The world of construction is not only a fast-paced environment full of deadlines, but it’s also one of the most dangerous industries to work in. This pressure to stay on schedule all while staying under budget is largely why it has such a reputation. And despite your efforts to ensure your company is following all safety protocols, creating a safety-conscious team isn’t something that happens overnight.
According to OSHA, over 5,000 workers died on the job in 2019, averaging about 15 deaths every day. And as alarming as that statistic is, serious injuries and even death, are major risks associated with the industry. Because of that, you need to make sure you’re doing everything in your power to protect your workers and your company by seeing that all safety measures are being taken and being followed.
Here’s how you can make sure your construction company is taking every step possible to mitigate the safety hazards associated with working in the construction industry.
Ensure Every Worker is Licensed
Before any worker can set foot on a construction site, it is your responsibility to make absolutely sure that all workers are licensed, whether they need to obtain or renew their license. Yes, this is from a legal standpoint, but first and foremost, from a safety standpoint.
In order for a construction worker to get proper licensing, they will have to review guides and materials not only outlining things like installation, project management, inspection, and maintenance practices like checking for Street lighting associated with a prospective area in construction but there are also very specific guidelines and manuals associated with safety that one must pass to be licensed.
Provide PPE and Make Sure Proper Attire is Worn
Obviously, a worker shouldn’t show up wearing sandals, or even tennis shoes to a construction site. As the owner of a construction company, you want to make sure that you’re doing your part by providing them with the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) needed for the job. Before any worker sets foot on a construction site, you want to make sure they’re wearing the following types of PPE:
- Eye and face protection (mask/goggles)
- Head protection (hard hats)
- Ear protection (earplugs/noise-canceling headphones)
- Hand protection (gloves)
- Body protection (high-vis PPE, water-resistant aprons
Those are the basics of standard PPE that you could supply. Some companies supply everything including entire uniforms and steel-toed boots, but that would all depend upon the budget you’re working with. Nonetheless, whether you’re supplying PPE or the workers need to purchase separately, if the proper gear is not worn, workers won’t be able to start on a project.
Enforce Continued Safety Training
All too often workers think that once they’ve had their initial on-the-job training the first week or two of working that safety training is complete… but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Safety training should be an ongoing practice. Whether it’s training videos, morning huddles, or monthly online courses, this will not only keep their memories refreshed on safety best practices and show that you care about the health and safety of your team, but this will also decrease the risk of injury or fatalities on your watch. By making safety a priority, your workers will also make safety a priority as well.
Regularly Check and Maintain Construction Equipment
Part of keeping your workers safe is making sure the tools and equipment they’re using are also safe and in good working condition. This means you should only acquire equipment from reputable suppliers and manufacturers, replace or repair all broken parts, provide training on how to operate all equipment, and upgrade equipment when you can for safer practices.
In running a construction business, safety should always be a top priority. Everything from ongoing training to necessary licensing requirements, will all play a significant role in keeping a safe construction site and team.
