Walbridge Restricts Mobile Device Usage at Construction Sites

DETROIT — Walbridge, a construction industry leader in safety, launched a new policy today that prohibits talking, texting or using mobile devices while walking at all company projects.   The restriction covers use of mobile phones, headphones, laptop computers, media players, radios, CD players and other portable communication devices.   It applies to all Walbridge employees, the company’s subcontractors and their employees.  

Employees can only use portable communication devices in designated “safe areas”, including trailers, break or lunch areas, and other areas on site where no construction work is taking place and no hazards are present.

“We know how easy it is to initiate or take a phone call and lose your focus,” said Stephen Clabaugh, vice president of Safety, Health & Environment at Walbridge.   “It’s a bad idea to talk on the phone or text while you’re walking around at a construction site.   You not only put yourself in danger, but you can endanger others.   We think this will help reduce distractions and minimize the risk of injury.”

Walbridge is currently working on projects in 22 states and in Canada, Mexico, Brazil and the United Arab Emirates.   The company is instituting the new policy as part of its ongoing, industry leading safety program.

Walbridge has been recognized on a national basis for the quality and effectiveness of its safety efforts.   On March 19, the company was awarded first place in the Associated General Contractors of America’s 2009 Construction Safety and Excellence Awards competition.   Walbridge’s safety performance was ranked best in the nation in the Building Division (1 million — 4 million hours worked category.)

About Walbridge
Walbridge is a privately held, top-50 construction company founded in Detroit in 1916.   The company offers construction management, design-build, engineering management, general contracting, pre-construction, program management and turnkey solution services.   It also self-performs concrete, equipment installation and facility management services.   Walbridge employs 600 professionals in 18 offices located in North America, Brazil and the Middle East.   For more information, visit www.walbridge.com.