#USA #Washington #Workplace Safety #Pie Insurance #Employee Mental Health

Understanding the New Priorities in Workplace Safety

In a recent survey conducted by Pie Insurance, it has been revealed that perceptions of workplace safety are evolving significantly among small business employees. The 2025 Small Business Employee Voice on Workplace Safety Report uncovers some alarming gaps in safety priorities and employee needs, particularly emphasizing the increased importance of mental health.

Survey Insights

The report is grounded in extensive research involving over 1,000 employees from small businesses across various sectors. It highlights that while employers and employees share a common understanding of essential safety goals, there is a surprising disparity between the two groups regarding how safety is managed and perceived in the workplace.

Key Findings:

• - Safety Concerns: A notable 67% of the employees surveyed expressed having safety concerns in their workplaces. Moreover, more than 58% reported having witnessed workplace injuries over the past year, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues.
• - Mental Health Takes Priority: The most striking revelation of the report is that a staggering 32% of employees indicated mental health as their primary workplace safety issue, surpassing traditional concerns like physical injuries or equipment safety. This shift signifies a need for organizations to adapt to the changing landscape of employee needs.

The Disconnect

Interestingly, while 91% of employers claimed confidence in handling mental health issues, only 62% of employees shared this confidence. The report dives deep into the psychology of the workplace, revealing that a significant portion of employees (36%) feel stressed due to work pressures, which negatively affects other areas of their lives, contributing to anxiety and sleep disturbances.

Communication Gaps

One of the areas the report pinpoints is the communication gap between employers and employees. Although 83% of participants indicated they are comfortable reporting safety concerns, a worrying 17% expressed hesitation due to fears of retaliation and doubts about their reports being taken seriously. The findings show that structured safety training is lacking, with only 29% of employees receiving training regularly, while 28% reported never having received any formal safety training.

What Employees Want

The report doesn’t just highlight issues; it also provides insights into what employees are looking for in terms of workplace safety improvements. Employees are eager for practical solutions, such as flexible working hours (19%) or mental health days (17%), and want to feel that their voices and concerns are acknowledged without fear of repercussions. Furthermore, 22% of the surveyed employees expressed a desire for more involvement in safety decision-making processes, reflecting a proactive approach to creating a safer work environment.

Bridging the Gap

As stated by Carla Woodard, SVP of Claims at Pie, the findings elucidate a significant gap between employers’ perceptions and the reality employees face. For small businesses striving to compete in a tight labor market, actively engaging employees in safety discussions is crucial. Business leaders who take actionable steps to address these gaps will not only prevent injuries but also cultivate a modern safety culture. Such an environment not only promotes better employee well-being but can also lead to improved financial outcomes for the business.

Conclusion

The 2025 report by Pie Insurance not only brings to light the changing priorities in workplace safety but also serves as a call to action for employers. As the workforce evolves, so must safety strategies, embracing a holistic approach that prioritizes mental health alongside physical safety. By understanding and addressing these concerns, small businesses can foster more secure, supportive, and productive work environments.

To read the full report and learn more about how to enhance workplace safety, visit Pie Insurance's website.