Situational Awareness
The Problem
Situational awareness is often overlooked but is one of the leading causes of incidents and injuries at work. Not being aware of changing conditions, hazards, or work tasks can lead to accidents that may have been easily avoided. Today, we’ll discuss how to stay situationally aware to protect ourselves and our mates on site.
Identify the Hazards
- Fatigue – Loss of focus due to tiredness or extended work hours.
- Distractions – Mobile phones, loud environments, or external interruptions.
- Complacency – Repetitive tasks can cause reduced attention to hazards.
- Time Pressure – Rushing through jobs can result in missed warning signs.
- Poor Communication – Lack of information or updates between team members.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
To address these hazards, follow these steps:
1. Job Safety Analysis (JSA):
- Complete a JSA before starting any task:
- Break down all steps and identify potential hazards.
- Document control measures for risks.
- Update the JSA if conditions or tasks change.
- Ensure all team members review and sign off on the JSA.
2. Pre-task Planning:
- Review task requirements:
- Permits, PPE, tools, and equipment needed.
- Emergency response procedures, including evacuation routes.
- Conduct pre-task briefings to align everyone on the plan.
3. Environmental Monitoring:
- Stay aware of weather conditions:
- Monitor temperature, wind, and precipitation.
- Observe workplace conditions for hazards like slippery surfaces or unstable ground.
- Be vigilant for developing environmental hazards.
4. Change Management:
- Identify changes in the task or environment.
- Use Stop Work Authority if conditions change significantly.
- Communicate and document all deviations from the original plan.
- Reassess risks whenever changes occur.
5. Risk Assessment:
- Continuously evaluate for:
- Immediate hazards (e.g., spills, moving equipment).
- Potential risks that could develop later.
- Interaction with other work groups or nearby operations.
- Implement control measures to mitigate identified risks.
6. Communication Requirements:
- Maintain clear and constant communication with team members.
- Report hazards or concerns immediately to your supervisor.
- Use approved communication methods:
- Radios, hand signals, or face-to-face updates.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker was injured while carrying materials and failed to spot a wet patch on the floor. Focused on completing the task quickly, they didn’t assess their surroundings. The injury could have been prevented with a quick visual check and a team heads-up. This reinforces why staying alert at all times matters.
Employee Responsibilities
- Stay focused and scan your environment regularly.
- Complete Take 5s or task analyses before starting.
- Communicate regularly with your crew.
- Report all unsafe conditions without delay.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide tools like Take 5s, hazard boards, and radios.
- Train staff in hazard identification and risk assessment.
- Ensure work areas are inspected regularly and hazards are addressed.
- Encourage a positive safety culture where speaking up is supported.
Discussion & Questions
- "What makes it hard to stay situationally aware during your job?"
- "Has anyone been involved in an incident where a lack of awareness played a part?"
- "What tools or routines help you stay alert and focused?"
Encourage sharing of ideas to support others on site.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to taking a few moments before each job to assess the environment, complete a Take 5 or task analysis, and talk about any hazards. Awareness keeps everyone safer.
Wrap-Up
Situational awareness is a shared responsibility. It starts with each of us paying attention, planning, and speaking up. A few seconds of awareness could prevent a serious injury. Thank you for making this a safer place to work.
Standards Overview
Under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, all workers have a duty to identify hazards, assess risk, and manage health and safety in real-time.
Situational awareness supports compliance with:
- Regular risk assessments.
- Worker participation and communication.
- Continuous training and safety updates.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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