I forgot to mention that we also have a "Stop Work" policy and procedure (which isn't always the case every where). It comes down to any one person has the right and also the responsibility to 'stop the work' - by turning off the main, by turning off an ignition switch and removing the keys, by halting the work verbally, by almost whatever means is necessary' in order to avoid the exact situation you've had to encounter. You might do a
www.google.com search on similar key words (LOTO, Stop Work Policy, or others) to find some of the appropriate language that adequately describes the risk you all were put under by this blundering, blithering fool.
Also, you will likely find that when the big guns (OSHA, etc) come in they, management, will do one of two things:
- they will keep covering for their boy-wonder so they and he can save face publically. He will, no doubt, take a good bit of heat privately in order to keep his job though and save their face, too.
- they will acquiesce (agree with your complaint) that he was in the wrong and back away from him like a hot potato and he'll be kicked to the proverbial curb while they pay their fine or whatever other penalty is due.