The construction industry accounts for over 3 million jobs – working out at 10% of total UK employment. Due to the nature of the work, it’s one of the UK’s most dangerous job roles with workers being exposed to a higher risk of falls, machinery malfunctions, electrocution, falling objects, and structural collapses – just to name a few.
As an employer, it may be tempting to cut corners to save costs; but with workplace-related injuries being the cause of over 2.2 million lost work days annually, it’s in nobody’s best interests to avoid it.
There are a number of ways to improve health and safety in your workplace, and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. We’ve put together a list of our top 7 ways to keep workers safe in the construction industry, so everyone has more chance of keeping their body parts…
Wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) could mean the difference between a minor injury and a long-term injury or even a fatality.
It’s important to provide your employees with the appropriate PPE relative to the type of work being carried out. This can include helmets, ear protection, safety goggles, knee pads and hi-vis jackets. If they become worn or unfit for purpose, they need to be replaced immediately. Make sure they wear them, too!
When erecting scaffolding, there should be no shortcuts or improvisations. It should be built on stable ground with solid footing to eradicate the risk of it collapsing. Be sure to maintain and repair any damage or inconsistencies in the structure, as well as ensure that all employees using the scaffolding have an adequate level of scaffolding safety training.
Construction workers operating in high and medium-risk environments are required to have sufficient health and safety training. They should be fully competent and aware of the risks associated with their actions, especially when working at height, with machinery or in confined spaces. It is also advised that they have an appropriate awareness of first aid, and be able to administer basic life-saving techniques if necessary.
The NEBOSH Construction Certificate is a purposely designed Health and Safety course, providing workers with a wide range of skills for use in the construction industry.
Construction sites are full of potential dangers, not just for workers but for the public too. It’s important to highlight any hazards with signs and posters, warning everyone nearby to take precautions. Signs are a cost-effective way of reducing accidents, which could indicate dangers such as falling objects, turning large vehicles or the presence of gas/chemicals.
In today’s technological world, almost every adult in the UK owns a mobile phone – a majority of these being smartphones. It’s not all about texting and calling now – with smartphones comes apps and a whole universe of possibilities.
The Lone Worker App offers lone worker monitoring, with life-saving features including a panic button, check-in, ‘man down’ non-movement alerts and low battery reminders. It is an excellent way to monitor your staff’s safety whilst working separately, as well as share risk assessments and manage projects.
Construction workers rely on their tools to work efficiently and get jobs done. If their tools are unsafe or broken, there are higher risks of serious accidents including the loss of limbs. Equipment should regularly be inspected to ensure there are no equipment malfunctions or defects. It is both the responsibility of the worker and the employer to highlight issues with defective equipment.
Communication is a major factor in keeping employees safe. Staff should communicate with each other and with any alternative party if they identify potential risks. Those working onsite should be aware of existing potential hazards but also have a conscious awareness of other dangers. Employees should be regularly asked about what they think could make their job safer and have the opportunity to report any accidents or near-misses.