Safety and the struggle to keep up with the evolutionary process
Safety Standards and legislation often fail to keep pace with the evolutionary process. For example the recent increase in the minimum heights for balustrades and handrails is probably still no longer adequate given the rapid evolutionary increase in average height of the population. Nature once had a way of dealing with undesirable traits and behaviours – “survival of the fittest”.
In honour of Charles Darwin, the Darwin Awards commemorate those who improve our gene pool…by accidentally removing themselves from it. By necessity, the award is generally bestowed posthumously.
However, it now seems that scientists have discovered a new species referred to as “homo slackass–erectus”, the result of reverse natural genetic evolution and with survival instincts honed by abuse of readily available government welfare.
Through constant spineless posturing, and spasmodic upper limb gestures, usually involving the intimidating projection of one or two fingers and unbalanced by constant holding of a mobile phone to the ear, which new research has shown to cause shorter legs and an inability to ambulate other than in an awkward shuffling gait and bobbing head movement.
The "drag-crotch" shape (thought to be a form of primitive mating ritual) and backwards hat wearing also seems to affect brain function. Expect no eye contact or intelligent verbal communication other than grunting and teething clenching. They are quite fearless when prowling in packs but the elongated spine turns to jelly when alone. Unfortunately, most are highly fertile and will mate with anything.
Good news is that Safety Professionals are unlikely to encounter this species in the workplace!!!
Do you have any thoughts? Please share them below