Construction projects are the main reason the industry is worth over a trillion dollars in the United States. These projects can cost a lot of money but are also dangerous. About 1,000 people died from construction-related accidents in 2019 alone.
Dealing with lethalities can be challenging. It can also be costly. For some, a single lethality can be the downfall of their firm. Here’s how you can make your construction projects safer:
Employee Training
A decent chunk of accidents in construction happens because employees don’t know what they are doing. They get into problems with equipment and ignore safety orders. If you want to reduce accidents, you need to train your employees properly. Some of the essential training that employees need includes:
• Learning how to use equipment safely
• Understanding safety procedures
• Knowing how to work with hazardous materials safely
• Understanding the dangers of working at height
• Knowing how to use ladders properly
Your employees can easily attain these types of knowledge with the proper exams. For example, the CSCS exam in the United Kingdom covers all the necessary safety protocols in construction sites in the country. It’s a robust exam required for contractors who want to work in construction within the country. Furthermore, the OSHA 10 and 30-hour training courses are also great for teaching employees about construction safety.
Safety Plans
Every construction project is different and has different risks. That’s why you need to have a safety plan for each project. You should make the safety plan before work starts on the site, and your employees should follow it throughout the entire project.
A safety plan is an essential part of any construction project as it outlines the specific risks associated with that project and how to avoid them. The first thing you need to discuss is the potential hazards on the site. It can come in the form of a site safety audit. Once you know the potential dangers, you can develop specific procedures to avoid them.
You’ll then have to deal with certain accidents. You can do this by practicing evacuation drills and having on-site first-aid kits. You should also have a plan for dealing with fires, chemical spills, and other emergencies.
A safety plan is an essential tool for keeping construction projects safe. Understanding the potential hazards and having specific procedures in place can prevent accidents and keep your employees safe.
Use the Right Equipment
Another way to make your construction projects safer is to use the right equipment. This includes using the correct type of equipment for the job and ensuring that the equipment is maintained correctly.
Using the wrong type of equipment is one of the leading causes of accidents in construction. For example, using a power drill when using a hand drill can lead to severe injuries. Make sure you know what equipment is required for each task and that you use the proper equipment for the job.
It’s also essential to make sure that the equipment is maintained correctly. It means regularly inspecting the equipment and repairing or replacing any parts that are worn out. You can avoid accidents and injuries by using the right equipment and keeping it in good condition.
Don’t Let Unauthorized Personel In
One of the most common ways construction accidents happen is by allowing unauthorized personnel on-site. This includes people who are not employees, as well as children and animals.
Allowing unauthorized personnel on site is a significant safety hazard. These people are unfamiliar with the construction site and could easily get injured. Furthermore, they could also interfere with work and cause accidents.
The best way to avoid this problem is to have a security system. It includes things like fences, gates, and guards. By keeping unauthorized personnel off the site, you can reduce the chances of accidents happening.
Get Insurance
Another way to make your construction projects safer is to get insurance. It will protect you in case something goes wrong and someone gets injured.
There are a variety of different types of insurance you can get for your construction business. The most important type of insurance is liability insurance. It will cover you if someone sues you for damages. You should also consider getting property damage insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
By getting insurance, you can protect yourself financially if something goes wrong. This will allow you to continue operating your business even if you’re sued, or someone is injured on the job.
Construction projects can be dangerous, but by doing the right things, you can make them safer. It can save your employees from lethalities and make them live healthier lives. It can also save your firm from disaster.
