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“sweat
the details.”
Contributed by Chris Belisle
We had some new metal shelving installed one morning. Later in the
day I noticed Dan, who was on his coffee break, carefully reversing
a nut and bolt that had been attached with the head of the bolt
inwards, and the "tail" sticking out—not
much, but enough that there was a small chance it could snag someone
passing by.
When the rest of our crew returned, I commended Dan on his foresight.
"Sweat the details," Dan commented. Dan has been with
our company for thirty years, and is due to retire shortly. The
point he wanted to make was for our younger team members, who,
Dan feels, are not as sensitive as they might be to every workplace
hazard. Dan wanted to emphasize our joint responsibility to keep
the workplace safe.
Preventing accidents is a tough job. The goal is a great big zero,
and you have to win it day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute.
You can't achieve an accident-free workplace on your own. But you
can create an environment where everyone helps you.
That is why I was especially appreciative of Dan's action. I have
learned to expect each team member's active participation
and support. I stress involvement, and let team members see that
I am pleased when they seek ways to avoid lost time injuries; disappointed
when they show little interest.
- I encourage
team members to be as watchful—of themselves, and of fellow
team members—as I am. I emphasize group responsibility and
remind team members that even if just one team member fails to
work safely, the safety of everyone is compromised. Experienced
workers must set an example for new hires.
- I remind everyone repeatedly about potential
hazards—based on past experience and common sense.
- I see that everyone always follows safety
rules; and that all our associates wear prescribed PPE.
- Finally, I tell people how they are
doing, compliment safe work practices, and commend team members
who point out or remove hazards.
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