safety needs essay

19 Safety Needs Examples (Maslow’s Hierarchy)

According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs , safety needs are the second layer of needs that need to be met for human flourishing.

Safety needs are all the needs we have that help humans to feel secure and protected in their lives.

Examples of safety needs include physical safety, fair trial, job security, protection from bullying, and strong armed forces.

Over time, humans have developed a wide array of mechanisms to thwart threats and help people live safe and secure lives. Some of those attempts involve advanced technology, while others are as simple as trained professionals patrolling neighborhoods.

Definition of Safety Needs

People need to feel that they are living in a world that is safe and that their existence is not threatened.

Maslow also stated that stable employment and reliable resources are essential concerns of people at this level. Not only must one be alive, but being healthy and having a healthy family are also important.

In addition, people need to feel that the world is just and that there is a moral code that ensures fairness and equality.

Without these basic elements in life, there is no reason to be concerned with other matters, such as feeling loved or respected by others. Safety takes priority.

Examples of Safety Needs

1. a non-violent home situation.

In education, we often use this as an example of a student’s safety need. If students don’t feel safe at home, their development suffers. They may develop strong fight or flight instincts and struggle to learn who and when to trust people.

Educationally, they may also find it impossible to study at home, and may come to school tired and unable to sleep.

Unfortunately, domestic violence is one of the most common examples of a safety need not being met. Up to 1 in 3 people have been in abusive relationships.

2. Physical Safety (E.g. Law Enforcement)

The purpose of law enforcement personnel is to protect the citizens of a specific area. In the United States, there are over 18,000 law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, county, and local levels.

People rely on these agencies to keep them safe and secure. This is a fundamental service that people demand from their government in every country. When law enforcement breaks down, society as a whole will be destroyed.

As Maslow stated many years ago, without the assurance that they are physically safe, and that their family members are safe, one cannot be concerned with other issues higher in the hierarchy.  

3. Fair Trial (E.g. The Legal System)

Without a well-functioning legal system, citizens cannot feel safe and secure. After law enforcement, people rely on the legal system to make sure that dangerous individuals are prevented from committing a crime.

Legal systems vary quite a bit in terms of their structure and procedures from country to country. However, the fundamental principles of legal systems in democracies are based on the rule of law .

The rule of law is a stable structure of laws and institutions. It includes the principle that everyone is accountable under the law. Individuals, the government, corporations, and even kings and queens must follow the law. If everyone is treated fairly by the law, then it helps people will feel that the world is just.

4. A Secure Job

Employment is also on the list of safety needs in Maslow’s hierarchy. Primarily this is because having a job means making money and making money means being able to buy things that meet our physiological needs.

Without a secure job, people feel unsafe because they don’t know how they will get food or pay the rent in the coming weeks. With a job, people are able to feel more secure in their lives because they can predict their future.

Participating in professional development and education is a good way to attain job security. It can help someone feel secure about their employment status and may also help with career advancement.

5. Home Safety (E.g. Security Systems)

The home is where people want to feel safest. Families spend a lot of time at home and being able to sleep soundly at night means not fearing an intruder breaking in to do harm.

Every home has locks on the doors and windows to protect the inhabitants and provide a feeling of safety. Some families also maintain firearms at home or other defenses, such as a bat or pepper spray.

Other households take this matter one step further and install a home security system. This can involve a range of technologies, including outdoor and indoor cameras, sensors on windows, password-protected entries, and direct communication with a professional security service.

Given the abundance of security options for the home, it seems clear that safety for self and family is a top priority .

6. The Right to Bear Arms (In the USA)

Regardless of one’s personal stance on gun control and related issues, the right to bear arms is another example of people trying to meet Maslow’s safety needs. Many people purchase firearms to protect their family and property.

Home invasion is a valid concern. Burglaries, vandalism, and even kidnappings can occur even in gated communities with private security. Therefore, having an extra layer of protection to ensure safety is a necessary precaution for many.

As Maslow would surely agree, it is difficult to be concerned about higher level matters such as feeling good about oneself if you can’t sleep at night for fear of a home invasion. Therefore, having a firearm sitting in the drawer of a nightstand is an option many choose.

7. Gun Control Laws

While the right to bear arms is seen by some as essential to their safety, others think excessive weapons in society is a threat to their safety and wellbeing.

There are an estimated 300 million guns in the United States, which is more than one gun per person. In addition, there are an estimated 30,000 gun-related deaths in the US each year.

Based on these facts, it is possible to argue that gun control increases safety on a society-wide scale.

While some argue that more guns mean more safety, others contend that the opposite is true. It is an emotional and divisive issue with no clear consensus.

8. Vitamins

In addition to safety and stable employment, Maslow also included feeling healthy as a component in level two. According to John Hopkins Medicine, half of all Americans take some kind of vitamin or mineral supplement on a regular basis.

In fact, Americans spend approximately $12 billion a year on this health habit. This is done with the purpose of one goal; to be healthy. Many of those people will also go to the gym, practice meditation and yoga, or run and bicycle.

The fact of the matter is, people are highly motivated to keep their body healthy. It is a kind of obsession. Unfortunately, many health experts, including those at Johns Hopkins, question the effectiveness of vitamins and supplements, and suggest that people improve their diets instead.

9. Emergency Services (911)

When there is an immediate threat to health or property, call 911. This is a service from the government and law enforcement that is solely designed to address people’s safety needs.

Over 200 countries have an emergency system similar to 911. Some of them may use a different set of numbers, like Cambodia and Ghana, but the basic system is the same.

People need to have an option in the case of emergencies. When something addresses a need on such a wide-spread basis, there must be a very good reason.

In this case the reason is that it is an essential characteristic of human beings to be concerned about safety, of themselves, their family, and their property.

10. School Immunization Requirements

A little more than a century ago, 20% of children in the U.S. died of disease before they reached their fifth birthday. Another 20% died before becoming teenagers. Yellow fever and small pox were just a few of the many ways that people could, and would, die young.

Over the subsequent decades advances in medicine led to the creation of vaccines. Still, there was a great deal of distrust of vaccines, and for a variety of political and social reasons, many people objected to mandatory immunization requirements.

The first vaccination requirement in schools was in Massachusetts in the 1850s. At the turn of the 20 th century, nearly half of all states had some version of vaccination requirements for children to enter school.

The public involvement on this health issue is a testament to its importance in society and the validity of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

11. A Strong Armed Forces

 A nation needs armed forces to preserve its sovereignty, protect its citizens, and further its foreign policy goals. The military acts as a deterrent to other nations, and it also provides trained personnel who can be called upon in case of emergency.

In addition, the armed forces can be used to project power abroad and support allies. They can also be used to conduct humanitarian missions and provide disaster relief.

The Ukraine crisis in 2022 was one instance in which a strong military made a nation very insecure. The nation was not strong enough to stand up against Russia. As a result Ukraine appealed to NATO and the EU to protect them.

Thus, the armed forces play an essential role in ensuring the safety and security of a nation and its people.

12. Security Cameras in Public Places

The use of security cameras in public places is a controversial topic. Some people argue that they are an intrusion on privacy and civil liberties, while others contend that they improve public safety.

Here, we can see that security cameras may secure people’s safety because they deter crime. But people who don’t trust the government or corporations feel it’s a violation of their privacy to be watched by others.

On the argument for security cameras, we can argue that they can help people be safe in public spaces, making them a safety need .

13. Seat Belts in Cars

The use of seat belts is one of the most effective ways to reduce fatalities in car accidents. In fact, seat belts have been shown to reduce the risk of death by 45% and the risk of serious injury by 50%.

Despite these statistics, many people still do not wear seat belts. In most parts of the world, there are laws that require adults to wear seat belts, but the enforcement of these laws is often lax.

This safety measure is an example of a need that is not being met on a wide-scale basis. While seat belts save lives, many people still do not use them.

14. Home Insurance Policies

Home insurance is a type of property insurance that covers damages to your home or belongings in the event of a natural disaster, fire, theft, or vandalism. Home insurance is not required by law in many parts of the world, but it is typically required by mortgage lenders.

While home insurance does not directly improve safety, it can provide financial protection in the event of a disaster. This type of insurance can give people peace of mind and security in knowing that their home is protected.

Home insurance policies vary widely in coverage and cost. It is important to shop around and compare policies before buying.

15. Life Jackets

A life jacket is a wearable device that helps keep you afloat if you fall into water. They are typically made of brightly colored foam and have straps that go over the shoulders.

Life jackets are required by law on some boats and in some areas. For example, they’re generally required in commercial boats. Some states even require you to wear one if you are paddleboarding on your own inflatable SUP.

While life jackets do not guarantee safety, they can greatly increase the chances of survival if you find yourself in deep water. Life jackets are an example of a safety measure that is often required by law.

16. Fire Fighting Services

Fire fighting services are responsible for responding to and extinguishing fires. They are typically operated by the government or by private companies.

Fire fighting services improve safety by protecting people and property from fire damage. They also provide training and education on fire safety.

fire fighting services are an essential safety measure in many communities. Without them, the risk of fire would be much higher. Most nations ensure there is an emergency fire service that covers every part of the land.

17. Child Car Seats

Child car seats are devices that are used to safely transport children in cars. They are designed to protect children in the event of a collision or sudden stop.

Child car seats are required by law in many countries. In the United States, all 50 states have laws that require child car seats for infants and young children.

These seats improve safety by reducing the risk of injury or death in the event of a car accident. They are an example of a safety measure that is required by law in many jurisdictions. With the safety seat, people (perhaps even including the child) will feel as if a basic safety need is being met.

18. Self-Defense Training

Participating in self-defense training is another example of how Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is manifest in our daily lives. There are many types of self-defense training programs available.

Some focus on weapons, such as guns and knives. While others involve the martial arts like karate and taekwondo. Still other programs teach participants how to handle specific situations such as being attacked from behind or how to handle a car-jacking.

These kinds of programs are offered by a variety of individuals. Police departments will often offer free self-defense training to nearby residents. Security agencies will also make some of their professionals available, and sometimes ex-military personnel will set-up their own training services.

19. Financial Security

Most adults spend every day of their lives working. In some countries, employees receive only 14 days of vacation a year. In other countries, that number may be as high as 6 weeks. That’s still a lot of time working.

Why? Because work is the main method to satisfying so many needs. Work leads to income and income leads to the attainment of food and shelter. Therefore, feeling that we have stable and secure employment is an extremely important concern.

Not only do people work to meet immediate needs, but they also work towards the long-term goal of having a pleasant retirement. Eventually, each person will be too old to work. So, saving enough money during one’s career is crucial. Attaining financial security is a long-term pursuit, but it makes people feel safe and secure about their future.

Other Levels of Maslow’s Hierarchy

Maslow’s hierarchy has five levels. From bottom to top (most necessary to least) are:

• Physiological needs – these are the basic needs for survival and include air, food, water, shelter, and sleep.
• Safety needs – these are the needs for security and safety, both physical and emotional.
• Social needs (love and belonging) – after safety needs are met, people start to focus on their relationships with others. This includes things like feeling loved and accepted, having close friendships, and being part of a community.
• Esteem needs – once people have close relationships, they start to focus on feeling good about themselves. This includes things like having self-respect, feeling competent and capable, and feeling like you’re valued by others.
• Self-actualization – this is the highest level of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. It refers to reaching one’s full potential and self-fulfillment. This includes things like creativity, morality, and spirituality.

Read Next: How we Develop Personality Traits, according to Humanism

Level two in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs states that safety and security are the primary concerns. People need to feel that their family and property are safe, that they have secure employment, and that they live in a just world with a fair system of law.

Over time, societies have established many institutions that address these safety concerns. These include law enforcement agencies, self-defense training, opportunities for employees to secure and advance in their profession, and legal systems based on the rule of law.  

If these needs are not met, according to Maslow, then it is hard to move on to the next level of needs. One cannot be concerned with higher-level matters until the priorities of level two have been satisfied. 

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2016). National sources of law enforcement employment data . United States Department of Justice. Retrieved April 17, 2022. https://bjs.ojp.gov/content /pub/pdf/nsleed.pdf

Hodge, J. G., & Gostin, L. O. (2001). School vaccination requirements: historical, social, and legal perspectives. Kentucky law journal (Lexington, Ky.) , 90 (4), 831–890.

Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Is there really any benefit to multivitamins? https://www.hopkins medicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/is-there-really-any-benefit-to-multivitamins

Malone, K.M., & Hinman, A.R. (2007). Vaccination Mandates: The Public Health Imperative and Individual Rights. In Richard A. Goodman, Mark A. Rothstein, Richard E. Hoffman, Wilfredo Lopez, Gene W. Matthews (Eds.), Law in public health practice (pp. 262-284). New York: Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/ 10.1093/ACPROF:OSO/9780195301489.003.0014

Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review,50(4) , 370-96.

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10 Examples of Safety Needs (Maslow’s Hierarchy)

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a significant theory in psychology, which was postulated by the noted American psychologist Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper “A Theory of Human Motivation.” Even after receiving criticism for being western in nature, the theory is still relevant and a significant part of management studies. At the second level of Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs, we find safety needs, which encompasses the second most basic needs, such as job security, health, and safe environments.

Definition of Safety Needs

“Safety Needs” is referred to as the sturdy desire of humans for safety and security to remain secure or safe from any harm.

Significance of Safety Needs

Once physiological needs are satisfied, our safety needs come into play. This level is more significant for children; as they generally are in greater need to feel safe. If a person doesn’t feel safe, he would not strive for any higher level of need.

Let’s have some daily-life examples of safety needs, which can be discussed under three main headings, i.e, Physical Safety, Financial Security, and Emotional Safety.

Physical Safety

Physical safety is related to the outside safety of our bodies. If we don’t feel safe physically then it increases our stress level, insecurity, and affects our concentration power, ability to think, and overall quality of life. Physical safety requirements like Insurance have become a necessity to fulfill the safety needs of humans. Similarly, the safety of different resources like electronic devices, cell phones, vehicles, property, etc.; security from war or external threats, etc. are also part of physical safety needs. Let’s discuss a few examples of Physical Safety Needs:

1. Insurance Policies

Today, insurance is considered an essential requirement for physical safety due to the uncertainty of the future and our lives. Different types of insurance facilities like life insurance, health insurance, vehicle insurance, disaster insurance, etc., are daily-life examples of physical safety needs as per Maslow’s need hierarchy. A health insurance policy ensures safety against any health issue that may occur in the future. Similarly, life insurance comes handy in case of the sudden death of a person. Besides health and life insurance, there are many more insurance types, such as general insurance, which covers properties, valuables, vehicles, etc. These insurance plans boost mental health so that one can concentrate on other important things.

2. Interior Designing & Other Safety Measures

Physical security is one of the important aspects of interior design. Interior Designers ensure the health and safety needs while designing the interior of home or office, where they provide features like door locking system, the biometric system in offices, proper air quality, fire safety, and proper lighting system to avoid accidents. Also, they design interior in the way that safe evacuation can be ensured from interior spaces in case of emergency.

3. Security or Safety Features of Gadgets & Vehicles

In this era of technological advancements, most cell phones are equipped with high-security features, like fingerprint lock, face recognition, pattern lock, and more. Moreover, many other software and apps are there, which provide high security to various electronic gadgets to protect them against malware or virus or any other threats. Similarly, safety features are there in cars to ensure physical safety, like safety belts, airbags, auto emergency braking system, child safety locks, anti-theft security, and many more. We wear helmets for road safety.

4. Security Agencies & Armed Forces

Different government-bodies are there, which ensure our physical safety and security in case of adverse situations like wars, disasters, riots, etc. Armed forces are real examples, which work for our physical safety and security needs.

5. Job Security

Job security is also an example of the security needs of Maslow’s hierarchy. Everyone wants a safe and secure job. Employees won’t be able to work with their full potential if they feel unsafe for their jobs.

6. A Healthy & Safe Work Environment

A safe workplace or work environment is related to security and safety in office premises in terms of fire breakdowns, safety instruments or safety measures in factories, security systems like CCTV, emergency exits, ergonomic furniture, etc. Bio-metric scans ensure the entry of employees in the office premises and not strangers.

Financial Security

Financial security is also part of the safety and security needs of Maslow’s theory. It refers to being financially independent so that one can pay their necessary utility bills and can bear other unavoidable financial burdens.

Different examples of financial security are as under:

7. Various Financial Schemes

Banks and other financial institutions offer different products and services to provide financial security and stability to their customers. Apart from saving accounts, many more investment and saving schemes like fixed deposits, recurring deposits, mutual funds, and insurance plans are there to boost financial safety and encourage savings for future financial security.

8. Government Policies for Labour & Cyber Laws

Different governments across the world come out with various plans and policies to provide financial safety to their citizen, like minimum wages act, compensation act, and labor laws, which ensure the basic financial needs of employees by making provision for bare minimum wages or compensation to employees. Similarly, Cyber laws are there to protect against financial frauds; adding value to financial security.

Emotional Safety

The next part of the security and safety stage of Maslow’s theory is safety in terms of emotions. One can feel emotionally safe if the environment and people in his/her surroundings are trustworthy, friendly, cooperative and an open environment to share thoughts, ideas, and feelings.

Let’s have a few examples of workplace-related emotional safety needs:

9. Informal Groups 

Different informal groups satisfy the emotional safety needs of people, like clubs, different social events, parties, informal get together of employees and families, etc.

10. Friendly Environment at the Workplace

A friendly and healthy work environment is one of the most significant aspects related to emotional safety needs. Organizations are required to provide an open and friendly work environment to fulfill the emotional safety needs of employees in which they can interact with each other and can share their views, ideas, suggestions, and become a part of decision-making.

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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Key Takeaways

• Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a motivational theory in psychology comprising a five-tier model of human needs, often depicted as hierarchical levels within a pyramid.
• The five levels of the hierarchy are physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
• Lower-level basic needs like food, water, and safety must be met first before higher needs can be fulfilled.
• Few people are believed to reach the level of self-actualization, but we can all have moments of peak experiences.
• The order of the levels is not completely fixed. For some, esteem outweighs love, while others may self-actualize despite poverty. Our behaviors are usually motivated by multiple needs simultaneously.
• Applications include workplace motivation, education, counseling, and nursing.

What is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs?

According to Maslow (1943, 1954), human needs were arranged in a hierarchy, with physiological (survival) needs at the bottom, and the more creative and intellectually oriented ‘self-actualization’ needs at the top.

Maslow argued that survival needs must be satisfied before the individual can satisfy the higher needs. The higher up the hierarchy, the more difficult it is to satisfy the needs associated with that stage, because of the interpersonal and environmental barriers that inevitably frustrate us.

Higher needs become increasingly psychological and long-term rather than physiological and short-term, as in the lower survival-related needs.

1. Physiological needs are biological requirements for human survival, e.g., air, food, drink, shelter, clothing, warmth, sex, and sleep.

Our most basic need is for physical survival, and this will be the first thing that motivates our behavior. Once that level is fulfilled, the next level up is what motivates us, and so on.

The human body cannot function optimally if physiological needs are not satisfied. Maslow considered physiological needs the most important as all the other needs become secondary until these needs are met.

Once an individual’s physiological needs are satisfied, the need for security and safety becomes salient.

2. Safety needs –  people want to experience order, predictability, and control in their lives.

Safety needs can be fulfilled by the family and society (e.g., police, schools, business, and medical care).

For example, emotional security, financial security (e.g., employment, social welfare), law and order, freedom from fear, social stability, property, health, and wellbeing (e.g., safety against accidents and injury).

After physiological and safety needs have been fulfilled, the third level of human needs is social and involves feelings of belongingness.

3. Love and belongingness needs   refers to a human emotional need for interpersonal relationships, affiliating, connectedness, and being part of a group.

Examples of belongingness needs include friendship, intimacy, trust, acceptance, receiving and giving affection, and love.

This need is especially strong in childhood and can override the need for safety, as witnessed in children who cling to abusive parents.

4. Esteem needs are the fourth level in Maslow’s hierarchy and include self-worth, accomplishment, and respect.

Maslow classified esteem needs into two categories: (i) esteem for oneself (dignity, achievement, mastery, independence) and (ii) the desire for reputation or respect from others (e.g., status, prestige).

Esteem presents the typical human desire to be accepted and valued by others. People often engage in a profession or hobby to gain recognition. These activities give the person a sense of contribution or value.

Low self-esteem or an inferiority complex may result from imbalances during this level in the hierarchy.

Maslow indicated that the need for respect or reputation is most important for children and adolescents and precedes real self-esteem or dignity.

5. Self-actualization needs are the highest level in Maslow’s hierarchy, and refer to the realization of a person’s potential, self-fulfillment, seeking personal growth, and peak experiences.

This level of need refers to what a person’s full potential is and the realization of that potential. 

Maslow (1943, 1987, p. 64 ) describes this level as the desire to accomplish everything that one can, and  “to become everything one is capable of becoming”.

Individuals may perceive or focus on this need very specifically. For example, one individual may have a strong desire to become an ideal parent.

In another, the desire may be expressed athletically. For others, it may be expressed in paintings, pictures, or inventions.

Although Maslow did not believe that many of us could achieve true self-actualization, he did believe that all of us experience transitory moments (known as ‘peak experiences’) of self-actualization.

Such moments, associated with personally significant events such as childbirth, sporting achievement and examination success), are difficult to achieve and maintain consistently.

Maslow posited that human needs are arranged in a hierarchy:

“It is quite true that man lives by bread alone — when there is no bread. But what happens to man’s desires when there is plenty of bread and when his belly is chronically filled? At once other (and “higher”) needs emerge and these, rather than physiological hungers, dominate the organism. And when these in turn are satisfied, again new (and still “higher”) needs emerge and so on. This is what we mean by saying that the basic human needs are organized into a hierarchy of relative prepotency” (Maslow, 1943, p. 375) .

Maslow (1954) proposed that human beings possess two sets of needs. This five-stage model can be divided into deficiency needs and growth needs. The first four levels are often referred to as deficiency needs ( D-needs ), and the top level is known as growth or being needs ( B-needs ).

Deficiency needs

Deficiency needs are concerned with basic survival and include physiological needs (such as the need for food, sex, and sleep) and safety needs (such as the need for security and freedom from danger).

Behaviors associated with these needs are seen as ‘deficiency’ motivated, as they are a means to an end.

Deficiency needs arise due to deprivation and are said to motivate people when they are unmet. Also, the motivation to fulfill such needs will become stronger the longer they are denied. For example, the longer a person goes without food, the more hungry they will become.

Maslow (1943) initially stated that individuals must satisfy lower-level deficit needs before progressing to meet higher-level growth needs.

However, he later clarified that satisfaction of a need is not an “all-or-none” phenomenon, admitting that his earlier statements may have given “the false impression that a need must be satisfied 100 percent before the next need emerges” (1987, p. 69).

When a deficit need has been “more or less” satisfied, it will go away, and our activities become habitually directed toward meeting the next set of needs we have yet to satisfy. These then become our salient needs. However, growth needs continue to be felt and may even become stronger once engaged.

Growth needs

Growth needs are more psychological and are associated with realizing an individual’s full potential and needing to ‘self-actualize’. These needs are achieved more through intellectual and creative behaviors.

Growth needs do not stem from a lack of something but rather from a desire to grow as a person. Once these growth needs have been reasonably satisfied, one may be able to reach the highest level, called self-actualization. Growth needs are achieved more through intellectual and creative behaviors.

Every person is capable and has the desire to move up the hierarchy toward a level of self-actualization. Unfortunately, progress is often disrupted by a failure to meet lower-level needs.

Life experiences, including divorce and the loss of a job, may cause an individual to fluctuate between levels of the hierarchy.

Therefore, not everyone will move through the hierarchy in a uni-directional manner but may move back and forth between the different types of needs.

The expanded hierarchy of needs

It is important to note that Maslow’s (1943, 1954) five-stage model has been expanded to include cognitive and aesthetic needs (Maslow, 1970a) and later transcendence needs (Maslow, 1970b).

Changes to the original five-stage model are highlighted and include a seven-stage model and an eight-stage model; both developed during the 1960s and 1970s.

• Biological and physiological needs – air, food, drink, shelter, warmth, sex, sleep, etc.
• Safety needs – protection from elements, security, order, law, stability, freedom from fear.
• Love and belongingness needs – friendship, intimacy, trust, and acceptance, receiving and giving affection and love. Affiliating, being part of a group (family, friends, work).
• Esteem needs – which Maslow classified into two categories: (i) esteem for oneself (dignity, achievement, mastery, independence) and (ii) the need to be accepted and valued by others (e.g., status, prestige).

Cognitive needs – knowledge and understanding, curiosity, exploration, need for meaning and predictability. Cognitive needs drive our pursuit of knowledge and understanding. For instance, a student’s desire to understand complex mathematical theories, a traveler’s curiosity about diverse cultures, or an individual’s quest for life’s deeper meanings all exemplify these needs. Meeting these needs facilitates personal growth, comprehension, and a deeper understanding of life and its complexities.

Aesthetic needs – appreciation and search for beauty, balance, form, etc. Fulfilling these needs leads to a deeper sense of satisfaction and harmony in life, as individuals seek environments and experiences that are pleasing and resonant with their sense of beauty. This involves the appreciation and pursuit of art, music, nature, and other forms of aesthetic expression. Fulfilling these needs isn’t just about physical beauty but also the emotional and psychological satisfaction derived from experiencing order and elegance.

• Self-actualization needs – realizing personal potential, self-fulfillment, seeking personal growth, and peak experiences. 

Transcendence needs – A person is motivated by values that transcend beyond the personal self. Beyond self-actualization, they represent the human desire to connect with a higher reality, purpose, or the universe. This level emphasizes altruism, spiritual connection, and helping others achieve their potential. Individuals seek experiences that move beyond personal concerns, aiming to achieve a deep sense of unity, understanding, and belonging within the vast expanse of existence. Examples of transcendence needs include mystical experiences and certain experiences with nature, aesthetic experiences, sexual experiences, service to others, the pursuit of science, religious faith, etc.).

Self-Actualization Needs

Instead of focusing on psychopathology and what goes wrong with people, Maslow (1943) formulated a more positive account of human behavior which focused on what goes right. He was interested in human potential, and how we fulfill that potential.

Psychologist Abraham Maslow (1943, 1954) stated that human motivation is based on people seeking fulfillment and change through personal growth. Self-actualized people are those who are fulfilled and doing all they are capable of.

The growth of self-actualization (Maslow, 1962) refers to the need for personal growth and discovery that is present throughout a person’s life. For Maslow, a person is always “becoming” and never remains static in these terms. In self-actualization, a person comes to find a meaning in life that is important to them.

As each individual is unique, the motivation for self-actualization leads people in different directions (Kenrick et al., 2010). For some people, self-actualization can be achieved through creating works of art or literature; for others, through sports, in the classroom, or within a corporate setting.

Maslow (1962) believed self-actualization could be measured through the concept of peak experiences. This occurs when a person experiences the world totally for what it is, and there are feelings of euphoria, joy, and wonder.

It is important to note that self-actualization is a continual process of becoming rather than a perfect state one reaches of a “happy ever after” (Hoffman, 1988).

Maslow offers the following description of self-actualization:

“It refers to the person’s desire for self-fulfillment, namely, to the tendency for him to become actualized in what he is potentially. The specific form that these needs will take will of course vary greatly from person to person. In one individual it may take the form of the desire to be an ideal mother, in another it may be expressed athletically, and in still another it may be expressed in painting pictures or in inventions” (Maslow, 1943, p. 382–383).

Characteristics of Self-Actualized People

Although we are all, theoretically, capable of self-actualizing, most of us will not do so, or only to a limited degree. Maslow (1970) estimated that only two percent of people would reach the state of self-actualization.

He was especially interested in the characteristics of people whom he considered to have achieved their potential as individuals.

By studying 18 people, he considered to be self-actualized (including Abraham Lincoln and Albert Einstein), Maslow (1970) identified 15 characteristics of a self-actualized person.

Characteristics of self-actualizers :

• They perceive reality efficiently and can tolerate uncertainty;
• Accept themselves and others for what they are;
• Spontaneous in thought and action;
• Problem-centered (not self-centered);
• Unusual sense of humor;
• Able to look at life objectively;
• Highly creative;
• Resistant to enculturation, but not purposely unconventional;
• Concerned for the welfare of humanity;
• Capable of deep appreciation of basic life-experience;
• Establish deep satisfying interpersonal relationships with a few people;
• Peak experiences;
• Need for privacy;
• Democratic attitudes;
• Strong moral/ethical standards.

Behavior leading to self-actualization :

• Experiencing life like a child, with full absorption and concentration;
• Trying new things instead of sticking to safe paths;
• Listening to your own feelings in evaluating experiences instead of the voice of tradition, authority or the majority;
• Avoiding pretense (“game playing”) and being honest;
• Being prepared to be unpopular if your views do not coincide with those of the majority;
• Taking responsibility and working hard;
• Trying to identify your defenses and having the courage to give them up.

The characteristics of self-actualizers and the behaviors leading to self-actualization are shown in the list above. 

Although people achieve self-actualization in their own unique way, they tend to share certain characteristics.  However, self-actualization is a matter of degree, ‘There are no perfect human beings’ (Maslow, 1970a, p. 176 ).

It is not necessary to display all 15 characteristics to become self-actualized, and not only self-actualized people will display them.

Maslow did not equate self-actualization with perfection. Self-actualization merely involves achieving one’s potential. Thus, someone can be silly, wasteful, vain and impolite, and still self-actualize. Less than two percent of the population achieve self-actualization.

Applications & Examples

Workplace organizations and employee motivation.

The theory applies to organizational structures and the motivation of employees. To enhance performance, the organizational culture and HR strategies must address and fulfill the needs of employees.

HR strategies, including compensation, benefits, job design, training, cultural development, and performance evaluations, can be tailored to cater to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (Jerome, 2013).

1. What can managers do to motivate employees with physiological needs?

At the foundational physiological level, organizations should provide wages that sustain a decent standard of living and comprehensive benefits, ensuring employees can comfortably cater to necessities such as food, shelter, and medical care.

• Offer comprehensive healthcare benefits – Quality health insurance, dental, vision, mental health coverage, and wellness programs demonstrate you care about employees’ overall health and ability to afford care.
• Subsidize gym memberships – Some companies offer monthly gym subsidies or onsite fitness centers to support physical health and stress management.
• Make the space ergonomic – Ensure workstations, chairs, keyboards, etc. are height adjustable and comfortable to work at for extended periods to prevent bodily strain or injury.
• Pay for wellness services – Some companies offer perks like free annual flu shots, smoking cessation programs, or biometric screenings to proactively address health.

2. What can managers do to motivate employees with safety needs?

For the safety tier, offering job stability, secure working conditions, and equitable compensation is essential. Employees are more motivated when they feel both financially stable and physically safe within their workplace.

• Establish anti-harassment policies and reporting procedures – Ensure strong systems are in place for reporting issues confidentially and without retaliation.
• Cultivate psychological safety – Foster an environment where people feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and speak up without fear of embarrassment or punishment.
• Define and reinforce ethical standards – Clearly establish and model expected conduct to prevent ethical lapses that undermine security.
• Promote transparency in pay and promotion practices – Clearly communicate compensation structure, advancement criteria, and salary negotiation options to build trust.

3. What can managers do to motivate employees with social needs?

Addressing social needs involves cultivating an inclusive community within the organization. Team-building exercises, social gatherings, mentorship initiatives, and transparent communication can foster a sense of belonging. Motivation is heightened when employees feel appreciated and integrated within their teams.

• Develop mother’s rooms – Providing clean, private lactation rooms supports new mothers’ needs to pump breast milk during work hours.
• Train supervisors in mental health first aid – Equip leaders to recognize signs of depression, anxiety, substance abuse and properly intervene or connect employees with help.
• Develop a mentorship program – Allow experienced employees to mentor newer ones to establish interpersonal bonds and a sense of support.
• Model inclusive language and behavior – Use words and actions that are welcoming and respectful to all groups.
• Share vulnerability and imperfections – Leaders should open up on mistakes, challenges, and lessons learned to humanize the workplace.

4. What can managers do to motivate employees with esteem needs?

To cater to esteem needs, organizations should implement recognition systems, merit-based promotions, and leadership roles.

• Leverage unique talents – Properly designated titles that reflect an individual’s role and status can also be beneficial.
• Make the most of performance reviews – Regular performance evaluations not only offer recognition but also highlight areas for growth, feeding into the employees’ need for esteem. Thoroughly highlight strengths, progress made, and areas of influence.
• Entrust employees with mentoring roles – Having them share knowledge and coach others recognizes their expertise.

What can managers do to motivate employees with self-actualization needs?

For self-actualization, organizations should ensure that job roles align with employees’ talents and passions. By empowering employees, presenting them with challenges, and fostering an environment that encourages innovation, organizations can facilitate their journey toward self-actualization.

• Foster innovation – Dedicate time and resources for experimenting with new ideas without pressure.
• Sponsor continuing education – Provide tuition reimbursement or subsidies for advanced courses and certificate programs. Offer paid time for relevant reading, online courses, conferences, and seminars.

The hierarchy provides a framework for understanding patients as multifaceted human beings.

Patient care should be holistic, not just medical. Nurses must assess and address the spectrum of patient needs – physical, mental, emotional, and social (Jackson et al., 2014; Toney-Butler & Thayer, 2023). Doing so motivates greater engagement in care, faster healing, and improved outcomes.

• Physiological needs – Ensure patients have adequate nutrition, hydration, pain control, sleep, and physical comfort. Address pain that hinders sleep and recovery.

Explain tests, treatments, and medications to patients to relieve anxiety. Keep patient info confidential. Foster a climate of trust through compassionate listening. Prevent medication errors.

• Belongingness – Loneliness impedes healing. Make patients feel welcomed and included. Introduce them to other patients. Allow for family visitation and spiritual practices.
• Esteem – Show respect through courteous communication and cultural sensitivity. Maintain dignity and privacy. Empower patients in care decisions. Explain care in an easy-to-understand way. Listen attentively to their concerns. Make them feel valued.
• Self-actualization – Align care with patient values and aspirations. Perhaps share motivational stories of those with similar diagnoses who stayed active. Or provide resources on coping with grief over health changes.

Maslow’s (1962) hierarchy of needs theory has made a major contribution to teaching and classroom management in schools. Rather than reducing behavior to a response in the environment , Maslow (1970a) adopts a holistic approach to education and learning.

Maslow looks at the complete physical, emotional, social, and intellectual qualities of an individual and how they impact learning.

Applications of Maslow’s hierarchy theory to the work of the classroom teacher are obvious. Before a student’s cognitive needs can be met, they must first fulfill their basic physiological needs.

For example, a tired and hungry student will find it difficult to focus on learning. Students need to feel emotionally and physically safe and accepted within the classroom to progress and reach their full potential.

Maslow suggests students must be shown that they are valued and respected in the classroom, and the teacher should create a supportive environment. Students with a low self-esteem will not progress academically at an optimum rate until their self-esteem is strengthened.

Maslow’s hierarchy provides a humanistic lens for teaching the whole child.

Maslow (1971, p. 195) argued that a humanistic educational approach would develop people who are “stronger, healthier, and would take their own lives into their hands to a greater extent. With increased personal responsibility for one’s personal life, and with a rational set of values to guide one’s choosing, people would begin to actively change the society in which they lived”.

Here are some ways a teacher can apply Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in the classroom:

• Physiological – Ensure students have access to water, food, restroom breaks, and movement. Allow snacks, flexible seating, and adequate breaks.
• Safety – Maintain an orderly classroom with clear expectations. Prevent bullying. Build trust through consistency and fairness. Allow students to make mistakes safely.
• Belongingness – Facilitate community and collaboration. Foster teamwork through group projects. Learn student names and backgrounds. Appreciate diversity.
• Esteem – Recognize student strengths and progress. Display student work. Empower leadership roles like line leader or tech helper. Praise efforts, not just achievement.
• Self-Actualization – Help students pursue interests creatively. Assign passion projects. Encourage goal-setting. Provide enrichment opportunities. Support challenging oneself.

When these foundational needs are met, students are more motivated to learn and perform well academically. But needs fluctuate. Be observant and nurture needs as they arise. 

Critical Evaluation

The most significant limitation of Maslow’s theory concerns his methodology. Maslow formulated the characteristics of self-actualized individuals by undertaking a qualitative method called biographical analysis.

He looked at the biographies and writings of 18 people he identified as being self-actualized. From these sources, he developed a list of qualities that seemed characteristic of this specific group of people, as opposed to humanity in general.

From a scientific perspective , there are numerous problems with this particular approach. First, it could be argued that biographical analysis as a method is extremely subjective as it is based entirely on the opinion of the researcher. Personal opinion is always prone to bias, which reduces the validity of any data obtained. Therefore Maslow’s operational definition of self-actualization must not be blindly accepted as scientific fact.

Furthermore, Maslow’s biographical analysis focused on a biased sample of self-actualized individuals, prominently limited to highly educated white males (such as Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Albert Einstein, William James , Aldous Huxley, Beethoven).

Although Maslow (1970) did study self-actualized females, such as Eleanor Roosevelt and Mother Teresa, they comprised a small proportion of his sample . This makes it difficult to generalize his theory to females and individuals from lower social classes or different ethnicity. Thus questioning the population validity of Maslow’s findings.

Furthermore, it is extremely difficult to empirically test Maslow’s concept of self-actualization in a way that causal relationships can be established. It is difficult to tell in Maslow’s theory where the scientific leaves off and the inspiration begins. His theory is seen as more speculative than empirically proven, with a tendency to substitute rhetoric for research.

Another criticism concerns Maslow’s assumption that the lower needs must be satisfied before a person can achieve their potential and self-actualize. This is not always the case, and therefore Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in some aspects has been falsified .

Through examining cultures in which large numbers of people live in poverty (such as India), it is clear that people are still capable of higher-order needs such as love and belongingness. However, this should not occur, as according to Maslow, people who have difficulty achieving very basic physiological needs (such as food, shelter, etc.) are not capable of meeting higher growth needs.

Also, many creative people, such as authors and artists (e.g., Rembrandt and Van Gogh) lived in poverty throughout their lifetime, yet it could be argued that they achieved self-actualization.

Psychologists now conceptualize motivation as a pluralistic behavior, whereby needs can operate on many levels simultaneously. A person may be motivated by higher growth needs at the same time as lower-level deficiency needs (Wahba & Bridwell, 1973).

Contemporary research by Tay and Diener (2011) has tested Maslow’s theory by analyzing the data of 60,865 participants from 123 countries, representing every major region of the world. The survey was conducted from 2005 to 2010.

Respondents answered questions about six needs that closely resemble those in Maslow’s model: basic needs (food, shelter); safety; social needs (love, support); respect; mastery; and autonomy. They also rated their well-being across three discrete measures: life evaluation (a person’s view of his or her life as a whole), positive feelings (day-to-day instances of joy or pleasure), and negative feelings (everyday experiences of sorrow, anger, or stress).

The results of the study support the view that universal human needs appear to exist regardless of cultural differences. However, the ordering of the needs within the hierarchy was not correct.

“Although the most basic needs might get the most attention when you don”t have them,” Diener explains, “you don”t need to fulfill them in order to get benefits [from the others].” Even when we are hungry, for instance, we can be happy with our friends. “They”re like vitamins,” Diener says about how the needs work independently. “We need them all.”

Maslow’s theory differs from more purely physiological representations of human motivation because motivation is seen as being not just concerned with tension reduction and survival but also with human growth and development.

While Maslow’s work was indeed relatively informal and clinically descriptive, it did provide a rich source of ideas, and as such, a framework for discussing the richness and complexity of human motivation that goes beyond homeostatic models and other biological models.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the weaknesses of maslow’s theory.

Maslow proposes a positive view of humans, however, it could be argued that this might not be very realistic when considering everyday reality such as domestic violence and genocides.

Furthermore, the hierarchy’s focus on meeting our needs and fulfilling our growth potential reflects an individualistic, self-obsessed outlook that is part of the problem faced by our society rather than a solution.

How many levels are there in Maslow’s pyramid of needs?

There are five levels in Maslow’s pyramid. From the bottom of the hierarchy upwards, the needs are: physiological (food and clothing), safety (job security), love and belonging needs (friendship), esteem, and self-actualization.

Maslow asserted that so long as basic needs necessary for survival were met (e.g., food, water, shelter), higher-level needs (e.g., social needs) would begin to motivate behavior.

Why is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs important?

Maslow’s theory has given rise to a new way to look at people’s needs. For example, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is widely used in health and social work as a framework for assessing clients’ needs.

Problems or difficult circumstances at one point in a person’s life can cause them to fixate on a particular set of needs, and this can affect their future happiness.

For example, a person who lived through a period of extreme deprivation and lack of security in early childhood may fixate on physiological and safety needs. These remain salient even if they are satisfied.

So even if this person later has everything they need they may nonetheless obsess over money or keeping enough food in the fridge.

This, for Maslow, was the root cause of many ‘neurotic’ mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression.

What is at the top of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

According to Maslow, the highest-level needs relate to self-actualization, a process by which we achieve our full potential.

Self-actualizing people have both a more efficient perception of reality and more comfortable relations with it. This includes the detection of what is phony and/or dishonest and the accurate perception of what really exists – rather than a distortion of perception by one’s needs.

Self-actualizers accept themselves, others and nature. They are not ashamed or guilty about being human, with shortcomings, imperfections, frailties, and weaknesses.

Nor are they critical of these aspects in other people. They respect and esteem themselves and others.

Geller, L. (1982). The failure of self-actualization theory: A critique of Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 22, 56–73.

Hoffman, E. (1988). The right to be human: A biography of Abraham Maslow . Los Angeles, CA: Jeremy P. Tarcher.

Ivtzan, I. (2008). Self actualisation: For individualistic cultures only? International Journal on Humanistic Ideology, 1 , 113–140.

Jackson, J. C., Santoro, M. J., Ely, T. M., Boehm, L., Kiehl, A. L., Anderson, L. S., & Ely, E. W. (2014). Improving patient care through the prism of psychology: Application of Maslow’s hierarchy to sedation, delirium, and early mobility in the intensive care unit.  Journal of Critical Care ,  29 (3), 438-444.

Jerome, N. (2013). Application of the Maslow’s hierarchy of need theory; impacts and implications on organizational culture, human resource and employee’s performance.  International Journal of Business and Management Invention ,  2 (3), 39-45.

Kenrick, D. T., Neuberg, S. L., Griskevicius, V., Becker, D. V., & Schaller, M. (2010). Goal-driven cognition and functional behavior: The fundamental-motives framework . Current Directions in Psychological Science, 19 (1), 63-67.

King-Hill, S. (2015). Critical analysis of Maslow’s hierarchy of need.  The STeP Journal (Student Teacher Perspectives) ,  2 (4), 54-57.

Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation . Psychological Review, 50 (4), 370-96.

Maslow, A. H. (1954). Motivation and personality . New York: Harper and Row.

Maslow, A. H. (1962). Toward a psychology of being . Princeton: D. Van Nostrand Company.

Maslow, A. H. (1970a). Motivation and personality . New York: Harper & Row.

Maslow, A. H. (1970b). Religions, values, and peak experiences. New York: Penguin. (Original work published 1966)

Maslow, A. H. (1987). Motivation and personality (3rd ed.) . Delhi, India: Pearson Education.

Mittelman, W. (1991). Maslow’s study of self-actualization: A reinterpretation.  Journal of Humanistic Psychology ,  31 (1), 114-135.

Neher, A. (1991). Maslow’s theory of motivation: A critique. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 31 , 89–112.

Tay, L., & Diener, E. (2011). Needs and subjective well-being around the world . Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 101 (2), 354-356.

Toney-Butler, T.J., & Thayer, J.M. (2023, April 10). Nursing Process. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499937/

Wahba, M. A., & Bridwell, L. G. (1976). Maslow reconsidered: A review of research on the need hierarchy theory . Organizational Behavior and Human Performance, 15 (2), 212-240.

Wulff, D. M., & Maslow, A. H. (1965). Religions, values, and peak-experiences. The Journal of Higher Education, 36 (4), 235.

Further Information

• Maslow’s Theories
• Maslow Hierarchy of Needs Infographic Poster
• Hierarchy of Needs
• Maslow Reconsidered: A Review of Research on the Need Hierarchy Theor
• BBC Radio 4 Programme: Maslow and the Hierarchy of Needs
• Questionnaire: Are you self-actualized? How to Write a Psychology Essay

Hierarchy of Needs and Nursing

• A Nursing Diagnosis Using Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
• Improving Patient Care Through the Prism of Psychology: application of Maslow’s Hierarchy to Sedation, Delirium and Early Mobility in the ICU
• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Adapted for Nursing (Image)

Hierarchy of Needs in the Workplace

• Organizational Culture, Human Resource and Employee’s Performance
• Improving Workplace Productivity: Applications of Maslow’s Need Theory and Locke’s Goal-Setting

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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs essay

Abraham Maslow was a psychologist who founded what later became known as the humanistic school of psychology. His principal subject of study was human motivation. He is most famous today for developing his ‘hierarchy of needs’, which explains people’s motivation and behaviour as the results of different sets of needs which drive them. Although Maslow’s ideas were not immediately accepted by his fellow psychologists, they were picked up and adapted by a number of prominent organisation theorists, notably Rensis Likert, Frederick Herzberg and Douglas McGregor, who used the hierarchy of needs to explain many aspects of organisation behaviour.

The hierarchy of needs concept also has important implications for marketing in explaining consumer behaviour. It remains a highly important concept in both fields (Rose, M. , 1978). Maslow was born in New York City on 1 April 1908, the son of Russian immigrants. He studied psychology at the University of Wisconsin, completing his BA in 1930 and his PhD in 1934. He taught psychology at Brooklyn College from 1937 to 1951, and then moved to Brandeis University where he set up and chaired the psychology department.

In 1961 he retired from Brandeis and moved to California, where he worked with several research centres. He died at Menlo Park, California on 8 June 1970. At the fourth level are the esteem needs. These encompass the desire for status, self-respect, adequacy, confidence, independence, reputation, prestige, recognition, attention, and appreciation. Basically, these needs are concerned with feeling good about oneself and having others recognize one’s worth as a person—the need for self-respect and the need for respect from others.

At the top of the hierarchy are the self-actualization needs. Maslow described these as the being needs because they are concerned with a person’s being all that he or she can be. These needs include personal growth, creativity, and realization of potential, autonomy, and intellectual vitality. These are the needs to fulfil one’s highest potentialities; however the individual might define those potentialities (Kardiner, 1941). The hierarchy of needs is a general framework for understanding human motivation that provides some important insights into a complex process.

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It illustrates, for example, that there is an underlying logical pattern of motivation, a progression from one level to another as a person seeks to satisfy different needs. Granted, specific individuals do not always follow the pattern in a step-by-step, mechanical fashion, but the majority of people tend to follow the pattern most of the time (McGregor, 1960). Inherent in the concept of a hierarchy of human needs, and central to its application in an organizational setting, is the premise that a satisfied need no longer motivates behavior.

As one need becomes relatively well satisfied, another need becomes preeminent. For example, a person who is hungry will be motivated by the need for food, but once he or she has eaten, the offer of additional food will not move that person to action. According to Maslow, it is also important to note that a need does not have to be completely satisfied before the emergence of another need is felt. The need only has to be relatively well satisfied, as defined by the individual, before a person begins to seek satisfaction of other needs.

In the context of designing effective compensation programs, one should bear in mind that the lower-order needs—physiological and safety—are primarily satisfied by the direct and indirect components of compensation (i. e. , wages, salaries, and benefits). It is the psychological component of compensation that addresses social, esteem, and self-actualization needs (Fromm, 1941). Maslow’s intellectual influences were many, and included not only the psychology of Freud and Wilhelm Reich, but also the Gestalt theories of Kurt Goldstein and the pragmatic philosophy of William James and John Dewey.

His work on human motivation began in the 1940s; its first full exposition came in his book Motivation and Personality (1954). Rejecting both the psychoanalytical and behavioural schools of psychology, Maslow sought an explanation for human motivation in the inner core that he felt all humans possessed (Abrahamm 1943). This inner core is not inherited or genetic: indeed, Maslow strongly rejects biological determinism. Rather, it is composed of a complex assortment of feelings, emotions, desires, needs and wants.

Everyone has this core, but its composition can differ from person to person, and it manifests itself in each individual in different ways at different times. Our needs are not static, says Maslow; as we satisfy one need, others on the hierarchy then become more manifest and must be satisfied in turn. This work was considered highly unorthodox at the time of its publication, so much so that for a time Maslow was virtually ostracised in the American psychological community; it was not until much later that he was recognised as a true pioneer in psychology and his work given the attention it deserved.

The hierarchy of needs suggests that all human beings are motivated to undertake actions-including purchasing goods and services, and going to work-by their inner needs. These needs can be classified into various types. Not every type of need is of equal importance at any given time: Maslow says that some needs will always override others. Once these dominant needs are satisfied, however, other needs then demand attention and our behaviour changes as we seek to satisfy these.

For example, when we are hungry, that need tends to override all others and our behaviour is dominated by the need for food. Once we have eaten, however, the need for food is satisfied and then other needs come into play. This progression from one set of needs to another, results in a ‘hierarchy’ of needs. Where we are on this hierarchy at any given moment determines much of our motivation and actions, both as consumers and in the workplace. Maslow grouped our needs into five categories in ascending order: 1 physiological need;

2 safety needs; 3 belongingness and love needs; 4 esteem needs; 5 self-actualisation needs (McGregor, 1960). Those needs at the bottom of the hierarchy are the most prepotent; that is, they override other needs further up the hierarchy. They are also, in most ordinary life, the needs most easily met. Those at or near the top are the most complex and difficult to satisfy; indeed, many people never get as far as the fifth stage of the hierarchy. Maslow (1943) first presented the hierarchy of needs theory of human motivation in 1943.

It is by far the best known of the various motivation theories and, while lacking in scientific proof, offers some sound insights into understanding human behavior. According to Maslow, all human beings have five broad categories of needs they endeavor to satisfy: physiological, safety, social, esteem, and self-actualization. These needs are arranged in an ascending hierarchical fashion from lowest (physiological) to highest (self-actualization). The needs vary in their degree of prepotency or urgency. The lower-level needs are the most prepotent because their satisfaction is essential to a person’s survival.

As the lower-level needs become reasonably well satisfied, the higher-order needs assume increasing importance as causal factors in human behavior. Physiological needs are comprised of those things required to maintain and sustain life, such as food, air, water, sleep, shelter, and physical survival. These needs are basic because if they are not satisfied life cannot be sus-tained for very long. Moreover, some reasonable degree of satisfaction is also essential if the quality of a person’s life is to be adequate enough to allow the person to pursue the satisfaction of other needs.

Safety needs are concerned with protection from danger, risk, uncertainty, or threats to one’s person. Physical safety, situational stability, economic security, freedom from fear or anxiety, and the desire for order are examples of general safety needs. In the workplace safety needs would include job security, safe working conditions, and freedom from physical or mental harm (Herzberg, 1966). At the third level in the hierarchy are the social needs such as love, affection, meaningful relationships with other people, and occupying an important place in a group.

Off the job these needs are fulfilled through family, friends, neighbors, and belonging to social groups, such as bowling teams or service clubs. Social needs are reflective of the gregarious nature of human beings. Once the survival and protection needs of the first two levels in the hierarchy are reasonably well satisfied, social needs assume importance as a motivator of behavior. Physiological needs are requirements for the basic things that allow us to live, such as air, water and food.

We may lack many things in life, but if we lack food, we will probably choose to eat before doing anything else. Moreover, as Maslow notes, we will choose to make the search for food the most important thing in our lives, and, depending on how hungry we are, this desire for food will tend to override other ideas which we might otherwise think of as important, such as freedom, love, ethical behaviour towards our fellows and so on. In economic terms, a hungry man will buy food before he buys a car; a hungry woman will take a job for lower wages than one who has enough to eat (Herzberg, 1966).

However, once the need for food and other basic necessities for life to continue are filled, our outlook changes. As soon as physiological needs are met, says Maslow, then ‘at once other (and higher) needs emerge, and these, rather than physiological hungers, dominate the organism’ (Maslow, 1954, p. 38). The next set of needs constitute what Maslow terms safety needs. These can be described generally as the need for physical security for ourselves and those we are close to, which manifests itself in a desire for security, stability, law and order, and freedom from physical threat.

In civilised societies where the threat of physical violence is comparatively rare, we can still see safety needs manifested in areas such as desire for job stability and security, the need for protection against illness and old age through insurance and pensions, and so on. Safety needs also manifest themselves more generally in a common preference for familiar over unfamiliar things and an avoidance of situations where we are uncertain or do not know how to react (Herzberg, 1966).

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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Physiological needs, safety needs, love and belonging needs, esteem needs, self-actualization needs.

• Progression

Abraham Maslow developed his hierarchy of needs theory in 1943. Maslow's theory is based on the belief that human behavior is motivated by meeting five types of needs in a specific order:

• Physiological needs
• Love and belonging
• Self-esteem
• Self-actualization

This article discusses the hierarchy of needs, including how a person progresses through the levels, examples of each need, and criticisms of Maslow's theory.

What Is the Hierarchy of Needs?

The purpose of Maslow's hierarchy of needs was to better understand what motivates human behavior. Maslow also wanted to understand what made people happy, and what may prevent them from achieving a satisfying, fulfilling life.

The hierarchy is often represented as a pyramid, with more basic needs at the bottom (physiological needs) and higher needs (self-actualization) at the top. Maslow believed that a person's basic needs must be met before higher needs can be addressed.

The first four levels of needs in the pyramid are sometimes called "deficiency needs." At the lower levels, a person is deprived of something and is motivated to get it. For example, if a person goes without food, they are motivated by hunger. Once that hunger is satisfied, the motivation for food decreases.

The highest level—self-actualization—is referred to as a "growth" need. When needs are met at this level, a person becomes even more motivated for personal growth.

Physiological needs are at the base of the pyramid of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. These basic needs must be met for a person to survive:

Beyond survival, meeting these needs first is essential to creating a foundation for the other needs. When basic needs like food, water, and shelter are not being met, survival instincts kick in. A person who is going without these basic needs won’t be able to think of anything else because their instincts tell them they will die if their needs cannot be met. 

Safety and security are the next level of human needs. Many aspects of life are included in this level:

• Financial security
• Job security
• Physical and emotional health
• Safety from physical danger
• Law and order in society

In the same way that humans will be preoccupied with their basic needs, the need for safety can also dominate a person’s thoughts if it’s not met. A person without a safe place to be in the world or a sense of stability may be ruled by fear and anxiety. 

The third level of needs, called love and belonging, includes:

• Friendships
• Belonging to a "group"
• Connecting with others

Maslow believed that everyone needs to love and be loved. He also believed that  depression ,  anxiety , and loneliness were caused by unmet needs at this level of the hierarchy. In general, humans are social and need to interact with others in supportive, meaningful ways. When a person is isolated and lonely, it can have detrimental effects on their mental and physical health.

The fourth level of the hierarchy is esteem needs. These needs include how a person views themselves ( self-esteem ) as well as the way they are seen by others. Esteem needs include:

• Independence
• Achievement
• Recognition

Having goals and a sense of achievement in one’s life is important for growth and confidence. People who lack self-esteem can develop feelings of inferiority and may lose their motivation to try harder if they’re convinced that they will fail. 

Self-actualization needs are at the top of Maslow's hierarchy of needs pyramid. This level represents personal growth or reaching your full potential. These needs are specific to each person but may include being a great parent, an accomplished athlete, a professional artist, or an excellent student.

Self-actualization is seen as the pinnacle of functioning as a person, having the most life satisfaction, and having a strong sense of well-being.

Expanded Hierarchy of Needs

During the 1960s and 1970s, Maslow added more levels of needs to the hierarchy of needs. Here is the expanded version:

• Safety needs
• Love and belonging needs
• Esteem needs
• Cognitive needs (knowledge and understanding)
• Aesthetic needs (symmetry, appreciation of beauty)
• Self-actualization needs
• Transcendence needs (religion, mystical beliefs, ethics, science)

Examples of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Here are a few real-world examples of Maslow’s needs at play:

• Physiological: An explorer gets separated from their team while researching in a remote jungle. They go into “survival mode” and focus only on finding food, safe water, and shelter.
• Safety: A child grows up in a chaotic, abusive home. They are constantly trying to “read” their caregivers to avoid violence. The hypervigilance is exhausting, and they can’t focus on schoolwork.
• Love and belonging: A teen struggles to make friends at school. They are never invited to parties and sit alone at lunch. They feel a deep sense of loneliness, isolation, and depression.
• Self-esteem: An employee works hard for a promotion. They want their boss to value their contributions at work They also want to be valuable to their coworkers.
• Self-actualization: An older adult retires from their job. They enjoy volunteering in their community by running the local food pantry and leading story time at the town library.

Progressing Through the Hierarchy of Needs

Once a person's basic needs are met, they can progress to the next level of the hierarchy. For example, once a person has their physical and emotional needs met, they can work on personal goals and try to reach their full potential.

At first, Maslow stated that a person had to progress through the hierarchy of needs in order. However, later in his career, he said that the hierarchy of needs could differ from person to person based on individual circumstances. For example, a person might have a stronger need for recognition by others (a level four need) than feeling loved by others (a level three need).

Criticism of the Hierarchy of Needs

Even though Maslow’s hierarchy is very popular, other psychologists have criticized it. Here are a few criticisms of Maslow’s theory:

• The theory was not based on a diverse group: Maslow came up with his idea of a "self-actualized" person based on qualities demonstrated by 18 mostly Caucasian, highly educated men from Western backgrounds. Therefore, his findings were not based on the general population. In later years, Maslow did include research on self-actualized women, but they were of a "higher class" and not from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
• The hierarchy may not need to be followed in order: Critics of Maslow’s theory have argued that individuals may not need to pursue them in order. Even Maslow ultimately decided that the order of needs could be personal.
• The pyramid assumes that needs are universal. Maslow's hierarchy of needs assumes that everyone puts the same value on different needs. However, for some people, finding love (a level three need) might be more important than financial security (a level two need). Cultural differences are also not considered in the hierarchy. Similarly, the theory assumes that sex is a need for all people. In reality, sexuality is a spectrum, and some people are fulfilled without having sex as part of their lives.
• Self-actualization can be achieved even if lower needs are not met: Psychologists have argued that people who do not have their basic needs met can achieve some level of self-actualization, as is evidenced by people who succeed despite facing socioeconomic challenges like living in poverty or experiencing child abuse.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a psychological theory based on the idea that human behavior is motivated by needs These needs must be met in order, from basic needs for survival like food, water, and shelter to higher-level needs like love and self-esteem.

Maslow's theory has been criticized based on its rigidity and lack of diversity. It’s also not necessary for everyone to go through the needs in order or even to view the needs as having the same importance as Maslow’s hierarchy suggests.

Henwood BF, Derejko KS, Couture J, Padgett DK. Maslow and mental health recovery: a comparative study of homeless programs for adults with serious mental illness .  Adm Policy Ment Health . 2015;42(2):220-228. doi:10.1007%2Fs10488-014-0542-8

Boeree, G. Abraham Maslow .

Wichita State University. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs .

Maslow, A. A theory of human motivation (1943) .

Eze S. Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs and assessment of needs in community development . International Journal of Development and Economic Sustainability. 2017;5(7):15-27.

University of Missouri. Challenging Maslow’s hierarchy of needs: exploring perspectives of Latino migrant adolescents in U.S. agriculture .

Henwood BF, Derejko KS, Couture J, Padgett DK. Maslow and mental health recovery: a comparative study of homeless programs for adults with serious mental illness .  Adm Policy Ment Health . 2015;42(2):220-228. doi:10.1007/s10488-014-0542-8

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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

What is maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is one of the most prominent psychological theories that explain individual motivation . Published in his seminal paper, ‘A theory of human motivation’, Abraham Maslow, an American psychologist and professor, depicted human needs as five hierarchical levels within a pyramid (Maslow, 1943).

Figure 1: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Source: Campbell and Craig (2012, p.609)

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs implies that individuals must satisfy their lower-level needs before they can attend a higher set of needs. As you can see from the figure above, there are five levels of needs, which depict individuals’ inborn desire to self-actualise. Let’s take a closer look at these needs.

Level 1: Physiological needs

The lowest level of human needs, also known as physiological needs, is made up of the most basic, biological needs, which represent the basic physical requirements of any individual. Amongst other things, these requirements include the need for food, oxygen, shelter, and water and form the basis for the pyramid. Within the scope of Maslow’s framework, these needs are the strongest ones since if an individual is deprived of all needs, they will strive to address the physiological needs in the first place. Indeed, you are unlikely to think about personal growth if you are starving, for example (Maslow, 1981). All you can think about in this situation is how to eat something because without food your body cannot function optimally. At this point, all other needs become of secondary importance until your stomach is full again.

Level 2: Safety needs

Once the needs for food (and other physiological needs) are met, the need for safety and security becomes prominent. According to Maslow, individuals strive to minimise risks and uncertainty, meaning they want predictability and order in their lives. They also want to be secure in the knowledge that this safety and security need will be addressed in the future too (Campbell and Craig, 2012). For example, medical care, police, business, and education are amongst the things that allow us to fulfil our safety and security needs. In the organisational context, this need is often addressed by financial remuneration and a safe workplace. Social and financial stability is what provides safety against external pressures and accidents. Together, the first two levels of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs make up the basic needs.

Level 3: Belongingness and love needs

At the third level in the hierarchy of needs by Maslow is social needs, which involves feelings of love and belongingness (Smith, 2017). Once the needs for security and safety are addressed, individuals strive to establish a give-and-take relationship with others in their attempt to overcome the feeling of alienation, depression, and loneliness. Examples of social needs include friendship, acceptance, trust, and love. The role of these needs in the organisational context is also significant since a lack of acceptance and poor relationships with colleagues can have a devastating effect on one’s motivation, engagement, and productivity in the workplace.

Level 4: Esteem needs

Similarly to the first three levels of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, esteem needs are attributed to deficiency needs, which arise because of deprivation. In other words, these needs are said to motivate individuals when they are unaddressed (Smith, 2017). Maslow categorised the esteem needs into two groups, namely (a) esteem for oneself and (b) the desire for respect and reputation from others. Have you ever wanted your efforts to be recognised by others? This is an example of the esteem need. It is quite natural to need to sense that you are valued and that your contribution to the world is important to others. Your personal hobbies, the acquisition of an academic degree, and participation in social and professional activities can all contribute to the satisfaction of your esteem needs.

Level 5: Self-actualisation

Self-actualisation, according to Maslow’s classification, is a being or growth need. What distinguishes it from the lower-level needs is that it does not stem from a lack of something. Instead, the need for self-actualisation is driven by one’s desire to realise their potential to its fullest. This need can be developed and addressed only after all the aforementioned needs are addressed. It does not mean, however, that need satisfaction is an ‘all-or-none’ phenomenon. In his later works, Maslow (1987) admitted that a need must not be satisfied 100% before the subsequent need emerges. That means that you can feel a desire to become the most you can be even if your self-esteem needs are not fully addressed.

Using the Tool

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs can be used in a variety of contexts, making it a really useful model when it comes to analysing employee motivation and engagement. But you should not think about this framework as a process or instrument when exploring the issue of employee motivation. Instead, it is more beneficial to approach Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as an idea of what drives employees. From this standpoint, workers have numerous needs that must be met to build and maintain a high level of motivation. You should remember that salary and financial bonuses only address the first two levels of the pyramid. Even if employees are well-paid and provided with a high level of job security, they can still experience a lack of motivation and satisfaction. This is because their higher-level needs are not addressed. Job enrichment, cross-training, involvement in the decision-making process, and recognition are just a few examples of how it is possible to address one’s esteem and self-actualisation needs (Smith, 2017).

Getting Help with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Applying Maslow’s hierarchy of needs when writing a business or marketing report or a dissertation might be a tricky and challenging task. This is because the framework is usually used in conjunction with other strategic management instruments, adding to the overall complexity of the analysis process. If you are looking for the help of a reliable academic writing service with guaranteed top grades , we believe that your search is over. With a team of highly experienced academic writers , we make sure your report or dissertation meets the highest quality requirements and standards of your university.

Campbell, D. and Craig, T. (2012) Organisations and the business environment , London: Routledge.

Maslow, A. (1943) “A theory of human motivation”, Psychological Review , 50 (4), pp. 370-396.

Maslow, A. (1981) Motivation and personality , New Delhi: Prabhat Prakashan.

Maslow, A. (1987) Motivation and personality , 3 rd ed., Delhi: Pearson Education.

Smith, L. (2017) Meet Maslow: How understanding the priorities of those around us can lead to harmony and improvement , Scotts Valley: CreateSpace Independent.

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Beyond Intractability

The Hyper-Polarization Challenge to the Conflict Resolution Field: A Joint BI/CRQ Discussion BI and the Conflict Resolution Quarterly invite you to participate in an online exploration of what those with conflict and peacebuilding expertise can do to help defend liberal democracies and encourage them live up to their ideals.

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By Sandra Marker

August 2003  

What Human Needs Are

Humans need a number of essentials to survive. According to the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow and the conflict scholar John Burton, these essentials go beyond just food, water, and shelter. They include both physical and non-physical elements needed for human growth and development, as well as all those things humans are innately driven to attain.

For Maslow, needs are hierarchical in nature. That is, each need has a specific ranking or order of obtainment. Maslow's needs pyramid starts with the basic items of food, water, and shelter. These are followed by the need for safety and security, then belonging or love, self-esteem, and finally, personal fulfillment.[1] Burton and other needs theorists who have adopted Maslow's ideas to conflict theory, however, perceive human needs in a different way -- as an emergent collection of human development essentials.[2] Furthermore, they contend needs do not have a hierarchical order. Rather, needs are sought simultaneously in an intense and relentless manner.[3] Needs theorists' list of human essentials include:

• Safety/ Security -- the need for structure, predictability, stability, and freedom from fear and anxiety.
• Belongingness/Love -- the need to be accepted by others and to have strong personal ties with one's family, friends, and identity groups.
• Self-esteem -- the need to be recognized by oneself and others as strong, competent, and capable. It also includes the need to know that one has some effect on her/his environment.
• Personal fulfillment -- the need to reach one's potential in all areas of life.
• Identity -- goes beyond a psychological "sense of self." Burton and other human needs theorists define identity as a sense of self in relation to the outside world. Identity becomes a problem when one's identity is not recognized as legitimate , or when it is considered inferior or is threatened by others with different identifications.
• Cultural security -- is related to identity, the need for recognition of one's language, traditions, religion, cultural values, ideas, and concepts.
• Freedom -- is the condition of having no physical, political, or civil restraints; having the capacity to exercise choice in all aspects of one's life.
• Distributive justice -- is the need for the fair allocation of resources among all members of a community.
• Participation -- is the need to be able to actively partake in and influence civil society .

Why the Concept of Human Needs Matters

Human needs theorists argue that one of the primary causes of protracted or intractable conflict is people's unyielding drive to meet their unmet needs on the individual, group, and societal level.[4] For example, the Palestinian conflict involves the unmet needs of identity and security. Countless Palestinians feel that their legitimate identity is being denied them, both personally and nationally. Numerous Israelis feel they have no security individually because of suicide bombings, nationally because their state is not recognized by many of their close neighbors, and culturally because anti-Semitism is growing worldwide. Israeli and Palestinian unmet needs directly and deeply affect all the other issues associated with this conflict. Consequently, if a resolution is to be found, the needs of Palestinian identity and Israeli security must be addressed and satisfied on all levels.

Arguments For the Human Needs Approach

Human needs theorists offer a new dimension to conflict theory. Their approach provides an important conceptual tool that not only connects and addresses human needs on all levels. Furthermore, it recognizes the existence of negotiable and nonnegotiable issues.[5] That is, needs theorists understand that needs, unlike interests, cannot be traded, suppressed, or bargained for.[6] Thus, the human needs approach makes a case for turning away from traditional negotiation models that do not take into account nonnegotiable issues. These include interest-based negotiation models that view conflict in terms of win-win or other consensus-based solutions, and conventional power models (primarily used in the field of negotiation and international relations) that construct conflict and conflict management in terms of factual and zero-sum game perspectives.[7]

The human needs approach, on the other hand, supports collaborative and multifaceted problem-solving models and related techniques, such as problem-solving workshops or an analytical problem-solving process. These models take into account the complexity of human life and the insistent nature of human needs.[8] Problem-solving approaches also analyze the fundamental sources of conflict , while maintaining a focus on fulfilling peoples' unmet needs. In addition, they involve the interested parties in finding and developing acceptable ways to meet the needs of all concerned.

Human needs theorists further understand that although needs cannot be compromised , they can be addressed in a generally win-win or positive-sum way.[9] An example of this win-win or positive sum process can be gleaned from the Kosovo conflict. When the Albanians obtained protective security, the Serbs also gained this protection, so both sides gained.[10]

Arguments Against the Human Needs Approach

However, many questions and uncertainties surround the human needs approach to solving conflicts. For instance, how can one define human needs? How can one know what needs are involved in conflict situations? How can one know what human needs are being met and unmet? Are human needs cultural or universal in nature? If they are cultural, is the analysis of human needs beneficial beyond a specific conflict? Are some needs inherently more important than others? If some needs are more important, should these be pursued first?

Other critics of the human needs approach assert that many conflicts involve both needs and interests. So, conflict resolution cannot come about by just meeting human needs. For example, when looking at the Palestinian/Israeli conflict, it is understood that both needs (identity, security, freedom) and interests (i.e., resource allocation, international boundaries) are involved. Consequently, even if the needs of both parties get met, the conflict will probably not be resolved. Resolution can only come about when both needs and interests are dealt with.[11]

Nevertheless, most scholars and practitioners agree that issues of identity , security , and recognition , are critical in many or even most intractable conflicts. They may not be the only issue, but they are one of the important issues that must be dealt with if an intractable conflict is to be transformed . Ignoring the underlying needs and just negotiating the interests may at times lead to a short-term settlement, but it rarely will lead to long-term resolution.

[1] Jay Rothman, Resolving Identity-Based Conflict in Nations, Organizations, and Communities (San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass Publishers, 1997)

[2] John Burton, Conflict Resolution and Prevention (New York: St. Martins Press, 1990)

[3] Jay Rothman, 1997

[4] Terrell A. Northrup, "The Dynamic of Identity in Personal and Social Conflict," in Intractable Conflicts and their Transformation , ed. Louis Kriesberg, Terrell A. Northrup and Stuart J. Thorson (Syracuse, New York: Syracuse University Press, 1989), 55-82.

[5] Roger A. Coate and Jerel A. Rosati, "Human Needs in World Society," in The Power of Human Needs in World Society, ed. Roger A. Coate and Jerel A. Rosati (Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1988), 1-20.

[6] David J. Carroll, Jerel A. Rosati, and Roger A. Coate, "Human Needs Realism: A Critical Assessment of the Power of Human Needs in World Society," in The Power of Human Needs in World Society, ed. Roger A. Coate and Jerel A. Rosati (Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1988), 257-274.

[9] Jay Rothman, 1997.

[10] "Kosovo Leaders Agree to Pact Against Violence," in PeaceWatch 6, no. 5. (August 2000): 1-3. Article also available on-line at http://www.usip.org/peacewatch/pdf/pw0800.pdf (accessed 11 February 2003); Internet.

[11] David J. Carroll, Jerel A. Rosati, and Roger A. Coate, 1988.

Use the following to cite this article: Marker, Sandra. "Unmet Human Needs." Beyond Intractability . Eds. Guy Burgess and Heidi Burgess. Conflict Information Consortium, University of Colorado, Boulder. Posted: August 2003 < http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/human-needs >.

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Short Essay on Safety First [100, 200, 400 Words] With PDF

In today’s session, you will learn to write short essays on the popular term ‘Safety First.’ There are going to be three individual sets of short essays written on the topic covering different word limits.  

Short Essay on Safety First in 100 Words

Safety is the most important measure to take in our lives for any kind of emergency. We are often told about safety first. Safety means protection. We always try to avoid dangers or stay away from any harm. We work very carefully so that we do not get harmed by any problem.

Danger can come at any moment and any place. We are unaware as to when it will attack us. So having safety is our first and foremost priority. Whenever we are at home or outside, we must remember about it. We must never hurry into anything because that can cause us lots of risks. Also, we must keep a safety kit or a first aid box handy. This will help us to tackle any emergency when needed.

Short Essay on Safety First in 200 Words

Safety means any kind of protection that we observe regularly. And safety first also means making safety our biggest priority. Maintaining safety is extremely important to us. It will keep our family and society safe and sound.

The country must have responsible citizens who can maintain safety. So being safe is for the good of everyone. We must always maintain safety measures. Be it in our home or outside, it will help us to live much better. Today we observe how difficult it is to walk peacefully on the roads. It is because people do not follow safety measures.

Some bike riders drive very rashly. They do not care about the pedestrians or people walking on the road. Often it creates accidents. These accidents are fatal and can kill them as well. The drivers do not consider driving safely and slowly. They drive the car or the bus at full speed. As a result, many people daily meet accidents on the roads.

Even animals are not free of these dangers. Little kids and aged people feel scared to go alone on the roads. Even in our homes, we forget to follow safety measures. So we face several problems and are hurt severely. The dangers can become serious if we ignore our safety. So safety first is our greatest duty to everyone in our country.

Short Essay on Safety First in 400 Words

Safety means protection from any sort of danger. The term safety first is, at present, a frequently used term. Safety is something that we prioritize first. Whenever there is danger, we must take an immediate measure of safety to survive the situation. Thus keeping safety as our biggest priority is the best task to do in our lives. We will stay prepared for any hazards that may arrive on our way.

Unfortunately, people nowadays do not consider safety as the primary need. As a result, we often face severe disasters. The biggest danger takes place outside our homes when we are on the road. The bike riders dive their bikes at high speed. They drive rashly over the roads and highways. Hence it becomes very difficult for the aged and the pedestrians to walk on the roads.

Anytime they can meet an accident, and can also die on spot. Similarly, for other vehicles like a bus or a car, we observe the same picture. The buses collide with other trucks and cars while breaking the traffic rules. It is a bad habit to violate the traffic rules and traffic signals for personal benefits. Maintaining safety on roads is for the benefit of everyone. We must follow the signals and use a zebra crossing while moving to a different route. Walking in between vehicles in a hurry or jumping down a bus while it’s moving can cause serious harm. 

Even on rail lines, we must be cautious. It is always advisable never to cross a rail line while a train is approaching. Similarly, standing near the door while the train is running at full speed can cause tremendous destruction. Some people often take selfies while standing on railways and even use them as fun places. However, it is stupid to take such things lightly. Everyone should remember the safety that can help them to live better.

Safety first applies to our household as well. If there is a little child or an aged person in the house, then these safety measures become very important. One must keep away all sharp objects, fire, oil, and other poisonous goods from their reach. Burners and cylinders should be switched off to avoid any danger. The doors should be closed so that babies cannot crawl outside the house.

Also, basic hygiene is a part of safety. Keeping the house clean will make it safe. Keeping a first aid box and some emergency medicines will protect us from any immediate need. Hence these basic yet important tips can enable us to live better. 

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Short Essay: Safety First

Advocating for safety through an essay is a vital way to raise awareness about the importance of safety measures in everyday life. Whether addressing workplace safety, road safety, or safety at home, a well-crafted essay can persuade and educate its readers about adopting a “safety first” mindset. This guide will walk you through the steps of writing a concise and impactful essay on this important topic.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Your introduction should set the stage for the discussion on safety. Begin with a compelling hook—a startling statistic, a personal anecdote, or a relevant quote that draws the reader’s attention to the importance of safety. Following this, provide some background information on the specific area of safety you are focusing on. Conclude the introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines your main argument or the specific aspect of safety you will discuss. This statement will guide the structure of your essay.

The body of your essay should consist of several paragraphs, each dedicated to a different aspect of safety related to your topic. Arrange each paragraph logically and ensure each one builds on the point made previously. Here are some suggestions on what to include:

• Specific Measures:  Describe specific safety measures that can be implemented to prevent accidents and injuries. For example, in a workplace context, you might discuss the importance of regular safety drills, proper equipment maintenance, and mandatory safety gear.
• Benefits:  Explain the benefits of adopting these safety measures. Focus on both the immediate and long-term outcomes, such as reduced injury rates, lower healthcare costs, and improved employee morale.
• Real-World Examples:  Provide examples or case studies where safety measures have successfully prevented accidents or minimized their impact. This real-world evidence can be very persuasive in highlighting the effectiveness of a “safety first” approach.

Conclude your essay by summarizing the key points discussed, reinforcing the importance of the “safety first” principle. Suggest additional ways the reader can contribute to promoting safety in their own environment. End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the importance of safety.

Safety First Essay Example #1

Safety has always been an integral part of our lives, and it should be a top priority in any workplace or activity. It is essential to ensure that everyone involved in any activity is safe and secure from any potential harm. Accidents and injuries can occur anytime, anywhere, and they can be extremely harmful. Therefore, it is necessary to take proper precautions and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. In this essay, we will discuss the importance of safety in any workplace or activity and how proper training, equipment, and safety regulations can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Importance of Safety should always be a top priority in any workplace or activity. It is essential to ensure that everyone involved in any activity is safe and secure from any potential harm. Accidents and injuries can occur anytime, anywhere, and they can be extremely harmful. Therefore, it is necessary to take proper precautions and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. In any workplace, safety should be a part of the culture, and all employees should be trained to follow safety guidelines. It is essential to make sure that everyone understands the importance of safety and how it can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Proper training and equipment can help prevent accidents and injuries. In any workplace or activity, it is essential to provide adequate training to all employees and individuals involved. Proper training will help them understand the potential risks and hazards involved in the activity, and it will help them take necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries. Additionally, providing proper equipment and tools is equally important. Faulty or outdated equipment can be dangerous and can cause accidents and injuries. Therefore, it is essential to provide proper equipment and tools, and they should be regularly checked for any possible defects.

Safety regulations and guidelines should be followed to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. In any workplace or activity, there are specific safety regulations and guidelines that need to be followed. These regulations and guidelines are put in place to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in the activity. It is essential to follow these regulations and guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries. Additionally, safety inspections should be conducted regularly to ensure that all safety guidelines are being followed. Any potential hazards and risks should be identified and addressed immediately.

In conclusion, safety should always be a top priority in any workplace or activity. It is essential to ensure that everyone involved in any activity is safe and secure from any potential harm. Proper training and equipment can help prevent accidents and injuries, and safety regulations and guidelines should be followed to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. It is essential to understand the importance of safety and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries. By following safety guidelines and regulations, we can ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

Safety First Essay Example #2

Safety is an important aspect of our everyday lives, and it should always be given top priority. It involves taking proactive measures to prevent accidents and hazards in various settings. In order to ensure safety, it is crucial to identify potential hazards and take necessary precautions. Safety training and education also play a significant role in promoting safe practices. Workplace safety regulations and policies are essential to protecting employees and creating a safe work environment. This essay will discuss the various ways in which safety first can be achieved, including identifying potential hazards, safety training and education, and workplace safety regulations and policies.

Safety first requires identifying potential hazards and taking proactive measures to prevent accidents. Hazards can be found in various settings, including the workplace, home, and outdoors. In the workplace, hazards can include electrical hazards, chemical hazards, slips, trips, and falls, and machinery hazards. Identifying these hazards and taking necessary precautions can prevent accidents and promote safety. For example, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) can protect workers from electrical and chemical hazards. Implementing safety measures such as non-slip flooring and proper signage can prevent slips, trips, and falls. Regular maintenance and inspection of machinery can prevent machinery hazards. By taking proactive measures, potential hazards can be prevented, and safety can be ensured.

Safety training and education can help individuals understand and follow safe practices in various settings. Safety training and education can include topics such as fire safety, first aid, and emergency response. In the workplace, safety training can help employees understand the hazards they may encounter and how to prevent accidents. For example, fire safety training can teach employees how to use fire extinguishers and how to evacuate in case of a fire. First aid training can teach employees how to respond to medical emergencies. In addition to workplace safety training and education can also be applied in other settings, such as at home and in outdoor activities. By understanding and following safe practices, accidents can be prevented, and safety can be ensured.

Workplace safety regulations and policies are important for protecting employees and promoting a safe work environment. Workplace safety regulations and policies can include topics such as hazard communication, lockout/tagout procedures, and personal protective equipment requirements. These regulations and policies are designed to protect employees from hazards and promote a safe work environment. For example, hazard communication regulations require employers to inform employees of potential hazards in the workplace and provide appropriate training. Lockout/tagout procedures require the isolation of energy sources during maintenance and repair to prevent accidental start-up. Personal protective equipment requirements require employers to provide and ensure the use of appropriate PPE. By following workplace safety regulations and policies, employees can be protected from hazards, and a safe work environment can be maintained.

In conclusion, safety first is crucial for preventing accidents and promoting safety in various settings. Identifying potential hazards and taking proactive measures to prevent them, safety training and education, and workplace safety regulations and policies are all important aspects of achieving safety first. By following these measures, accidents can be prevented, and safety can be ensured. It is important to always prioritize safety in all aspects of our lives.

Safety First Essay Example #3

Safety is an essential aspect of any workplace, and it should always be a top priority. Companies that prioritize safety have a better chance of preventing accidents and injuries among their employees. It is essential to implement safety measures, conduct regular inspections, and provide training to ensure that the workplace is safe for everyone. This essay will discuss three essential steps that employers can take to ensure safety in the workplace.

The first step to ensuring safety in the workplace is implementing safety measures such as wearing protective gear and following safety protocols. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential in reducing the risk of injuries and accidents. Employers must provide their employees with the necessary PPE, such as hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, and safety boots. Employees should be trained on how to use the PPE correctly and be required to wear it at all times when working in hazardous environments. Safety protocols such as locking out machinery before maintenance and repair work can also help prevent workplace accidents.

The second step to ensuring safety in the workplace is conducting regular safety inspections and maintaining equipment and machinery. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards and ensure that equipment and machinery are functioning correctly. Employees should be trained on how to conduct safety inspections and report any issues that they identify immediately. Equipment and machinery should also be well-maintained to prevent breakdowns and accidents. Regular maintenance can help identify potential problems before they occur and ensure that equipment and machinery are functioning correctly.

The third step to ensuring safety in the workplace is educating employees and providing training on safety procedures. Educating employees on safety procedures can increase awareness and promote a culture of safety in the workplace. Employees should be trained on how to identify hazards, how to respond to emergencies, and how to use safety equipment correctly. Training should be provided regularly, and employees should be required to attend. Providing incentives for employees who prioritize safety can also help create a culture of safety in the workplace.

In conclusion, ensuring safety in the workplace is essential for the well-being of employees and the success of companies. Employers must prioritize safety by implementing safety measures, conducting regular inspections, and providing training to their employees. By taking these steps, companies can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries and create a safer workplace for everyone.

Final Tips for Effective Writing

• Clarity and Precision:  When discussing safety measures, be clear and precise. Use simple language and avoid jargon unless it is widely understood.
• Persuasiveness:  Use persuasive language to convince your readers of the importance of safety measures. Emotional appeals can be particularly effective in this context.
• Proofreading:  Always proofread your essay for grammatical errors and ensure that it flows logically. A well-written essay is more likely to persuade its readers.

About Mr. Greg

Mr. Greg is an English teacher from Edinburgh, Scotland, currently based in Hong Kong. He has over 5 years teaching experience and recently completed his PGCE at the University of Essex Online. In 2013, he graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a BEng(Hons) in Computing, with a focus on social media.

Mr. Greg’s English Cloud was created in 2020 during the pandemic, aiming to provide students and parents with resources to help facilitate their learning at home.

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What is Industrial Safety? Importance, Objectives and planning

The thousand of industrial accidents every year caused the realization of the importance of industrial safety with technological advancement in manufacturing.

Most of today’s advanced & computer-controlled industrial processes involve large amounts of energy and have the potential for devastating accidents. So a well-engineered & reliable industrial safety system is essential for protection against those accidents and loss of life.

The safety movement was initially started in 1912 with the first cooperative safety congress and the organization of the national safety council of the USA.

What is Industrial Safety?

As per Wikipedia :

“An industrial safety system is a countermeasure crucial in any hazardous plants such as oil and gas plants and nuclear plants. They are used to protect humans, industrial plants, and the environment in case of the process going beyond the allowed control margins.”

In simple words:

“The management of all operations and procedures in an industry in order to protect its employees and assets by minimizing hazards, risks, accidents, and near misses” called the Industrial Safety .”

Why industrial safety is necessary?

The thousand of industrial accidents every year caused the realization of the importance of industrial safety with technological advancement in manufacturing . The dangers of human life are increasing day by day.

In order to avoid accidents, employees must be aware of industrial safety principles & danger areas of that industry. The following are some reasons why Industrial safety is necessary:

• For the safety of people in their workplaces
• For protecting the environment against damage from industrial accidents
• For protecting businesses against serious losses from damage to plant and machinery
• For eliminating accidents causing work stoppage and production loss.
• For creating awareness of the good practices available for the delivery of effective safety instrumented systems
• For providing basic training in well-established techniques for engineering of safety systems
• For assisting engineers and technicians to support and participate in the safety systems activities at their work with good background knowledge of the subject
• For being aware of what can go wrong and how to avoid it.

Because of safety first rule, all industrial personals must be trained enough about safety aspects of man, machines, and material & other infrastructure facilities for avoiding minor or major accidents. Safety is the first requirement and every industrial employee must learn safety measures even before he starts working on a machine or equipment.

Objectives of Industrial Safety

A practical goal of industrial safety is to lighten the environmental impact on the manufacturing unit and each person and the role of the industrial safety professionals is to find leverage or opportunities for considerable improvement using practical effort. The objectives of industrial safety systems are as follows:

• Industrial safety is needed to check all the possible chances of accidents for preventing loss of life and permanent disability of any industrial employee, any damage to machine and material.
• It is needed to eliminate accidents causing work stoppage and production loss.
• It is needed to reduce workman’s compensation, insurance rate, and all the cost of accidents.
• It is needed to achieve better morale among industrial employees.
• It is needed to increase production means to a higher standard of living.
• It is needed to prevent accidents in the industry by reducing any hazards.

Planning of Industrial Safety

In industries, the no. of fire hazards, accidents, industrial disasters may be reduced through careful safety planning. All those unfortunate events can be avoided by effective planning for safety. Some important considerations for industrial safety are the following:

• Proper Plant Layout
• Proper Fire Prevention system
• Health & Hygiene
• Proper Safety Training
• Proper Alarms And warning systems
• Appropriate sensors and safety gears for employees
• Sufficient lighting in the work area as well as the pathways
• Cleanliness & dryness of shop floor
• Proper pressure gauges and other safety equipment
• Electrically insulation
• Proper signboards for safety instructions

COMMON SOURCES OF ACCIDENTS

Accidents take place unexpectedly causing injury & loss of men, machines, materials of that industry. Revolving, rotating, and moving parts of machines may be the sources of danger and require guarding for protection against accidents and Many such major sources are following.

• Low light machine operation areas.
• Revolving parts like pullies, flywheels, wheels, fans, gears, gear trains, gear wheels, etc.
• Intermittent feed mechanisms like tool feed of planer, table feed of a shaper, ram feed of power presses, and similar other applications.
• Revolving shafts, spindles, bars, mandrels, chucks, followers, and tools like drills, taps, reamers, milling cutters, and boring tools, etc.
• Rotating worms and spirals enclosed in casings, such as in conveyors and revolving cutting tools, like milling cutters, circular saw blade, saw band, circular shears, and grinding wheels, etc.
• Reciprocating tools and dies of power presses, spring hammer, drop hammers, and reciprocating presses, knives, and saw blade such bow saw, shearing and perforating machines and the cutting and trimming machine and power hacksaws, etc.
• Electrical wires, switches, motors & control panels.
• Oily & wet and dirty shop floor.
• Moving weights, such as in hydraulic accumulator or in slotting machines for counter-balance.
• Nips between racks and pinions of machine parts
• Nips between reciprocating parts and fixed components, such as between shaper table and the fixture mounted on it or a planer table and table reversing stops, etc.
• Nips between crank handle for machine controls and fixed parts.
• Projecting sharp edge or nips of belt and chain drives; via a belt, pulleys, chains sprockets, and belt fasteners, etc.
• Cutting edges of endless band cutting machines, woodworking, and log cutting metal find stone-cutting band saws, cloth-cutting band knives, etc.
• Pressure containers like pneumatic cylinders, boilers, etc.

Industrial Accidents and Their Types

There are various types of common accidents as follows:

Near Accident:  Accidents with no damage or injury are called near-accidents.

Trivial: An accident with very little damage is called trivial.

Minor Accident: It is an accident with damage and injury more than trivial.

Serious Accident: An accident with heavy damage and a lot of injuries is called Serious Accidents.

Fatal: It is an accident with very heavy damage. There may be a loss of lives also.

3 Causes of Accidents

The accidents may take place due to the three following causes:

Human Causes

Mechanical causes, environmental causes.

Very common human causes for accidents are as follows:

• Operating or working at an unsafe speed.
• Working on unsafe or dangerous equipment or machinery.
• Operating machines without knowledge, without safety precautions, or without safety devices.
• Working for a long duration of work.
• Use of improper tools.
• Working with mental worries, ignorance, carelessness, nervousness, dreaming, etc.

Very common mechanical causes of accidents are as follows:

• Use of unguarded or improper guarded machines or equipment.
• The use of old, poorly maintained or unsafe equipment may result in accidents.
• Improper material handling system and improper plant layout.
• Not using safety devices such as helmets, goggles, gloves, masks, etc.
• Working at improper temperature and humidity causes fatigue to the workers for chances of accidents.
• he presence of dust fumes and smoke in the working area.
• Poor housekeeping, congestion, blocked exits, bad plant layout, etc.
• Inadequate illumination.
• Improper ventilation may also lead to industrial accidents.
• Lack of cleanliness.

Scope of Industrial Safety training for workers

Understanding of the importance of workplace safety instructions.

Workers, machine operators, and other employees should need to know & understand all the safety instructions. They should also understand how a work-related injury can affect their lives. Safety instructions boards must be placed in an appropriate location in order to everybody who enters the workplace can read it first.

Identifying Workplace Hazards

There are a lot of visible and hidden hazards that can cause accidents. So every worker or employee should need to have a concrete understanding of the types of hazards that exist in the workplace and how to recognize them. Key hazards include machinery; spares, vehicles; electrical hazards; noise, chemicals, stress, and ergonomic hazards, which can all be presented in a visible or hidden form.

Understand How to Reduce Risk

Every machine operator or worker must be trained to reduce accident risk. They should learn to connect hazards and hazard controls, like sensors, alarms, machine guards, and fire extinguishers. They should always use personal protective equipment like safety shoes, glasses, gloves, etc.

How to React in an Emergency

Even if all of the other hazards they may be exposed to are adequately controlled, workers may face emergencies at work right alongside their non-disabled coworkers. They need to know how to recognize an emergency and must be trained in emergency procedures.

Responsibilities at Work

Every employee and workers need to know that they are responsible for knowing and following all safety and health rules and safe work practices, reporting all injuries, using the safety gear that’s provided for them, and reporting any unsafe conditions that they see.

Reporting the Problems at Work

Once they know how to identify workplace hazards or other safety-related problems, employees must share that information with a responsible officer like a supervisor other individuals who are responsible for solving safety problems.

The safety and productivity of people, machines, and processes is a key element of any sustainable business. Industrial safety systems have been used for many years to perform safety functions in the manufacturing industries. In most situations, safety is best achieved by inherently safe process design, Protection layer systems such as sensors, alarms, and personal protection equipment.

These may be combined with protective systems to address any residual identified and counter risk. Protective systems can rely on different technologies such as chemical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, electronic, and programmable electronic.

Companies and the operators who manage their production facilities demand the highest level of safety. This high level of safety helps protect personnel, the environment, and assets while maintaining maximum uptime and minimal operational disruption.

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Workplace Safety: Importance, Benefits, And Ways To Incorporate It

A work environment free from injuries and accidents attracts employees. Employees are more satisfied and productive in such an environment.

A safe work environment is essential for both employees and employers alike. It is the right of all employees to have safety in the workplace.

Workplace safety is essential regardless of the size of a company. All companies, big or small, need to incorporate safety in their workplaces.

Well-implemented safety measures keep employees safe and also protect industrial equipment. It is the responsibility and duty of employers to protect their employees and keep them safe.

What is the Need for Safety in the Workplace?

It is not possible to measure the effects of human casualties. They can have grave consequences for employees and their families and friends as well.

This is why workplace safety and health measures are necessary. They are essential for the well-being of employers and employees alike. The feeling of assurance that one has, knowing that he will return safely from work, is more significant than anything else.

There are occupational safety and health risks in every company. Factors affecting workplace safety include unsafe working conditions, environmental hazards, substance abuse, and workplace violence.

For example, employees working in an IT company may have to work with faulty wires or electronics. Whereas in a construction company, employees may be exposed to the dangers of operating heavy equipment.

To combat these risks, employers should create strategies that ensure and promote safety in their workplaces.

Employers should also learn the desired aspects of their employees in terms of safety and protection. This will help increase productivity and the quality of the products and services.

Here are some benefits of a safe and healthy work environment -

The safer the work environment, the more productive it is. Productive employees are an asset to all companies. For instance, productive employees can produce more output in less time, reducing operational costs.

Workplace safety promotes the wellness of employees and employers alike. Better safety equates to better health. Healthier employees do tasks more efficiently, and they are happier in general.

There are very few accidents in a safe working environment. This results in less downtime for safety investigations and reduces costs for worker’s compensation. This also reduces the time needed for employees to heal from injuries.

Damage to industrial equipment creates costs for replacement and repair. Avoiding workplace injuries and damage to industrial equipment will incur fewer expenses and increase profit.

If employers are concerned about the safety of their employees, the employees are more confident and comfortable in general. Also, absenteeism rates drop, and employees are more focused on doing their tasks.

Ways to Create a Safe Working Environment

Being aware and identifying workplace hazards.

This is the first step to create a safe working environment. Employers need to identify workplace hazards and safety issues first. Then they must take measures to address them accordingly.

Workplace safety hazards can include mechanical issues, dangerous chemicals, hazardous electrical equipment, etc.

Mechanical problems can occur at any time while operating machinery in the workplace. Also, working with heavy equipment is very risky and can cause accidents.

If employees need to work with chemicals, they have to be very cautious. Dangerous chemicals can burn or poison employees. Inhaling or ingesting them can even cause death.

Also, working with electronic equipment can have risks as well. Faulty electrical equipment can electrocute employees, causing severe problems.

To tackle all these hazards, employees should be aware of the types of equipment and know the hazards in their workplace. For example, metal detectors can be instrumental in detecting hidden metal hazards in a food packaging plant.

This enables them to stay clear of such dangers and unfortunate situations. Also, employers should train employees in the proper operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment.

Implementing Workplace Safety Programs

The first step in building a safety program is to get all employees to commit to workplace safety. One way to do this is to include workplace safety in the company’s mission statement. It should be the duty of every employee to carry out the safety policies.

Employers should investigate all accidents in the workplace. They should encourage employees to follow all safety procedures.

Moreover, employers should clearly state the hazards of not following them in writing. This reduces the chances of mistakes.

Providing Proper Safety Training to Employees

Training is an important part of every company’s safety program to protect employees from accidents. Research shows that new employees have a higher risk of workplace accidents . It is the lack of knowledge of workplace hazards and proper work techniques that cause this greater risk.

Employers should provide employees with the necessary training to reduce workplace accidents. Employees should operate all equipment and machinery safely and adequately.

For instance, employers should adequately teach the operation of heavy machinery to employees. Only trained or certified employees should operate such types of equipment. This is why it is essential to provide safety training to employees by experts.

Using Protective Safety Equipment

The usage of equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause workplace injuries is significant. Not doing so can cause injury or even death.

Employees may have to work with chemicals, machines, electronics, and other potential work hazards. Employers must provide such employees with personal protective equipment (P.P.E.).

P.P.E. should be safely designed, constructed, and fit comfortably. Examples of P.P.E. are gloves, protective eyewear, clothing, earplugs, hard hats, etc.

Reporting Unsafe Working Conditions

Employees must inform any safety hazards or work risks to the management. Employers are legally obligated to ensure safe working environments for their employees. They must end workplace safety hazards and promote safety in the workplace.

Practicing Correct Posture

Bad posture is one of the main reasons for back pain. It is imperative to practice good and correct posture to reduce the risk of getting hurt.

For example, if you have to sit for long hours, use specially designed chairs. Also, always sit upright.

Reducing Workplace Stress

Workplace stress can cause many health problems like anxiety, depression, etc.

Job insecurity, workplace bullying , high workload, etc., cause workplace stress. Learn how to combat workplace stress and avoid its adverse effects. Workplace stress can have drastic effects on workplace productivity and employee health.

Promoting Regular Breaks

Employers should encourage employees to take regular breaks. Taking frequent breaks will prevent tiredness and fatigue. This will further prevent injuries or illnesses. Breaks help employees stay fresh and focused.

Staying Sober and Alert

One of the major reasons for workplace fatalities is substance abuse. Substance abuse causes around 40% of all industrial workplace fatalities.

Individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs are less alert. Their decision-making ability, coordination, concentration, and motor control get compromised. This creates risks for workplace injury and fatalities.

Easy Access to Exits in Case of Emergencies

If there is an emergency, it is important to have easy access to emergency exits. Easy access to emergency exits will reduce injuries and casualties.

Also, it is important to have quick ways to shut down equipment in case of emergencies.

Using Mechanical Aids

An industrial job may need employees to work with heavy equipment. There are many injury risks involved in trying to lift and move heavy objects. Employees can use a conveyor belt, forklift, or wheelbarrow instead of lifting manually.

The Bottom Line

A safe work environment is a feature of good companies throughout the world. All employees want assurance of their safety and protection.

Workplace safety is a critical issue. Employers should ensure that their employees are working in a safe environment.

Management systems and business owners are responsible for promoting workplace safety. Employers should encourage employees to adopt safe practices and use safety equipment. They should encourage safety policies and safety programs.

Also, employees should be aware of the risks of operating hazardous machinery.

Besides working as a content marketer at Vantage Circle , Shah Alif Ahmed is also an internationally certified nutrition specialist, competitive bodybuilder and a musician. For any queries reach out to [email protected]

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Essay on Road Safety

500 words essay on road safety.

In today’s fast-paced world, road accidents are happening at a very high rate. Although, the technological advancements in the automobile industry has thankfully brought down the mortality rates. Nonetheless, there are a lot of potential hazards that are present on the road. Thus, road safety is important to safeguard everyone. In this essay on road safety, we will learn its importance and its basic rules.

Importance of Essay on Road Safety

Road safety is important to safeguard the well-being of everyone including humans and other living beings. This essay on road safety will help us learn about why it is important. A lot of environmental factors determine our road safety.

For instance, if it is raining or there is heavy fog or smog, the visibility of the driver will be hampered. It may result in pile-ups on the highway. Similarly, there are other factors like rain that lead to hydroplaning.

In this phenomenon, the vehicles that travel at high speeds start to slide uncontrollably as the tires of the vehicle push off the ground through a thin film of water present on the road.

However, road safety rules can help us avoid all these dangerous situations easily. When people follow the road safety rules rigorously and maintain their vehicles well, everyone can remain safe.

Most importantly, it is also essential to drive within the prescribed speed limits. Also, one must not use their mobile phone when driving a vehicle. Road safety is of utmost importance to make sure that everyone remains safe and healthy.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Basic Rules of Road Safety

There are a lot of general and basic rules that one must follow when they drive vehicles or use public roads in general. The first rule is to know the signals and pay attention to them rigorously.

This applies to both the driver as well as the pedestrian. Further, it is important for those who are walking to use the sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. It is also essential to be aware of all the rules and laws of the state and abide by them.

Most importantly, it is also mandatory to have an approved driving license before getting on the road with your vehicle. Road safety sensitization is vital to ensure the safety of everyone.

Making the general public aware of the importance of road safety can help reduce the rate of accidents and road mishaps that happen on a daily basis. Seminars and educating people can be helpful to guide them and make them aware of the consequences.

Conclusion of Essay on Road Safety

To sum it up, everyone must follow the road rules. Do not drive at excessive speed and try to enhance the general awareness so risks of traffic accidents can be reduced. One must also check the vehicle health regularly and its maintenance parts to eliminate any potential risks.

FAQ on Essay on Road Safety

Question 1: What is road safety?

Answer 1: Road safety refers to the methods that we adopt to prevent road users from getting injuries or being killed in traffic accidents. They are essential to maintain everyone’s well being.

Question 2: How can one avoid traffic accidents and enhance road safety?

Answer 2: One can avoid traffic accidents by following the road rules strictly. Moreover, they must also make sure their vehicles are always well-maintained. Further, it is also vital to drive within the speed limits of the state. Do not use phones when driving or be under the influence of alcohol.

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Ensuring Safety in the Workplace Essay

Introduction.

Occupational safety and ensuring the right quality conditions is one of the important aspects of employment law. Total Safety Management (TSM) is a structured, systematic approach to safety in the workplace. The Kanye Standard consists of eight elements that are designed to make it easier for employers and employees to identify and eliminate potential danger at work. However, all points are not equal in their usefulness, and the hazard identification and control provision can be considered the most effective.

Identifying and controlling hazards is the most important, as it can be used to exterminate a potential problem proactively. It includes risk management, ensuring they are eliminated before any incident occurs. Thus, this element is the basis on which all other components of the TSM program are built. Without a clear identification and definition of hazards, creating a safe working environment would not be possible. Moreover, a proactive approach is always preferable to correcting an accident that has occurred. In this way, a better level of personnel health can be achieved since dangerous situations cannot arise due to risk control. By implementing controls to keep dangers to a minimum, employees can be significantly safer by providing a better working environment. Identifying and controlling hazards is an ongoing process that must be continually continued. Safety workers should regularly carry out the necessary activities to improve the workplace to make it more convenient and efficient.

In conclusion, the element of hazard identification and control is the most effective for ensuring safety in organizations. This is due to the fact that this standard provides procedures without which it is impossible to perform all other elements of TSM. In addition, the prevention of dangerous situations by early detection is much more effective because it makes it impossible for employees to be injured.

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IvyPanda. (2024, March 12). Ensuring Safety in the Workplace. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ensuring-safety-in-the-workplace/

"Ensuring Safety in the Workplace." IvyPanda , 12 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/ensuring-safety-in-the-workplace/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'Ensuring Safety in the Workplace'. 12 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "Ensuring Safety in the Workplace." March 12, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ensuring-safety-in-the-workplace/.

1. IvyPanda . "Ensuring Safety in the Workplace." March 12, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ensuring-safety-in-the-workplace/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Ensuring Safety in the Workplace." March 12, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/ensuring-safety-in-the-workplace/.