One safety culture dimension does not get the scrutiny and attention it deserves – perception gaps in organizations. It can easily get overlooked, and create problems that relate directly to safety, productivity, and morale. The importance often slips and slides so insidiously, so imperceptibly, and so gradually, that it gets away from our notice much too painlessly. That is, until the pain and pushback from our workers is heard more loudly and disruptively. 

The perception gap that exists regarding materials, tools, and equipment is one of the more disturbing findings that leaders often discover in a climate survey or hear in safety focus groups.  Oftentimes many employees don’t believe they have all the tools and equipment needed to do their jobs safely, especially when compared to the views of their supervisors, managers, and senior leaders.  At the same time, many employees don’t believe their tools and equipment are well maintained.  Even in many very good organizations, it isn’t unusual to see only 60 to 70 percent of surveyed workers who believe they have the necessary tools and equipment to work safely – tools and equipment that are also well maintained.