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One of the most important rules that I learned through my involvement with U.S. Steel and later in the United States is called Safety First. It basically means that, no matter the situation, one's first consideration should be safety. This is also repeatedly emphasized in various job-training programs. Here is an example of a safe-driving video included in the curriculum:

 


 

In workforce education, the topic of workplace safety emerges in nearly every program. How is it, then, possible that so often, our students attend online classes while driving? There are several reasons:

1. Many of our students participate in the gig economy by taking on additional jobs as rideshare drivers, delivery couriers, and independent contractors. The only time they can listen to the class is during their drive. I emphasize the word 'listen,' because they just listen and never participate.

2. Our students are busy individuals who often must handle serious financial and personal challenges while working different shifts, and we want to support their language development despite their busy schedules.

3. A large number of students are also caregivers for their children, and they must attend to their children's needs, which often includes driving.

These are just examples. Economic pressure may contribute to distracted driving, but it does not justify it. The truth is, nearly every one of us could come up with a reason to use a phone while driving. Then again, there is the ultimate reason for not using it: Safety First.

 

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