We also see on our TV screens videos of drivers using their mobile telephones to either make or take a call or to text whilst driving. We all know the risks of driving and using our mobile telephones but many, if not most of us, still do it.

Having our attention interrupted in the workplace also has risks and can lead to serious incidents.  Cognitive interruptions will tend to decrease productivity and increase our error rate.  There will also be human and monetary costs associated with these cognitive distractions or task interruptions.

Despite our best intentions, many of us have experienced a distraction at work that caused a mistake or in some way interrupted the task(s) we were undertaking. This occurs because there are different forces constantly vying for our attention and as a result we are having to focus on one or more pieces of information whether it be verbal, physical (e.g. felt through vibrations), optical or sensed in some way, can be challenging and lead to errors. ;In addition, tasks that involve basic repetition and monotony can also lead to a loss of focus resulting in errors. Therefore combating the potential catastrophic effects of distractions and interruptions is a challenge in many, if not all, workplaces.

How can we manage interruptions?

In most work situations interruptions are inevitable and in some cases required, such as a nurse or a fire fighter responding to an alarm.  Whether interruptions are inherent in the job or not, being aware of the common types of workplace interruptions is the first step in determining how to manage them. Once the sources of interruptions are identified, management can identify ways to eliminate or minimise interruptions and the consequences of these breaks in work using approaches grounded in safety.

Training employees about the potential consequences of typical interruptions such as skipping steps in a process, disrupting the rhythm of a press operator, forgetting to wear or put personal protective equipment (PPE) back on or giving a patient the wrong medication, is a way to manage interruptions as training helps workers understand what can happen in their specific type of work.

The use of mobile telephones and other portable electronic devices in the workplace is of growing concern. An organisation must set specific guidelines for the use of these devices and to encourage safe workplace behaviours.  Managers and supervisors must be cognisant of these policies, procedures and guidelines and ensure that workers follow them. Further, determining which workplace alerts and alarms are significant and reducing or eliminating any that are superfluous and insignificant ones will help reduce unnecessary interruptions. It is important that those alarms that cause interruptions are relevant and important.

The OHS Team at the Victorian Chamber can provide help and assistance to employers concerned about, and trying to manage workplace interruptions or cognitive distractions.