Take Me To Post Comment Form There are dangers in every work place, but construction sites are one of the most dangerous. Looking out for your safety as well as of those around you is essential when working on a construction site.

Every year hundreds of construction workers are injured on the job. These tips will give you some of the ways that you can stay safe at work.

Scaffolding should be double checked

One of the most common causes of construction site injuries is poorly built scaffolding. Working at any type of height always poses a safety risk. Scaffolding should always be constructed by qualified professionals and be double checked for stability and strength.

Any employee working on scaffolding needs to be adequately trained on how to work safely. It is also important that those who are working around the scaffolding - as well as members of the public - are safe too. This means ensuring that there isn't the possibility of falling items hitting someone below the scaffolding.

Never neglect safety wear

There is a reason why safety wear is compulsory on most work sites - it can save lives and prevent serious injuries. Whether its a hard hat, fluorescent jacket or steel-cap boots, all safety items should be worn at all times.

As well as the compulsory safety wear you should consider everything else that you are wearing. Are your pants durable enough to protect you from falls or dangerous liquids? Are you wearing a long-sleeve top to protect your arms?

Keep things tidy

No matter how untidy you are at home, it’s essential you bring out the tidiest you when you’re at work. Trips and falls are a major cause of construction site injuries, so leaving things lying around is not an option.

Whether it’s your mess or not, always make sure that there aren't any tools or rubbish lying on the ground that could cause a fall.

Slow and steady

It’s important not to run when you’re on a construction site. There are all sorts of things going on that could cause you to fall, trip or have an accident. For example, you might run into someone carrying a sharp object. Whenever you’re walking around the site keep things slow and steady - no need to rush!

Work as a team

Having a safe workplace is a team effort, so making sure that your colleagues are clued up on the dangers of your construction site is essential. If you have any concerns about safety at work you should always speak to your manager or safety officer - they need people to tell them about potential dangers so that they can fix them immediately.

Carry out a risk assessment

If you manage a construction site you should always carry out a risk assessment. This includes openly discussing health and safety issues with your employees - make them understand the importance of the site’s safety plan.

Set rules for the workplace, such as a no running policy and a discussion of what tools should be used when, where and by who. All employees should have a copy of the site’s safety plan and be briefed on it.

Keep equipment up to date

When you’re working with powerful tools and equipment there is always the potential for injuries. All equipment should have a safety check on a regular basis to ensure they don’t pose a threat. This includes checking that electrical wires are safe and there are no loose parts.



Inspired by Smith's Lawyers.