Minimizing Jobsite Distractions

What’s one of the leading causes of construction and industrial accidents today? According to Heinrich’s Domino Model, 80% of industrial accidents and 90% of construction accidents are caused by, or in some way from human error. Distractions are something that’s inevitable in today’s world, but by understanding and knowing the potential causes, you are likely to cut down your chances of accidents and close calls.

The number one distraction that is nearly impossible to get away from is your smart phone. While a phone makes business quicker, it's also one of the biggest distractions. Overuse of cell phones interrupts one's train of thought, reduces work accuracy, and increases reaction times. This is unacceptable especially on the jobsite, when operators need to be in control physically and mentally at all times. One quick glance down to check a text or scroll through social feeds may be the direct cause of a terrible accident.

There are few good practices you can implement to avoid getting “sucked in” by the phone. Try setting hands free policies on your jobsite. Make sure all vehicles and machines are at a complete stop and parked before looking at phones. If a phone call must be taken, or a text urgently needs to be sent, try using a hands free voice command to do so. This way, you are not changing your line of vision and have both hands on the wheel. As a manager, try to have electronic usage only during scheduled breaks, lunch time, and in safe work areas while on the jobsite.

A second distraction that may come as a surprise is fatigue. Fatigue and being overly tired can be a huge distraction to your work performance. Working while being extremely tired can be as dangerous as being at work under the influence of alcohol. Being fatigue makes you careless, distracted, physically slower to react, and forgetful. Being alert is so important on any jobsite. The best way to counter this distraction is to get more sleep when you can. This may include taking short naps if needed when off-duty and going to bed at a reasonable hour. Another huge way to stay ahead of this is to take care of your health. Be sure to stay hydrated and make exercise part of your daily routine. Lastly, look out for your team while on the jobsite. Keep an eye on your co-workers while on the jobsite to keep them safe and watch for signs of fatigue.

Physical distractions have a big effect on people on the jobsite or workplace. This could include other people, equipment, machinery, noises, or even guests visiting the jobsite. As long as you and your team are aware of potential distractions and making strides to break down these distractions, you are going to see potential accidents diminish. Hold regular meetings to keep everyone on the team informed of any upcoming events or guests that may be coming to visit the jobsite. Make sure all employees are aware of any hazards on or around the jobsite, and keep everyone’s safety in mind.

Scheduled jobs and time restrictions are a huge common leading factor to accidents and injury. When adding pressure to complete a task at an accelerated pace, it can lead to dangerous shortcuts and rushing to get the job done. While deadlines are extremely important and mandatory at times, there is no reason that it should encourage shortcuts. If you are going to do a job, do it right the first time or else you are more than likely going to mess it up more than it was before. After all, accidents and injuries cost more time in the long run as opposed to doing it the correct way.

At the end of the day, you will never be able to completely eliminate all distractions that happen on the jobsite. The best thing you can do for your team’s safety and productivity is to keep them aware of potential distractions. Try to make strides to eliminate these distractions while also keeping work at healthy flow. Lastly, set a positive example while on the jobsite to inspire other co-workers to make the jobsite a safer work environment