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Headphones, commonly referred to as “ear buds,” can significantly impair a worker’s ability to hear surrounding noise – especially posing danger during circumstances in which a worker must be able to hear warning sounds. Cell phones and other electronic devices can also distract the worker while operating powered industrial equipment. As an OSHA standard, it’s important for all workers to be able to hear the sounds around them to a sufficient degree that they can hear warnings, equipment starting and stopping, alarms, and necessary communications from coworkers and Managers. They must also be able to visually recognize their surroundings, without distraction from other electronic devices while operating equipment.
There are many reasons to avoid distractions in the workplace.
1) The first and most important being risk of physical harm. Listening to headphones or being distracted by electronic devices while operating PIT has all the same risks as distracted driving, especially regarding moving vehicles and the chance of causing physical harm to others.
2) Not only do these distractions cause harm to employees who are operating equipment, but also to others in the surrounding work zone. This risk also applies to pedestrians who may be in the nearby area.
3) In addition, devices can easily become caught in machinery or pose an electrical hazard to pieces of metal.
In addition to the risks of physical harm, electronic devices can compromise a worker’s general alertness and concentration, which can easily cause mistakes on the job.
1) The distraction caused by these devices can reduce productivity levels and take workers’ attention away from important tasks at hand.
2) Often, warehouse tasks require close attention and proper use of heavy machinery or vehicles, so it’s critical that workers are fully aware of their surroundings.
At Baker Distributing, we support all efforts of providing a safe working environment for our employees. The only headsets authorized to be used by employees are the company issued one-ear headsets that are used with Zoom phone. Please note that calls cannot be answered or made on the headset while operating any powered industrial equipment. The use of company provided ear protection for noise reduction is allowed when performing certain functions of the job. The use of any headphones, cell phones or any other device while operating powered industrial equipment is strictly prohibited.