“How You Do Everything” with Ronn Lehmann

In this episode of Safety Shorts, host Libby Pritchard welcomes back safety consultant Ronn Lehmann, who delves into the critical relationship between safety and quality. Through a personal story about tree trimming near power lines, Ron illustrates the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards in all aspects of life, not just the workplace. He emphasizes that consumer decisions play a significant role in safety outcomes and that professional conduct is essential in ensuring both safety and quality. The discussion highlights how mindset and habits are foundational to a robust safety culture, underscoring that a commitment to safety is a commitment to excellence.
Main Themes:
Ronn’s stories of tree trimming near power lines
The vital connection between safety and quality
The influence of consumer decisions on safety outcomes
The importance of professional conduct in safety practices
How mindset and habits shape safety and quality
The risks of cutting corners in safety and their broader implications
Personal responsibility in ensuring safety in everyday situations
The role of safety culture in professional and personal settings
Toolbox Talk Discussion Questions:
1. Ronn says, "The way that you do anything is the way that you do everything." What does this mean to you?
2. This story shows us that quality and safety are related. How does safety relate to the quality of our work on an every-day basis?
3. Does anyone have a story they'd like to share about a time when they, as a consumer, took safety practices into consideration?
Key Takeaways:
"Safety and quality are interconnected. You can't be safe and ignore quality. Nor can you claim quality work if you ignore safety."

"The way you do anything is the way you do everything. It's driven by mindsets and habits."

"Every hazard that can be controlled should be controlled."

"Safety can be in our hands. Even if we're not the ones doing the work, we can make good decisions."

"If someone is detail-oriented around their safety, their quality will likely be better too."

"The more you focus on the mindset and habits of safety, the safer you'll be and the better your quality will be."

"Safety and quality go hand in hand. You can't separate the two."

"If a worker is willing to cut corners on safety, they're likely willing to cut corners on quality as well."

"We have power as consumers to influence safety. Our decisions matter."

"The mindset of safety and the habits of safety are crucial for both safety and quality."
Links:
National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association website
Ronn Lehmann