I have read Alexandra Berzon’s articles in the Las Vegas Sun regarding construction site safety in Clark County. I understand that the Clark County Commission is looking for ways to regulate improvements to the situation.
A workplace death is a tragedy. However, focusing on the deaths is focusing on the wrong end of the safety pyramid. In addition to New York City, I suggest that the commission consult with the National Safety Council.
Death is at the top of the safety pyramid. If deaths are being experienced, there are myriad additional nonfatal incidents and accidents that are occurring. While these incidents and accidents may not be documented or reported to OSHA, they are occurring. This is the area that needs to be addressed to avoid deaths.
There are several principles of workplace safety. These principles apply to every workplace. I am recalling these principles from the mandatory, recurring safety training provided by my previous employer (there may be additional principles that are not listed here):
• All accidents and incidents are preventable.
• Safety is a condition of employment. (Cowboys and hot-doggers need not apply.)
• Safety is a line management responsibility. (Ensure that safety procedures are in place and followed or suffer the consequences. Safety is a condition of employment.‚
• Each incident, accident, lost workday situation and death will be reviewed and analyzed. Willful violation of the safety program is grounds for termination for both the worker and responsible management.
• Contractors, vendors, suppliers and visitors must be advised and must comply with the safety program (no exceptions).
I agree that the commission needs more regulatory strength. Inspections alone will not solve the problem. Death is the ultimate accident, at the top of the safety pyramid. The entire safety program needs to be addressed.
The goal should be “zero reportable accidents and zero lost workdays.” If this is the goal with the safety program in place, and with management commitment, we will not be discussing workplace deaths. For this to succeed, the management of both the contractor and the contracting company, including the chief executive officers, must be personally committed to the safety program with employment at risk for violations.
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