We love our work. Likewise, we derive a great deal of satisfaction from stepping back at the end of the day and admiring a freshly poured foundation, or a completed steel structure. Unfortunately, however, the road to a finished product is often dangerous and paved with its fair share of potholes. According to the Occupational Health & Safety Administration, construction workers accounted for 20% of the total work fatalities in America in 2013. As any foreman knows, nothing is guaranteed to ruin a day on the job site like an injured crew member. We aim to keep workplace injuries to an absolute minimum by maintaining vigilance and taking the following essential safety precautions.
Inspect Materials Prior to a Build
Construction crews often work under tight time constraints, so it’s easy to skip this step. A single shoddy weld can have serious detrimental effects on the overall structural integrity of a building. It is crucial that construction crews inspect materials before they are integrated into the construction project. Not only will the extra attention to detail keep your crew safe, it will ensure the quality of the completed build.
Employ Barricades Extensively
Barricades don’t just prevent passersby from entering a job site. They can also alert workers to the presence of deep trenches, open sewage access holes, and many other hazards typical of construction work. Keep extra barricades on hand, and erect them as soon as a hazard is identified.
Wear Personal Safety Equipment
Gear such as hard hats, respirators, and harnesses are crucial to maintaining a safe work environment. Harnesses are especially important when working on projects that require scaffolding. According to OSHA, injuries from falls constitute the number one danger to construction workers.
Respect Heavy Machinery
If you’re not qualified to operate a forklift, then for goodness sake don’t attempt to. Keep an eye on large vehicles such as dump trucks and assume that they can’t see you. Treat these behemoths like untrustworthy horses. Don’t stand directly behind them, and don’t turn your back when working in close proximity to them.
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