Construction site deaths and injuries are often caused by dangerous working conditions. According to the Health and Safety Authority of Ireland (HSA), the construction industry reported 454 workplace injuries for 2011. Though the rate of construction site injuries and fatalities is decreasing since 2009, the numbers are still significant, which are in turn affecting the employers (contractors/builders) in the form of hefty compensation claims. This is a strong indication that preventive measures must be taken at all construction sites to avoid any injuries or fatalities. We will be discussing a few ways to avoid accidents at construction sites.
Keep site safe Slips, trips, and falls are all major causes of injuries on construction sites. Because construction workers are more susceptible to these incidents, it is your primary duty as a contractor/builder to ensure that the site remains safe.
* Avoiding slips or trips: Little things such as uneven surfaces, slippery floors, building materials, waste, trailing cables, changes to the surface at doors, ramps, and other small items can cause slips or trips. Slips and trips can be caused by these things.
You can reduce the chances of slips and falls by identifying and implementing preventative measures such as using mechanical lifting aids, minimizing construction materials on-site and providing separate containers for waste.
* Preventing falls: Falls from heights can be fatal or seriously injuring workers. These accidents can also lead to large compensation claims. A few preventive measures, such as proper planning and organization of work, the use of right equipment, the use of strong scaffolding, the securement of the platform or place with proper edge protection, and the use of the right equipment can help reduce the risk of falling. When working at heights of 2 meters or more, workers should use safety belts. To limit possible falls, you should use nets or soft landing areas.
Perform structural demolition and other alteration activities
There are significant risks associated with the demolition and dismantling structures for alteration or construction. Accidental collapse of structures, accidental exposure to hazardous material and noise, vibration, fire, and others can all result in injuries. These activities may cause injuries.
Site managers need to monitor the site and identify potential risk factors in order to prevent such incidents. Before the site is demolished, they must ensure that all connected services are removed and hazardous materials such as acids, inflammable liquids, or microbiological hazards, are not left behind.
Fire and electrical safety
The risk of electricity-related accidents can be significantly increased by activities near overhead power lines.
Your workers should not be working too close to overhead power lines. Do not place the lines in the work zone or cause them to go dead. Underground cables should be clearly identified and marked to ensure safe digging. Safety training should be given to workers in order to safely use and handle the electrical equipment.
Fire safety precautions should also be taken in order to prevent fire hazards. Workers should be educated about the various methods of fighting fire, escaping from flames, and how to warn others.
Protect public
Construction sites must consider safety for workers and the safety of the public. Builders/contractors are responsible if any third parties are injured or damaged near the site. First, identify hazards on the site and design safety features. Then implement them immediately. There are a few things that can be done to protect the public. These include putting up signs to inform the public of the dangers and erecting barricades to keep them from getting into the work area. By restricting access to the site, you can prevent them from entering.
Construction insurance helps to mitigate financial risks
Accidents, injuries, and deaths to workers or third-party members can happen regardless of your best efforts to keep the site safe. It is wise to use an insurance policy that covers your construction company against all possible risks. A reputable insurance brokerage will help you customize the policy to meet your needs.
