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Communication in vehicles is 'Hands Free OK?'

Date Posted: 31/03/2011 15:32 - Rod Ladyman
Last Modified Date: 12/04/2011 17:14 - Rod Ladyman

Hi All,

I am reviewing our policy on "Communication in Vehicles" and would be interested in peoples thoughts/approaches to this.  In particular the approach to 'hands free kits' given that some research indicates that these are no safer than using a mobile directly.  I would also be interested if anyone has put S&H guidance around the use of other technologies such as Sat Navs, two way radio comms and 'go books' as all have the ability to distract the driver.

All thoughts advice or experiences welcomed. My email is rod.ladyman@westernpower.com.au.

 Cheers,

Rod

Re: Communication in vehicles is 'Hands Free OK?'

Date posted: 14/04/2011 11:25 - Karen Franks

That's a really good question Rod, and something that has had a fair bit of discussion here lately.

The differentiation between using a two way and a mobile phone is something that is going to generate a lot of [possibly disgruntled] discussion, and it's not going to be easily solved. My background includes some time spent in agriculture and transport before I got into mining, so I can see both sides of the issues.

I don't have any solid answers myself, but I'd also be interested to hear from anyone else in regards to how this has been addressed in other sites.

Cheers,

Karen

Re: Communication in vehicles is 'Hands Free OK?'

Date posted: 16/04/2011 17:53 - Gary Brown

The two way is an essential tool for communicating on site especially where speciallist mine channel radios are used and has excellent range. A mobile phone IMO should continue to be allowed to be used when on hands free. Why don't we ban, fm radios, windscreen wiper switches, side mirriors, air conditioning etc?

Driving is a skill and we all are required to take our eyes off what we are doing momentarily to operate a vehicle. I have heard chat that mobile phones may be banned all together, to me it would be ridiculous to do so unless deemed a high risk and alternative procedures are put in place.

Contractors and ES Personnel/Security etc all require mobile phones to undertake their tasks safely. Lets not forget that a Minesite is still a place of work two forms of comms are essential. Have there been any incidents where the use of a mobile phone has been proven to be the root cause? Has a risk analysis been done on the use of mobile phones on site? Welcome other's feedback

Sincerely Gary Brown