Incident alert
LOCATION:
READYMIX OR MORTAR PLANT
ACTIVITY:
WORKER INVOLVEMENT
TITLE
Accident Whilst Using Mobile Phone
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
United Kingdom
ACCIDENT / INCIDENT DETAILS
14.03.2008
UK Safety Alert
Accident whilst using Mobile Phone
Details of the Incident
A recent incident served to remind of the need for care when using a mobile phone. Everyone is probably
aware of the issues surrounding the use of mobile phones whilst driving but it is easy to forget that they can
be a distraction whatever you are doing. A Plant Operator recently received injuries to his face whilst using
a phone and climbing the steps to the site cabin. Whilst his injuries turned out to be relatively minor he did
receive hospital attention for a suspected broken nose, in this instance severe bruising to face was the
outcome. As can be seen from the picture below the operator was extremely lucky the injury was not more
serious.
ACCIDENT / INCIDENT IMAGES
LEARNING POINTS / ACTIONS TAKEN
Learning Points
Using a mobile phone can be distracting and it is easy to lose awareness of your current surroundings or
things happening around you. The UK Health and Safety Standard on the “Safe Use of Mobile Phones”
includes details on non vehicle use as well as whilst driving. The key points of the standard are:
A general prohibition on using mobile phones whilst operating mobile plant
Mobile phones must only be used in road vehicles with hands free kits and then only when the
call cannot be delayed and it is safe considering the driving conditions.
People calling drivers on mobile phones must keep calls short
Prohibition of using mobile phones whilst operating hazardous equipment or machinery
Mobile phones only used at locations in areas that are safe
Risk assessments to be carried out to determine unsafe areas or activities where mobile phone
use should be prohibited. It is recommended that any areas where it is deemed unsafe to
use mobile phones are clearly demarcated with signage.
The other important lesson is to remember “Get a Grip” and use handrails when climbing or
descending stairs.
LEARNING POINTS / ACTIONS IMAGES
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