Whiskey Bottles on Both Sides of the Truck

Posted November 5th, 2007

Many years ago, I worked as a welder helper on pipeline construction jobs. One of the most valuable lessons I learned was to prepare for contingencies. Welders on the “firing line” parked their welding rigs next to the pipe and set up to complete a weld. The work was usually arranged so the driver’s door of the rig was next to the pipeline.

There were no drug and alcohol policies in those days, and lots of the construction workers drank alcohol. Most of them did not drink during the workday, however. One I helped did, and he would go to the driver’s side of his truck to take a nip from the bottle he kept there. By opening the door against the pipe, it would be difficult for anyone to see him take a drink.

Once we had to park so the passenger’s side of the truck was next to the pipe. He said, “I believe I’ll take a nip.” That seemed foolish to me, a young and naive apprentice. Anyone could see him, since the truck was parked differently.Dub went to the passenger’s side of the truck, got a bottle out, and enjoyed his drink of whiskey. He must have seen the shocked expression on my face. He said, “Boy, a pipe liner always needs to be prepared for any situation.” I don’t think he learned that lesson in the Boy Scouts.

The lesson had a lasting impact. I prepare well, knowing that life may force one to be in uncomfortable and unusual situations.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 5th, 2007 at 11:26 pm and is filed under Observations.