June is National Safety Month, but no matter what the calendar says, right now is always the best time to consider your job site’s safety strategies. Many workplace accidents happen on construction sites, for obvious reasons. The work frequently entails hazardous tasks and conditions, including working at great heights, excavations, noise, power tools and equipment, heavy lifting, dust, electricity and confined spaces.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, one in five worker deaths happened in the construction industry in 2014. Known as the “Fatal Four”, the accidents that are the leading causes of death in construction are:
• Falls
• Electrocutions
• Struck by object
• Caught-in/between equipment
Take action to lessen the chance of accidents on construction sites. Consider these three job site safety tips:
Prepare and wear protective gear:
Helmets and protective eyewear should be available for employees onsite at all times. Appropriate apparel and footwear should also be worn at all times. Loose clothing can get caught or snagged easily, and wearing the wrong shoes can lead to serious injuries, including slips and falls. Ensure your apparel protects against climate conditions and is highly visible to others.
Examine electricity and equipment:
Electrical systems are common on construction sites. The safest construction site buildings have up-to-date fire safety guidelines and have workers that know what to do in the event of an electrical fire. Ensure that equipment is maintained and functioning up to code. Follow the safety precautions included with each piece of equipment to safeguard against potential misuse.
Vet your vehicles:
Vehicles used on construction sites undergo a lot of wear-and-tear over time that can increase maintenance and operation costs. Have your vehicles regularly inspected inside and out to be sure they meet official industry standards. Keep track of your loads. Cargo that is improperly loaded and/or overloaded has a higher chance of shifting while in transit, which could cause the vehicle to tip or the driver to lose control.
Construction safety is always top of mind here at WillScot. Check out our service guide to learn more about keeping your modular unit in safe working condition on site.
Do you have any tips on how to prioritize safety on the construction site?