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219 quotes, page 8 of 8Safety, health and getting home in one piece
For the driver at the end of a long shift, the forklift operator and the carer on nights: rest, care and the minute that saves a life. Every job ends with going home.
We say who really said each one, and where the credit is uncertain we tell you. Every card is ours to share.
“Before the rain comes, bind the windows and doors.”
Chinese proverb (Wei yu chou mou), from the Book of Songs
Check the forecast before a roofing job and tie down the loose sheets before the wind gets up, not during.
“Too much of anything does harm.”
Czech proverb (Vseho moc skodi)
Back-to-back double shifts feel like a win until tiredness causes a slip. Know your limit and keep to it.
“Sail with care, and the boat will last ten thousand years.”
Chinese proverb (Xiao xin shi de wan nian chuan)
A careful driver keeps the same clean licence and the same job for decades. Care is what makes a long career.
“A man warned is half saved.”
Italian proverb (Uomo avvisato, mezzo salvato)
Read the risk assessment and listen at the toolbox talk. Knowing where the danger is gets you halfway to avoiding it.
“A man forewarned is worth two.”
Spanish proverb (Hombre prevenido vale por dos)
The carer who knows the resident's moving plan, and the driver who has checked the route, each do the work of two.
“Safe is safe.”
German saying (Sicher ist sicher)
Not sure the isolator is off? Check it again. There is no such thing as too sure around electricity.
“The devil meddles in hasty work.”
Turkish proverb (Acele ise seytan karisir)
When you are rushing to finish before the lorry leaves, that is when the pallet tips. Slow down at the end of the day.
“Hasty speed is seldom good.”
Dutch proverb (Haastige spoed is zelden goed)
Running down the stairs with a tray, or overtaking on a bend to save a minute: hurry rarely ends well.
“The wise man keeps away from danger.”
Japanese proverb (Kunshi ayauki ni chikayorazu)
There is no shame in refusing a job you think is unsafe. Step back, speak up and ask for it to be put right.
Other sections
- Work and keeping going (559)
- Stoic calm (316)
- An open mind (366)
- Starting a business (299)
- For leaders (218)
- Working with people (214)
- Mindset and habits (339)
- Safety and health (219)
- Starting again (210)
- Pride in the job (185)
- True stories of people who started small