By: Greg LeBlanc 

An Accident is defined as an unfortunate event often the result of carelessness or ignorance.  An unforeseen and unplanned event of circumstance usually resulting in an unfavorable outcome.

A Hazard is defined as a condition or changing set of circumstances that presents a potential for injury, illness, or property damage.  The potential or inherent characteristics of an activity, condition, or circumstance which can produce adverse or harmful consequences.

A Fatality is defined as causing death.

There are some key words in these definitions; Unplanned; Unforeseen; Unfortunate: Unfavorable and most importantly POTENTIAL or DEATH.

There was an incident at a jobsite, where a young iron worker was decking from two floors up; tied off with a 50 ft. retractable.  He was working along and stepped backwards off the edge and forgot about the swing factor.  Yes he descended to the ground (soft sand excavation below) hit the ground running like it never happened, not a scratch on him.

During a different incident, a plant maintenance employee working on the 11th floor of a power plant was doing a  valve change out.  He fell from the 2nd step of a ladder.  Broke both his wrists and it took him two hours to crawl to a plant emergency phone and call for help.

For an unplanned or unforeseen event to take place there has to be potential!

COMPLACENCY and taking things for GRANTED are causes for a TREMENDOUS number of injuries each year.  Having a good safety attitude and knowing that it is part of your job will increase your chances of going home uninjured at the end of the day.  You might also find that your life at work becomes a bit more pleasant as well.

Negative attitudes toward safety lead to negative results ---accidents.  Experience has shown us that all the safety training and equipment in the world cannot ensure safety without the proper safety attitude being present.  Remember, although your employer may have a legal obligation to make and enforce the rules, that are made to protect you. Your attitude toward safety can be passed on as a culture, not an effort or demand; and is EVERY-ONE'S responsibility.

Let's have a good safe month and go home the way we came, if not better!