A distraction is something that interrupts your
attention or draws attention
away from a task. When workers are distracted, it’s a safety concern that can
lead to costly errors, lower productivity, damage to property or products, and
even injury or death.
Factors contributing to workplace distractions
Here are some factors that may contribute to workplace distractions
Time pressure to get the job done quickly
Juggling school and work at the same time
Multi-tasking
Conflicts with family, friends, or co-workers
Fatigue
Mundane tasks
Stress
Daydreaming
Clutter (both physical and electronic, such as e-mails and texts)
Substance use
Use of technology, such as cell phones, headphones, and tablets
What employers can
do
Follow federal, provincial and territorial labour laws that apply to young
workers,
paying attention to hours worked, and health and safety for your industry or
work
environment.
Address fatigue through changes to shift scheduling, shift rotation, and
assigned
tasks. Check that the work environment has adequate lighting, comfortable
temperatures,
and reduced noise levels.
Set realistic deadlines. Plan work to avoid the need to rush or multi-task.
Organize work to allow for variety – a change in tasks or positions will
help to
limit
the impact of distractions.
Schedule time for workers to maintain a clutter-free workspace, both by
clearing
their
desks, and sorting out priorities through emails and texts.
Clearly communicate hazards at work, and the policies, procedures, and
precautions
to
reduce risk of harm.
Set guidelines for device use at the workplace, including phones, tablets,
and
music
players.
Talk with workers to identify distractions on the job and effective
solutions.
Provide thorough training to young workers, including hands-on health and
safety
training for handling potentially hazardous equipment or chemicals.
Supervise and mentor young workers so they are comfortable and able to
complete
their
assigned duties safely.
Encourage workers to speak up, ask questions, and report hazards, injuries
or
anything
else they feel is unsafe at work.
Consider other distractions, such as financial issues, fatigue, and personal
issues,
or
the workers’ education commitments.
Address substance use with workers and review any related workplace
policies.
What workers can do
Be aware of the risks associated with being distracted.
Follow your employer’s safe work procedures, including when to use devices,
such
as
phones, tablets, or music players.
Pace your work and focus on one task at a time.
Take breaks to reduce monotony and repetitiveness.
Raise any concerns with your employer about your ability to perform tasks
safely
when
necessary.
Participate in any education and training provided by your employer.
What parents can do
Talk with your young workers about their jobs and ensure they feel
comfortable
at
work.
Encourage them to speak with their supervisor, health and safety
representative
or
committee member if they feel an assigned task is unsafe.
Monitor their work hours for proper school- and work-life balance.
More resources
Here are some more resources to help young people stay focused at
work
Time pressure to get the job done quickly
Juggling school and work at the same time
Multi-tasking
Conflicts with family, friends, or co-workers
Fatigue
Mundane tasks
Stress
Daydreaming
Clutter (both physical and electronic, such as e-mails and texts)
Substance use
Use of technology, such as cell phones, headphones, and tablets
Here are some more resources to help young people stay focused at
work
Share these tips on how to avoid distractions at work so you can do your
job safely