It is interesting for me to ponder the differences between my professional self and personal self. While I am out in the field conducting service at various job sites, I have a stellar track record for following proper procedures. Procedures that have been put into place to ensure safety criteria are being met, etc. It is important to realize just how much your environment can potentially modify a situation and possibly even cause a lapse in judgment.
Here is a personal example that might cause some of you to chuckle:
A few months ago, I gave a friend of mine a hard time about neglecting to call Mrs. Utility prior to beginning an outdoor project. Mrs. Utility of Virginia is a free service that is offered to assist homeowners (and others) to avoid damaging underground utility lines on their property. It is a great service that is generally referred to at least 3 working days prior to beginning any digging project.
Recently I am eager to finish a sidewalk/edging project – just a small project, no need to call anyone right? WRONG! Upon digging deeper and deeper into a frustrating “root” problem – edging should always be perfectly level right? - I pulled out the reciprocating saw. Rounds one and two went to the root but this is a five round bout. Finally, after replacing a few blades - I didn’t think too much of that little “root” killing my blades - I dug on and finally broke through the root.
As I began pulling that “root” out, I remember feeling a sense of victory. Then it hit me, “what is that hand full of plastic and metal shavings along with the root?” - Oh No! I didn’t just cut an underground power cable once, but twice. Now, you and I both know that if I had needed to find that particular cable for any other wholesome reason, I probably never would have been able to, but that’s another story.
This is where the important lesson comes into play. Since I didn’t heed my own advice and follow the proper procedures on my project (i.e, calling Mrs. Utility), the cost of my project has skyrocketed and to make matters worse, my friend is now heckling me while my wife gloats on in her “I told you to call” moment.
It is important to remember that in a pinch, it might be easy to justify skipping a couple of steps, procedures or manufactures guidelines. As my story has illustrated, we are usually much better off in the long run if we follow the proper procedures. It is important to understand that policies, procedures and safety guidelines are in place to ensure that your operations are profitable – with equipment running optimally and your employees safe….making it home in one piece so they can return ready to work the next day. Ultimately, following the proper procedures will save you time and money in the long run.
John Garrett
Service Manager
PeakLogix
14409 Justice Rd
Midlothian, VA 23113
P: 804.302.1512 F: 804.794.6515
24/7 Service Hotline 866.850.8559
www.PeakLogix.com
