Why Safe Habits Matter: What Drives Unsafe Behavior at Work

Every day, pest control technicians head into the field with the goal of solving problems and protecting their customers' homes and businesses from unwanted and potentially dangerous and destructive pests.

It’s rewarding work but also demanding. The job environment changes constantly, often bringing new and unexpected hazards. And while we all intend to work safely, the reality is that unsafe behaviors can creep in, sometimes without us even realizing it.

So why do smart, experienced pest control professionals sometimes take risks that lead to accidents or injuries?

At PestSure, we believe the first step in building a strong safety culture is understanding why unsafe behavior happens. Most at-risk actions can be traced back to four key causes:

1. Unfamiliarity
2. Hurry
3. Complacency
4. Distraction

Let’s take a closer look at each, and how to recognize and prevent them in the field.

Unfamiliarity

New technicians aren’t the only ones affected by unfamiliarity. Even seasoned pros can encounter new equipment, procedures, or accounts that they’re not fully familiar with. You might forget something you learned in training or be unaware of a hidden hazard at a new account you are covering for a co-worker.

Examples of unfamiliarity:

• Using a new piece of equipment without proper training
• Working in a new commercial kitchen for the first time
• Entering a crawlspace with unknown conditions

Solution: Speak up and get the information you need. Don’t guess - ask questions, review labels, and consult with a supervisor or colleague. It's always better to pause than to proceed blindly.

Hurry

Time pressure is real. Schedules are tight, and no one wants to fall behind. But when you rush, you’re more likely to take shortcuts or skip key steps in your process and that’s when accidents happen.

Examples of hurrying:

• Skipping PPE because you're behind schedule
• Loading equipment quickly without checking for hazards
• Jumping out of the vehicle too fast

Solution: Slow down and stay steady. Build in time to assess the situation before jumping in. Efficiency doesn't mean rushing. It means being thoughtful, prepared, and deliberate in your actions.

Complacency

One of the most dangerous mindsets in pest control is “I’ve done this a thousand times.” That kind of thinking can lead you to cut corners or ignore procedures, especially if nothing bad has happened before. But that track record can vanish in a second.

Examples of complacency:

• Skipping a ladder safety check
• Not reviewing a label before applying a familiar product
• Disregarding PPE for a “quick spray”

Solution: Treat every job like it’s your first. Follow procedures fully every time, not just when someone’s watching. Safety protocols exist for a reason and that reason is you.

Distraction

Phones, personal stress, radio chatter, even overthinking your to-do list - distractions are everywhere. And when your mind drifts, your body follows. One moment of inattention can lead to an accident that affects your health, your income, and your team.

Examples of distraction:

• Thinking about your next stop while climbing stairs
• Responding to a text while unloading the truck
• Daydreaming during a chemical mix

Solution: Stay present. Before each task, take 30 seconds to clear your head and scan your surroundings. Focus on what you’re doing now, not what comes next.

Situational Awareness: Your First Line of Defense

Staying safe means staying alert. At every account, take a moment to look around and ask: “What could injure me here?”

Here are some hazards to watch for:

• Heavy lifting risks
• Slippery floors or uneven pavement
• Low ceilings or overhangs
• Dogs or animals on the property
• Active machinery or moving vehicles
• Poor lighting or confined spaces
• Chemical exposure

Then plan: What will you do to stay safe today?
And decide: You’re going home injury-free because someone is depending on you.

Safe Habits Are Built, Not Born

Unsafe behavior doesn’t come out of nowhere, it’s usually the result of habits formed over time. But here’s the good news: safe habits can be built just as easily. It starts with awareness and the decision to prioritize safety, every single day.

At PestSure, we’re committed to helping pest management professionals stay safe on the job and build careers they can be proud of. Because when you’re safe, your team is stronger, your customers are protected, and your business thrives.

PestSure – Your Partner in Safety

Founded in 1980, PestSure is the only insurance and risk management provider that is 100 percent dedicated to the pest management industry. It offers industry professionals a full suite of insurance, risk management, and safety training and education offerings.

PestSure provides insurance, safety and risk management consulting to pest management companies representing $2 billion in revenue, $750 million in payroll and more than 16,500 service vehicles. The program is administered by Alliant Insurance Services.

Call 888.984.3813 or visit our contact page for more information.