IDENTIFYING CONSTRUCTION HAZARDS
The
following examples are intended to remind workers of the typical
construction hazards we see regularly with hopes that everyone will put
safety first and correct hazards as they find them.
HOUSEKEEPING -
Not enough can be said about maintaining a clean work area! Keeping
your area swept and free from debris not only prevents tripping hazards,
but it makes it easier to perform your work. Make sure stored materials
are stacked neatly and away from work areas.
EXTENSION CORDS -
Make sure cord sets have a grounding plug in place before using. If
insulation on cords is damaged, take the cords out of service. Elevate
extension cords to prevent tripping hazards.
ELECTRICAL PANELS
- All panels and boxes must have a cover in place to prevent electrical
shock. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) should be required on
all circuits that will be used for portable power tools.
SCAFFOLDING
- Elevated working surfaces must be fully planked with toe boards, hand
rails and mid rails installed. Scaffolds must be erected with vertical
members resting on a solid base with the scaffold level. Never climb the
outside of a scaffold; ladders are required. Never climb a ladder while
carrying tools or materials. Instead, use a hoist line.
LADDERS -
Step ladders are a major source for construction accidents. Make sure
they are used properly and maintained in good repair. Remove broken or
damaged ladders from service immediately. Never lean step ladders
against a wall or work surface. Never separate extension ladders. Always
make sure extension ladders are tied off.
SLIPPERY SURFACES
- Make sure sand or some other slip resistant material is applied to
icy walking surfaces. Clean up oil and water spills immediately. Another
serious cause of slips are "rolly pollys." These are small round
objects that can cause a slip when stepped on. Typical ones include:
Welding rod ends, stubs from conduit and small diameter pipe.
LIGHTING
- Most construction areas require a minimum of 5 foot candles. If you
are having a hard time seeing your work, then you need to let someone
know and get something done about it. Stairways are a common problem
area and require good lighting.
EYE PROTECTION
- It is too common to see workers who need eye protection not wearing
it. The typical reason is because they did not have glasses with them.
Wearing safety glasses all the time prevents this situation. Safety
glasses alone are not adequate for tasks that create flying particulate
matter such as grinding or cutting. Wear a face shield as well.
Five essential safety implementations for construction sites:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) : Always wear the right gear—hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots. PPE shields you from hazards.
- Fall Prevention : Falls are a major cause of construction fatalities. Prioritize fall protection measures like guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems.
- Regular Site Inspections : Routinely check for hazards. Detect and address issues before they escalate.
- Emergency Preparedness : Have clear emergency plans. Practice drills to ensure everyone knows their roles during crises.
- Effective Communication : Properly convey safety instructions. Clear communication reduces risks.
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