Toolbox Talk - The Complacency Cycle

The Complacency Cycle

"I've done this so many times, I could do it with my eyes closed."

What does to be 'complacent' mean?

A complacent person is very pleased with themselves or feels that they do not need to do anything about a situation, even though the situation may be uncertain or dangerous.  

Sound familiar?

The problem we have here is what I call the ‘Complacency Cycle’.

We’ve witnessed it many times over the years and it's something that we all need a reminder of from time to time.

Complacency can set in at any time. We cruise along doing our thing whilst going through the motions. Boom an incident occurs, from that moment onwards our awareness of health and safety increases, we all get that edge back (the little voice that tells us right from wrong). Unfortunately, as time moves along, complacency rears its head, we cruise and then boom the cycle repeats itself.

What can we do to avoid getting complacent?

• Join in on the morning pre-starts, toolbox talks, ask plenty of questions in relation to the various task analysis and speak your mind.
• Stop, stand back from the job every now and then, change how you are looking at the area and asses is this the safest means of doing this activity?
• Keep an eye on your mates while they work - don't be afraid to ask them if they're being safe.
• Rotate jobs within the team - fresh eyes on a task is always a good idea!
• Motivate yourself and others every day to perform tasks in the safest possible manner.