Safety Failures That Are Big Oopsies Waiting To Happen

Eric Lund

Mar 22, 2022 11:00 AM EDT

Every once in a while, we have a close call. Maybe you're using a reciprocating saw without eye protection. The tip hits a nail and breaks off, flying into a tree about a foot from your head. This is what's called "a growth opportunity." It makes you realize, if you're not dumb, that putting yourself in harm's way for no other reason than convenience isn't exactly a good idea. And then you remember that your safety goggles are in a box underneath a bunch of boxes of tools and crap, so maybe this time you'll let things slide, but definitely next time you'll remember to wear those glasses before using power tools. It's a thought.

Here are some times people tempted fate through ill-advised and unsafe maneuvers. On one hand it's impressive to see how many ladders people are willing to lash together to get to the top of a steeple. On the other hand, we'd all rather just see it and not do it ourselves. Good luck to these cowboys of gravity and tempters of fate.

Here are some more misguided safety failures that OSHA would disapprove of.