Mobiles and the Construction Industry

The media has somewhat relaxed its efforts in highlighting the dangers of using mobile phones whilst driving. The most recent campaign involving mobile phone safety is associated with construction workers. Investigations throughout the country have uncovered a serious lack of concern for safety whilst at work.

The Costs

In 2007, 45 workers died and 3,750 others were seriously injured as a result of construction fall from height incidents alone. Despite tighter regulations and training, construction remains one of the most dangerous industries in Britain and there is a surprising disregard for safety amongst workers.

An accident is defined as an unplanned and unforeseen event or series of events; many accidents are caused by distractions. Use of mobile phones on construction sites (or in any other industry) cause distractions, diverting attention from what could be a critical moment of a task. A lack of concentration when it is needed most can result in fatal consequences.

The Benefits

Many major construction companies operate a disciplinary system based on three cards and out, although the severity of a particular breach may lead to instant dismissal. Where mobile phones are concerned, companies usually adopt the latter, instant dismissal.

The benefits realised by restricting use of mobile phones are twofold.

Firstly, there is an increased level of concentration amongst employees; this improves production levels and in most instances the quality of work. Reviews have reported an increased cohesion and team spirit amongst employees.

The second and most important aspect is the reduction in the likelihood of accidents. Removing the opportunity for distractions caused by mobile phones reduces the likelihood for slips or lapses of concentration and, in turn, reduces the likelihood of accidents occurring.

Tackling the Problem

Many construction companies have now introduced schemes where use of mobile phones is rigorously restricted on sites. Site workers are made aware of rules during site induction; rules are enforced by managers and supervisors.

Measures introduced include:

• Informing employees of rules and consequences for breach of these rules
• Identify suitable locations for use of mobile phones, consider:
  • shelter from weather
  • noise from machinery
  • phone signal
• Clarify periods when use of phones is permitted
• Providing contact telephone numbers for friends / family needing to get in touch urgently and ensure adequate arrangements are made for manning this phone.

There is often resistance to change, but where the benefits in the interest of safety outweigh the consequences of not introducing improvements, can you afford not to? It is helpful if reasons for change are explained to employees. By doing this, they will hopefully appreciate the necessity and understand how they will benefit.