Malaysians are known for being easy-going and kind-hearted. The “Ahh, never mind” or “Can adjust one” attitude might work fine in daily life, like forgiving debts or small mistakes. But when it comes to workplace safety and health, that same mindset becomes dangerous.
Here are some real-life examples of this “never mind” mentality at work:
“I noticed the fire extinguisher is due for maintenance soon.”
Ah, never mind, still got time. The Fire Department hasn’t come to check anyway. It’s not even used, so why service it?
“The workspace is narrow between the building and deep excavation. A backhoe is parked right in the middle.”
Ah, can still squeeze through. No need to ask the operator to move — he’s senior. I’m just a worker.
“My work area is messy and dirty.”
Ah, never mind, that’s the cleaner’s job.
“PPE is required at the worksite.”
Ah, no need lah, this is open area, not inside the building. No rocks falling from the sky anyway!
“We can use the cherry picker to ride up quickly instead of scaffolding.”
Ah, easier that way. Scaffolding takes time to set up from level 1 to 2.
“There’s a pile of steel bars blocking the walkway.”
Ah, Mamat just left it there for a while. I’ll just walk through.
“Windows on the 20th floor haven’t been cleaned.”
Ah, just the 20th floor. Gondola too slow and troublesome. I’ll clean from inside — just lean a bit out the window, no problem!
“A new trench was dug and it’s drizzling.”
Ah, wait for sun later. Once dry, we continue.
“Thunderstorm warning issued.”
Ah, I just climbed up the tower crane. Lazy to come down. Supervisor didn’t say anything, I’ll rest here until the storm passes.
“Lighting is poor for the night shift.”
Ah, I’ve done this job many times in the dark. Boss said save the generator fuel.
“The temporary work platform is overloaded.”
Ah, this platform is strong. Expensive one, can definitely handle extra load on it.
“Manhole cover missing.”
Ah, normal lah. Someone probably stole it. I’ll just watch my step. The company can buy a new one later. The maintenance guy sure didn’t know how to do their job correctly. But let them figure it out themselves.
“Working near piling operations.”
Ah, earplug for what? I’m used to the noise. Not like I’m the machine operator.
Lesson Learned
As the elders say, “Bit by bit, a hill will form.” Habits, whether good or bad, grow stronger over time. Safe habits lead to progress and protection, but unsafe habits will also show their results, just in painful ways.
Every “never mind” adds up until one day it becomes a serious accident. Safety is not about being paranoid, it’s about being consistent. Small acts of care today can prevent big regrets tomorrow.