Many people; as the accident statistics plainly indicate; show almost complete disregard for the fact that minor safety violations may have serious consequences. If any of you are in the habit of short-cutting; we hope you will break that habit right now. In our work; short-cutting can be deadly. All of us know of incidents where a thoughtless act was the direct cause of an accident.
 

We know of a case where an iron worker tried to cross an nine by swinging on reinforcing rods. His hands slipped and he fell 20 feet onto a concrete floor. If he had bothered to take a few moments to walk around the opening; he would probably still be tying rods. None of us should expose ourselves to danger in a similar manner.
 

To be sure; the safe way isn't always the shortest way; but choosing the safe way is your personal responsibility. When you are told to go to work in a particular area; you are expected to take the safe route not some shorter or more hazardous one. If you don't look out for yourself, nobody else will. If there's no safe access to a particular job assignment; see to it that a safe access is provided.
 

Ladders or scaffolds are provided for high work. Use them. Even though a high job may take only a few minutes; don't climb on false work or some improvised platform.
 

Steps; fixed ladders; or ramps are provided for you to get from one elevation to another. If they are not already provided, take time to have them installed.
 

Your first responsibility is to yourself. Remember that ladders, steps and walkways have been built to save you trouble and to save your life. Use them. If you see anyone taking short cuts, warn him of the danger involved and bring it to the attention of your supervisor.
 

Gambling a few minutes and a little energy against a possible lifetime of pain and misery is a poor bet.