Utility Workers Union of America and Consolidated Edison of New York, Inc. Consolidated Edison of New York (Con Edison) has adopted an overarching vision of zero harm. Making progress toward that vision requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. Because no one person or group has all the answers, it is essential to build constructive relationships to identify opportunities to help employees work safer. Recognizing that improving safety comes from working together, Con Edison and the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) partnered to provide tools to help workers avoid injuries and look out for others. An example of that partnership is Systems of Safety, a day-long peer-to-peer class where employees sharpen their hazard mitigation skills and are encouraged to exercise responsibility for their own well-being. “When it comes to safety, you need that organic element of employees having conversations with each other, regardless of title or experience,” says Con Edison Director of Safety Gregg Slintak. “Systems of Safety helps equip people to take ownership of their own safety and promote a safer workplace.” Systems of Safety began in 2010 when a group including Con Edison Chairman and CEO John McAvoy (then a senior vice president) collaborated with UWUA Local 1-2 leadership to create a workplace safety class taught by and for employees. The class also helps employees better understand company culture, enhance teamwork, develop leadership skills, and use error-avoidance tools to work injury-free. More than 6,000 employees have taken the Systems of Safety class and dozens of UWUA members have become Systems of Safety instructors. In each class, about 30 employees engage in open dialogue around structured workplace scenarios. This approach helps to promote open conversation around topics that might be difficult to discuss on the job. Systems of Safety provides a safe and constructive environment for participants to freely share their thoughts and ideas. Everyone comes away with a broader perspective on safety.

Please analyze the above case study and share the best Health and Safety practices Consolidated Edison of New York adopted.