Haha, a constant battle

Yes...every project! Some of our customers have a strict policy and instruct us to get rid of employees that carry their phone outside of the break rooms/break times.

In addition, use of headphones/music can be problematic as a distraction. This is all similar to using a cell phone when driving. Perhaps look at what types of training and materials exist on educating people on dangers of cell phone use while driving.

Cell phones are heavily used for communication at many industrial facilities, however defense industry employers (Northrop Grumman, Boeing for example) have areas where all phones are given up before crossing the threshold. It’s a balance. Just make it clear that laborers must keep phones away except during breaks and police it.

Regarding ignition hazard, I don’t see much risk with newer, water proof style phones that don’t have a removable battery. There may be a very small risk though if a phone with removable battery is dropped and a removable battery pops out. A spark could result when the battery contact separates from the phone contact. Very small risk though with newer style phones that have the battery inside body. This was more of a concern with the batteries that were clipped into the outer shell of the phone.

This is an ongoing issue everywhere I have been employed. Both manufacturing facilities I currently assist with we do not allow phones on the manufacturing floor. Supervisors have radios for emergency communication needs an there is a landline phone in the area for personal calls if need be. This is a written policy and a person was recently let go for breaking this policy.