Important
Construction is very relevant to all parts of the world and provides critical support to our much-needed infrastructures.
There are millions of people today who currently work in the Construction Industry. The dangers involved in this line of work may vary depending on which particular aspect or niche you work in.
Danger Hotspots
In this article, we will be discussing the most common accidents that occur in the Construction Industry. This overview can help you, and your company take a look at the hotspots, or most problematic areas so that you can be forewarned. It has been said, “To be forewarned is to be forearmed.”
1. Falls
Most construction jobs require working at great heights with the use of ladders and scaffolds. Accidents occur when workers fall from scaffolding or ladders which in turn leads to head injuries, a broken spine, fractures and other broken bones.
Accidents and injuries from heights can be avoided through the use of protective gear such as helmets, elbow and knee pads, and a girdle to prevent accidental falls. Ladders should be secured, tightened and correctly placed. Walkways should also be guarded properly in areas where there is scaffolding so as to make the access to the site safe.
2. Falling Objects
Falling objects from a high up location (as well as not so high depending on the weight of the object) is a very common and easily avoidable accident. However, it can be known to cause severe injuries to the body, most especially the head, shoulders, and back. Injuries from falling objects could vary from slight cuts and bruises to more serious head and brain injuries.
This can all be avoided by wearing a helmet, protective gear and maintaining proper communication amongst workers at the construction site. Always keep a clean and organized workspace and secure all tools or hardware while working at any elevation.
3. Tripping Accidents
Tripping over objects such as cables, blocks or falling into holes dug in the ground at construction sites happens more often than many people would like to admit. You can help avoid or minimize these types of accidents by clearing away dangerous objects from the construction site and following the simple advice previously mentioned, which is always to keep a neat and orderly working environment. Also placing an “out of bounds” sign at hazardous locations of the site can help improve worker safety.
4. Faulty Equipment
It is the responsibility of each construction worker to check that the equipment that they are using is in good working condition before use. If the equipment is the property of the company that they work for, then each worker should report the faulty device immediately and stop all use of said item. Should any equipment become broken, it should be repaired immediately so as to avoid any form of accident or injury.
5. Heavy Equipment and Automobile Accidents
There is usually a lot of movement going on at a construction site at any given time. Heavy equipment operators are trained to keep an eye out for movement around them; however, it is important to have regular communication happening between drivers, safety staff, and the logistics team.
Note: An efficient way to cut down on fuel truck traffic for heater refills is to use a Nakoda high-efficiency heater. One study showed that a single Nakoda heater replaced more than six commonly used heaters and required one refill per day instead of multiples in the same day.
Another common accident with vehicles is from the workers themselves not having a clearly marked location for parking or transiting which can result in hitting pedestrians or other fellow construction workers. Make sure to always have clearly marked parking zones and designated pedestrian walking areas with necessary signage.
6. Noise Hazards
Construction work requires heavy machinery and loud equipment which can become deafening to a degree if no precaution is taken. Powerful vibrations are also emitted from select devices. A loud and moving environment can lead to hearing loss or numbness over time for workers. You can help prevent this by wearing the proper ear protection (Ear Defenders). Where possible, try reducing the level of noise at locations that can permit it at select times of the day.
Vibration from power tools can cause nerve damage to the limbs which could lead to loss of grip strength. Make sure everyone is trained in the proper safety procedures for how long each device can safely be used for and how best to handle said equipment.
7. Accidents Due to Irritants and Harmful Substances
Our last common accident listed here in the Construction Industry is coming in contact with or inhaling a toxic substance or chemical. This can be prevented by wearing a gas mask, body suit, gloves and using proper skin protection.
For a more detailed look at the best protection courses for your particular industry, please contact TriTech Safety located in Grande Prairie to get the best advice on how to avoid the most common, expensive, and avoidable accidents in your industry.
