What Good Situational Awareness Looks Like
Strong situational awareness is active, not passive.
That means:
- Continuously scanning your work environment.
- Identifying hazards and changes in real time.
- Understanding where you are positioned in relation to risk.
- Communicating with others about movements and changes.
- Stopping work if something doesn’t feel right.
- Reviewing and updating risk assessments (JHA / Take 5) when conditions change.
Situational awareness doesn’t stop once the job starts — it must be maintained throughout the task.
When to Stop and Reassess
Situational awareness means recognising when to pause and check.
- After a break (smoko or lunch).
- When environmental conditions change (e.g. weather, visibility).
- When new people enter the work area.
- When plant, tools, or equipment change.
- When the task or scope changes.
If something has changed, review and amend your JHA / Take 5 before continuing.
Your Role
Everyone plays a part in maintaining situational awareness.
You can help by.
- Staying focused on the task at hand.
- Avoiding distractions where possible.
- Taking a moment to reassess when conditions change.
- Reviewing and updating your JHA / Take 5 as required.
- Speaking up if you notice something unsafe.
- Looking out for your workmates — especially around moving equipment.
Small moments of awareness can prevent serious incidents.
The Bigger Picture
Situational awareness is a key part of working safely.
When awareness is maintained.
- Risks are identified earlier.
- Decisions are more effective.
- Incidents are less likely to occur.
- Work is completed more safely and efficiently.
Staying alert and aware helps protect you and those around you.
Ask Yourself.
- Do I understand what’s happening around me right now?
- Have I noticed any changes in my work environment?
- Have I reviewed or updated my JHA / Take 5 to reflect current conditions?
If you’re unsure — take a moment to stop, reassess, and refocus.
