J4: Safety Through the Lens of Social Psychology and Leadership Influence

Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Convention Center 

Room: 293 

CM Credit Hours: 1 

Have you ever found yourself quickly stepping in when a coworker is about to do something unsafe, but hesitating when it's you taking that same risk? You're not alone. This common experience is rooted in how our brains are wired and how we relate to others, especially in environments where leadership and culture shape behavior.

This session explores safety through the lens of social psychology and leadership influence. We will examine why we are often more confident protecting others than ourselves, and how group dynamics, social norms, and self perception shape the choices we make-often without realizing it.

This session is not about rules or blame. It is about understanding the why behind behavior and how OEHS professionals and leaders can shift mindsets to build stronger, more self aware safety cultures.

Participants will gain practical tools to foster accountability, encourage speaking up, and create environments where people feel safe to act for themselves and each other.

Upon completion, the participant will be able to:
• Identify key social psychology concepts and recognize how they influence individual safety behavior.
• Evaluate how leadership behaviors, group dynamics, and social norms shape workplace safety culture and influence decision making across teams.
• Apply leadership driven strategies to foster psychological safety, promote personal accountability, and empower individuals to speak up for their own safety and the safety of others. 

Introductory

Psychosocial hazards

Work Environments, Occupations, and Industrial Processes

Education and training

Emergency preparedness and response

Ergonomics

Occupational epidemiology

Safety

In-person

OnDemand

Virtual

Professional

Group activities

Test/Quiz