1. Best Practices Identified at the Denver Safety Summit May 3-4, 2017

2. Language/Linguistic Barrier
English and Non-English Speakers
Hands on training
Visual aids
Identify bilingual employees
Recognize reliable translators
Provide written materials in native language
UAA committee to set industry standard on translated materials.
Jargon
Acronyms, industry specific terms
Recognize appropriate audience

3. Cultural Barrier Identify different cultures within your workforce.
Educate yourself, don’t be afraid to ask questions respectfully.
Empathy
Respect

4. Non-verbal Barrier Body Language Stereotyping Technology
Be conscious of the image you are portraying examples: eye contact, give up the position of power, be humble.
Stereotyping
Be open minded.
Technology
Know your forms of communication and when to use them, when is it better to send an and when is it better to have a face to face conversation.

5. Generational Barrier Millennials vs Gen X vs Seasoned Veterans
Mutual respect.
Tools prevalent to their generation. Example: Online forum vs Face to face communication.
Recognition of good behavior, immediate recognition vs long-term benefits.
Identify correct motivators.

6. Organizational Barriers
Open lines of communication.
Set clear expectations from beginning of employment.
Foster good relationships.
Get to know the people you work with.
Encourage participation and questions.
There are no dumb questions.
Good decision recognition meeting.

7. Upcoming Events
Trees and Utilities Conference Sept 26-28, 2017 Kansas City, Missouri Minnesota Safety Summit Oct 26-27, 2017 Register at
Webinars for continuing education,