There has been a poem that has been around the safety field for some time. This week I thought I would share it with all of you.
“I Chose to Look the Other Way”
I could have saved a life that day,
But I chose to look the other way.
It wasn’t that I didn’t care,
I had the time, and I was there.
But I didn’t want to seem a fool,
Or argue over a safety rule.
I knew he’d done the job before,
If I spoke up, he might get sore.
The chances didn’t seem that bad,
I’d done the same, He knew I had.
So I shook my head and walked on by,
He knew the risks as well as I.
He took the chance, I closed an eye,
And with that act, I let him die.
I could have saved a life that day,
But I chose to look the other way.
Now every time I see his wife,
I’ll know, I should have saved his life.
That guilt is something I must bear,
But it isn’t something you need share.
If you see a risk that others take,
That puts their health or life at stake.
The question asked, or thing you say,
Could help them live another day.
If you see a risk and walk away,
Then hope you never have to say,
I could have saved a life that day,
But I chose, to look the other way.
What To Do When Co-Workers Act In An Unsafe Manner
Safety at work depends on all employees doing their part. Sometimes, though, co-workers decide to cut corners, get in a hurry, feel distracted, or otherwise neglect safety protocols. Recent studies found that only 40 percent of employees intervened when they noticed safety concerns because they feared that their co-worker would be defensive or angry or that intervening would not make a difference. While you may not want to be a whistle-blower, you owe it to yourself, your co-workers, customers, clients, and the company to maintain safety. Here are the steps you can take when you notice co-workers acting in an unsafe manner.
Identify and Solve the Inducing Factors
In general, safety violations occur for four reasons. Understanding why your co-workers violate safety standards can guide you in addressing the underlying issues.
- Personal Perception. Co-workers may think they do not need to follow safety precautions because their job is low-risk, the precautions are uncomfortable, or they don’t have time. Encourage co-workers to work safely not only for themselves but also for their family.
- Mental Lapses. Forgetfulness, preoccupation, or uncertainty may cause your co-workers to commit safety violations. A gentle reminder can correct the mistake.
- Abilities. Co-workers may act unsafely because they have improper tools, unrealistic expectations, or other challenges. Offer insights into ways to overcome these safety risks.
- Social Environment. Pressure to conform or fit in may prompt co-workers to neglect safety precautions. Encourage co-workers to remain independent and do the right thing regardless of anyone else’s mindset.
Speak to the Offender in Private
- When you see a co-worker breaking a safety procedure or otherwise acting unsafely, talk to that person in private. Approach your co-worker with kindness and understanding rather than accusations, as you request that he or she maintains a safe work environment for the sake of everyone.
Notify Your Supervisor
- If your co-worker refuses to listen to you and the unsafe behavior continues, talk with your supervisor. Share details such as the offender, dates, times, and incidents. The supervisor can then follow-up and schedule more frequent walkabouts, increase safety discussions, or take other appropriate actions.
Practice Safety Procedures
- Always model safety on the job site and do your part to maintain safe conditions. That means you must wear safety gear, pay attention to your surroundings and operate equipment properly.
- You should also participate enthusiastically in safety meetings and encourage your co-workers to do the same. Take the presentation seriously as you promote a workplace culture that emphasizes safety.
