Construction companies are the most affected by accidents on construction sites. It leads to a massive loss of productivity and income, in addition to other dangers such as prosecution and bad press. According to the HSE report, each year 1.7 million working days and more than 1 billion pounds are lost due to injuries and illnesses on site. So the billion pound question is: how can a construction company look after the health of workers?
This is the answer:
1) Employ only CSCS cardholders:
First, make sure each merchant carries a valid CSCS card. When each and every merchant knows how to keep others safe and healthy, half of their concerns are resolved.
2) Ensure the use of protective equipment:
Make sure all workers have and use the appropriate protective equipment. Helmets protect from head injury, slip-resistant insulated boots are vital to dodging the greatest threat of falls and electrocutions, goggles deal with harmful dust and smoke, gloves prevent potential damage from electricity and chemicals toxic, while body harnesses and safety net are essential for those who work at height. Perform routine checks on the gears and replace any that are defective or misadjusted. In this way, you can reduce injuries caused by faulty tools and equipment failure.
3) Safe trenches and excavation sites:
Landslides and cave-ins are major safety hazards at excavation sites and trenches. Put brackets and protectors in place and leave an exit available to workers in case someone falls. Fence off all of those sites (mark dangerous if necessary) to keep random people out.
4) Make scaffolding safer to work with:
Make sure scaffolds are installed, moved, and dismantled by competent dealers. Having a safety net, guardrails, and skirting boards around scaffolds is a lifesaver. Strictly ensure that all workers wear a body harness. Designate a competent person / team to monitor and repair in case of damage: the structure before work begins every day.
5) Train workers to minimize chemical hazards:
Train workers on how to properly handle chemicals and identify associated hazards. Every worker should know what to do in the event of chemical spills or other similar emergencies, such as who to alert and what to do in the meantime to contain the damage. Make “spill cleanup kits” available and accessible to everyone. Post a clear warning sign on toxic chemicals to avoid accidental damage. Designate a qualified person / team for maintenance and daily safety check.
All workers have the right to work in environments where risks to their health and safety are duly controlled. Under the health and safety law, the primary responsibility for this rests with the employers. Employers have a duty to consult with their employees, or their representatives, on health and safety issues. So if it’s not for security, take these steps to avoid going on the wrong side of the law.
A safer construction site enhances productivity, revenue, and company brand, and having a 100% safety-trained workforce goes a long way in this quest.
Have a safe, healthy, and productive year!
