3 Common Construction Safety Hazards and How To Avoid Them
Are you worried about being safe on the job site?
Construction safety hazards are much more common than you may think. In fact, in 2019, 27% of injuries were related to slips, trips, and falls at construction sites. The injury rate in the construction industry is higher than average, which is why it’s so important to remain cautious at all times.
If you’re looking for construction safety tips that you can put into practice, you’ve come to the right place.
Keep reading for some construction safety topics to keep yourself safe and accident-free!
1. Falling From High Areas
Falls from unsafe ladders, unsecured scaffolds, and roofs account for a significant number of construction worker injuries and fatalities each year. To avoid falls, make sure all scaffolding is secure and braced before climbing.
Inspect ladders before each use and do not use them if they get damaged. Workers should use safety equipment, such as fall protection systems. These include guardrails, nets, or personal fall arrest systems.
Using safety harnesses is important and keeps the work area clean and free of debris. Workers should be cautious with safety management for construction when working near the edges.
2. Electrocution
When working with electrical equipment or around power lines, it is crucial to take precautions to avoid contact with live wires. To avoid this, always use proper safety gear when working with electricity, including rubber gloves and insulated tools.
If you must work near live electrical wires, always use a barrier, such as a piece of wood or metal, to protect yourself. In an area with wet floors, always use rubber mats or stand on dry boards to avoid contact with wet surfaces.
Never touch electrical wires or equipment without first turning off the power. If you suspect that a wire is live, do not touch it! Report the hazard to your supervisor right away for safety management.
3. Heavy Equipment Accidents
There are many common construction safety hazards associated with heavy equipment. Some of the most common hazards include being struck by moving equipment, being caught in or between equipment, and being crushed by collapsing equipment.
To avoid these hazards, workers should always stay aware of their surroundings and be cautious when working near heavy equipment. They should also wear the proper safety gear, such as reflective vests and hard hats, to make themselves more visible to equipment operators.
Some companies use hydro excavation equipment when excavating. The equipment uses high-pressure water to break up and remove soil. The process is safe because it minimizes the risk of damaging underground utilities and reduces worker exposure to hazardous materials.
Be Aware of Potential Construction Safety Hazards
There are many common construction safety hazards, but the good news is that there are also many ways to avoid them. By following safety guidelines and using proper safety equipment, you can help keep yourself and those around you safe.
If you are ever unsure about something, be sure to ask a supervisor or another experienced worker for help.
For more construction safety-related articles, check out the rest of our blogs today.
