Having a bad day at home and worrying about it at work is a hazardous combination. Dropping your “mental” guard can pull your focus away from safe work procedures.  You can also be distracted when you are busy working and a friend comes by to talk while you are trying to work.

Distractions

The risks associated with distracted driving have received all kinds of attention in recent years.  However, distractions – and the risks they pose to workers – are not limited to those found on the roadways or in our parking lot.

Workplace distractions, regardless of type, have a dangerous effect.  When people are distracted, they are not paying attention and fail to see hazards, which can lead to injuries.  In a perfect world, distractions don’t exist, but since we’re stuck in this imperfect universe, we must focus on our task and do it safely. Of course, that means getting rid of everything that can make us lose track or lack focus.

While operating equipment, have you ever replayed in your mind unpleasant scenes at home?  You could miss noticing a co-worker coming close to your equipment just because you’re engrossed over that argument you had with your wife.  Or, imagine you’re going on a big week long fishing trip this weekend and you’re anticipating all the fish you’ll catch, while literally climbing on a ladder.  Maybe you’re drawing a sample and you decide to havea little chat with a co- worker.  No harm in that right?  Think again.

When you notice you’re distracted, you may consider taking a break or getting some fresh air to blow those distracting thoughts away.  You could finish that nice chat with a co-worker then get the sample.  Low risk or high risk, focusing on the task is critical, and you should set aside thoughts about personal matters and deal with them later.  Lastly you may want to speak to a co-worker (possibly your supervisor) and share with them the difficulty you are having in managing the issue or person that is distracting you so the job can continue safely.