Jobsite Communication
Oh, I guess I didn’t understand what you wanted me to do! Sound familiar? This happens a lot at work and can even lead to injuries if you are not careful. Good communication is critical for the safety and well-being of everyone on the jobsite. Do you know that by engaging in good clear communication, you can prevent injury to both yourself and your co-worker. Throughout the workday, each of us communicates in many ways – verbally, using hand signals, using our cellphones or even with the use of signage. Taking time to demonstrate and ensure your co-workers fully understands what needs to be done and the hazards surrounding the task, will ensure others can work safely and efficiently.
Communication is especially important when there is equipment on a jobsite. The operator and other workers must be on the same page.
Another good practice is having the person you are communicating with repeat back and even paraphrase what you just communicated to them is another effective way to ensure they further understand your instructions and minimizes the chance for miscommunication to occur. Taking notes and writing down specific tasks when receiving instructions also can be a huge step in understanding what exactly needs to be done.
Another key with communication on a jobsite or in the workplace is understanding the requirements and expectations of your assigned task. Everyone takes pride in their work and wants to demonstrate a high level of confidence in completing their assigned task properly. However, it is important that you do not get ahead of yourself and engage in a task that you may not fully understand, or the hazards associated with the task. Take time to think things through and get answers to any questions you may have. By fully understanding the work assignment that has been given to you and knowing the expectation of when the task should be completed, you will be well on your week to complete your task both safely and efficiently.