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117 Introduction to Safety Recognition
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A Word About Ignoring

The act of ignoring is the absence of recognition, either positive or negative. Unfortunately, ignoring employee performance is quite common in the workplace. Simply ignoring employees for the good work they do, may have dramatic negative impact on safety, production, and morale. What's the excuse managers will give for ignoring excellent performance? They might respond with, "Well, why should he have to recognize them - that's what they get paid to do.

Ignoring others, regardless of the reason, sends a very negative message that they are invisible, non-existent, and unimportant. Ignoring others who are trying to communicate is the worst response possible. It doesn't matter why you are ignoring them; they will think the worst, they won't like it, and they'll probably be upset with you.

Caveat: If a supervisor ignores an unsafe behavior, he or she has transformed the related mandatory safety rule into a discretionary guideline. When that happens, the employer is not justified in disciplining, and OSHA may cite the employer for failure to enforce safety rules.

If you want to have better working relationships with co-workers, always be the first to say "hi" when you meet them for the day. Always be first. It sends a positive message.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-8. What is the likely reaction when an employee is unintentionally ignored by a co-worker?