Safety consciousness refers to ones awareness of hazards and alertness to potential danger. It is a term that describes an individuals knowledge of the presence of hazards or dangers in their environment and their preparedness to handle potentially dangerous situations. Safety consciousness is a potent factor in the prevention of accidents, and it has a strong influence on the actions of an individual because of their desire to remain alive and uninjured. Safety consciousness must be comprehensive, reaching every operation, evident at all meetings, and instilled in all personnel in supervisory positions to set good examples in safety to the personnel under them. Open communication with safety managers and co-workers is essential to create a safety-conscious work environment, and employees need to know they can come to management without fear of retribution to report violations of safety.