Knowing how to prevent accidents in construction sites is critical for any contractor or building contractor. Even a seemingly insignificant problem can quickly snowball into a major risk. No shortcuts are acceptable when it comes to safety. Several important safety practices include safety training, knowing what fall protection to use in different situations, and not using dangerous equipment that isn’t in good working order. Listed below are several important tips to help construction workers and construction companies prevent accidents on their jobsites.
Proper training is vital for preventing accidents on construction sites. Training workers should be thoroughly instructed on safety policies, regulations, and protocols. Special equipment should also be properly trained, such as ladders and scaffolds. If workers are unfamiliar with these tools, they should not try to “wing it.” In addition, supervisors should always remind workers to follow the proper safety protocol when using lifting equipment, such as cranes. Proper safety training may seem tedious at first, but it will save lives and limbs.
Keeping a construction site clean is another key to preventing accidents. Workers may trip or slip on debris, resulting in a serious accident. Cleaning up spills and tools after each job is critical to preventing injuries. Marking the work area as “Wet” until it’s safe to walk on is also important. The prevention of accidents is imperative for everyone involved in the project, so take the time to ensure that the building site is clean and tidy.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recommended that employers implement a safety and health program at construction sites. The OSHA estimates that over a thousand construction workers die each year from accidents. Over 300 die each year due to falls, so safety and health protocols should be followed at all times. The most important precaution is using a safety and health program that protects employees. If you are a construction worker, these safety precautions will make your job as safe as possible.
Proper safety checks and maintenance of construction equipment can save lives. Most construction accidents are the result of defective equipment. It is essential to regularly inspect construction equipment and report any equipment that is not in working order. Moreover, workers must be treated if they get injured at work. If this is not possible, delaying construction can be a wise decision. You can also hire a safety inspector to conduct daily checks on the site.
Electrical hazards are another common cause of workplace injuries and fatalities. Contact with power lines, exposed wires, and incorrect extension cord usage can all result in electrocutions. Educating workers about the risks associated with electrical hazards is an essential precaution. Electrical circuits must be de-energized and guarded, and workers must be aware of the importance of lockout and tagging procedures. Ensure that employees understand how to use safety equipment on a construction site.
Fall protection is another critical safety precaution. Many falls on a construction site occur from heights of six feet or more. A fall from a ladder or scaffold can result in serious injury or even death. A safety harness or toe board can help prevent this. Fall protection can also be provided by installing safety nets and handrails. Besides proper fall protection, safety harnesses, safety nets, and other fall prevention methods can help prevent accidents on a construction site.
Proper safety equipment is crucial for the proper performance of many tasks on a construction site. Companies should provide appropriate safety equipment for workers to use on the site. Many falls on construction sites are related to improperly setup or unsafe ladders. Ensure that all ladders and scaffolding are in good working order. If the ladders are unsuitable for work, the objects can fall from them and cause injuries to construction workers.
Proper safety gear is essential for the health and safety of construction workers. Ensure that every worker is properly equipped for the job with proper safety gear, including high visibility clothing, eye protection, hearing protection, protective shoes, hard hats, and goggles. In addition to proper safety gear, construction workplaces should be sanitary. Hazardous materials must be properly disposed of. If the construction site is dirty, it will be easier for a worker to sustain an injury or even die.
