Weekly Safety Minute: Fighting Complacency
Complacency is one of the most dangerous habits that can creep into a jobsite. It doesn’t show up overnight builds slowly, often after years of experience, when tasks feel routine and familiar. For electricians, who work around energized systems, power tools, and tight spaces, complacency can be the difference between going home safely and facing a life-altering injury.
What Is Complacency?
Complacency happens when we stop paying full attention because the work feels “normal.” It’s when we think, “I’ve done this a thousand times—nothing will go wrong.” That false sense of security leads to shortcuts, missed steps, and overlooked hazards.
It often sounds like:
- “I’ll just make this quick cut without my safety glasses.”
- “No need to lock it out—I’m just testing voltage.”
- “I don’t need a spotter for this lift; I’ve done it before.”
Each of those choices seems minor—but they stack up, increasing risk with every shortcut taken.
How Complacency Affects Us
Electricians perform complex, repetitive work that demands precision and focus. When attention slips, the risks rise fast:
- Energized work: Skipping voltage verification or assuming a circuit is dead can result in serious shock or arc flash injury.
- Panel work: Forgetting to secure covers, tighten lugs, or replace barriers can create hazards for the next person.
- Tool use: Rushing with a drill, knockout set, or band saw without PPE can lead to cuts, punctures, or eye injuries.
- Ladders and lifts: Familiarity with equipment can lead to skipping harness checks or overreaching.
- Jobsite navigation: Assuming clear walkways or stable surfaces without checking can lead to trips or falls.
Signs You Might Be Complacent
- You stop reviewing the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) before starting work.
- You catch yourself “auto-piloting” through tasks without thinking about hazards.
- You notice shortcuts becoming routine.
- You tune out during safety discussions because “you already know it.”
- You rush to finish instead of taking a moment to plan.
If any of these sounds familiar, it’s time to reset your mindset.
Ways to Combat Complacency
- Do a mental reset: Before each task, take 10 seconds to think—What could go wrong? What controls do I need?
- Stay involved in safety talks: Speak up during pre-task plans and JHAs; it keeps you engaged and sharp.
- Rotate tasks when possible: Variety helps maintain focus and prevent “autopilot.”
- Hold each other accountable: If you see someone skipping steps, say something—complacency is contagious.
- Celebrate doing it right: Recognize crew members who take the time to follow safe procedures even under pressure.
- Reflect on near misses: Treat them as learning opportunities, not close calls to forget.
For Foremen and Leads
Complacency often starts at the top. Model the behaviors you expect—wear your PPE, follow lockout/tagout, and stop work when something feels off. Your crew takes cues from your consistency. When leaders hold themselves accountable, complacency has no room to grow.
Key Takeaway:
Complacency is silent—it builds with familiarity and comfort. Every one of us must fight it daily by staying present, questioning assumptions, and respecting the hazards of every task. Stay alert, stay deliberate, and never let routine replace awareness.