Safe Cell Phone Usage
Date Posted: 08/28/2016
The use of a cell phone and other similar hand held devices can allow employees to be more available, no matter their physical location. Multi-tasking while using a hand held device is tempting and can prove deadly when combined with operating motorized vehicles and on the job sites. Cell phones and other hand held devices must be used safely. The National Safety Council estimates that 1.6 million crashes are caused by drivers using cell phones and texting each year.
Operating Motorized Vehicles
Do not use your cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.
Do not text while driving a motor vehicle.
Allow voice mail to pick up your calls and listen to the messages after you have park your vehicle.
Review emails and texts when your vehicle is parked.
Use a hands free device to answer cell phone calls
When placing a call, stop your vehicle in a safe place. Resume driving after your call is completed.
Avoid wearing headphones in operations that require communication with other vehicle operators.
Working
If your job requires you to use a cell phone, do not talk or answer the phone while you are performing another task that requires your attention.
Always select a safe spot to make or receive calls.
Avoid texting while working directly in a construction site.
Presenter tips
Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic.
Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site.
Involve the workers by asking questions and input that drives discussion.
Questions for Discussion
What are some dangers of using your cell phone while driving?
Have seen drivers using their phones? What have you noticed about their driving?
