
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.
Learn about our
Business Insurance
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:
- 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?
- Use Hazard Communication (HazCom) Standard for construction training. Learn more about how to enroll in this low cost online training.
- 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
Coverages described herein may not be available in all states. Please contact a local independent Integrity agent for complete details on coverages and discounts. If the policy coverage descriptions herein conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies. For the coverage to apply, a claim must be made and reported during the policy period. Scenarios above are not actual claims. The material provided above is for informational, educational, or suggestion purposes and does not imply coverage. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO QUOTE ANY INDIVIDUAL PREMIUM RATE FOR THE INSURANCE HEREIN ADVERTISED. Integrity Insurance policies are underwritten by Integrity Insurance Company, an affiliate of Grange Insurance Company, and Integrity’s subsidiaries. Integrity companies not licensed in Pennsylvania. Not all Integrity companies are licensed in all states.