Episode 193: Inspect What You Expect

In this episode of Leading and Learning Through Safety, Dr. Mark French explores the timeless leadership principle of “inspect what you expect,” rooted in the lean concept of gemba—going to where the work is actually done. Safety and lean thinking should be natural partners, but too often leaders set expectations without validating them through presence and follow-up.

Mark recounts observing a construction crew working without proper PPE, despite safety glasses being available. One worker wore them on the back of his head, another tossed new ones aside after seeing no one else using them. This real-world example underscored how expectations without inspection quickly dissolve into unsafe behaviors.

He emphasizes that genuine safety performance is proactive, consistent, and reinforced by leadership presence. When leaders actively validate expectations—whether for safety, quality, or productivity—they create accountability and consistency, while modeling the behaviors they wish to see. Conversely, when leaders only appear during crises or productivity shortfalls, employees learn that safety isn’t truly prioritized.

Mark also highlights the importance of peer influence and “leading up.” Younger leaders look to experienced peers, while supervisors may eventually shift when they see frontline consistency. The process may be slow, but leadership presence builds trust, reinforces values, and fosters long-term cultural improvement.

Ultimately, leadership isn’t about words—it’s about being present, validating expectations, and showing people that safety and values come first. A leader’s presence on the floor is both the simplest and most powerful tool for sustainable performance.