It is essential to consider all possible risks when you work as a builder, or in any other trade involved in construction. Also plan how to minimize them. You should also have insurance to cover for any unexpected events.
Building is the second most risky business in the UK, after farming.
Building activities can pose risks to builders as well as others. However, the greater the construction size, the greater the chance of an unfortunate event.
Depending on the stage of development, there are different risks for builders, builders and other members of the construction trade.
It is essential to secure groundwork areas on new sites before anyone enters. It is important to avoid the possibility of children or animals getting into the site.
Ground-workers are at risk of being injured by diggers, mechanical equipment and other hazards. Although large foundation holes are obvious hazards, the danger of ground collapse around them is not as obvious to professionals. Accidents have been reported from concrete deliveries and materials that were not properly stored.
As there is constant traffic transporting building materials, and the workers are not familiar with their surroundings, the first stages of a building contract can be the most dangerous.
Builders, construction workers, and the general public face different risks during the build stage. The use of blow-torches by plumbers and open boilers by flat roofers for pitch can cause significant fire damage to buildings.
Bricklayers working high up can slip easily and cause serious injuries to themselves or their workers. Similar scaffolding can also collapse in high winds.
Builders and other trades businesses have the benefit of specialist builders insurance to cover any potential risks they might face.
All building and construction trades can be covered including Air Conditioning engineers, Electricians, Fabricators, Plumbers, Bricklayers, General Builders, Roofers, Carpenters, Joiners, Ground Workers, Labourers, Window and Door Fitters, Scaffolders, Damp Proofers, Heating & Ventilation engineers, Skip Hirers, Demolition workers, Kitchen Fitter, Bathroom Fitters, Painters and Decorators and Lift Engineers to name but a few of the construction tradesman insurance schemes available.
Builders Insurance covers all potential liabilities. This also includes public liability insurance that covers injuries or damages to property and other people caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of the builder. Even the most powerful builder can be subject to severe damages or even face criminal charges.
An insurance package for building trades will include provisions to protect against employees and sub-contractors being sued if they have an accident at work. This insurance is called employers liability insurance. It is mandatory if you have any employees, even temporary ones.
The theft of tools and other equipment necessary to complete the works is the biggest risk that a tradesman or builder will face, along with liability to the general public and employees. These essential pieces of equipment can be covered by most builders insurance liability plans on a replacement indemnity basis. The appropriate level of coverage can be determined by the builder.
