Construction sites happen to be some of the busiest workplaces that are packed with power tools, heavy machinery, and construction workers moving around. Now, with a whole lot of things happening on a construction site, accidents can happen due to countless reasons, such as inadequate training, inadequate safety protocols, and poor communication.
Construction site accidents have the highest rate of fatality other than causing serious damage.
The question is how you, as a construction company owner, can mitigate the risks of accidents.
Implementation of Prevention Strategies
You already know that accidents can happen, which is why you should always have a plan B ready regarding how to deal with an emergency situation. As starters, you might want to encourage your managers and supervisors to integrate a PTW system, which is used to assess and control high-risk activities. Under this system, only a specific group of workers are allowed to perform a task that is also under strict control.
The PTW is designed to timely identify, communicate, and control potential risks in dangerous conditions that can then curb the chances of accidents.
Nonetheless, you should have solid strategies in place to prevent accidents from the very onset.
Provide Training
As the owner of a construction business, you are responsible for providing your existing and newbie employees proper training and education regarding how to use equipment, follow safety protocols, and effectively communicate.
It is essential for all employees to receive comprehensive training before they officially get to work at the construction site. It is important to mention here that slip-and-fall accidents are amongst the top personal injury cases that get filed in the USA every year.
On that note, training cannot be compromised at all costs. After training, construction employees should be able to do the following:
- Analyze and identify hazards
- Recognize warning signs
- Properly use safety gear
Also, make sure all employees are provided with detailed instructions to properly handle construction materials, tools, and machinery.
Provide Workers with PEE
PEE is the abbreviation form of personal protective equipment, and as a construction company owner, you can never neglect the duty of providing your employees with PEE. The thing about PEE is that it is a crucial aspect of construction site safety.
When it comes to PEE for construction sites, the following items are included:
- Hard hats
- High-visibility clothing
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
Make sure your employees understand the importance of PEE and how the protective equipment helps diminish the risk of injuries and serious accidents on construction sites.
Ensure Regular Machinery Maintenance
To prevent accidents on the construction sites, you must prioritize regular maintenance of the construction equipment and machinery. Make regular maintenance an important part of your company policy and make it an essential part of the daily schedules of your workers.
Regular maintenance and inspection are key to accident prevention. Train your workers accordingly so they can instantly recognize potential danger and report incidents and near misses immediately. On that note, we cannot stress enough the importance of effective communication. Clear and effective communication is essential to ensure your workers have a clear understanding of their responsibilities.