What should a longshoreman do if they encounter a health or safety issue while working?

A longshoreman encountering a health or safety issue should ask the steward to notify the foreman or boss because this action ensures that the proper protocols are followed for addressing safety concerns. Stewards are typically trained to handle such situations and can escalate the issue effectively while also ensuring that the health and safety of all workers are prioritized. This approach follows the established chain of command, promoting a structured response to potential hazards rather than allowing individual actions to disrupt the workflow or compromise safety further.

In contrast, simply stopping work and leaving the site may not be the safest course of action, as it could lead to confusion if others are not aware of the reason for the halt or if safety measures are not activated. Engaging in a discussion with fellow workers can be valuable for sharing experiences and collective concerns, but it does not directly address the immediate need to report the issue to someone who has the authority to take action. Lastly, completing the task before reporting may delay necessary interventions that could prevent injuries or accidents, making it an unsafe approach in the face of a health or safety issue.