• Check your radio battery level and test transmission at the start of every shift.
• Use the correct channel allocated to your work area or team at all times.
• Keep messages brief, clear, and professional — state your call sign first.
• Carry the radio on your person at all times, not left in the cabin or vehicle.
• Stop all radio traffic immediately when an emergency message is broadcast.
• Report a faulty or lost radio to your supervisor and obtain a replacement promptly.
• Use ATEX-rated radios only when working within classified explosive atmosphere zones.
• Charge radios fully overnight so they are ready for the full shift duration.
• Learn the site emergency radio procedure and distress call protocol during induction.
• Confirm received messages by repeating key information back to the sender.

• DON'T use personal mobile phones as a substitute for the site two-way radio system.
• DON'T use radios for casual conversation — keep the channel clear for work messages.
• DON'T shout over other transmissions — wait for the channel to clear before speaking.
• DON'T ignore radio calls directed to your call sign — respond promptly every time.
• DON'T start work as a banksman without confirming radio contact with the operator.
• DON'T take a radio into an ATEX zone unless it is confirmed as intrinsically safe.
• DON'T leave your radio in the welfare cabin during your shift — it must be on you.
• DON'T assume someone else will hear an emergency call — respond if you are nearest.
• DON'T use aggressive or abusive language on the radio — all traffic may be recorded.
• DON'T continue working without a radio if one is required by the safe system of work.

See also: Lone Working Awareness | Site Emergency Plan Awareness