Gen Z and the Future of Workplace Safety: Protecting the Next Generation of Workers

When I started my career in the late 1980s, safety was all about behaviors, observations and feedback. By the 1990s, we saw the rise of desktop computers, which opened up new ways to deliver training and develop capabilities. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and the internet revolutionized how we accessed information, making it easier to absorb knowledge and apply it to mitigate risks. Over the years, I’ve seen safety practices evolve dramatically, but nothing compares to the changes we’re facing today.

Millennials and Gen Z are transforming the workforce, bringing with them a new set of expectations for workplace safety, health and well-being. Unlike previous generations, they demand holistic programs that address mental health, work-life balance and sustainability alongside physical safety. As a baby boomer, I’ve had to adapt, learning to navigate technology and shifting perspectives. Now, with Millennials and Gen Z poised to become the majority of the workforce within a few short years, it’s clear that we need to rethink how we approach safety to meet their needs and expectations.

The Gen Z Workforce: Diverse and Purpose-Driven

When I think about Gen Z, who were born between 1997 and 2012, I see a generation that’s incredibly diverse and driven by a sense of purpose. They’re not just looking for jobs; they’re looking for employers who align with their values.

This is a generation shaped by rapid technological change, social media proliferation and an acute awareness of global challenges like climate change and inequality. For them, work isn’t just about earning a paycheck—it’s about aligning themselves to employers who prioritize social and environmental responsibility and making a positive impact on society.

For Gen Z, workplace safety goes far beyond physical hazards. They expect safety programs to support their mental, emotional and physical well-being. Here’s what they prioritize:

• Mental Health Support: Gen Z views mental health as a cornerstone of overall safety. They expect employers to offer resources like counseling, stress management workshops and open conversations to reduce stigma.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexibility isn’t just a perk for them; it’s a fundamental part of feeling safe and supported at work.
• Transparency and Fairness: They want clear, inclusive safety protocols and organizational policies that treat everyone fairly. Inclusivity and transparency aren’t negotiable—they’re essential.

This generation’s expectations are redefining workplace safety, and it’s our responsibility as practitioners to meet them where they are.

The Impact of Gen Z on Workplace Safety and Technology

Gen Z’s ease with technology has completely reshaped their expectations for workplace safety. They don’t just tolerate digital tools—they expect seamless integration into every aspect of safety programs. To meet their standards, organizations need to embrace tools like:

• AI-Driven Safety Platforms: These automate hazard reporting and provide real-time feedback, allowing for quicker, more efficient responses.
• Wearable Devices: From monitoring worker health to delivering instant alerts, wearables enhance safety in ways we couldn’t have imagined a few decades ago.
• IoT and Robotics: Gen Z wants to see outdated practices replaced with cutting-edge solutions that actively reduce risks.

For them, slow or outdated safety procedures simply won’t cut it. They thrive in fast-paced environments where powerful digital tools enable both self-reliance and seamless collaboration. It’s a shift we can’t afford to ignore if we want to keep up with this tech-savvy generation.

Inclusivity in Safety Programs

As someone who’s seen workplace safety evolve over the decades, I can say without a doubt that Gen Z is pushing us further than ever when it comes to equity and inclusivity. This generation expects safety programs to reflect the diverse world they grew up in, and they won’t settle for less. Here’s what that means in practice:

• Culturally Sensitive Communication: Safety materials need to resonate with a diverse workforce. That means tailoring content to reflect different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels seen and understood.
• Eliminating Biases: Gen Z demands fairness. Organizations must actively work to ensure safety protocols are accessible and equitable, no matter an employee’s identity.
• Community and Peer Support: They value belonging and thrive in environments where they can lean on peer networks for emotional resilience and support.

For Gen Z, equity and inclusivity aren’t just ideals—they’re non-negotiable aspects of workplace safety. It’s on us to rise to the challenge and create environments where everyone feels protected and valued.

Feedback-Driven Safety and Continuous Improvement

One thing I’ve learned about Gen Z is that they expect their voices to be heard. For organizations today, that means feedback mechanisms aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. Regular surveys, open forums and transparent communication channels help ensure that safety measures stay aligned with what employees actually need.

Here are some key strategies I’ve seen work:

• Routine Evaluations: Safety programs need to stay responsive to the evolving needs of a diverse workforce. Routine evaluations help us stay ahead of the curve.
• Robust Training Programs: These programs give employees the knowledge and confidence to follow safety protocols, ensuring everyone is prepared.
• Continuous Dialogue: Embedding feedback into HR strategies builds trust and encourages ongoing improvement.

A Generation Ready to Lead Change

Gen Z is stepping into a world filled with complex challenges, from climate change to social injustice. But what sets them apart is their drive to make a real difference. They’re not just here to clock in and out—they want their work to have purpose. This generation’s commitment to improvement and their holistic view of safety make them a transformative force, not just in workplace safety but across the board.

Organizations that are willing to embrace their values—prioritizing inclusivity, leveraging technology and expanding the definition of safety—will be better positioned to thrive. Gen Z isn’t just looking to fit in; they’re ready to lead meaningful change and build a safer, more sustainable future for everyone.

The question is: Can your organization adapt to the fresh ideas of an 18-27-year-old who’s ready to reshape the workplace?

Ready to align your safety programs with the values and expectations of Gen Z? Watch our on-demand webinar to learn how mobile-first strategies can engage workers and build a stronger safety culture.