Working in construction can be a dangerous job if you’re not careful. The construction industry is one of the most challenging jobs in America, and extra care is required to prevent accidents.
Falls from heights, trench collapses, electrocution and blasts are some of the most common workplace hazards construction workers face. Even though there are inherent risks, most can be avoided by taking extra precautions and following all safety standards.
As a construction worker, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines to avoid potential accidents.
What To Know When Working In A Construction Site
Construction workers continue to experience high fatal and nonfatal injuries and accidents despite improved safety equipment, technology, and training. The third highest rate of any US industry is 10.2 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers in the construction sector.
Here are some tips to help keep you safe on the job site.
1. Personal Safety
- Wearing the proper protective gear for work is the best safety precaution you can take. Always wear your hard hat, safety goggles, and other personal protective equipment. Gloves must snugly fit, and shoes must be puncture-proof and slip-resistant.
- Safety glasses must provide adequate eye protection, especially in sites where debris and glare are common.
- Observe proper posture and lifting methods when lifting heavy objects.
- Use caution when working with power tools.
- Obtain appropriate safety training before handling any particular machinery or heavy equipment. While most contractors obtain a license before operating any machinery, investing in ongoing training will ensure your knowledge remains relevant.
- Steer clear of the blind spot of any heavy equipment, and if one is in operation nearby, don’t linger near it.
2. Equipment Safety
- Follow electrical safety measures by shutting off power when not in use and replacing any damaged electrical cords.
- Use the proper equipment and tools. Scaffolds and ladders must be able to bear the required weight and not exceed their maximum capacity.
- Conduct preventive maintenance and regular inspection of equipment. Repair anything that’s damaged immediately and remove defective equipment at once.
- Handle chemicals properly. In the case of hazardous substances, let workers know how to handle them properly and provide proper warning signs.
- Utilize safety equipment when operating heavy machinery.
- Practice ladder safety to prevent ladder injuries, the most common cause of construction falls.
3. Site Safety
- Avoid overcrowding at work. Manage the number of people on a site and clear the area of any bystanders. When working with heavy machinery, ensure that the area is clear of unneeded individuals to prevent any safety risk.
- Check the weather conditions. Weather plays a critical role during construction, and even seasoned contractors experience safety hazards when the weather is unfavorable. Always check the weather forecast and take extra precautions during unsuitable weather. In case of bad weather, suspend work.
- Maintain a clean work area. Construction sites tend to be messy, but cleaning work areas is a good practice. Clean up spills, keep electrical measurements dry, and permanently remove waste. A neat and orderly site drastically reduces the risks of injuries.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
4. Team Safety
- Provide construction workers with ongoing training about safety measures and first-aid response. Workers must understand how to keep themselves safe and what they need to do in case of emergencies.
- Regularly conduct safety meetings that assess the site’s safety and check the workers’ knowledge.
- Provide personal safety devices like radios that can be on hand at all times. In the event of a fall, workers can contact emergency services at once.
- Have a safety program that oversees the safety of the construction workers and the company. Occupational safety doesn’t end at the construction site, and sound policies must be in place to ensure everyone’s safety.
Avoid Potential Hazards By Following Safety Practices
The construction site is full of workplace hazards, and the list goes on, from hazardous materials to objects and electrical hazards. Undergoing the proper training and using safety tools and protection equipment will guarantee that the workplace remains safe until the project is completed. Following safety rules and these simple tips can help ensure a safe and productive work day.
Finally, companies must invest in protection planning every time they undergo a project. The safety of their workers must be top of mind, along with the desire to finish a project on time and with top quality.
For more articles about workplace safety, explore our resources at Be Safe.
Daisy is the engine behind Be-Safe.org — from content production to product reviews and more. What drives her is the passion to make home security information easily available.
