Peer-to-Peer Safety Coaching

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-BEH-011  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

Why?

Prevent injuriesA respectful word from a colleague stops unsafe behaviour faster and more effectively than a written warning.
Build trustPeer coaching creates a team environment where everyone looks out for each other, strengthening site safety culture.
Worker influenceWorkers are more likely to change behaviour when a respected colleague explains the risk than when a manager issues an order.
Do Don't
  • Speak up respectfully if you see a colleague doing something unsafe.
  • Start with a positive comment before raising a safety concern.
  • Ask open questions to understand why the person chose that approach.
  • Offer a safer alternative rather than just criticising what you see.
  • Recognise and praise good safety practice when you observe it on site.
  • Have coaching conversations privately, not in front of an audience.
  • Accept coaching from others without becoming defensive or dismissive.
  • Act on coaching immediately where the risk is imminent and serious.
  • Share what you learn from coaching conversations with the wider team.
  • Lead by example; your own safe behaviour is the strongest coaching tool.
  • DON'T ignore unsafe behaviour because you think it is not your business.
  • DON'T shout at or embarrass a colleague in front of others about safety.
  • DON'T assume you know everything; be open to learning from your peers too.
  • DON'T use coaching as a way to settle personal grudges or score points.
  • DON'T wait until after an incident to say you noticed something unsafe.
  • DON'T only focus on negatives; recognise good safety practice equally.
  • DON'T dismiss feedback from less experienced workers; fresh eyes spot risks.
  • DON'T become defensive when a colleague coaches you about a safer method.
  • DON'T replace peer coaching with formal discipline for genuine mistakes.
  • DON'T give up if your first coaching conversation is not well received.

See also: Challenging Unsafe Behaviour | Safety Observations and Conversations