A construction site is a dangerous place. There are many risks that workers face every day, such as falling from heights, being struck by heavy equipment, and exposure to harmful chemicals.
In fact, construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the United States. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there were 1,061 worker fatalities in the construction industry in 2019. Some construction accidents are caused by worker error, but many results from preventable hazards. Most construction firms invest in safety equipment like hard hats, fall protection gear, steel ladder rungs, and safety barriers.
However, these measures are not always enough to prevent accidents from happening. By taking some simple precautions, construction workers can help to keep themselves and their coworkers safe. Here are the safety precautions that every construction worker should take:
1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is one of the workers’ most important tools to stay safe on the job. PPE includes hard hats, safety glasses, earplugs, and work gloves. When workers wear PPE, they are much less likely to be injured in an accident. This is important because construction accidents can often lead to serious injuries or even death.
2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It is important for workers to be aware of their surroundings and to watch out for potential dangers. This includes being aware of heavy equipment, falling debris, and slippery surfaces. If workers are not careful, they could be seriously injured in an accident. Being alert and aware of potential hazards is one of the best ways to stay safe on a construction site.
3. Use Proper Lifting Techniques
Many construction workers are required to lift heavy objects as part of their job. This can put a lot of strain on the back and neck, leading to serious injuries if workers do not use proper lifting techniques. It is important for workers to lift with their legs, not their back, and to use their hands and arms to support the weight of the object. If workers do not feel comfortable lifting something, they should ask for help from a coworker.
4. Report Defects and Near Misses
If workers see a potential hazard on the job, it is important to report it to a supervisor. By reporting defects and near misses, workers can help prevent accidents. This is important because even small hazards can lead to severe accidents.
5. Follow the Rules
Construction sites have many rules and regulations that workers must follow. These rules are in place to help keep workers safe. Some of the most important rules include wearing personal protective equipment, using safe work practices, and following all posted signs. If workers do not follow the rules, they could be putting themselves at risk of injury.
6. Never Tamper With Equipment
Construction equipment is very dangerous. Workers should never attempt to tamper with or repair equipment on their own. Workers should always contact a qualified technician if they need to repair or maintain equipment.
By taking these simple precautions, construction workers can help to keep themselves and their coworkers safe. By following the rules and being aware of their surroundings, workers can avoid many potential hazards. However, even with these precautions in place, accidents can still happen. If you have been injured in a construction accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.