Rushing to Finish or Rushing into Trouble

UNDERSTANDING THE RISK

Rushing through tasks is a common behaviour in the workplace, often driven by time pressure or complacency. However, hurrying rarely improves productivity.

Instead, it creates unsafe conditions, increases the likelihood of mistakes, and raises the risk of injury to yourself and others. In many cases, incidents occur because basic safety steps are skipped.

COMMON SHORTCUTS ON SITE

Shortcuts are often taken to save time, but they introduce unnecessary risk. 

Common examples include:

• Not wearing PPE because the task “only takes a few minutes”
• Using the wrong tool instead of retrieving the correct one
• Skipping lockout or isolation procedures
• Taking unsafe routes through plant, equipment, or materials
• Removing guards from machinery
• Failing to isolate or unplug equipment be
• Using unsuitable access methods instead of fore adjustments proper equipment (e.g.ladders or EWPs)

These behaviours may not always result in an incident immediately, but over time they significantly increase the likelihood of a serious injury.

PLANNING THE TASK

Before starting work, tasks should be properly assessed to ensure they can be completed safely.

Workers should consider:

• Am I trained and competent to perform this task?
• Is my work area clean, tidy, and adequately lit?
• Am I using the correct tools and equipment?

Taking a few moments to plan can prevent incidents and improve overall work quality.

TAKE 5 BEFORE YOU START AND AVOID THE HURT

Am I trained & competent to undertake this task. Y/N

My work area is clean, tidy and it has adequate lighting. Y/N

There is safe access and egress to the work area. Y/N

I have appropriate controls in place to perform this. Y/N

My controls are appropriate to protect others around me. Y/N

I understand and know what assistance I may. Y/N

My equipment/tools are in good condition and correct for the task. Y/N

My PPE is appropriate, in good condition and correct for the task. Y/N

QUICK QUIZ

1. Why does rushing increase the risk of workplace incidents?
2. Name two common shortcuts that can create unsafe conditions on site.
3. What should you check before starting any task?
4. What should you do if you answer “No” to any of the Take 5 safety questions?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Rushing and shortcuts increase the risk of injury and incidents. 
• Shortcuts often lead to mistakes, poor workmanship, and unsafe conditions.
• Most incidents occur when basic safety steps are ignored. 
• Always plan the task and follow correct procedures.
• Saving the time is never worth risking your safety or others.