Cell phone use can be a dangerous distraction in the workplace. Distracted walking while using cell phones has led to a significant increase in emergency room visits. At work, cell phones should not be used in places where there are hazards like forklifts, cranes, or machinery operating. If a call needs to be answered, stop in a safe area first. Company policies also typically prohibit using cell phones to text or call from unsafe locations in the workplace like closets or restrooms. It is important to only use cell phones during approved breaks and not when away from your workstation.

1. CELL PHONE SAFETY!
Safety Moment of the Week
October 16th – October 22nd, 2016
“Distracted walking” is a growing safety concern. According to an article this past
summer by the Associated Press, reports of distracted walkers treated at
emergency rooms has more than quadrupled in the past seven years.
Walking and talking/texting Cell phone use can be dangerous!
• Cell phones take away concentration and attention to your surroundings.
• There are many hazards within the workplace that require us to have our full
attention. Forklifts, overhead cranes , operating machines and open drawers
are some examples of these hazards.
• If you do need to answer a phone call, get to a safe area and STOP.
• Texting and driving is never acceptable! Some areas have made it illegal.
• Don’t forget about our teenagers. New drivers should not be trying to answer
their phones and trying to drive at the same time. Teach them to pull over to
a safe place then call.

2. Safety Moment of the Week
October 16th
– 22nd
, 2016
Cell Phone Safety!
CELL PHONES IN THE WORKPLACE:
A Dangerous Distraction
Most organizations have restrictions regarding cell phone use and texting. It is your
responsibility to know how your company’s rules apply to you and always follow them
accordingly.
If cell phone use is prohibited at your workplace, hiding in closets and frequently
visiting restrooms to send and receive texts is still a violation of company policy for
which you may also be disciplined
Leaving your workstation unattended so you can leave the building to use your phone is
prohibited.
Get in the habit of sending and receiving text messages before you clock in, during one
of your breaks or after you clock out.
When used appropriately, these devices can make our lives easier and more enjoyable,
but when used at the wrong time and in the wrong manner, these same devices can get
us in trouble at work and cause serious injury.
Avoid Using Cell Phones While Walking In Public, Always STOP in a safe place.