Complacency...Defined
Complacency has different meanings to different people. In situation where safety needs to be a priority, the most appropriate definition of complacency is “having a feeling of security”. On the jobsite, a feeling of security can lead to a belief that no dangers are present. But, unfortunately, there are no jobsites free from safety hazards.
Complacency...It's the Wrong Way
Compared to the number of injury-free days throughout the year, injuries are relatively rare occurrences. This is the reason that becoming complacent is easy to do. However, those injury-free days were only possible through the understanding that a danger-free work environment does not exist and work must always be performed the right way. Complacency thrives on the acceptance that doing things the right way no longer matters, which puts everyone at risk.
Complacency...A False Belief
Therefore, it is important to reject complacency, to know it as nothing more than a false belief that nothing will go wrong and to act accordingly. A safe work environment requires constant vigilance and deliberate action to mitigate or eliminate workplace hazards. To ensure everyone gets home safely, avoid complacency and do things the right way, which includes the following basics of jobsite safety:
- Follow established protocols and procedures;
- Conduct safety meeting to discuss potential hazards;
- Utilize proper PPE;
- Perform JSAs before each task;
- Manage the work areas;
- Maintain an organization; and
- Watch each other’s back.
