Construction sites are notorious for being one of the most dangerous places to work. Tens of thousands of construction workers get hurt a year, with as many as 1000 of them resulting in death. There are numerous safety hazards at every corner, and every employee must understand the safety protocols and follow them. Here are four safety tips to follow to ensure construction laborer safety.
Personal Protection Equipment
Protective gear is essential in the construction industry, and it is not difficult to understand why. Safety gears should be stored in a safe and dry place. There should be ample first aid kits and fire extinguishers readily available near the worksites. Employees who often do heavy lifting should wear a back brace to prevent further damage to the spine. Gloves and goggles should be worn at all times, especially when handling dangerous objects. Safety harnesses should be worn if construction laborers have to work at elevated heights. Work boots should be rubber non-skid to prevent slipping. Masks should be protective enough to protect employees from debris.
Loading and Unloading Equipment
Ensure that the ramps are cleared and straight when unloading or loading equipment. This is because of the higher risk of injuries from equipment rolling over. Employees should also leave sufficient room between the equipment and them in case of emergencies. Have another employee be a spotter to guide you while you move the equipment. They should also check to ensure the ramp is clear. Employees should ensure that there is proper clearance before they start the loading or unloading process. The right tie-down processes should be used as well.
Climbing Hazards
Those who frequently use ladders or stairs should inspect them before use. Check for any potential weak spots and avoid these areas. Be sure to inform the foreman too. Stairs and ladders should be uncluttered and dry and should be avoided in wet conditions. If possible, use aerial lifts or elevated platforms. Warning lines and other safety features can be installed too. For ladders, ensure that the ladder of choice is at least three meters higher than the destination, and be sure to calculate the distance correctly. Avoid overreaching as it can cause a loss of balance.
Getting In and Out of Equipment
One of the major causes of death is the improper entrance or entry of employees from equipment. To reduce the chances of injury, construction laborers should check their boots and gloves for any slippery substances like mud and wipe them off carefully. They should ensure that one foot or hand has a proper grip on something before hoisting themselves up into the equipment. If available, step ladders can also be used to ensure that employees enter the equipment safely. If help is required, employees should not be afraid to ask for help. Make it a culture for them to seek assistance, and they will not feel embarrassed. Remind them not to jump from any equipment to the ground and allow them to take their time to dismount.
