10 Tips for Helping Construction Employees Protect Their Cell Phones

Working in the construction field can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. However, it is also very hard on technological devices, as exposure to the elements and a drop risk increases in this environment.

That said, there are a few things you can do and habits you can start to help keep an incident from happening. Here are ten tips for helping construction employees protect their cell phones.

Tip #1: Use a Quality Protective Case

How many times have you started to get out of your work truck and accidentally dropped your phone on gravel or pavement? This happens every single day to construction workers and can be a big problem. A quality protective case can keep damage from occurring, saving you the hassle of having to repair your phone and money. Plus, there are even some rated specifically for tough use in industrial environments.

Tip #2: Invest in a Screen Protector

Just like a good case, a quality screen protector can help if your cell phone is dropped or falls. There are tons of types available from plastic to tempered glass to help meet your needs. Quality matters making it important to spend a little more now to save on cell phone repairs later. If you need help installing one, check with your local cell phone repair store. They often have the practice and ability to get the protector on straight and sturdy with very little effort.

Tip #3: Clean Away Dirt Periodically

Dust and debris can easily wreak havoc on the inner workings of a smartphone. Make sure to remove your case periodically and remove any dust or lint buildup from clothing. This helps prevent it from getting on the inside of the phone, which can damage system components and keep it from working properly.

Tip #4: Do System Updates Regularly

Another important tip to remember is to do system updates regularly. Protecting your cell phone doesn’t always include physical variables—it may also include making sure you are ready for any viruses or bugs with the phone itself. Most smartphone companies offer patches and updates that help combat these things, so stay ready by installing them as they come available. Not sure how to tell if you have an update available? Look in the settings panel on your Android or iPhone device.

Tip #5: Avoid Extreme Temperatures

It happens all the time—a smartphone gets left in a company vehicle during a warm summer day and ends up ruined due to the high temperatures. Likewise, subzero temps can also cause problems for your phone. Keep your smartphone away from these conditions by getting in the habit of keeping it only in a temperature-controlled environment. If you accidentally leave it in one of these conditions for an extended period of time, be sure to turn it off and leave it in a moderate ambient temperature environment for twelve to fourteen hours to help minimize the risk of damage to the internal components.

Tip #6: Carry It Safely

It’s also vital that you carry your phone safely. Consider a belt clip or a holster to help prevent drops, bends, or cracks that cause problems with the screen and/or audio quality. There are many different types on the market, including those made from Kevlar—the same material that police bulletproof and bull riding vests are constructed from. You can also find rubberized varieties designed explicitly for the construction industry.

Tip #7: Avoid Water and Steam

Water and steam are big problems for your cell phone. Unfortunately, these conditions can’t always be predicted. Always ensure your smartphone is dry and away from these elements when you are on the jobsite. If necessary, you can even purchase a waterproof pouch to keep your phone in while you’re working, such as on a rainy day or during winter weather.

Tip #8: Never Stuff Your Phone in Your Pocket

Here’s a common scenario to consider: you place your cell phone in your back pocket, forget about it, and then sit down in your truck. Not only does this happen all the time, but it could cause your phone to bend, damaging internal components. In turn, this can create problems with audio quality, sound, and even the ability to use buttons that turn the phone off and on. Instead, get into the habit of never putting your phone in your pocket.

Tip #9: Use Accessories to Your Advantage

Another tip is to use accessories to your advantage. This includes opting for Bluetooth headsets and smartwatches for answering calls while on the job site, versus having to have your actual smartphone in such rugged conditions. There are a ton of different options on the market and some are even available in bulk, such as headsets and wireless earbuds, making them optimal for use in a commercial or industrial environment.

Tip #10: Know When You Need to Visit a Device Repair Shop

Finally, one of the most important aspects of protecting your cell phone is knowing when to take it to a device repair shop. These locations help handle tasks such as screen replacement to help minimize additional damage. Furthermore, they usually sell a lot of the equipment listed here, including screen protectors and more. These stores are a great resource if you need help protecting your phone from the elements while on a construction site or industrial location.

Keeping your smartphone in good working condition is important. Not having a phone isn’t just inconvenient, it could be costly. If you are in the construction industry, these tips can help save you both time and money.

Alex
 

Alex is a small business blogger with a focus on entrepreneurship and growth. With over 5 years of experience covering the startup and small business landscape, Alex has a reputation for being a knowledgeable, approachable and entrepreneurial-minded blogger. He has a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners, and is able to provide actionable advice and strategies for success. Alex has interviewed successful entrepreneurs, and covered major small business events such as the Small Business Expo and the Inc. 500|5000 conference. He is also a successful entrepreneur himself, having started and grown several small businesses in different industries.