What's wrong with being the safety police?

I've heard many safety professionals proudly declare that - "I'm not the Safety Police!"

But what's wrong with being the Safety Police?

• Police's mere presence on the road is a visual reminder to follow safe driving rules. People never drive more safely than they are near a patrol car. What's wrong with that?

• If a police officer pulls you over they will explain your violation and remind you why following prescribed driving safety rules are a benefit to all drivers. Often a verbal or written "warning" is the only action taken. What's wrong with that?

• If an accident does occur, the police officer is immediately on the scene rendering life-saving assistance. What's wrong with that?

Like police, the safety professional is a visual reminder of workplace safety, a coach who corrects unsafe behavior, and a medical aid facilitator who helps injured workers.

What's wrong with that?

I'm proud that my son's a policeman. We sometimes debate who saves more lives - him or me the safety guy!

So I ask you - what's wrong with being the safety police?"

KEYWORDS: OSH professionals safety professionals

Dave Weber, CSP, is the founder and owner of the popular workplace safety website SafetyAwakenings.com. He has a master’s degree in occupational safety & health, and more than 40 years of workplace safety experience. Prior to creating SafetyAwakenings.com, Dave managed corporate EHS departments for five international corporations, as well as working in safety education and loss control.