You might not think about it, but construction workers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Thousands of construction workers are injured every year, and some even die. So, how do construction companies keep their employees safe? Read on to find out.
Working in construction comes with a lot of risks. There are heavy tools and equipment, and there is always the possibility of falls from heights. Every year, thousands of construction workers are hurt on the job. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 3 out of every 100,000 full-time construction workers are injured on the job annually. That’s why safety is such a big priority for construction companies. Here are five ways that construction companies keep their workers safe and healthy.
Proper Training
Before a worker even steps on a construction site, they must receive proper training. Companies often have in-house training programs that new hires must complete before they start working. This training covers everything from safety procedures to properly using the different tools and equipment. Here are some other ways companies are giving training to their employees.
Testing
Testing is a crucial part of your workers’ health. In the U.K., a CSCS exam is something that every worker on a construction site must pass. It shows that they have the necessary training and qualifications for the job. CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) is the leading construction industry scheme in the U.K. that assesses, issues, and monitors safety and health standards.
There are different CSCS cards, each being valid for a specific time. The CSCS card is just one-way construction companies ensure their workers are appropriately trained and qualified.
Safety Training
More and more workers are now being trained in VR (virtual reality). It’s a way for companies to give employees realistic training without putting them in any danger. With VR, employees can experience different situations they might encounter on a construction site. For example, they can be trained on how to safely use a power tool or what to do if there’s a fire using VR. Companies can give their employees the training they need to stay safe without putting them in danger.
Personal Protective Equipment
Once workers are on-site, they must be properly outfitted with all the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). Here are some essential PPE that your employees need on the job:
- Hard hats: To protect against falling objects.
- Safety glasses or goggles: To protect the eyes from debris, dust, and other airborne particles.
- Earplugs or earmuffs: To protect the ears from loud noises.
- Mouthguards: To protect the teeth from flying debris.
Depending on the job, employees might also need to wear respirators, gloves, and steel-toe boots. Wearing the proper PPE is essential for keeping workers safe on the job.
Regular Health Checks
Construction workers are prone to all sorts of diseases. That’s why regular health checks are crucial for every project.
In most construction companies, regular health checks are mandatory for all employees. These health checks can help identify any potential health risks that employees might have. For example, an employee with high blood pressure might be at risk for a heart attack. By catching these health risks early, construction companies can help their employees stay healthy and safe.
Safe Work Practices
There are certain things that all workers need to do to stay safe while working on a construction site. Here are some safe work practices for construction sites.
First Aid Kits
Every construction site should have a first aid kit. If an employee is injured, the first aid kit can be used to treat them until medical help arrives.
First Aid Training
In addition to having a first aid kit, all employees should be adequately trained in first aid. They should know how to use the first aid kit’s contents properly and how to administer CPR.
Emergency Procedures
All workers should know the emergency procedures for the construction site. For example, they should know where the exits are, where the fire extinguishers are located, and who to contact in an emergency.
Working Safely
Working safely is the responsibility of every construction worker. By following the safety procedures, wearing the proper PPE, and being aware of their surroundings, construction workers can help keep themselves and their coworkers safe.
Construction sites can be dangerous places to work, but there are many ways that companies keep their workers safe. From proper training and personal protective equipment to safe work practices and first aid kits, construction companies go above and beyond to keep their employees healthy and injury-free.
