Tip 46 - Ask "Why not?"

Some ask why the big push for safety...I ask why not and you should too!

A common frustration for safety managers (and others) is the fact that some people just don't get it. This is a problem that many of us face, everyday. Why do people put themselves in harm's way for short term gains? Do they understand the risks? Are we giving our employees (and our childern) the training and tools that they need to survive in today's workplace? Some think 'it won't happen to me', but when it does happen to them they find out they were wrong.

Safe production is efficient production...many of America's best companies have figured it out. Mine operators and business owners know it too, but some workers still think they are helping the company out by taking unnecessary risk. We cannot afford the 'company man' mentality whether it is an hourly worker, a supervisor or a manager. These types of people usually end up getting people hurt.

Some supervisors and/or managers do not enforce safety rules because they do not want to upset their subordinates (and former co-workers) ...WHY NOT? Believe me it will upset the wives, husbands, parents and childern of our employees if we let their loved one die on the job. It will also be something you will regret for the rest of your life.

Nobody should have to die while they are trying to make a living, but many do! Why!? We get what we accept...maybe we need to expect more from ourselves, our co-workers and our superiors. Are we not our brothers' (and sisters') keepers? Please do your part to "get 'em all home at the end of the shift!"

Safety...why not?