02/05/2025
7 Common Safety Myths, Busted by HIVIS 🦺
As we reach the end of the week, it's a great time to address some common safety myths that we often see circulate in various workplaces. Relying on the mindset of "she'll be right" is not a reliable approach to safety. Let’s take a moment to unpack these myths and promote a more informed understanding of safety practices.
🔶 MYTH 1: “We’ve never had an accident, so we must be doing it right.” TRUTH: That works... until it doesn’t. Good signage and clear visual warnings help stop the first mistake before it even happens.
🔶 MYTH 2: “People will see the forklift coming.”
TRUTH: Not if they’re staring at their phone or juggling gear. Forklift zones need proper signs, floor markings and bollards, not just crossed fingers.
🔶 MYTH 3: “I’ll only be on the ladder for a second.”
TRUTH: And gravity only needs one. A quick job still deserves weight limit signs and PPE reminders, your ankle will thank you later.
🔶 MYTH 4: “We’ll sort the layout on the day.”
TRUTH: Usually followed by “who put that there?” Plan ahead with signage and zoning so your crew isn't improvising around forklifts and footings.
🔶 MYTH 5: “Everyone knows the hazards already.”
TRUTH: Unfortunately, people forget, especially on Friday arvo. Strong, visible signage keeps safety front and centre even when brains are elsewhere.
🔶 MYTH 6: “I’ve got traffic cones, that should be enough.”
TRUTH: Pair them with signs, tape or bollards so people notice the hazard more effectively.
🔶 MYTH 7: “The team’s been briefed, signs aren’t necessary.”
TRUTH: Spoken briefings fade. Clear signage sticks around. Especially when it’s bold, in the right spot and made by us.
If it needs to be seen, remembered or shouted a bit louder without actually shouting, we’ve got the gear. Happy Friday from the HIVIS crew!
