Test & Measurement

Tip of the Week: Move Away from a Rules-Only Safety Program

Dec. 12, 2016

A training program based on developing understanding and self-discipline will prepare employees for any situation.

Traditional safety programs have had a traditional tension in them: A company imposes rules, and its employees find ways to get by with not following them. Where this tension exists, it exists for one reason only: The employees do not understand why the rule matters. It’s seen as an impediment to getting the job done.

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A concept that sticks out when you read the NFPA 70E General Requirements [110.3] is that your safety programs must be geared toward developing understanding and self-discipline in the employee. Achieving this requires an approach that vastly differs from the traditional “read our safety manual” approach or the dynamic where supervisors walk around looking for unsafe acts.

If people are hurriedly putting on their safety glasses when a supervisor is spotted approaching them, your system isn’t working.

In addition to creating this enforcement situation, a rules-only safety program does not prepare employees for situations where a rule does not already cover the hazard. If your training program is based on developing understanding and self-discipline, the employees will be prepared for any situation that may arise.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.