Safety Update

Safety Update: Do You Have a Policy on the Use of MP3 Players?

The National Transportation Safety Administration estimates that at least 25% of all automobile accidents are caused by distracted drivers. Research has already proven that listening to music through earbuds or headphones while driving is a distraction and becoming a leading cause of vehicle incidents. It is, in fact, now illegal to use earbuds or headphones in the states of California and New York while operating a motor vehicle.

In Australia similar research, by insurance companies, notes the same findings. A spokesman for NRMA Insurance, John Hallal, stated that "Drivers should always be alert to what is happening around them, and by using headphones, the driver is likely to be less aware of the surrounding traffic conditions. Headphones can totally block out other sounds. You won't hear a siren, you won't hear a horn - and that can be dangerous."

So is there a good solution? Auto makers are increasingly offering jacks to support MP3 players in their vehicles. Some have more integrated systems that allow iPod or MP3 playlists to be displayed on the dashboard and operated through buttons mounted on the steering wheel. The problem is, not all people are buying new vehicles in a time of recession and don't have the option for plugging their iPod or MP3 player into their vehicle. Furthermore, drivers are still tempted to change songs on the console or MP3 player and turn their music louder; again a possible distraction while operating a motor vehicle. Driving with earbuds or headphones is considered a potential distraction/hazard and can lead to motor vehicle accidents under certain conditions.

Operators of any motor vehicle should be able to hear traffic and be aware of any driving hazards around them. This means that any distractions while driving should be eliminated to include using earbuds or headphones. For the safety of yourself, your family and others sharing the road, your attention must be dedicated to driving the car.

Another question that arises is whether or not it's safe to use MP3 players in the workplace. Increasingly, workers are wearing earbuds or headphones to block out background noise and distractions around them. Some workers find it helps reduce stress and boredom which could lead to greater productivity and worker morale. But is it safe?

Wearing an MP3 player could be a potential hazard in situations where the cord could be caught in a piece of machinery. Often workers with long hair are required to tie back their hair for the same reason. An MP3 player could also influence the path taken by electricity in the same manner as wearing metal jewellery.

The safe use of MP3 players can be managed by setting a clear policy. Although completely banning the use of MP3 players may remove the risk to injury, for tasks that are repetitive or monotonous it can keep a worker stimulated and more productive. In conclusion, Employers need to assess the injury risk to reward potential that MP3 players pose for a specific setting or activity. There is no blanket answer that can be applied and safety is also not the only issue, communication breakdowns among workers can develop and theft of proprietary information are just two other considerations.

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