In today’s environment of health crises, product shortages, geopolitical tensions and inflation, supply security has become a major priority for companies. Because the role of stakeholders is so decisive to guarantee the reliability of the supply chain, it is vital to strengthen the security of all the teams and partners involved. As well as reducing the risk of supply chain disruption, this approach can be seen as a way to improve productivity, competitiveness and corporate image.
Internal supply chain stakeholder security…
A company’s supply chain runs smoothly first and foremost thanks to its own internal teams, particularly those working in its logistics centre. This means providing a safe working environment, fostering a strong safety culture and ensuring transparent communication.
Employee health and safety
The health and safety of employees are fundamental rights and principles in the workplace. Every organisation has a duty of care towards the people it employs. This means understanding, managing and communicating actual and potential negative impacts within its operations.
More than a legal obligation, it is a moral duty. Companies must therefore take the necessary steps to protect their employees from occupational diseases and accidents. This is especially important for logistics roles (dock workers, order pickers, stock managers, logistics managers, etc.) where there are many risks associated with manual handling and/or machine operation, with significant impacts on the supply chain.
Staff awareness and training
Employees are often considered to be an organisation’s first line of defence when it comes to business risks like cyber-attacks, accidents, regulatory compliance issues, etc. That is why it is crucial to raise awareness and train teams in proper safety practices. Holding regular training sessions and providing updates on potential threats enables companies to build a robust safety culture. Once they’ve been trained, everyone is then able to identify vulnerabilities and avoid potential risks.
Internal communication and collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration within a company are also essential to supply chain security. This relies on a transparent and efficient communication system, allowing employees to quickly share critical information in real time with different teams and departments. This facilitates a rapid response to safety incidents and enables informed decision-making for overall supply chain security.
… Is just as important as external supply chain stakeholder security
Guaranteeing continuous supplies also depends on the security of partners and therefore of the logistics chain as a whole. This includes suppliers of raw materials and goods as well as transport service providers. That is why sourcing and risk management for external stakeholders in the supply chain are key steps.
Rigorous selection of partners
When a company chooses future supply chain partners, it must conduct thorough security assessments. This can take the form of an in-depth due diligence process, evaluating their creditworthiness, references and safety policies. By choosing reliable, reputable partners, the company inherently reduces risks relating to its product security.
Ongoing risk management with partners
Once the company has selected its partners, it is important to maintain ongoing risk management. For instance, it can implement a programme to monitor supplier compliance with safety standards. This includes regular audits, establishing quality control protocols and sharing safety best practices. Naturally, this requires close collaboration with partners.
Supply chain stakeholders safety: What are the benefits?
The security of the various supply chain stakeholders is closely tied to supply security. However, it also offers several other advantages.
Reducing supply chain disruptions
As you will have understood, strengthening security for all supply chain stakeholders helps to reduce the risk of delays and interruptions in the supply chain. Well-informed teams and reliable partners are two indispensable elements in ensuring business continuity and, thus, customer satisfaction.
Increasing productivity
Providing a pleasant, safe working environment promotes employee well-being. Satisfied operators who enjoy good working conditions are naturally more engaged and productive. It also creates an effective operational framework. When properly trained and equipped, supply chain stakeholders can peacefully focus on their daily tasks.
Reducing indirect costs
Poor health and safety practices inevitably incur human and financial consequences, which may include compensation for accidents, extended sick leave and fines. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the annual global economic burden of work-related deaths and diseases amounts to 4% of global GDP.
Enhancing reputation
A company that guarantees the safety and quality of life of its employees, while ensuring that its partners follow suit, inherently strengthens its reputation and credibility with stakeholders. Just as a sustainable supply chain can be, it is a lever for gaining the trust of customers, partners and future talent. This is undoubtedly a competitive advantage.
Supply security is not just about the technical and logistical aspects of the supply chain. By promoting safety for all teams and partners involved in the supply chain, companies can strengthen the reliability of their supplies and continue growing their operations, while providing the very best customer service.
