A major concern that looms large among the clatter of construction sites is safety. The industry is regarded as one of the most hazardous segments, with nearly 1 in 5 workplace deaths occurring on building sites. For employers, it is fraught with risks of workplace injury lawsuits.
If you own a construction business, you should be vigilant and careful. Additionally, having a safety plan can save your employees from mishaps and injuries. We will uncover the range of risks employers should be aware of to adopt a culture of employee safety.
Table of Contents
Working from heights
Working from a height is required in many construction projects, ranging from skyscrapers to bridges. It poses a significant danger to every worker on the site. Falls from elevated surfaces continue to be a major concern as they elevate the risk of severe injuries and death.
You must prioritize proper training, provide adequate safety equipment such as harnesses and guardrails, and implement stringent protocols. These precautions can reduce the chances of accidents when workers work in the air.
Falling and moving objects
Falling and moving objects are another dangerous hazard. Materials are manipulated and transported as construction progresses. It creates scenarios where objects can fall from great heights or machinery can inadvertently set objects in motion.
Enforce strict protocols for securing materials and tools. Also, you should provide protective equipment such as hard hats and establish clear zones to keep workers safe from potential collisions.
Slip and fall mishaps
Slip and fall accidents appear to be minor. However, they can have disastrous consequences on a construction site. Workers may suffer from blunt force trauma, leading to severe brain injuries. They can bring up a lawsuit to claim injuries, leading to a massive expense for your business.
You can lower the threat factor by emphasizing regular walkway maintenance, implementing proper drainage systems, and providing workers with traction-enhancing footwear. Strict housekeeping practices can also help to reduce potential slip hazards.
Noise
Noise is a constant companion of construction. It may not appear dangerous on the surface. However, prolonged exposure can result in irreversible hearing damage. The constant roar of machinery, clanging tools, and construction operations can create an auditory landscape ripe for harm.
You should provide workers with appropriate hearing protection. Also, create “quiet zones” to provide respite from the constant noise. Regular health checks to monitor hearing health are prudent steps to ensure long-term well-being.
Electrocution
Electrocution is a danger that often lurks behind walls and within systems. Electrical wiring, power tools, and proximity to power lines contribute to the danger. Implementing comprehensive electrical safety training is the best way to deal with the concern.
It ensures that employees can identify potential hazards and follow proper procedures. Regular inspection of electrical equipment, grounding of tools, and keeping a safe distance from power lines are all crucial practices to avoid electrocution.
The Bottom Line
The construction landscape is a delicate balance of progress and protection. As an employer, you are responsible to protect your employees from potential hazards. Dangers abound, from the dizzying heights of scaffolding to the ground beneath. Mitigating these risks necessitates proactive measures, stringent protocols, and an ingrained safety culture at all levels.
