We’ve all experienced the person who, in a very public space, whips out their cell phone and begins speaking about some innocuous topic at a volume so loud that no one within a few feet can help but overhear the conversation. Most agree that such behavior constitutes bad manners. Now, it’s time we take the next step.

 

Earlier this month, the New York Post reported on an off-duty EMS lieutenant who fumbled with his cell phone while attempting to perform CPR. Lest you believe the lieutenant was calling for back-up, other responders were already present. They, in fact, asked the lieutenant to remove himself from the case after he refused to “properly coordinate compressions” and ventilated the patient too quickly. A cell phone call interfered in the delivery of critical health care.

 

This NYC example follows last December’s Los Angeles commuter train accident in which a conductor plowed into two cars. The conductor had been text messaging with his cell phone in the seconds that immediately preceded the crash.

 

Use of electronic devices, while working, may pose significant risks. These devices often inhibit the user’s ability to perform other tasks.  In fact, study after study has concluded that driving while talking on a cell phone impairs drivers to the same extent as consuming alcohol or drugs.

 

Unfortunately, this situation is likely to only worsen. College students describe being “addicted” to technology. A recent University of Maryland study asked students to give up all electronic media for one day. After 24 hours, many students showed signs of physical withdrawal.

 

HR teams should begin to develop policies clearly proscribing when electronic technology should and should not be used at work. At a minimum, policies should absolutely prohibit uses of these devices while driving. Additionally, HR should communicate to managers that setting expectations that employees be available via cellular technology 24/7 is controlling at best and potentially fatal at worst.

 

HR teams might even consider creating technology free zones. Not too long ago, businesses addressed smoking in the workplace by creating “smoking breaks” and “smoking zones.” As contrasted to the Mad Man era’s non-stop smoking ethos, employees are now permitted to smoke at certain times and in certain places. Given the addictive nature of our electronic gadgets, it’s not too soon to consider creating limits to the location and time of their use.