Written by Frank Emmons, Vice President of Operations at Traffic Plan.
I’d like to start off this first newsletter segment by introducing myself. I’m Frank Emmons, the Vice President of Operations here at Traffic Plan. After 29 years as a New Jersey State Police Officer, mostly working with traffic control in the construction unit for the New Jersey Highway Authority, I decided to transition into the private sector and joined the Traffic Plan team a little under three years ago. You may recognize me from my crew and office visits or my monthly Toolbox Talks.
The goal of these Frankly Speaking columns is to serve as advice columns, Q&As, or a way we can discuss any field or industry concerns you may have. This quarter, I’d like to start off by discussing complacency in our work and how it can impact our safety and the safety of those around us.
COMPLACENCY BREEDS DISASTER
Let’s face it. Sometimes being in the field can get mundane and boring. We know that it’s sometimes easy to forget that what you’re doing, where you are, and the overall environment you’re working in is dangerous. Being in the field day in and day out can get monotonous and can cause you to let your guard down, but it’s vital to your safety and the safety of others that you stay focused and aware of your surroundings.
HOW TO STAY SAFE
The most important aspect of staying safe out in the field is workplace awareness. Being around traffic is dangerous, but being exposed to it daily can make you feel like you’re immune to the threat of injury. Remember to stay behind traffic control devices, wear your safety vest, never turn your back to traffic, and always remember where you are and what work you’re doing. The scary part about this job is that you can do everything right and still get hurt, so stay alert and focused on what’s happening around you so that you’re as prepared as possible for any accidents. It’s your responsibility to keep the workers, the public, and yourself safe. Stay vigilant and don’t allow yourself to become complacent. This will help ensure you can make it home safe and sound.