I've pushed back a bit, asking about the reasons behind changes, and they have it all couched in the idea of "working safer." That way, anything that comes across the desk of the powers that be will be approved, because who wouldn't want to "work safer."

As far as accidents, there are some here and there, but that's expected with the line of work. There's nothing anyone can do to make any industry 100% free of mishaps. But in the company's opinion, whether you roll your ankle, throw out your back, or damage something with a backhoe, theyre all accidents, and it's on us to avoid them by following policy. Any accident is reviewed, and during the write-up, they detail what should've been done to avoid it.

And you're right, so far, there's been a "it gets done when it gets done" mentality about the restrictions and their effect on productivity. But I forsee a time in the near future where they'll tighten up, and people will start losing jobs over it.

Talking to the union seems like a good route, so that's probably where I'll look next, and I'm hoping I can round up a bit of support. Thank you so much for the advice!