Hazards of Refreshed Routines
As aviation executives, the start of a new year brings unique challenges and opportunities. After the holiday season or extended leave periods, many team members return to work with refreshed yet disrupted routines. While a clean slate offers potential for improvement and innovation, it also introduces risks that can impact safety, productivity, and morale. Understanding the hazards of refreshed routines and taking proactive steps can help your teams remain resilient during these transitional periods.
Recognizing the Hazards
Returning from extended breaks often means that employees:
Experience fatigue: Irregular sleep patterns during the holidays can disrupt concentration and decision-making.
Feel mentally sluggish: Overindulgence in food, drink, and social events can temporarily reduce alertness.
Are prone to errors: Being out of routine increases the likelihood of missing small but critical details.
Face new workplace dynamics: The start of a new year often brings changes in policies, processes, and personnel.
Deal with personal pressures: Financial stress, new resolutions, or health concerns may affect focus and engagement.
In the aviation industry, where precision, communication, and safety are paramount, these factors can elevate operational risks if not properly managed.
Building Resilience in Teams
1. Awareness and Communication
Email Bulletin: Send a concise, empathetic email to your teams acknowledging the challenges of returning to work and encouraging mindfulness.
Safety Talks: Conduct brief safety stand-downs or toolbox talks to highlight the risks of returning after a break. Use real-world examples to drive home the importance of vigilance.
2. Review and Reinforce Policies
Ensure that all returning employees are aware of any new or updated policies. Provide a quick refresher on critical safety policies and procedures.
Consider circulating a "What’s New" bulletin or holding a short team meeting to discuss key changes.
3. Monitor Team Dynamics
Engage in one-on-one or small group check-ins with management teams. Encourage leaders to observe their teams for signs of fatigue or disengagement.
Create an open environment where employees feel comfortable reporting concerns, whether operational or personal.
4. Set the Tone for a Supportive Culture
Lead by example. Demonstrate attentiveness, self-care, and a willingness to adjust as the team settles back into routine.
Offer flexibility where possible, such as staggered shifts or brief breaks during the day to help with readjustment.
Actionable Steps
Immediate Actions:
Send an email bulletin: Craft a thoughtful message acknowledging the transition and emphasizing the importance of safety.
Schedule a management meeting: Discuss the potential impacts of refreshed routines and create a plan for monitoring and supporting staff.
Organize a safety talk: Focus on mindfulness, fatigue management, and error prevention.
Review procedures and changes: Ensure that everyone is clear on any updates that have been made over the break.
Longer-term Actions:
Promote wellness initiatives: Encourage participation in wellness programs to improve energy levels and resilience.
Offer refresher training: Consider short, focused training sessions to reinforce key skills and procedures.
Track and review incidents: Pay close attention to trends in reported incidents or near misses that may be linked to post-holiday factors.
How Acclivix Can Help
At Acclivix, we understand the importance of mitigating risks during transitional periods. Our tools and services can help you:
Conduct effective safety briefings using customizable templates.
Develop tailored communication strategies that resonate with your teams.
Monitor and improve your Safety Management Systems (SMS) to ensure operational resilience.
Download our free Bulletin Template that you can use to communicate these important messages to your teams.
Together, let’s make 2025 a safe, productive, and successful year for your organization.
Currie Russell, A.A.E.
President, Acclivix Inc.