7 Common Construction Hazards and How to Eliminate Them

Construction safety

Construction sites are found anywhere a building is being repaired or built. People who work on construction sites typically use larger tools and equipment, work at significant heights, and function in environments where many hazardous materials are found.

Construction sites are inherently dangerous places to work, and they are also the most unsafe places in the world. So it is important to have a construction safety program in place to make sure that their employees are kept safe, and there is little danger to colleagues as possible.

From working with Panel Formwork to working on scaffoldings, knowing how to stay safe is a must. Keep reading to learn what to do and how to prevent serious issues.

  1. Working at Heights

According to the HSE, Health and Safety Executive, over 25% of all worker fatalities occur due to a fall from a height. This means that working above the ground is the most common cause of serious and fatal injuries to construction workers.

Proper training is needed to ensure accidents and injuries do not occur. Be sure all employees know how to stay safe when working from any heights.

  1. Moving Objects

The construction site is an ever-changing environment. Construction hazards grow any time construction work is going on. There are many moving objects commonly seen on the average construction site. Some examples include overhead lifting equipment, diggers, supply vehicles, and more, which are all moving over uneven terrain. To reduce risks, it is a good idea to pay attention to the surroundings and be properly trained on how to operate all commonly used equipment safely.

  1. Falls, Trips, or Slips

Slips, trips, and falls can occur in virtually any environment. Since most construction sites have uneven terrain, the likelihood of someone losing their footing is high. To prevent these types of issues, proper signage is needed. It is also a good idea to provide information about how to avoid these scenarios.

  1. Noise

Most construction sites are noisy. In some cases, this noise can be a hazard and have detrimental effects on a person’s hearing. Long-term exposure to loud noises can even lead to partial or complete deafness. Employers need to engage in proper noise risk assessments and provide the needed PPE when needed to minimize the odds of hearing-related issues.

  1. HAVS – Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome

HAVS is a debilitating and painful disease that affects the joints, nerves, and blood vessels. This condition is typically caused by the ongoing use of various hand-held power tools, which include power tools that vibrate or certain types of ground working equipment.

See Also

  1. Manual Handling of Materials

Equipment and materials are being lifted and moved constantly. The lifting, handling, and carrying of these items present a certain level of risk. Employers need to provide proper training to ensure the risk of issues is reduced, if not eliminated altogether.

Manual handling might not seem high risk, but it is actually one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. The importance of safe manual handling techniques can therefore mean the difference between a productive day at work or being off work with a bad back!

  1. Collapsing Trenches

Sometimes, trenches that construction workers are in can collapse. This can cause serious injuries or kill those inside. It is necessary to take the proper precautions to ensure this does not happen before any work is done. This is the only way to keep this type of problem from occurring.

When it comes to safety on a construction site, there are many factors to consider. Be sure to keep the information here in mind to minimize issues and keep workers safe. Being informed and knowing what to do are the best ways to ensure everyone remains safe and free of injuries.

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