14 June 2019
Toolbox Talk - Intestinal Fortitude
"Going with your gut!" Consider this:
- Have you ever been asked to do something and become anxious or nervous?
- The boss says it is OK and is "as safe as houses", but you feel uncomfortable?
- You start doing a job and realise that it's not really that safe, but it needs to be done?
- You’ve never done this type work before but don’t want to look like a...?
Somewhere along the line, you need to make a stand, to put your hand up and say, “I’m not comfortable doing this” or “This doesn’t feel safe to me”.
If we ignore these thoughts/feelings, we are unable to fully concentrate on the task we have been given therefore we are endangering ourselves and/or others as our mind is divided between the task and what we are feeling.
The feelings may stem from:
- Inexperience
- Lack of confidence
- Generic fears (working at height)
- Knowledge (you know it’s wrong)
Whatever the reason we need YOU to speak up!
Communication is a powerful force within the safety world. Using your voice is a choice, make the right call and stand up for your right to use it.
Using your voice:
- Speak with your Manager, Foreman or co-worker about your concerns.
- Bring it up at a 'Toolbox Talk' or ask a co-worker too.
- Request training (to build confidence and experience levels).
- Ask senior staff to show you how to do a specific task safely.
- Learn to accept that it’s OK to ask for help (none of us knows it all!)
Remember team! Safety is a habit!
Any suggestions or improvements in regard to Health & Safety on site can be emailed to our Health & Safety Officer or have a conversation with him on-site when you see him.!
