Why You’re (Probably) Ignoring Safety Risks at Work
Workplace safety is not something people want to talk about during lunch breaks or after-work drinks. But ignoring it can lead to big problems. Safety risks at work, especially in fieldwork like construction, are accurate. They’re out there, hiding in plain sight. And let’s be honest, they’re often ignored. Not because people don’t care, but because they don’t see them or think they won’t happen to them.
In this article, we discuss why these risks get overlooked, what some of the most ignored risks are and how this blind spot can cost more than just money.
Why We Overlook Safety Risks
Everyone thinks they’re careful. “It won’t happen to me” is a common thought. It’s easy to believe that accidents are things that happen to other people. That’s human nature.
When you do something day in and day out, it becomes routine. And with routine comes a dangerous kind of comfort. When was the last time someone stopped and thought, “Is this ladder really stable?” or “Should I wear a helmet for this task?”
People get used to their environments. They walk by the same broken step or exposed wire every day until it fades into the background. It’s a classic case of familiarity breeding complacency. The more familiar something becomes, the less dangerous it seems, even if that’s far from the truth.
Then there’s the pressure of deadlines and productivity. Time is money. And safety precautions? Well, they take time. Some people might skip steps, thinking, “I’ll just do it this once,” or “What are the odds?” But cutting corners, no matter how small, adds up. It creates a culture where safety isn’t a priority and that’s when accidents happen.
The Impact of Unawareness on Workplace Safety
Accidents don’t just happen; they’re caused, often by a lack of awareness. Workers may not realise they’re in danger because they haven’t been appropriately trained or their training wasn’t thorough. Sometimes, it’s simply a lack of communication—a worker might not know an area is off-limits, a machine is faulty or they haven’t completed essential online slips, trips and falls training.
Slips, trips and falls are among the most common workplace accidents, particularly on construction sites. These incidents often occur because hazards go unnoticed, such as spills, cords left out or uneven surfaces. With adequate training, these dangers are easy to notice.
Outdated equipment or safety protocols also contribute to accidents. Companies stuck in the “this is how we’ve always done it” mindset risk overlooking new safety standards. Incorporating up-to-date online slips, trips and falls training into regular routines can help prevent these common accidents by increasing awareness and equipping workers to avoid them.
Common Safety Risks That Are Often Ignored
In fieldwork like construction, there are countless safety risks. Some are glaringly obvious, others not so much. But many get ignored because they’re just part of the job, right? Wrong. Here’s a look at some of the most commonly overlooked safety risks.
- Falls from Heights
Falls are one of the primary causes of injuries in the construction industry. Yet, how often do workers skip tying off because they’re “just going up for a second”? It happens more than you’d think. Ladders, scaffolding, rooftops—they all come with the risk of falling. And it’s not just the fall itself that’s dangerous; it’s also what you might fall onto. Even a short fall can result in serious injury.
- Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Working with chemicals, asbestos or even dust can have long-term health effects. Yet, how often do workers skip wearing masks or gloves because it’s “uncomfortable” or “just for a minute”? The problem is that minute adds up. Extensive exposure can lead to respiratory issues, skin problems or worse. But because the effects aren’t immediate, the risk is often ignored.
- Electric Hazards
Electricity is everywhere on a construction site. But how often do workers take the time to double-check if something is grounded correctly or powered off? Probably not enough. Electrical hazards aren’t always obvious, which makes them even more dangerous. One wrong move can lead to shocks, burns or even electrocution.
- Heavy Machinery
Operating heavy machinery requires focus. But fatigue, distractions or overconfidence can lead to accidents. How many times have you seen someone operate a forklift while looking at their phone? Or a crane operator who’s in a hurry and skips a safety check? These might seem like minor oversights, but they can have enormous consequences.
- Ergonomic Risks
Construction work is tough on the body. Lifting, bending, stretching—it’s all part of the job. However, poor ergonomics can lead to long-term injuries like back pain or joint problems. How often do workers ignore the proper lifting techniques because it’s “just one bag of cement” or “I’ve done this a thousand times”? Too often.
The Cost of Ignoring Safety
Ignoring safety risks doesn’t just put people at risk; it also comes with a price tag. When an accident happens, it’s not just the injured worker who suffers. There are medical bills, lost wages and sometimes, legal fees. The company might face fines or increased insurance premiums. And then there’s the cost of lost productivity. When someone gets hurt, the whole team is affected. Projects get delayed, deadlines are missed and the company’s reputation can take a hit.
But the cost isn’t just financial. There’s also the human cost. An injured worker might not be able to return to work or they might have to live with chronic pain or disability. Their family might suffer, too, especially if they’re the primary breadwinner. And what about the emotional toll? Accidents can shake up a workplace, creating fear and uncertainty among the rest of the team.
Changing the Safety Culture in Your Workplace
To change a workplace safety culture where risks are ignored, start with awareness. Workers need to be aware of daily dangers and this awareness must come from the top down. Management must prioritise safety so that workers follow suit.
Regular, engaging training is essential. It should be interactive and show the real-world consequences of ignoring safety risks so workers understand the serious implications of their actions or inactions.
Communication is also crucial. Workers should feel comfortable reporting safety risks without fear and an open line of communication between workers and management is necessary for a safer environment.
There should be consequences for ignoring safety protocols, but also rewards for those who prioritise safety. Positive reinforcement can significantly influence behaviour and help cultivate a strong safety culture.
