Construction sites involve the lifting of heavy materials, handling of delicate equipment among other processes that pose a high risk of accidents or injuries. Therefore, safety is paramount on all construction sites; thus, the need for safety rules will help keep visitors and workers safe.
Mus-Follow Rules
The following are some of the rules that should be adhered to on construction sites
- Ensure the workspace is always tidy. Debris, stagnant water from excavation, loose nails, and anything else out of the ordinary should not just be lying on site. Keep the construction site clutter-free.
- Give out clear instructions. There should be a contractor inductor on site to assist new workers in familiarizing themselves with site operations. You could also give Toolbox talks to relay important safety information before work begins.
- Setting up of safeguards; a sure way to prevent accidents is by putting up engineering controls like fences, safeguards, and barriers. In addition, workers should also attend a working at heights training.
- Ensure tools and equipment are appropriately stored. Lights and power tools should remain unplugged unless they are in use. No tools should be left lying around; this prevents causing injury to the employees or even damage them.
- The workers should use the tools for the proper purpose. Unfortunately, a large number of times, accidents happen because of misusing equipment or tools. Refrain from using makeshift tools, and do your best to find the right tools for the right job to get it done quicker and more effectively.
Common Dangers and Solutions
Based on the most frequent hazards, there are a few tips that, if followed, would have prevented the accident from occurring. The following are some of the dangers and what could have been a viable solution.
- Fall protection is the most common cause of construction worker death. To avoid it, workers should refrain from working in areas without fall protection systems. Employers can provide guard rails or safety net systems to counter this.
- Scaffolds – Most construction workers work on platforms, exposing them to falling objects and electrocution. Hard hats can help, and so will non-skid work boots. Using tool lanyards also prevents slipping and falling, thus protecting the workers below.
- Proper stairways and ladders – Using ladders the wrong way is a sure way to cause injury or even death. Ensure the ladders used are of the correct choice and secure them properly. Some people attempt to carry equipment, materials, or tools when climbing ladders; you should avoid this.
- Eye and face protection – Should there be face hazards on the construction site, this includes acids, liquid chemicals, or molten metal, employers should provide workers with face and eye protection. Employees should also handle tasks such as welding, drilling, and woodwork with precaution. Ensure the protection fits just right on your face for proper protection.
Conclusion
Accidents do happen, but they can be prevented. That is why it is important to ensure that a construction site is well-equipped and proper precautions are taken to protect workers and visitors. There should also be an emergency response plan which will provide direction in case of an emergency, for example, a hazardous material spillage, natural disaster, or fire.
