Irrespective of whichever industry, workplace, site, office or situation we work in, as individuals, stopping an unsafe act or a condition is a basic fundamental right and duty. It is an authority at work, backed by a moral obligation and responsibility to look after one another.
As workers, we are responsible for protecting ourselves, our co-workers, customers, innocent bystanders, and the environment.
It stands as our obligation to intervene, stop work and review controls in any situation or circumstance that is identified as posing a threat to personal health and safety, property, process or the environment too.
Stopping an unsafe act, it is the right thing to do. In fact one is legally and morally bound to do so.
Infact, when it comes to safety first, everything else stands secondary. One should not feel embarrassed or intimidated to speak up when safety is being jeopardised. Instead, speak up, challenge across, down and up the way without fear of recrimination.
Everyone must understand that activities must stop immediately when a “Stop the Job” command has been given.
One should behave appropriately and clearly when utilizing your Stop the Job Authority. If you intend to stop an unsafe job that could cause harm or lead to an accident, then make it clear – and do it. It is then vital that you explain the reason(s) why the work activity needed to be stopped.
Following a stopped job, regroup and re-visit the risk assessment during a toolbox talk session. Agree upon adequate corrective actions to control the identified risks, thus reviewing and revalidating the risk assessment.
The activity should proceed only when all personnel and parties involved are satisfied with the control and are clear on the same.
Thus, never hesitate to intervene, challenge and stop a job or activity you have reason to believe could lead to an accident or an incident. Your actions can save the lives of others.
