Introductions
Let me start off by saying, after reading a few of my “rants,” you’ll like me or you’ll hate me. I guess that’ll depend on what part of the food chain you’re in as to which you’ll prefer. With that said, if you decide not to like me, then you’re probably the one that needs to hear me most.
In the 80s, co-workers nicknamed me the Desert Piranha. I didn’t care for it much at first, but it’s grown on me. My ex-wife always told people I wasn’t just rough around the edges, I was rough all over. That may be true, but sorry, not sorry (you’ll here that phrase a lot).
The good folks at AHS Rescue have given me a platform and the opportunity, in essence, to start Festivus a bit early (it’s on December 23rd in case you were wondering) and to begin with the “Airing of Grievances,” only my tradition is a year-round event. Although “Feats of Strength” would be entertaining and “Festivus Miracles” would be nice, I’ll just stick to what I’m best at…being abrasively honest.
About Me
With 40+ years in the industry, certified as a rope access and rope rescue technician, I’ve worked all over this country (and even in one or two others). I’ve been an end user, instructor, and evaluator for some great and some not-so-great employers that have made me who I am today. So, blame them that my favorite colors are black and white.
The End Game
All I’m interested in doing here is starting a conversation. There are techs out there that have no clue they could be trained to a potentially deadly standard. There are probably employers that have no idea what is lacking in their safety programs. And, unfortunately, there are some that do and deflect their responsibility at the risk of life. This is unacceptable and I hope to raise an eyebrow or two with what I publish in the future. Let’s talk.
My articles are my own opinion and may not reflect those of AHS Rescue. Thanks to them for letting me share.
Sam Savvy, aka the Desert Piranha
