In the United States, 20% of worker fatalities occur in the construction industry in the private sector.
Even a well-run job site can be dangerous. Construction has an inherent risk to it. For this reason, safety measures in construction work are so essential and regulated. Beyond the official policies and regulations, there are measures every single person should take.
Here are four safety measures that help keep anyone working in the construction industry safe:
1. Your Work Area
One of the first things you should do is make sure you have a safe working environment. You need to have your area clear of debris or potential hazards. Take some time to clean up your work area. Clutter can become a hazard before you know it.
If your work area has any scaffolds or ladders, they are the cause of many injuries. Make sure they are inspected and solid. If a ladder wobbles when you try to use it, don’t use that ladder. Get anything in your work area that seems hazardous replaced or brought to the attention of a supervisor.
2. Always Wear Protective Gear
The personal protective equipment you’re assigned is the safety equipment you need. The more often you wear it, the less you will notice it. Hardhats, steel-toed boots, and other safety measures are integral.
They are great at keeping construction workers from injury.
If you’re operating high off the ground in a lift or otherwise, make sure to be tied off. A safety harness should be provided to you by your employer. Use it, and it will keep you from becoming another statistic if you should lose your grip.
3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
In places with heavy equipment, make sure to stay aware of its location. The last place you want to be is in the operator’s blind spot. Ensure that if you do have to enter the blind spot, you alert the operator and follow all safety protocols in place.
You should also be aware of any outstanding hazards like exposed electrical wires or overhead dangers. The more aware of your surroundings you are, the safer you will be.
4. Follow All Safety Procedures
Having safety measures in construction work does no good if those measures aren’t followed. When working, it is easy to cut corners. Everyone wants to do a good job and get their work done. Failing in enforcing safety measures is a major cause of accidents.
Set an example for everyone around you. Don’t let getting done a few minutes earlier create hazardous conditions on your job site. That includes having the construction safety items you need on hand and ready to go.
Safety Measures in Construction Work
There are safety measures established for almost every aspect of construction work. If you don’t have a policy regarding something, make sure to reference OSHA guidelines. Inspect your safety equipment and keep tools in good shape, and you will go home every night to your family.
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