1) What is your definition of common sense?
A pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1776 challenging the authority of the British government and the royal monarchy.
or
"Sound practical judgment that is independent of specialized knowledge, normal native intelligence." (I actually like this one.)
The ability to act on, with, or
despite "common sense", however, is very dependent on age and maturity.
And while Common Sense may not depend on specialized knowledge, it is strongly dependent on experience, both
general and situation specific. Impulse control and ability to visualize consequences, both sorely lacking in
adolescents and children, is what usually opposes "common sense" at a rate in proportionate to age, decreasing
as people get older.
2) How do you relate common sense to safety situations?
Generally, a strong sense of self-preservation, and a conservative view towards risk would be considered "common sense".
3) If I were to tell you there is no such thing as common sense in Safety what would your response be?
Non-concur. Most mishaps and incidents are caused by people ignoring their common sense or acting in
spite of it, verses requiring any specific training or knowledge to avoid.