In the original post, “Frankly My Dear, I Don’t Give a Damn!” (February 17, 2015) some of the top 100 movie quotes of all time (according to the American Film Institute) were used to illustrate how real life safety issues can relate to Hollywood movie scenes. In the tradition of 21st century film making, this blog series continues. However, it is hoped that this sequel breaks the tradition and that it is as good, or better, than the original!

• “May the Force be with you.” Star Wars, 1977. A large percentage of workers are required to exert maximum, or near maximum, force to do their job. Material handling is prevalent in industry, but also one of the leading causes of injury. So the next time you must move material think “force” and use a mechanical aid so your back doesn’t absorb all the force! In this case, “may the force be with your hand cart, dolley, or pallet jack.”
• “Fasten your seat belts. It’s going to be a bumpy night.” All About Eve, 1950. Very good advice anytime workers are driving a vehicle be it a personal car, commercial vehicle, earth moving machine, or a fork truck. Seat belt use in the general public is nearing 90% nationwide, so don’t be part of the small minority who doesn’t recognize the benefits of this important safety system.
• “E.T., phone home.” E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, 1982. While cell phones are a valuable communication device in today’s world, even E.T. wouldn’t try to make a call while driving! So, as you buckle up (see above) also make sure you aren’t using electronic devices when your concentration should be directed at safe driving practices! Everyone on the road depends upon it.
• “You can’t handle the truth!” A Few Good Men, 1992. Well, the truth is that workplace injuries are preventable and employees must be held accountable for their actions. The truth is also that injuries hurt everyone; we simply can’t afford them, morally or financially. A successful safety program defines clear expectations of every worker, monitors performance, provides and elicits feedback, and conducts regular employee evaluations. That’s the truth!
• “You’re gonna need a bigger boat!” Jaws, 1975. There are times when workers really do need a “bigger boat”. Or perhaps it’s a bigger wrench, a larger fork truck, a specialty tool, a better respiratory protection system, or longer ladder. Best practices always include the “right tool for the job”. Often injuries occur because the worker is trying to do the job, but doesn’t have everything needed to do it safely. The result is an injury to a worker who simply wanted to get the job done. Conduct a job hazard analysis to be sure all the right equipment is available.
• “You’ve got to ask yourself one question: 'Do I feel lucky?' Well, do ya, punk?” Dirty Harry, 1971. The bottom line is that if safety isn’t given the priority it deserves, the only thing preventing an injury is luck. We all have good luck in our lives now and again, but depending upon it to keep us safe on the job just isn’t going to be successful in the long run.

Safety is everyone’s job from the new hire to the CEO. We often hear this, but how often is it really instituted? Does your organization embrace safety as an equal priority with production and quality? If you can’t answer “yes” to this question, then refer to AFI’s Famous Quote #70 from the movie Marathon Man, 1970. “Is it safe?”  

For more information regarding workplace safety see the OSHA publication 3071 “Job Hazard Analysis”.

Posted ByRandy Klatt, (Retired May 2022)