Some managers have success with safety training by making it extremely personal. “Imagine what would happen to your family if you weren’t around anymore.” This story from Texas shows the impact a workplace death can have on a family.
Ronnie Lynn May, 44, was killed while working on a drilling rig in Midland County, TX.
May and a co-worker were moving pipe on a drilling rig when a portion of the pipe slipped, pinning the co-worker’s leg.
As May tried to rescue the worker, he was crushed by another piece of the rig. May was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. The other worker’s injuries weren’t life threatening. OSHA is investigating.
The San Antonio Express-News reports that May’s son, 10-year-old Seth, spent the day after his father’s death picking out a headstone, casket and funeral flowers.
May’s mother, Mamie May, told the newspaper that the father and son were great friends. The two spent time together riding four-wheelers, fishing and hunting.
“They did everything,” Mamie May said. “And today, Seth made all of his father’s funeral arrangements.”
Do you use personal stories to drive home the importance of safety? Let us know in the Comments Box below.