Have you ever had to commit an unsafe act in order to get a job done?
This question is set up to identify any red flags based on how you interpret this question and how you'll justify your actions. One person might interpret this question as an off-the-record approach to going to batt for the team by exhibiting a willingness to break the rules. However, this introduces a limited view that doesn't support big-picture thinking. An employee who is willing to commit an unsafe act "for the team" puts the whole team at risk.
Consider the phrasing of the question. Ask yourself if you've ever had to do something unsafe. Being made to commit an unsafe act by an employer has its own problems. But how you determine "having to" shows a choice was made to comply with the request. Exhibiting unsafe behavior presents an employee as a liability. A person injured on the job can lead to easily avoided workers' compensation claims and a lawsuit. You want to come across as exhibiting sound judgment and a commitment to protecting a company's assets.
"I take safety seriously. I've not been in a situation where an employer demanded I commit an unsafe act, but if such a request was made of me I don't think I would comply. It goes against what we're working towards as a team."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Safety is the top priority. I've never been in a situation where an employer asked me to do an unsafe act, but if I ever was asked I would not comply.
Jaymie's Feedback
The Dept. of Veterans Affairs is committed to patient safety and ethical practices. As you share that you would not comply with a request that jeopardized the safety of others, be sure to demonstrate that you would try to find another solution to solve the problem or request a hand.
Anonymous Answer
I have not committed to an unsafe act in order to get a job done. If someone asked me to do so, I would decline and report the situation.
Jaymie's Feedback
Perfect! You did the right thing by reassuring the interviewer that you would decline and report it if you were ever in that situation.
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