Safety As a Way of Life – 5 Steps to Make your Construction Site Safe

We are pretty much familiar with the word “safety” these days. But what role does it actually play in our industries? Nevertheless, being the second largest sector in the country, construction does have a closer affinity to the word “safety”. With exposure to a large number of unskilled/unorganized labor, health and safety becomes significant in this sector. Especially as it is much more prone to hazardous activities and situations.

A robust organisation will always have a health and safety policy within its protocols. Thereby, it is inevitable for construction projects to have certain safety regulations and guidelines. Especially for site activities and to create proper awareness among its employees. 

Here are some short but “long” tips to ensure safety at construction sites and improve productivity

Training and Orientation

A proper induction is a must before the commencement of any work. A safe system of working can only be provided through proper training to the workmen. Hazards associated with the work, first aid, fire prevention and protection, usage and maintenance of safety equipment are the major points to be covered in the training.  

Personal Protective Equipment’s (PPE) for Safety in Construction

Personal protective equipment should ensure absolute and full protection from any possible hazard. And it should be designed in such a way that (and out of such a material), it can withstand the hazard against which it is intended to be used. Gloves, goggles, safety shoes, fall protection equipment etc are a few examples.

Safety signage and labels

Construction workers are usually unaware of many of the health and safety risks they are put to in the work sites. It is necessary that proper signage and labels are displayed at appropriate positions in the site. Make sure workers are able to read and understand it.

The signage should even indicate the location of fire extinguishers, first aid supplies, emergency exits, amenities available on site, and the closest emergency contact numbers.

Inspection for Safety in Construction

Inappropriate and faulty equipment are other reasons for site emergencies. Proper inspection on the equipment must be done on a routine basis before any site activity is taking place. As much as 65% of the risk is associated with the scaffolding at the site.

Regular inspections and checks must be encouraged on the strength and utility of the equipment or machinery. Furthermore, site operations must be carried out only with due regards to safe operations.

Site Preparations for Safety in Construction

Preparation of a construction site is an important aspect which should focus on a good site layout.

Is your construction site safe? Share your thoughts below.