"Safety Is Not a Game”

In 2025 Fernanda Martinez, HSE specialist at Leadec Tijuana, Mexico, received the HSE Champion award for her outstanding commitment to safety excellence. In this interview, she shares what drives her passion for safety, the actions that truly make a difference, and why building a strong safety culture is always a team effort.

Was there a moment in your daily work that had a lasting impact on your dedication to safety?

Yes, there was. The moment you understand that safety is not a game, you start to see how even small mistakes can create big risks. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of clear communication. Saying the right thing at the right time can prevent serious harm.
 

What specific actions or ideas have you introduced that you believe were especially effective?

I’ve introduced several practical steps that have helped us improve. One key action is holding regular safety training sessions that reflect the situations we face at work. These trainings are dynamic and relatable, which helps the team recognize risks faster and more effectively. I also focus on building trust within the team. When people feel safe to ask questions or express concerns, they become more involved and take more ownership. In addition, I encourage everyone to actively look out for hazards, assess them carefully, and report them properly. Creating a shared sense of responsibility helps build a safer and more supportive workplace.
 

How do you raise awareness about safety and get your colleagues on board?

Teamwork is key. I often remind my colleagues that accidents can happen anytime and in any environment, especially if we are not paying attention. I also talk about what really matters: getting home safely. Our families, our friends, and our health are the reasons we work safely. Once people understand that safety protects their lives and the lives of others, it becomes personal. It becomes something they care about. This mindset shift is powerful.
 

What defines our company’s safety culture – and where do you see room for improvement?

Our safety culture is shaped by strong teamwork, openness to speak up, and a shared focus on prevention. People are willing to take action when something feels off, and that makes a big difference. At the same time, there is always room to grow. Every day, we have the chance to ask our teams what challenges they are facing and which tasks carry higher risks. Staying alert and willing to improve is key to maintain a strong culture.
 

What advice would you give to other teams or locations looking to better integrate safety into their daily work?

Keep showing up and stay consistent. A strong safety culture doesn’t develop overnight. Make safety part of your daily routing. Talk about it. Plan for it. Celebrate progress. Support each other. And most importantly, lead by example. When safety becomes part of who we are and how we work, it creates a lasting impact. That’s how we protect people and build trust across every team.