Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada – Designing For Worker Trust: Near Miss Reporting and Continuous Improvement with Sarah Abdul-Rasoul
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In this Safety Spotlight conversation, we meet Sarah Abdul-Rasoul, a recognized safety professional at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada and one of Canada’s Top Women in Safety. Sarah shares how her academic background in science eventually led her into the safety field and how that shift shaped the way she views prevention, risk, and worker wellbeing.
Throughout the episode, Sarah explains how hands-on experience in industrial hygiene and workplace assessments helped her build a strong technical foundation. She discusses how Toyota’s philosophy of continuous improvement influences everything from reviewing near misses to conducting audits and making small adjustments that consistently strengthen safety programs over time.
A core theme in Sarah’s approach is communication. She talks about how giving workers clear reasons behind decisions, listening to their concerns, and showing appreciation for their contributions can dramatically improve participation and reporting. Sarah also highlights the role of recognition, timely follow up, and open dialogue in building trust across teams.
The conversation also explores Sarah’s growing focus on psychological health and safety. She describes how supporting mental wellbeing, creating resources for employees, and making sure people feel valued directly contributes to safer, more engaged workplaces. Her insights show that a strong safety culture is built not only through procedures but also through connection and understanding.
For those entering the safety profession, Sarah offers guidance on developing confidence, seeking mentorship, and building relationships with frontline workers. She shares practical strategies for navigating difficult conversations, learning from experienced employees, and identifying informal leaders who influence day to day decision making on the floor.
Sarah’s story demonstrates how curiosity, compassion, and steady improvement can shape a meaningful career in safety. Her perspective is especially valuable for safety leaders looking to strengthen engagement, reinforce communication, and support workers in both physical and psychological aspects of their jobs.
