The construction industry has a higher accident fatality and minor accident rate than any of the other sectors. From working at heights and moving objects to slips, trips, and falls, construction sites are a health and safety nightmare. Construction is the most dangerous job in the UK so site managers must take all the precautions necessary to protect workers and the general public.
Clear perimeters
Setting clear boundaries that identify where the construction site starts and ends makes it clear where any danger may begin. A well-constructed perimeter ensures the safety of workers and any visitors while reducing the risks and potential liabilities associated with working on a construction site.
Implementing fencing can prevent anyone who is not qualified from coming onsite or accidentally trespassing. Bright signage and lighting including directional and information boards adhere to regulations about visibility and alert construction workers to any dangers in the environment.
The right equipment
Correct tools should always be made available for the job at hand. Any attempts to carry out work with the wrong equipment can damage materials, cause injury, and ultimately delay your completion date. Using tools in the right way will not only reduce the risk of injury or damage but also reduce fatigue and increase workforce productivity.
When it comes to specialist equipment, workers should be properly trained on how to operate it safely. Using shackles can help aid in heavy lifting, as well as appropriate techniques for manual lifting.
Insurance
As much as nobody likes to think of the worst-case scenario, it’s critical to plan for it, just in case. Getting the correct insurance that can cover employee and third-party liability is often a good idea. This will cover you in the case of damage to materials, the site itself, and any third-party claims as a result of injury.
It’s also important to check the exclusions in your policy to ensure you have sufficient coverage for all your operations. Additional insurance packages may be needed for specific jobs such as renovations, extensions, and more.
Daily walkthroughs
Regular safety inspections allow us to identify and mitigate hazards onsite before an accident occurs. Conducting regular walkthroughs allows you to observe work areas and get to know workers, facilities, and equipment.
Focusing on specific operations will allow you to develop solutions. The number of walkthroughs you should undertake will depend on the number of violations and infractions identified.
Encourage communication
Communication is key to keeping workers safe and valued. Everyone can be safer if your workforce feels supported enough to report breaches in safety or potential hazards.
Having a hazard communication program in place will provide staff with an outlet to report concerns, as well as a resource to access information on the types of hazards present, the necessary precautions needed, and the appropriate use of PPE.
