Do you risk your life when you show up for work?
Google “lineman killed 2023” and multiple hits appear: Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Michigan, Georgia…
OPM’s program and project management work with electrical utility companies means the projects we manage involve the same electrical transmission equipment where these linemen encounter the risk of death each and every day they perform their jobs. They are part of our larger community of workers who ensure that the energy grid remains active and provides power to businesses and homes. These workers had countless hours of electrical safety training and often years of experience.
So, why did these skilled linemen lose their lives this year?
Searching for Answers
Hopefully the answers will come following thorough incident investigations. While identifying the root cause of each accident cannot bring these lineman back to their families, it may help to prevent future accidents or fatalities.
Even though our roles in electrical transmission and distribution project work rarely involve firsthand exposure to hazards, our staff receives training on proper incident investigation and reporting techniques. Understanding what is required for the investigation team to perform their work is vital information for our project management personnel so that we may assist by whatever means possible and appropriately alter timelines and budgets to accommodate jobsite shutdowns and corrective action requirements.
Incident Reporting Systems
Does your workplace, including professional office settings, have an incident reporting system? Are near misses part of the information gathered and investigated? Some companies utilize online reporting systems with an option for anonymous reporting of incidents or hazards for employees who fear retaliation for sharing information.
The ability of any reporting system to prevent future accidents is only as good as its utilization by employees and the skill of its investigation team. Have you ever identified a hazard or witnessed an incident in the workplace? Would you be comfortable reporting it to management for investigation?
It’s Up to You…Yeah, You.
The power of preventing future accidents, and possibly even fatalities, rests in the hands of each and every worker who notices any unsafe conditions or actions in the workplace.
Consider reporting the issues before someone is injured.
Safety First. Always.
