The first day back at work after Tết often begins with a shared mindset: “Let’s work faster to catch up.”

We steps into the morning shift after a long holiday. The equipment is familiar. The tasks have been done hundreds of times. Wanting to finish quickly, he skips the quick safety check before operating the machine.

One mistimed action — an incident occurs.

Early-year accidents rarely happen because the work is new.
They often happen because we become complacent with what feels familiar.

Why are incidents more likely during the first week back?

1. The body hasn’t fully “reset”

• Sleep schedules have changed
• Alcohol consumption during the holidays
• Daily routines are not yet stable
• Reaction time is slightly slower
• Concentration is slightly reduced

In the workplace, “slightly” can be enough to cause an accident.

2. Pressure to regain productivity

• Backlogged tasks
• The desire to prove efficiency
• The mindset of “I’ve done this many times before”

Familiarity often leads us to skip essential safety checks.

3. Equipment and environment have been idle

• Machinery has not operated for several days
• Electrical, gas, or compressed air systems require rechecking
• Floors and walkways may be dusty or slippery

Restarting work without reviewing safety conditions increases risk.

Common incidents during the first week of the year

• Slips and falls due to wet or dusty floors
• Minor machine-related injuries caused by rushed operations
• Mild electric shocks from damaged wiring
• Muscle strains or sprains from improper lifting
• Dizziness or low blood pressure due to disrupted routines

Most of these are considered “minor incidents.”. But minor incidents are often early warning signs.

Safety Reset: 4 Actions for the First Day Back

1. Reset the work environment

• Inspect the area before starting operations
• Ensure walkways are clear
• Check power sources and equipment condition

2. Reset your body

• Stretch for 3–5 minutes before heavy work
• Stay hydrated
• Take short breaks if feeling dizzy or unusually fatigued

3. Reset procedures

• Wear full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Do not shorten safety checks
• Avoid the mindset of “just getting it done quickly”

4. Reset awareness

• Observe colleagues for signs of fatigue
• Remind each other to follow safety procedures
• Report even minor incidents

Safety at the beginning of the year is not a slogan. It is a decision.

Quick Checklist – Staying Safe When Returning to Work

What to Do

• Inspect the work environment and equipment before operating
• Warm up before performing physically demanding tasks
• Follow all safety procedures
• Rest if experiencing unusual symptoms

Common Mistakes

• Rushing to regain pace
• Skipping PPE for “just a quick task”
• Becoming complacent with familiar work
• Failing to report minor incidents

A Safe Year Begins on Day One

Accidents do not increase because we lack skills. They increase when we return too quickly. One extra safety check.
One minute to slow down. One full set of protective equipment.

That can be the difference between a normal workday and an avoidable incident.

Start right – Work safely – Stay safe all year.