Situational Awareness on Site

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-BEH-009  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

Why?

Prevent incidentsMost serious construction incidents involve a moment where someone failed to notice a changing hazard around them.
Dynamic environmentConstruction sites change constantly. What was safe an hour ago may not be safe now without active awareness.
Personal responsibilityEvery worker has a duty to look after themselves and those around them. Awareness is the first line of defence.
Do Don't
  • Scan your surroundings regularly and identify hazards before starting each task.
  • Attend pre-task briefings and contribute your observations about site conditions.
  • Stay alert to plant movements, overhead lifts, and vehicle activity around you.
  • Speak up immediately if you see a hazard or something that looks unsafe.
  • Take extra care when tasks become routine; complacency causes accidents.
  • Monitor weather conditions and adjust your work plan when conditions change.
  • Maintain focus on the task and avoid distractions from phones or conversations.
  • Rest and hydrate properly to keep your concentration levels high all day.
  • Check that your escape route is clear before starting work in any area.
  • Look out for colleagues who appear tired, distracted, or unaware of hazards.
  • DON'T use your mobile phone while walking around site or operating equipment.
  • DON'T assume conditions are the same as when you last checked hours ago.
  • DON'T become complacent because you have done the same task many times before.
  • DON'T ignore warning signs, barriers, or alarms because they seem routine.
  • DON'T rush tasks under time pressure; this is when awareness drops most.
  • DON'T wear headphones or earbuds that prevent you hearing site warnings.
  • DON'T walk through active work zones without checking for overhead or plant hazards.
  • DON'T stay silent if you see something unsafe; speak up immediately.
  • DON'T work when severely fatigued; your reaction time and judgement are impaired.
  • DON'T take shortcuts through areas you have not visually checked first.

See also: Behavioural Safety Awareness | Dynamic Risk Assessment in Practice