Identify and avoid construction safety risks

Posted in Business

Construction worker attached to harness

In the construction industry, accidents of varying severity happen every day. Anything from needing a bandage to a fatality can occur. It is important that you are aware of the hazards present in order to stay safe and avoid injury not only for you, but for the people you work with. Here are the most common construction safety risks and what you can do to help minimize them.

Common safety risks in construction

Falls from high up

A tall, unsafe ladder or unprotected edges can put you at risk of falling.

Electric shocks

Improper wiring or accidental contact with power lines could shock you.

Scaffolding collapses

Unstable or improperly assembled scaffolding can put you at risk of falling.

Injuries from equipment misuse

An array of injuries can happen without proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or while mishandling equipment.

Injuries due to unclear communication

Accidents can happen due to miscommunication or misunderstandings of directions from supervisors. Sometimes, unclear communication can lead to injury.

Identifying potential safety threats

While working on a jobsite, being aware of what is going on around you is the best way to identify potential risks to your safety. If you know what is happening in your surroundings you can be better prepared for anything that may go wrong. Another way to spot risks is by communicating with your team ahead of time and defining where certain hazards lie. Being transparent and thorough with your analysis before even starting a job can possibly save you and your team from injury.

 
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How owners and supervisors can promote construction safety

Owners, managers and supervisors can take construction safety measures into their own hands. Here are a few ways they can promote construction safety:

  1. Use the Job Hazard Analysis from OSHA to answer questions like: How do I correct or prevent any hazards? Where do I begin? Why should I review my job hazard analysis?
  2. Use Hazard Communication (HazCom) Standard for construction training. Learn more about how to enroll in this low cost online training.
  3. Conduct regular Toolbox Talks to cover safety tips and refresh everyone’s mind on the safety risks at hand before beginning a project or starting a day of work.

Avoiding potential safety threats

Although accidents out of your control can happen, there are things you can be doing to manage the level of risk you are exposed to. Such as:

  • Wearing the proper harness and equipment to ensure that if you slip or trip you won’t fall
  • Using elevated platforms or lifts for a more stable working surface when high up
  • Ensuring power is turned off before working with electrical equipment
  • Supporting scaffolding with strong and sturdy materials
  • Checking scaffolding for any weak or damaged accessories (brackets, braces, etc.)
  • Knowing the proper way to operate machinery and equipment before use
  • Reducing unnecessary noise as much as possible to allow for clear communication

Follow these tips to keep all workers safe. Additionally, make sure your business is insured for any potential accident that may occur by contacting your Independent Insurance Agent.


References  
OSHA Pocket Guide 
OSHA Job Hazard Analysis 
Hazard Communication Training 

 

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