Reporting Suspected Impairment Toolbox Talk

Every worker has a responsibility to help maintain a safe workplace. If a coworker appears unable to safely perform their job because of possible impairment or another condition affecting fitness for duty, the concern should be reported immediately through established company procedures. The focus should always be on observable behaviors that create a safety risk—not on diagnosing the cause or making personal accusations. Prompt reporting allows supervisors to assess the situation and take appropriate action to protect everyone on the jobsite.

This toolbox talk reviews how to recognize safety-related concerns, report suspected impairment appropriately, and maintain professionalism throughout the process.

Why This Matters

• Unsafe behavior can place workers, equipment, and the public at risk.
• Early reporting helps prevent incidents before someone is injured.
• Workers should focus on observable safety concerns rather than assumptions.
• Supervisors are responsible for evaluating and managing fit-for-duty concerns according to company procedures.
• Prompt reporting supports a strong safety culture where hazards are addressed without delay.

Common Safety Concerns

• Difficulty following instructions or completing routine tasks safely.
• Slowed reaction time or poor coordination.
• Unsafe operation of vehicles, tools, or equipment.
• Repeated mistakes or poor judgment during high-risk work.
• Confusion, disorientation, or unusual behavior affecting safety.
• Failure to follow established safety procedures.
• Noticeable changes in alertness, awareness, or communication.
• Ignoring immediate workplace hazards.

Safety Checklist

If You Observe a Safety Concern

• Focus on specific, observable behaviors that affect safe job performance.
• Report concerns promptly to your supervisor or follow your company's established reporting procedures.
• Provide factual observations without making assumptions about the cause.
• Remain professional, respectful, and protect the individual's privacy.
• Do not allow someone who appears unable to work safely to continue high-risk activities if doing so would create an immediate danger.
• Allow supervisors or other authorized personnel to evaluate the situation and determine the appropriate response.

During the Workday

• Continue monitoring the work area for changing safety conditions.
• Maintain clear communication with supervisors and coworkers.
• Do not spread rumors or discuss personal opinions about a coworker's condition.
• Cooperate with any temporary work adjustments made to protect safety.
• Follow all company fit-for-duty and reporting procedures.
• Continue performing your assigned work safely unless instructed otherwise.

Crew Talking Points

• What observable behaviors may indicate someone cannot safely perform their job?
• Who should concerns be reported to on this project?
• Why is it important to report facts rather than assumptions?
• What should you do if you believe someone is creating an immediate safety hazard?
• How does respectful reporting help maintain a positive safety culture?
• Speak up immediately if you observe behavior that places workers or others at risk.

Stop Work If

• A worker appears unable to safely perform assigned duties.
• Unsafe behavior creates an immediate danger to people, equipment, or property.
• Someone cannot safely operate vehicles, machinery, or power tools.
• Safe work procedures cannot be followed because of a worker's condition.
• You are instructed to continue work despite an unresolved immediate safety hazard.
• You are unsure whether it is safe to continue working.

Final Reminder

Reporting suspected impairment is about protecting people—not assigning blame. Focus on observable behaviors that affect safety, report concerns promptly through the proper channels, respect the individual's privacy, and allow authorized personnel to determine the appropriate response. Early reporting helps prevent injuries and keeps everyone on the jobsite safe.