Staying safe on a construction site should be the number one priority of anyone working there. There are often so many dangerous pieces of equipment and such hazardous conditions that failing to obey safety protocols and tips can lead to injury or death in the blink of an eye.
Not all construction sites are built the same, but there are some general pieces of advice you can follow to keep yourself safe in almost any situation. In case you work in or around construction sites, here are some of the best safety tips for working in a construction zone.
1. Use All Your Personal Safety Wear and Equipment
The first and most important thing to remember when working on a construction site is to wear all the safety equipment you have provided. This can include safety glasses, boots, gloves, harnesses, a hardhat, facemask, and anything else that may be required for that specific job.
Failing to use or wear safety equipment is a leading cause of death among construction workers, so this is by far the most effective thing you can do to keep yourself safe and prevent injuries on the job.
2. Have the Proper Supportive Equipment
This tip refers to equipment required during specific stages of construction. Loading dock restraints, for example, will help prevent large items from tipping over. By using the proper specialized equipment, you can prevent larger catastrophes from occurring and potentially injuring your coworkers as well as yourself.
3. Avoid Hazards
Things like standing, unsupported ladders, trenches, and areas where falling items might land should all be avoided whenever possible. These are high-danger areas and spending too much time in them will increase your likelihood of injury.
4. Operate Machinery Carefully
Machinery may need to be used for various reasons like the transportation of insulated structural panels or when removing grease from concrete. If you find yourself operating or driving a piece of heavy machinery, make sure to use a spotter to help you navigate. Watch where you put your hands and feet when getting into position to operate machinery, and never try to carry objects while doing so.
5. Proper Ladder Etiquette is Important
Ladders are incredibly dangerous and offer a lot of opportunities to hurt yourself. Always clear the steps of a ladder and test them before you put your full weight on them. Never extend beyond your reach when on a ladder, and don’t use metal ladders when it’s storming. Use a belt to hold tools and free your hands when on a ladder, and use a fall arrest system if possible.
The construction industry ranks as one of the most dangerous places to work in the world. By following the tips and advice here, you can avoid the all-too-common occurrence of injury or death on the job. Each one of these tips can save your life and the lives of others should a disaster strike, so make sure to study them closely and break as few of these rules as humanly possible.
Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.