Make a Construction Site Safe
This article is directed to construction site workers who desire a safe work environment.
Contents
Steps
- Perform a thorough walk through of the site. Identify and assess any workplace hazards and write down anything that may be considered unsafe. Notify your managers of possible dangers that he/she should know about.
- Train all personnel in work-site safety and operating procedure either on-site or at a training facility.
- Search the Internet to see if online instruction is available. Training should include proper lifting techniques to help reduce common back injuries sustained on the job.
- Identify and mark any hazardous materials. Determine any risk involved to personnel.
- Label and store any materials deemed hazardous in proper containers and secure them in a safe location. Post precautions for handling nearby. Make sure there is an MSDS (material safety data sheet) for all potentially hazardous chemicals/materials.
- Inspect equipment to be sure it is working properly. Be on the lookout for unusual noises and jerky movements. Report any problems immediately and do not operate the machinery until repairs have been made.
- Use harnesses and other safety equipment when performing roof work or working on scaffolds. Standard personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) incorporate three primary components, commonly referred to as the ABC's of fall protection. These include: the anchorage connector, body support and connecting device.
- Provide personal protective equipment to all employees, including hard hats, safety goggles and boots, work gloves, ear plugs (or another form of protection) and face masks.
- Be sure OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards are met. Follow all recommendations and mandates from occupational health and safety inspectors. If you work for a private company, ask managers whether they've hired or contracted a health and safety inspector.
- Prepare for emergencies. Operators and site workers should know what to do in case of electrical, mechanical, power failures, or injuries.
- Protect the public by barricading the construction site during work hours. After working hours, lock all points of entry.
Tips
- Post all emergency numbers prominently.
- Barricade open ditches, excavations.
- Have an approved first aid kit/ trained first aid person, and possible CPR certified, with an AED available.
- Store potentially dangerous/flammable/explosive chemicals/materials in a safe manner. (this could be a complete article in itself)
- Fence off the site to keep children out of danger.
Warnings
- With these safety precautions people still can get injured
Things You'll Need
- Hard hats
- Safety goggles
- Work boots
- Gloves
- Ear protection
- Face masks
- Storage containers for hazardous materials
- Safety checklist
- Training in safe operating procedures and OSHA regulations
