Toolbox Talk Topics: Why Accidents Occur

This page provides you another important topic that an hse officer can discuss in the TBT meeting on routine basis. If workers are aware of the major reasons of the accidents they can work safely.

Every accident is caused by a breakdown in one of four areas:

the worker,

the tools used,

the materials used,

or the methods used.

Most of the people breakdown the above four reasons in at least two areas; one being the worker and the other coming from one of the three other areas.

The accident’s cause usually results from an unsafe act or an unsafe condition.

Today we will review some types of unsafe acts, the results from, and unsafe conditions.

Types of Unsafe Acts:

Operating a tool or some equipment without authority.

Working at an unsafe speed.

Using unsafe or defective equipment or using equipment in an unsafe manner.

Disconnecting safety devices.

Unsafe unloading, placing or mixing materials.

Assuming an unsafe position or posture.

Working on moving equipment.

Horseplay or distractions; taking shortcuts.

Failure to wear and use personal protective equipment.

Unsafe Acts Result From:

An improper attitude.

Lack of knowledge or skills.

Reduced mental or physical capacities.

Unsafe Conditions:

Improper guarding.

Defective equipment or materials.

Unsafe working procedures.

Improper housekeeping.

Poor lighting or ventilation.

Improper personal attire (Poor dress).

No or improper evaluation of site conditions.

Additional Discussion Notes:

Remember with the issuance of WISHA citations, many of the routine hazards on job sites thirty years ago have been corrected. For example, machines are now significantly protected with guards.

However, the bottom line is still the use by each worker of their common sense by avoiding contact with unsafe conditions and by avoiding unsafe acts.

Reference: ANSI Z16.2-1962 (R1969) code.

NOTE: Always promote a discussion on any of the topics covered in the Tool Box Talk.