SHORTCUTS
TAKING SHORT CUTS IS A COMMON PRACTICE
Everyone takes a shortcut at one time or another. Kids jump the fence instead of using the gate. Pedestrians cross streets between intersections. But in many cases, taking a shortcut equates to taking a serious risk.
BREAK THE HABIT
If you have the habit of taking dangerous shortcuts, break it. In our work it can be deadly. An employee who tried to cross an open trench by jumping across it, fell into the excavation, fracturing his leg. If he had taken a few moments to walk around the opening, he’d still be working today.
AVOID HAZARDOUS SITUATIONS
If you are told by your supervisor to go to a particular work area, your supervisor expects you to take the safe route, not the shorter, more hazardous one. Your supervisor carries the awesome responsibility of providing you with the proper information, direction, tools and materials to do your job safely. However, he or she can’t be a guardian angel sitting on your shoulder all day – every day. Avoiding dangerous shortcuts is up to you. And it’s your responsibility to warn anyone else you may see taking a short cut.
SHORTCUTS IN THE WORK ZONE
In our everyday work we are surrounded by the dangers of busy traffic, and a general public that is thinking about everything except the work going on inside the work zone. Do not start your work without all of the elements of the traffic control plan in place.
SHORTCUTS BEHIND THE WHEEL
Running the yellow light to save some time is a shortcut we all must avoid. Although the risk is apparent, the temptation to choose this behavior will, sooner or later, inevitably lead to an accident.
SHORTCUTS AT HEIGHTS
Even though the job may take but a few minutes, don’t climb without taking the necessary safe guards. Verify that poles do not have any hidden defects and that ladders are in good condition.
REMEMBER
The safe way isn’t always the shortest way. But it’s the only way to keep from being injured.