The Culture Shift: From 'Part of the Job' to 'Not on My Watch'

Part three of a three-part series from WorkWell on the strategic, financial, and cultural dimensions of workplace safety and musculoskeletal (MSK) health.  

For decades, many workers carried an unspoken rule: pain was just part of the job. A sore back after a shift, stiff shoulders after lifting, or sore knees from climbing—these were shrugged off, endured, and often ignored until the damage was done. 

But times are changing. And the organizations that lead this culture shift are gaining a measurable advantage.

One Worker, Two Outcomes

Take the story of John, a warehouse employee with 20 years of experience. One morning, he felt a sharp twinge in his shoulder after moving boxes. In his old workplace, he might have kept quiet—assuming discomfort was “normal.” Months later, the pain might have turned into a costly surgery and months away from work.

In his new workplace, the culture was different. Supervisors encouraged early reporting, and an onsite musculoskeletal (MSK) specialist was available. John spoke up. He got early intervention, including OSHA first aid and education and he did not miss any work.

The same worker. The same job. Two very different outcomes—because of culture.

Why Culture Matters

• Silence is expensive. When employees keep pain to themselves, problems escalate into claims, surgeries, and long-term absence.
• Speaking up saves money—and careers. Early intervention resolves small issues before they become major.
• Leaders set the tone. If managers normalize reporting and prioritize wellbeing, employees follow their lead.

The Leadership Lens

Culture isn’t just about values—it’s about outcomes. Organizations that shift from “pain is normal” to “not on my watch” consistently see:

• Fewer claims and lower costs
• Higher employee engagement and retention
• Stronger safety reputations that attract talent

For leaders, this is more than a safety initiative. It’s a strategic lever for performance, cost control, and brand strength.

The WorkWell Difference

At WorkWell, we help employers lead this culture shift. Through:

• Onsite MSK clinics that make care visible and accessible
• Early intervention programs that encourage speaking up
• Training for managers and supervisors to recognize and respond to discomfort early

   

The result is a workplace where employees feel supported, injuries are prevented, and leaders protect both people and profit.

From “Part of the Job” to “Not on My Watch”

The phrase “part of the job” belongs to the past. Today’s leaders have the opportunity to replace it with something better: “Not on my watch.”

When pain is normalized, everyone loses. When prevention is prioritized, everyone wins.