The SLAM process (not to be confused with the SLAM acronym - Sanitation, Loading, Aeration, and Monitoring - created by Purdue University for grain quality management) is a tool that can improve situational awareness.
Situational awareness is the ability to identify, process, and comprehend critical elements of information in the work environment.
More simply put, situational awareness is knowing what is going on around you.
The SLAM process should be used continually throughout the work day and prior to starting a new task or project, whenever changes in the work environment occur, when new team members are involved in the task or project, and whenever there is evidence that a person or team begins to lose focus.
The SLAM process involves the following steps:
Step 1: STOP: Take time to stop and engage the mind prior to the task.
Step 2: LOOK: Look for and identify hazards in the work environment and the hazards associated with performing the task.
Step 3: ACT: Act to eliminate, reduce, or control hazards.
Step 4: MANAGE: Stop or delay the work until the hazards are managed adequately. Depending on the degree of hazard, a work stoppage may be required.
The next time you start routine or non-routine task take a few minutes and SLAM it!
