Distracted Driving Toolbox Talk
Distracted driving is dangerous at any time, but especially on the construction site. Inform field teams on the dangers and how to avoid phone distraction.
Distracted Driving Safety Talk
Did you know that texting while driving is one of the most dangerous things you can do? In fact, you are six times more likely to crash while texting than you are while driving drunk. Now, this isn’t an endorsement for drunk driving, rather a warning that texting while driving can be just as - if not more - dangerous, especially while working in the construction industry.
Why is Texting on the Construction Site Such an Issue
Distractions at the workplace have always been an issue since the beginning of time. Fortunately, as time has gone on, more and more safety measures have been put into place. This means even if you are distracted, the chances of an accident are slim. If you’re paying attention to the job, the chances are almost non-existent.
However, cell phones - especially smart-phones - have created a whole other level of distractedness. This can affect your productivity on the job, while also placing you at a larger risk of workplace related accidents.
How Dangerous Can it Be?
Those who don’t work in the construction industry may be completely unaware how much driving is involved. Of course, you drive back and forth from workplace to workplace but you also need to drive to transport materials or people. Texting while driving - especially texting while driving heavy machinery - not only places you at risk, but everyone around you. Here are some statistics involving texting while driving:
As you can see, texting while driving increases the likelihood of an accident expeditiously. The same can be said for texting while on the job. Remember, this isn’t a desk job. Construction work requires you to be around heavy machinery that can be quite dangerous if not handled with care and attention.
What You Can Do Instead
Now that it’s abundantly clear just how dangerous texting on the worksite can be, how can you avoid it; because let’s be honest, it’s easier said than done. Here are some of the ways you can avoid texting while on the job for your own safety and for the safety of those around you:
Of course, the best option is not having your phone on you altogether. However, in this day and age, that can be a next to impossible task. That’s why we recommend the safety measures listed above. These measures will help lower your risk, keeping you and the people around you safe.
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