Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Prep Guide

The most effective way for a contractor to manage safety and health practices is to allow the sub-contractor to develop their own procedures with guidance. This approach recognizes that different subcontractors may work under varying conditions and may have unique safety and health challenges. By empowering subcontractors to create their own safety procedures, they can tailor them to reflect their specific work environment, risks, and operational practices.

Additionally, providing guidance ensures that these procedures align with overall safety standards and regulations without stifling the subcontractor's ability to innovate or optimize their safety strategies. This collaborative approach fosters ownership and accountability, as subcontractors are likely to be more invested in their own safety procedures when they have a hand in developing them. It also allows for flexibility in adapting to changing work conditions or new safety information.

In contrast, having one set of rules for all contractors may overlook the individual needs and nuances of different projects. Meanwhile, relying on the general contractor to manage all aspects can lead to a disconnect with the specific hazards that subcontractors face on the ground level. Entrusting safety management to an outside agency may also create gaps in communication and may not be as effective since they lack the contextual knowledge of the unique work environment.