Distractions that divert attention from a task compromise safety by impairing attention, reaction times, and decision-making.
Statistics suggest that being distracted makes us nearly 50% more susceptible to accidents. Distractions can make us not pay attention and fail to see hazards, which can lead to injury.
Every day, our brains juggle countless tasks while navigating a world designed to hijack our attention. Distractions which can negatively impact safety include:
- Mental: Stress and fatigue associated with personal
situations such as health, relationships, children, elder care,
and financial issues. Uncertainty regarding employment, world events, and governmental concerns. - Digital: Cell phones, text messages, and social media.
- Physical: Poor housekeeping, noise, and poor lighting.
- Complacency: Familiarity with a task that can result in skipping work steps or failure to recognize warning signs.
The ability to direct and sustain our attention is one of our most valuable skills. As good wingmen, we should also help redirect the attention of distracted coworkers. Staying focused on every task, every activity, every time could prevent an accident and save a life.
