By commit, I think the intended meaning is "put on a path that will ultimately affect production".
For my current project, merging bad code typically means breaking a bunch of regression test suites for any coworkers that cut their branches at the wrong time. In more nefarious outcomes, it means a delayed software version release and, potentially, damaged UAV hardware at our test site.
For my previous project, merging bad code could have resulted in someone losing control of a fully drive by wire car in a closed parking lot or test track. That's what big red buttons are for!
For my project before that, some of my code was involved in handling literally every single sensor and actuator on a rocket and the space capsule on top of it. A subtle bug that slipped through to production could have been rather serious indeed.
If individuals are fearing the repercussions from doing their jobs on a safety critical system like that, then the process has already failed.
Your process needs to be so bulletproof that everyone involved feels absolutely sure that a defect will be caught. If there's any doubt in their minds then that part of the chain needs to be addressed and corrected.
I'm not saying that people shouldn't take it seriously or should get sloppy, but if you're worried that making a commit could end in disaster then you're moving too fast.
For my current project, merging bad code typically means breaking a bunch of regression test suites for any coworkers that cut their branches at the wrong time. In more nefarious outcomes, it means a delayed software version release and, potentially, damaged UAV hardware at our test site.
For my previous project, merging bad code could have resulted in someone losing control of a fully drive by wire car in a closed parking lot or test track. That's what big red buttons are for!
For my project before that, some of my code was involved in handling literally every single sensor and actuator on a rocket and the space capsule on top of it. A subtle bug that slipped through to production could have been rather serious indeed.