You overhear the following conversation between two employees: First employee: "I’m not going to work in a trench. How do I know it won’t cave in on me?" Second employee: "Don’t be ridiculous. It’s just as dangerous on the surface as it is down there." What do you think about this conversation? Is either of these employees right? Wrong? What would you tell these two employees about working in excavations?

Both are expressing their fear in different ways

Explanation:

In this conversation the first employee is expressing the fear and concern that he has about working in the trenches. This is a normal response and he is voicing his concerns to a fellow employee that works in the same situation as him. He is likely trying to get this individual to agree with him to offer comfort or endorse his idea he may have for leaving.

The second employee is disregarding the First's legitimate concern for their safety and is not at the very least acknowledging this fear.

While neither of them are wrong, they are both not in agreement with each other. This could cause some friction down the road or an uncomfortable work environment.

I would let them know that there are risks involved with every job. Some jobs are more high risk than others and they are engaged in a high risk job. The must follow all the safety protocols that are put in place and minimize any chance of accidents.

there is no reason to represent a false dillemma.