Introduction
This week we will focus on situational awareness—the skill of noticing what’s around us, anticipating risks, and taking action before accidents happen. Most incidents don’t come out of nowhere; there are often signs if we’re paying attention. Building this skill is one of the most powerful ways we can protect ourselves and our teams.

Monday – What Is Situational Awareness?
Situational awareness is more than just “looking around.” It’s actively noticing details—sounds, movements, changes—and thinking about what they mean for your safety. Ask yourself: What could go wrong here? What am I missing? The more often you practice these questions, the sharper your awareness becomes.

Tuesday – Common Distractions
Phones, fatigue, conversations, and even routine tasks can narrow our focus and distract us from hazards. A distracted worker may not notice a forklift backing up or a spill on the floor. Being honest about your own distractions is the first step toward controlling them. What’s one distraction you can reduce today to keep yourself and others safer?

Wednesday – Reading the Environment
Conditions change constantly: a sudden storm, new equipment in use, or a contractor working nearby. Situational awareness means picking up on those changes quickly. Ask: What’s different today from yesterday? By scanning your environment before and during a task, you increase the odds of spotting hazards early—when they’re easiest to prevent.

Thursday – Communicating What You See
Awareness only helps if it’s shared. If you notice something unsafe, speak up right away. Your observation could prevent an accident someone else didn’t see coming. Encourage teammates by saying, “Thanks for pointing that out.” A culture where people feel safe to speak up strengthens everyone’s awareness.

Friday – Building a Habit of Awareness
Like any skill, awareness grows with practice. Make it a habit to pause before starting a job: look around, listen, and ask, What are the risks right now? Challenge yourself to notice one new detail each day. Over time, these small moments add up to a powerful safeguard—for you, your coworkers, and the entire workplace.

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