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Proforma Safety, LLC Proforma PSI…when performance counts. Don't Tune Out Background Noise A very tragic incident reminds us how we can become accustomed to sounds around us and not realize we're not "hearing" safety warnings. A worker crossed the yard to talk to a colleague (who he thought was driving a yellow 12-ton forklift). As the worker turned to go back to the workshop, a small 4.5 ton Green Forklift completed a reversing operation and nailed his left ankle, knocking him to the ground. The forklift rear wheel then rotated on his left calf, causing a major trauma injury and resulting in his leg being amputated below the knee. Investigation showed the worker had been diligent in purposefully avoiding the 12 T yellow Forklift as he crossed the yard, and was aware of both forklift activities going on. He also "heard" the reversing alarms for both forklifts. No one lacked for experience; the available space was not confining, and the Green Forklift driver had chosen his route to minimize reversing. A possible explanation is that we can become accustomed to "routine" activities and sounds, and run the risk of "tuning out" or becoming complacent. This accident is an unfortunate reminder to be aware of the hazards in our surroundings every minute, every hour, every day. |