Make a Mental Map

When you’re on an extended automobile trip, it’s a good idea to keep a road map handy, especially if you’re in strange territory.

Rarely do you see anyone walking around at work with a map. That’s because each person has a mental map of where to go to perform his or her job. But a mental map shouldn’t stop at simple directions.

For safety’s sake, the mental map you make should carry several other important items such as location of the first-aid station, fire extinguishers, and other emergency equipment. But, above all, it should carry a well-defined picture of your job and the equipment you use.

Here’s an example of why a mental map and constant mental alertness on the job are so important. The branch office of a bank was robbed and a sizable amount of money was taken. The manager, in an exhibition of foolhardiness, pursued the thief out the door of the bank. In the chase that followed, the manager fell down and fractured her knee. Actually, she was lucky not to have been shot.

No doubt the manager had been instructed as to how to react in a holdup situation—and maybe had even instructed other employees on the same subject. But when the emergency arose, she reacted contrary to good judgment and was injured in the action that followed.

Apparently the manager didn’t have a mental map—or else got it confused with something seen on television. After the thief had gone, the manager should have called for help on the nearest phone or activated the alarm system. Pursuit of the holdup man added an unsafe act to an already unsafe situation.

In another incident, a foreman was explaining the function of a die to a die setter. While pointing, the foreman placed his finger on the die, and the press accidentally cycled, amputating his finger.
In this instance, a mental lapse resulted in an accident. Needless to say, the mishap proved to be a very realistic explanation of the function of the die.

These incidents illustrate the point that alertness is what makes a mental map readable.

Safety experts say that when you construct a mental map, in addition to your work area and equipment, include the closest first-aid station, fire extinguisher, and fire alarm, as well as procedures for contacting the police and an ambulance.

You will also add to your job efficiency and personal comfort if you include where to turn in tool for repair, where tools other than those kept at your own workstation are kept, the nearest water fountain, and the nearest rest room.

Other safety additions for your mental map are areas where you’re most likely to encounter either hand or motorized trucks, areas where there may be danger from high workplaces or suspended loads, the nearest exit, and the spot where you can generally find your supervisor.

You probably have other things in mind that could be added to the list. For instance, if you work with chemicals you will certainly include the whereabouts of the material safety data sheets, and the closest eyewash fountain and emergency shower.

The important thing to know is where to go and how to get there in the quickest and safest way.

People in pain or under stress may act unwisely. They may dither and scurry around, aggravating their problems and accomplishing nothing. This is when the good mental map comes in. It can help you to perform your job safely and effectively, and is particularly valuable when it comes to reacting to emergency situations in the safest way.