Navigate in your Lane

Lazy Louis was a man who took up a lot of space. He had a big physical presence and an even bigger ego. His pants; however, did not match his ego. His pants were typically two sizes too small which highlighted a specific body part. (I still have PTSD from this memory.) His background was primarily and solely environmental even though he believed he could make decisions within the safety profession. In reality, it is possible to flow between these two worlds, but it requires significant education and mentor to slap you in the face or protect you when you mess up.

One day, his safety knowledge and company politics were tested - over safety showers.

The situation was intense. On one side, the Union was fighting to keep the safety shower inspection work; on the other, the Company was desperate for actual compliance. Past inspections by the Union had been pitiful (to say the least) and the Company wanted the job done right. It was ultimately a delicate labor-relations tango. A situation that requires the involvement of multiple departments and basic knowledge of the history of the situation.

A high-stakes conference call was scheduled with only the safety department. Louis, true to form, "pigeonholed" the notification. He didn't invite the rest of the EHS team. It didn't occur to him to invite labor relations. He wanted to be the sole voice, the ultimate hero.

Adding to the problem, Louis had zero context. He didn't know the history of the agreement or the specific legal landmines buried in the Union's contract.

During the call, he played the big man. He made an executive decision: Remove the Union from the task; bring in an outside contractor.

Twenty-four hours later, the situation exploded. The Union was notified they were off the job, and they hit back instantly with a massive grievance against the company.

I’ll never forget the look on Louis’s face when the fallout reached his desk. It was priceless—a mix of sheer panic and the sudden realization that he was in deep shit. But did he own it? Of course not. He publicly denied any involvement, point-blank lying and denying that the conversation ever happened. My mind was totally blown.

I don't think he learned his lesson. He still continues to make significant decisions today without involving the proper departments/SMEs and not understanding the historical context. It makes him look like a total douche.

The Lesson Learned: Stay in your Lane.

Having a "niche" is fine, but an ego can be a powerful tool, but when it’s used to gatekeep information, it eventually becomes the very thing that crushes you.