Some employees are willing to take chances when it comes to safety. They take needless risks to save time or reduce effort, but in reality they expose themselves and others to hazards that can cause serious injury.
Workers form bad habits when they repeatedly perform tasks unsafely and do not experience immediate harm. Over time they may believe their skill makes them immune to injury, which often leads to taking greater risks until a serious—or fatal—accident occurs.
Common careless acts
- Failing to follow proper job procedure
- Cleaning, oiling, adjusting, or repairing equipment that is moving, electrically energized, or pressurized
- Failing to use available personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and hard hats
- Failing to wear safe personal attire
- Failing to secure or warn about hazards
- Using equipment improperly
- Making safety devices inoperable
- Operating or working at unsafe speeds
- Taking an unsafe position or posture
- Placing, mixing, or combining tools and materials unsafely
- Using tools or equipment known to be unsafe
- Engaging in horseplay
Although federal workplace safety agencies do not cite employees for violations, workers are still expected to comply with applicable standards, rules, and orders. Employee responsibilities and rights in states with their own occupational safety and health programs are generally the same as under federal standards.
For organizations that work with inspectors or regulatory oversight, related insurance and risk resources can be helpful; see Safety Inspector Insurance for one example of industry-focused information.
Employee responsibilities
- Read notices and safety postings at the jobsite
- Comply with all applicable standards for the work being performed
- Follow all lawful employer health and safety rules and wear or use prescribed protective equipment while working
- Report hazardous conditions to a supervisor
- Report any job-related injury or illness to the employer and seek treatment promptly
- Exercise workplace safety rights in a responsible manner
Employers and workers in specialized operations may also find industry-specific guidance useful; see Detention Centers Insurance and Industrial Cryogenic Gas Insurance for examples of how certain risks are described for different workplaces.
If you notice a coworker taking unsafe chances, ask them to stop and consider the danger they are creating. Buddy up to find a safer method for the task, and remember that any time saved by unsafe actions can be lost many times over if an injury occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a coworker refuses to stop unsafe behavior?
Tell your supervisor or safety representative about the behavior and document the situation if possible; prioritize immediate hazards and follow your workplace reporting procedures.
Can I be disciplined for refusing an unsafe assignment?
Workers generally have the right to refuse tasks they reasonably believe are unsafe, but follow your employer's procedure for reporting and refusing work to avoid misunderstandings.
When should I use personal protective equipment (PPE)?
Use PPE whenever a task or workplace hazard requires it, and ensure it fits correctly and is maintained according to the employer's program.
How can repeated minor unsafe acts be prevented?
Regular training, clear procedures, supervisor engagement, and a culture that encourages reporting hazards without blame help reduce the buildup of unsafe habits.