If you work in the construction industry, you’ll be well aware that construction can be both high risk and physically challenging. As a business owner, the health and safety of your employees and clients will, of course, be top of your priority list. In a construction environment, the risks are ample; falling from a height, asbestos concerns, or electric shocks are just a few. Each different situation must be evaluated for risks beforehand. For a few simple tips to keep things running smoothly, the following could come in handy.
Regular maintenance checks
To keep employees safe, all equipment must be serviced via regular maintenance checks. Any equipment defects could result in injury, so it’s vital to prioritise such tasks. Whether it’s forklifts, drills, or ladders, all equipment needs to be serviced at intervals. Don’t wait for employees to report a fault, be productive, and spot problems early.
Health & safety
If you ensure that your health and safety training is detailed and to a high standard, you’ll lessen the chances of accidents occurring. Workers should be aware of all the different risks that are possible in a construction environment. All employees should be taught how to look for new hazards, report them, and what to do should the worst happen, including first aid techniques.
Personal protective equipment
Employees must wear the correct PPE at all times, appropriate to the job which they are performing. Some jobs will require ear protection to protect the hearing from loud machinery noises. Other jobs will require safety goggles, and most will require helmets. Simple things like the correct work boots can help employees to avoid foot pain from working on concrete all day.
Regular breaks
Working in the construction industry involves laborious work at long hours, so it’s a good idea to ensure that employees have regular breaks. Fatigue can easily set in, which makes it even more dangerous to operate machinery and tools. Reduced hours, breaks for fresh air, coffee, and the chance to move around can help staff to re-energize and lessen their chances of having an accident.
Manage the space
One of the significant hazards on a construction site is related to moving objects. It’s important to manage the space properly by tidying clutter, using warning lights on vehicles, and by using warning signs. If a space is managed properly, there should be less chance of workers being hit by a moving object. When an environment is in disarray and chaotic, it’s much easier for accidents to occur. Working from a height is another area that is particularly notorious for causing accidents. With this in mind, ensure that there are proper guard rails, edge protection, and adequately secured ladders.
Great Communication
Lastly, communication across all of the team can help to ensure everyone’s health and safety at work. The moment that anyone isn’t adequately briefed on a situation, that lack of understanding could easily lead to a dangerous incident. When everyone works together to communicate the finest details of any project, safety is far increased.
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