Construction can be a hazardous task, especially if preventative safety measures aren’t taken. Falls, collapses, and property damage are just a few of the hazards that put construction workers at risk. Whether you’re working on an interior or exterior project, construction site safety is a must. Here are 5 key construction safety tips to ensure a successful team and project:
1. Create a Risk Management System
This should always be the first step when it comes to construction safety. If a proper risk management system is in place before the project, the hazards within site have been addressed in advance and there is ample time to set up the proper precautions. A risk management system is ineffective if not implemented until after an incident has occurred.
2. Choose the Proper Equipment
It may seem obvious, but injuries often occur when a piece of equipment is damaged or used incorrectly. Ladders are a great example of something that is often misused. A bent rail or a missing part can oftentimes be the cause of a serious fall. If a ladder is loaded with more than the recommended weight or a metal model is placed too close to a power line, the results can be fatal.
Be sure to thoroughly inspect your tools before use and ensure the structure is sound and you are meeting all requirements.
3. Secure Equipment Setup
It is crucial to be mindful of the space as you setup your equipment. If a stairway is placed near a debris-heavy area, the potential for a slip or fall is extremely likely. Be sure to cover steps in with treads and include a handrail for models with four or more risers. Scaffolding in particular should be able to hold up to four times its weight if properly set up on solid ground. Before use, scaffolding should be inspected for optimum safety and set up at least ten feet from power lines.
4. Protecting the Job Site
Protecting interior spaces from the dust and debris created by construction is vital in maintaining the safety of an area. If not properly contained, pollution may infect workers, damage machinery, and contaminate the facility and its products. Installing the proper dust containment solutions such as temporary walls or ceilings will create a barrier between the jobsite and the facility.
5. Personal Protective Equipment
Overall, it comes down to you choosing to protect yourself and your work. Head protection should be worn at all times by construction workers to avoid head trauma. Other protective gear, like slip-resistant steel-toed boots, cut-resistant gloves, masks or goggles should also be worn to stay safe when working on a construction site.
Following these key construction safety tips will create a safer space for yourself, your team, and the job site as a whole. Learn more about how our team takes protecting the facility from contaminants off your plate with our interior protection solutions.
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