AUTO1 Group SE

10/04/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/04/2024 03:29

Get to know Jessica Costa, Senior Health & Safety Coordinator in Italy

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Get to know Jessica Costa, Senior Health & Safety Coordinator in Italy

4 October 2024

At AUTO1 Group, safety is a fundamental part of our company culture. In Italy, Jessica Costa, our Senior Health & Safety Coordinator, plays a key role in upholding this commitment. With a passion for cultivating secure work environments and a steadfast dedication to safety, Jessica ensures that our Italian operations not only meet compliance standards but also exemplify industry best practices. We sat down with her to explore Jessica's role, her motivations, and the unique challenges she navigates in her mission to maintain a safe and thriving workplace.

Can you tell us about your role?

As the Senior Health and Safety Coordinator and Prevention and Protection Officer at AUTO1 Group, my role is multifaceted. Over two years ago, I was brought on board to develop an internal position that an external consultant had previously managed. This shift aimed to enhance our focus on occupational safety. My responsibilities include managing health surveillance, planning training programs, assessing risks, overseeing firefighting and sanitary facilities, and developing awareness-raising projects. Beyond regulatory compliance, I aim to integrate health and safety strategies into our business development, as a safe work environment significantly boosts business efficiency.

What aspects of your role bring you the most pride, and why?

I'm proud of the collaborative spirit that infuses my work. Engaging with various departments and tackling challenges together has led to significant achievements, and contributing to a safer workplace while promoting a culture that aligns safety with strategic business objectives is incredibly rewarding. It's fulfilling to know that our efforts are not just about compliance but about creating a synergy that supports company growth.

What challenges do you find most motivating in your daily work?

Security isn't merely about following legislation but also changing perceptions and habits. The real challenge of my role lies in transforming the existing safety culture, as each person brings their own understanding of safety created from previous experiences. We can encourage conscious and safe actions by fostering a culture that perceives risks more accurately.

What skills and expertise are essential for your position, and why are they crucial?

To effectively identify workplace risks, one needs a deep understanding of processes and safety regulations. Qualifications through training and extensive field experience are crucial, and it is important to have continuous training, given the ever-evolving safety regulations. My background as Head of the Prevention and Protection Service for companies across various sectors has proven invaluable. Additionally, studies in the humanities help with understanding human behavior, which is vital for designing effective training programs.

Can you share a memorable experience or story at AUTO1 Group?

A standout moment was during the last annual safety meeting when we observed a significant reduction in non-compliance. This improvement is a testament to the company's dedication to safety, as the change was particularly evident in locations with more complex production processes and risks. Thanks to the team's efforts, safety considerations are now integral to the design of new processes, enhancing both performance and safety objectives.

Look out for more Get-To-Knows from our AUTO1 Group colleagues in various markets, each with unique stories and experiences to tell. To start your story, find the list of open positions on our careers page. We welcome applicants of all genders, ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds to apply.