Construction workers shouldn’t have to deal with unsafe working conditions. Even under the best of circumstances, they will still have to work around heavy machinery that can cause injuries, as well as other conditions that might not be fully safe. It is imperative that all construction companies take steps to keep workers protected.
Each construction job site has to be individually evaluated for safety risks. Looking at the site itself and the types of equipment used to have an impact on what steps are necessary. Here are a few common safety points that apply to many construction projects:
Provide appropriate safety gear
Safety gear can make a difference between life and death on a construction site. Making sure that the workers have the right gear and know-how to use it is imperative. Some gear can take some getting used to. Harnesses need to be attached properly so they can work. This is one example of how training can make a difference in the performance of the gear. Other safety items, such as reflective and brightly colored vests, are easier to use but must be used consistently in order to be effective.
Establish proper protocol
Each construction company must have an appropriate protocol to help prevent accidents. Not only do they need to require employees to wear and use safety gear, but they also need to have a plan for keeping everyone safe, such as requiring construction workers to use lockout tag-out procedures for heavy machinery and electric equipment.
It is also necessary to set criteria for inspections on equipment. This is especially important for scaffolds, ladders, and other similar equipment. These should be inspected at the start of each shift and they should be taken out of service if they aren’t in good condition. Nothing should be patched together because of the risk of injury if something isn’t working properly.
Plan for when accidents occur
There should be a clear plan for when accidents do occur on the job site. Obviously, some injuries will require a call to emergency services, but a plan should be in place for what happens if this isn’t needed. Who will take the person to seek medical care? Where should they go? What types of records need to be kept of the accident? What if someone realizes he or she was injured later instead of right away? All of these questions must be answered so they can be part of the plan that goes into effect when there is an injury.
