Stay Focused. Stay Safe.

During these stressful times, it’s easy to become distracted. Staying focused is the best way to keep yourself and your team safe.

The uncertainty of what’s happening around the world right now can be overwhelming.

When will things get back to normal?

When will my children go back to school?

What will happen next?

These thoughts – especially when combined with our usual day-to-day demands – can preoccupy our minds. To some, being at work provides an outlet to forget about the things we cannot control, but others can experience stress which could take attention away from the tasks at hand. Often, we don’t realize how distracted we are until it’s too late – we miss a deadline, we repeat something we’ve already done or much worse, we have a near miss or accident.

Now, more than ever, we encourage everyone to take a moment and take a breath, so you’re able to be intentional, be present and be careful. The Newfoundland & Labrador Construction Safety Association (NLCSA) suggests considering the following before you begin to work:

• Who and what are you working with?
• What will you be doing?
• Where will you be going?
• What may have changed?
• What could go wrong?
  

The NLCSA suggests you always examine equipment, procedures and the hazards that may exist and focus physically and mentally on your work, no matter how many times you may have done the same job in the past. This is especially true if you find yourself feeling distracted, stressed or overwhelmed.

If you find that you’re having trouble staying focused, at work or otherwise, remember that Olympic Steel’s Employee Assistance Program offers resources that can help. Call the EAP 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for confidential assistance with nearly any issue you may be experiencing. For more information, call 1-888-628-4824 or visit www.guidanceresources.com (company web ID: OLYSTEEL).