Top Tips for Improving the Safety of Your Construction Business

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Throughout the year, there are thousands of injuries sustained by workers in the construction sector. The inherent nature of the job, from moving heavy equipment to dangerous heights, means there’s a profound safety risk.

So, if you own a construction company, it’s up to you to reduce this risk. If you work for a construction company, perhaps passing along some of the following advice to your boss would be suitable. Whatever the case, stay safe, and keep the work environment a secure, good one.

Basic Safety Equipment

It goes without saying that basic safety equipment, like helmets and high-vis vests, should be a priority. In fact, there are certain laws in place that dictate that these are a must. It might feel unnecessary to have to wear a hard hat at all times, but is it worth the risk to take it off? Absolutely not. With debris flying left and right, it’s important that you and your staff remain safe.

Fire Prevention

Because of some of the materials and equipment involved, construction businesses are more prone to fires that most. It’s likely that your site will contain some flammable substances too, so finding and stopping fires quickly is vital.

There are many ways to do this, from a temporary wireless fire protection system to an on-site safety inspector. As long as you have a fire prevention strategy in place, you’re good to go.

Using Equipment Properly

All construction vehicles must be driven slowly and carefully, and must be operated properly. When getting on or off equipment, wipe any mud off your hands and gloves to ensure you get a firm grip. If using a pneumatic drill, be sure to wear goggles and keep the area clear of people. Don’t abuse certain tools or use them in ways they weren’t built for.

Maintaining Equipment Properly

Similarly, all your construction equipment must be thoroughly checked and maintained for any faults. Just as you take your car for an MOT each year, inspect your equipment regularly. If you believe there is a fault but you can’t identify it yet, restrict use of that piece of kit. If a forklift truck or digger is moving sluggishly and is hard to control, get the brakes and transmission checked. Keep all vehicles well cleaned, and exhausts unblocked and clear.

Use Floor Markings to Clear Dangerous Areas

As soon as an area becomes too crowded, it becomes too dangerous. This is true in any sector, especially construction. What if a forklift truck needs to come through this path, but there are people everywhere? It’s a safety nightmare.

So, take some steps to get the area cleared. Using floor markings is a good way to do this, as you can divert people down the right path. Use red markings to indicate a no-walking zone, and use yellow to indicate a pedestrian area.

So, in short, keep all equipment up to scratch, keep all dangerous areas as clear as possible, and make sure you cover the basics. Those basics are a good start, but there’s so much more you could be doing. Employees have a right to feel safe at work, and any injuries sustained will be on the employer. But, let’s stop it getting that far in the first place!