Risk Management Magazine

Rail remains a vital part of the deployment process. During past deployment operations, the Army relied on contractors to do the majority of the loading. But with the focus on large-scale combat operations, a unit’s Soldiers will be responsible for rail loading unit equipment.

Since lagging indicators don’t explain the “why” behind the bottom line, organizations may tend to respond with broad, generalized corrective actions. Waiting for the damage to be done before addressing the risks may send a message that worker health and safety isn’t a priority. It’s an approach that can impair an organization’s efforts at building a positive safety culture.

Showing up to the mission in a fatigued state is unacceptable. This happens all too often in aviation. One of my recent flight manuals stated: “A pilot must show up to work free of stress.” Although we may not be stress-free, we may show up well rested and mentally ready to go the distance. A bright-eyed pilot is the best defense against adverse and sudden changes in the cockpit.