The construction season for 2005 is coming to a close and I was asked to share an experience where I witnessed or was part of a safety issue.  An incident that still sticks out in my mind and I have shared with many of our employees is one of complacency. 

           I've worked for Manatts for over 20 years and have been around all different kinds of machinery.  You learn to always keep your head up and your options open.  I was out at the USDA with a company called Longfellow.  They were doing auger-cast pilings (they auger a 3' hole in the ground 30-60 ft deep) and then we filled it in with concrete.  This machine pivots from a central pivot point much like a track hoe while digging trenches.  They have to pivot frequently as they have to pull the auger out of the ground and swing to one side and knock the dirt out of the auger so they can put it back in the hole for another swipe of dirt.  Like our track hoes this drilling machine has big counter weight on the back of the machine to off set the weight of the dirt with the auger. 

One warm bright sunny day, I was out there checking on the crew's progress and making sure we were giving the service they expected from us.  One moment everything was fine, and then the next thing I remember was looking up and having several people huddled over me asking me if I was okay.  Several moments passed before I realized what had taken place.  For a split second I forgot where I was at and I stepped right into the swing pattern of this big machine.  I didn't even slow it down.  It hit me in the forehead and threw me back 10 - 15 feet landing on my back. 

I was fortunate in several levels.  I missed landing on the 1 1/4" rerod sticking out of the ground and I was wearing my hardhat.  Manatts and this specific job-site had a hardhat policy for everyone on site.  Because I was wearing my PPE's, the counter weight only gave me a skinned arm from landing on the grade and a sore neck.  I was able to collect myself and drive back to the plant and finish the day of work. 

At first I was more embarrassed by my actions and the attention it drew from everyone on site.  The more I thought about it, the more it bothered me and I realized just how fortunate I was.  Things many of us take for granted on a daily basis are not exactly the way it always will be.  All of us need to take certain precautions to help ensure our safety in case something bad happens.   I know everyone dislikes hardhats and some of the PPE's but it helped me go home that night and play with my kids and give my wife a hug.  That alone says it all.