Complacency is often cited as one of the contributing factors to all types of incidents in the workplace. How does this happen?
Mainly, by sneaking up on us when we least expect it. An inspection of a recent worksite revealed that factory workers were noticeably "checked out" while performing routine tasks during night shift operations, raising concerns with the company management team.
1. Understanding Complacency
Complacency is like a stealthy intruder in the workplace, waiting for the right moment to strike. It happens when we become so accustomed to our routines and surroundings that we start overlooking potential hazards. Imagine navigating through your workday on autopilot, tuning out warning signs and neglecting safety protocols. That's the definition of complacency at work.
A night shift worker checks an electrical control panel as part of facility operations.
2. The Danger of Familiarity
One of the biggest contributors to complacency is familiarity. When we're constantly exposed to the same tasks and environment, we tend to let our guard down. This is typically when incidents happen because workers do not have their mind fully engaged in the tasks. Just think about driving your regular route to work. It's easy to become lax in checking mirrors or signaling because you feel like you know the road like the back of your hand. However, it only takes one unexpected obstacle to turn familiarity into a dangerous situation or mishap.
3. Example: The Slippery Slope
Consider a manufacturing plant where employees operate machinery. Initially, everyone is diligent about safety procedures, wearing protective gear, and following protocols. But over time, as days go by without any accidents, complacency creeps in. Employees start skipping safety checks, assuming everything will always go smoothly. Then, one day, a small oversight leads to a serious injury. The culprit? Complacency. This occurs everyday in the workplace and recently at a manufacturing facility in Los Angeles, a worker suffered the loss of his index finger while performing the routine task of installing brass grommets into fabric material. The task had been completed before thousands of times without incident.
Even routine tasks that appear to have no risk can lead to workplace accidents, especially when equipment is involved.
4. Breaking the Cycle
The good news is that complacency can be prevented by training workers and using proactive tools like the Mental Risk Assessment (MRA), a paperless behavior-based safety tool used to formerly teach workers on how to assess, analyze and act to eliminate potential hazards. Employees should also be empowered to speak up if they notice anything wrong and to communicate openly about complacency concerns. Especially when it comes to nightwork or overtime shifts, regular inspections and monitoring are extremely helpful.
5. Embracing Change and Innovation
Another effective strategy for combating complacency is to shake things up every now and then. Introducing new safety protocols or equipment can jolt employees out of their comfort zones and remind them of the importance of staying vigilant. Additionally, leveraging technology like safety apps or wearables can provide real-time feedback and alerts, keeping safety top of mind for everyone.
6. Leading by Example
Leadership plays a crucial role in setting the tone for safety in the workplace. Leaders should lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to safety through their actions and decisions. When employees see that safety is a priority at all levels of the organization, they're more likely to take it seriously themselves.
Supervisors play an important roll in identifying complacency issues and determining suitable solutions.
7. Taking a Stand Against Complacency
Despite its stealthy nature, complacency cannot win against a vigilant and proactive workforce. The importance of recognizing the danger of complacency and keeping it on your radar screen can be beneficial in preventing serious workplace accidents. Be aware of workplace complacency and don't become complacent!
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