Is All This Paperwork Actually Keeping People Safe?

Is All This Paperwork Actually Keeping People Safe?

From Aunty Treacle by Anna Keen and Stuart Hughes

October 14, 2025 · 55 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of excessive paperwork on safety and the importance of human interactions in the workplace.

In this episode, Anna, Stuart, and guest Helen Rawlinson tackle a question that hits close to home for many safety professionals: “Dear Aunty Treacle, I feel like a filing cabinet. I’m full of paperwork and have no room for the human interactions I believe are critical for keeping people from harm and understanding what’s really happening in my workplace. So quite simply, is all this paperwork actually keeping people safe?” Helen brings honesty and humour to a lively conversation about bureaucracy, systems and red tape, exploring whether endless forms and checklists actually make work safer, or simply make us feel safe. Together, they unpack how to cut through the noise, challenge outdated practices, and focus on what truly matters: meaningful conversations and human connection. Key Topics Covered: • The “filing cabinet” feeling – bureaucracy overload and burnout • The 80/20 fallacy – most systems go far beyond what’s legally needed • The illusion of accountability – paperwork vs. purpose • How to start challenging and simplifying safely • Shifting from expert to conduit – facilitating rather than controlling • Practical ways to bring curiosity and critical thinking into your…

People in this episode

Hosts: Anna, Stuart

Guest: Helen Rawlinson

Topics covered

  • bureaucracy overload
  • burnout
  • 80/20 fallacy
  • illusion of accountability
  • challenging practices
  • human connection
  • curiosity in work
  • value addition

Keywords

  • safety professionals
  • meaningful conversations
  • critical thinking

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