A questioning attitude helps to ensure that safety is considered before making a decision or performing a task. This mindset empowers us to identify hazards, speak up, and react appropriately to potentially harmful situations and conditions. To maintain a questioning attitude, we should:
- Recognize and plan for the possibility of hazards, mistakes, problems, and risks
- Stop when faced with uncertainties and/or previously unidentified hazards
- Evaluate and manage risks before proceeding with the activity
- Challenge assumptions and offer opposing views when something doesn’t seem right or cannot be performed in accordance with work controls
To combat complacency and over-confidence, use a self-check process. Consider personal factors such as physical health, lack of sleep, and mental distractions before making decisions or engaging in activities (everyone can exercise Stop Work authority).
You can nominate others or be nominated for positive recognition through the UCOR iQuestion Program. If someone you work with calls out a changed or adverse condition, recognize them with a nomination by:
- Using the Swift Observation Capture App (SOC App) on a mobile device
- Clicking on the iQuestion icon found on the Safety & Health (S&H) Programs hub space
- Contacting your supervisor or S&H representative
Maintaining a questioning attitude is essential to staying safe. Whether at work or home, frequently pause and check for unexpected conditions that could negatively impact safety.
Group Discussion: Think about an injury you sustained. Discuss how it could have been avoided if you had exercised a questioning attitude and proactively addressed the hazard or at-risk behavior.