workers and their representatives are involved in all aspects of the program—including setting goals, identifying and reporting hazards, investigating incidents, and tracking progress.

3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION & ASSESSMENT: Identifies current and potential hazards.  It includes a thorough baseline survey, to identify unsafe acts and conditions; job hazard analysis (written safe operating procedures for major tasks); a self-inspection program, a system for reporting hazards; accident and incident investigation; and analysis of injuries and illnesses.

4. HAZARD PREVENTION AND CONTROL:  Prevention consists of regular maintenance and housekeeping; emergency planning and preparation; first aid; and ready access to emergency care.  Control includes machine guards, enclosures, locks, protective equipment, safe work procedures, and placement of personnel so as to minimize hazards.  

5. EDUCATION & TRAINING:  Train employers, managers, and supervisors on their roles in the program.  Employers, managers, and supervisors are responsible for workers' safety, yet sometimes have little training on safety-related concepts and techniques. They may benefit from specific training that allows them to fulfill their leadership roles in the program.All workers are trained to understand how the program works and how to carry out their responsibilities assigned to them under the program.  Everyone, from managers through supervisors to employees, about the hazards they may be exposed to, and their identification, prevention, and control.  Managers and supervisors also need training in program management (e.g., enforcing rules, conducting drills).

6. PROGRAM EVALUATION & IMPROVEMENT covers control measures and periodic evaluation for effectiveness.  Verify that the program is implemented and is operating. Initially and at least annually, employers need to evaluate the program to ensure that it is operating as intended, is effective in controlling identified hazards, and is making progress toward established safety and health goals and objectives.

7. COMMUNICATION AND COORDINATION WITH HOST EMPLOYERS, CONTRACTORS, AND STAFFING AGENCIES:In today's economy, an increasing number of workers are assigned by staffing agencies to work at specific host worksites under the direction and control of the host employer.  It is important for the staffing agency and the host employer to communicate and coordinate to provide and maintain a safe work environment for their workers.  In other situations, some workers are employed by a host employer and others by a contractor or subcontractor. Safety is enhanced if employers establish mechanisms to coordinate their efforts and communicate effectively to afford all workers equal protection against hazards.

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