11 ways to keep your construction

safe:
https://www.latham-australia.com/blog/safety-measures-construction-site

1. Start with safety training

All workers must hold a current white card before they commence work on-site. Site-
specific induction training should also be completed by each worker, to point out any
high risk areas and provide instructions for emergency management.

2. Minimise and manage risk

Due to the nature of construction work, it's impossible to eliminate all safety risks.
However, many common safety issues can be avoided by conducting regular safety
audits and having procedures in place to report, assess and address potential risks. 

3. Site security

Restricted site access should not only be put in place to simply protect equipment from
damage or theft. Security in and outside of work hours is integral to protect pedestrians
from potential construction hazards. This includes supervision or authorised site visitors.

Strict security and safety protocols will also protect contractors from liability and
negligence in the case of a safety incident or security breach.

4. Safe work method assessment

A safe work method statement (SWMS) must be prepared for all high risk construction
projects, before work commences. The SWMS should outline the scope of work
involved, any potential safety issues, and how risks will be prevented and managed. By
law, construction work must not commence until SWMS standards are met.

5. Use clear signage throughout the site

The site SWMS should be clearly displayed at the construction site, so that all safety
protocols are readily available - including a 24 hour emergency contact number and a
map or directions to the site office. Visible signage should also indicate site amenities
(such as toilets), entry and exit points, and first aid or emergency fire equipment.

6. Entry and exit points

Separate entry and exit points should be established for heavy machinery/vehicle
access, to strengthen pedestrian safety at high traffic points.

7. Compliant chemical storage

Chemicals need to be stored very carefully to minimise fires, explosions, asphyxiation,

chemical injury and pollution on worksites. Use high quality, compliant outdoor storage
solutions such as explosive storage cabinets to segregate chemicals and reduce
spillage.

8. Environmental conditions

Extreme weather conditions can cause serious safety hazards. Your on-site emergency
plan should provide clear guidelines for workers who need to stop work in the event of
natural disaster, severe environmental conditions or other emergency circumstances.

9. First aid

For the construction industry, it's best practice to provide one first aid officer per 25
workers. First aid kits and equipment must be placed in an easily accessible area on
site.

10. Provide personal protective (PPS) equipment

In many situations an employer is obligated to provide PPS such as high vis vests,
safety goggles and safety harnesses to construction site workers. To find what PPS you
are required to provide for a specific project, contact Safe Work Australia.

11. Dropped objects

It is your responsibility to secure objects onsite and minimise the risk of them
falling. This video explains the risks and how they can be avoided by putting
preventative safety measures in place.
Construction safety doesn't end once the project is completed, and your workers have
gone home. All parties involved in the construction process have a responsibility in
ensuring that the the right equipment and quality materials are used, so that safety risks
are avoided long into the future.

https://www.haspod.com/blog/construction/10-simple-construction-site-safety-rules

10 Simple Construction Site Safety Rules

Construction sites are dangerous places to work. Follow these 10 simple construction
site safety rules to keep yourself, and others, safe. From wearing your PPE, to following
procedures, you can help make your site a safer place to work, and prevent accidents.

Construction sites are dangerous places to work. Every year, thousands of people are
injured at work on construction sites. So, if you work in construction, it's even more
important that you put health and safety into everything you do.

Follow these 10 simple construction site safety rules to keep yourself, and others, safe.

1. Wear your PPE at all times

When you enter the site, make sure you have the PPE you need. PPE is important, it's
your last line of defence should you come into contact with a hazard on site. Hi-viz helps
make sure you are seen. Safety boots give you grip and protect your feet. Hard hats are
easily replaced, but your skull isn't.

It can't protect you if you don't wear it. Wear your hard hat, safety boots and hi-viz vest
as a minimum, along with any additional PPE required for the task being carried out.

2. Do not start work without an induction

Each site has its unique hazards and work operations. No two sites are exactly the
same. Make sure you know what is happening so that you can work safely. Inductions
are a legal requirement on every construction site you work on.

Your induction is important. It tells you where to sign in, where to go, what to do, and
what to avoid. Don’t start work without one.

3. Keep a tidy site

Construction work is messy. Slips and trips might not seem like a major problem
compared to other high-risk work happening on the site, but don't be fooled. According
to HSE statistics, slips and trips accounted for 30% of specified major injuries on
construction sites (2016/17 – 2018/19).

Remember to keep your work area tidy throughout your shift to reduce the number of
slip and trip hazards. Pay particular attention to areas such as access and escape
routes.

4. Do not put yourself or others at risk

Actions speak louder than words. Especially on construction sites where one wrong
move could put you in harm's way. Set a good example, think safe and act safely on
site.

You are responsible for your own behaviour. Construction sites are dangerous places to
work. Make sure you remain safety aware throughout your shift.

5. Follow safety signs and procedures

Follow construction safety signs and procedures. These should be explained to you in

your induction (rule number 2). Your employer should ensure a risk assessment is
carried out for your activities. Make sure you read and understand it.

Control measures are put in place for your safety. Make sure they are in place and
working before you start.
6. Never work in unsafe areas

Make sure your work area is safe. Know what is happening around you. Be aware.
According to HSE statistics, 14% of fatalities in construction were caused by something
collapsing or overturning, and 11% by being struck by a moving vehicle (2014/15-
2018/19).

Don’t work at height without suitable guard rails or other fall prevention. Don’t enter
unsupported trenches. Make sure you have safe access. Don’t work below crane loads
or other dangerous operations.

7. Report defects and near misses

If you notice a problem, don’t ignore it, report it to your supervisor immediately. Fill out
a near-miss report, an incident report, or simply tell your supervisor. Whatever the
procedure in place on your site for reporting issues, use it.

Action can only be taken quickly if the management has been made aware of the
problem. The sooner problems are resolved the less chance for an accident to occur.

8. Never tamper with equipment

If somethings not working, or doesn't look right, follow rule number 7 and report it. Don't
try and force something, or alter something, if you're trained to or supposed to.

Never remove guard rails or scaffold ties. Do not remove machine guards. Do not
attempt to fix defective equipment unless you are competent to do so. Do not ever
tamper with equipment without authorisation.

9. Use the right equipment

One tool does not fit all. Using the correct tool for the job will get it done quicker, and
most importantly, safer. Visually check equipment is in good condition and safe to use
before you start.

Only use 110v equipment on the site. 240v equipment is strictly prohibited without prior
authorisation from management and will only be used if no 110v alternative available
and additional safety precautions are taken.

10. If in doubt, ask

Unsure what to do? Or how to do something safely? Or you think something is wrong?
Stop work, and ask. It takes 5 minutes to check, but it might not be so easy to put things
right if things go wrong. It's better to be safe than sorry. Mistakes on construction sites
can cost lives, don’t let it be yours.

If you need help or further information speak to your superviso

https://www.ccr-mag.com/8-important-safety-measures-for-construction-sites/

8 Important Safety Measures for Construction Sites

Posted on September 23, 2018 by davidc@ccr-mag.com

Every employer is responsible for safeguarding the health and safety of their staff irrespective of the
industry and the nature of work being performed. In case of construction workers, they work in a high
risk environment that is subject to electrical hazards and the dangers of construction machinery. In fact,
according to SafeWork NSW, “around 25,000 workers suffered injuries on NSW construction sites in the
last 3 years due to unsafe work conditions. 23 workers were killed and 1700 were left with permanent
disabilities”.
These alarming stats make it evident that it is very important to take appropriate safety measures on a
construction site and protect the construction crew from fatalities.

8 Ways to Keep Construction Sites Safe:

1. Manage and Mitigate Risk with a Safety Training Program

Due to the risk inherent in construction work, all employees must be trained and instructed to point out
high risk areas for efficient emergency management. While it is impossible to eliminate the risk
completely, training programs can educate site workers to conduct regular safety audits. This will enable
them to assess and address potential risks and greatly minimize the possibility of injuries, thereby
ensuring a safe working environment.

2. Ensure Electrical Safety at Construction Sites

With an average of one worker being electrocuted on the job every day in the U.S., electrocution is the
fourth leading cause of death on construction sites. The use of power and electrical transformers on
construction sites is particularly hazardous due to the use of flexible extension cords and scattered
power cables in damp conditions.

Tips to ensure electrical safety at construction sites:

• Overhead and underground power transmission lines can be lethal so it is important that the
construction crew maintains safe distance from them, all the lines are grounded, all construction
electrical products are insulated using sleeves and all heavy equipment are de-energized when not in
use.
• Check that all the extension cords are adequate for the amount of current being carried to avoid
fluctuations and overloading. All construction electrical products must be UL approved and have strain
relief along with a three-prong grounding plug for safe usage.
• If a portable electrical product is used in a damp environment, it is essential to ensure that a
transformer is used to isolate the voltage between conductors so it does not exceed 230 volts.
• Construction electrical products must be rated for heavy-duty usage and a GFCI should be
employed for ground-fault protection.

3. Implement Strict Security and Safety Protocols

Construction site access should be limited to ensure protection of heavy equipment and machinery from
theft and damage. The safety of pedestrians from potential hazards of a construction site requires strict
supervision while the work is on. Only authorized visitors should be allowed on site and strict safety
protocols should be enforced to protect contractors from liabilities, security breach and litigation due to
negligence of safety.

4. Have a Safe Work Assessment Process in Place

An SWMS (Safe Work Method Statement) must be prepared and implemented for all high-risk projects
prior to the commencement of work. This statement must clearly outline the scope of work and
potential risks involved along with ways to avoid or manage them. Ideally, no construction work can be
commenced until all the SWMS standards have been met.

5. Make Sure Chemical Storage Safety Requirements are Strictly Followed

Chemicals can cause pollution, fire, explosion and serious injuries if not stored, handled or used with
caution. Using high-quality and compliant storage solutions for chemicals can reduce the risk of spillage
and fatalities.

6. Display Signage Clearly at the Construction Site

The SWMS must be clearly displayed throughout the construction site so that all the safety protocols are
visible at all times. It should also include a 24-hour emergency number along with a map that leads to
the office. The signage should indicate the location of fire extinguishers, first aid supplies, emergency
exits, and amenities available on site.

7. Plan and Prepare for Adverse Environmental Conditions

Unfavorable weather conditions can invite serious accidents on construction sites. Every construction
site must have a contingency plan that guides workers with clear instructions to stop work in case of
extreme weather conditions and steps to handle emergencies in case of natural disasters.

8. Provide Personal Protective Equipment

An employer is obligated to provide his staff with all the necessary PPE including safety harness, safety
goggles, head protection gear, and fall protection depending on the type of work.
These safety tips make a good starting point for implementing a safety program and for ensuring
electrical safety at construction sites.
https://www.isrmag.com/safety-measures-need-to-implement-at-construction-sites/

Implementing Safety Measures At Construction Sites

TOP STORIES
On Jul 24, 2020

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Construction is an industry filled with potential dangers. The good news is that you can
minimize them by using the appropriate safety measures. Here are 10 that could help you
reduce accidents and keep people protected on the job.

1. Provide Training Before Tool Use or Heavy

Equipment Operation
Many pieces of equipment found on construction sites are especially dangerous if people
don’t know how to use them. Never assume that workers understand how to handle the
tools and equipment provided. Give them the training to ensure that they do, and update the
educational materials so that they reflect current procedures.
Some companies run certification programs for heavy equipment operators. You may
require job candidates to show their certificates before hiring them. Understand the risks to
people near heavy equipment, too. Instruct drivers to always move the machines slowly and
stay aware of their surroundings.

2. Assess Each Site to Identify and Minimize

Dangers
All construction sites have risks, but they are not universal across locations. For example,
someone working at a height faces different threats than someone working with electricity.
Take the time to evaluate each site and look for all the dangerous areas.

Determine the best ways to minimize risks. That may mean investing in new fall protection
or installing railings to help people walk safely across slippery surfaces. Checking out each
site before work begins is not sufficient, however. You must also monitor and limit hazards
throughout a project’s timeline.

3. Require Every Worker to Wear Protective

Equipment
Protective equipment for construction workers ranges from steel-toe footwear to high-
visibility vests. Clarify your minimum requirements for the gear a person must have before
coming to work so that there are no uncertainties.

Inspect protective equipment for continued proper functionality, too. It may not serve its
purpose if the items become overly worn. For example, a broken snap or strap on a hard hat
could cause it to fall off if a person sustains a blow.

4. Implement Practices for Safe Site Visits

It’s also wise to enforce safety measures for site visitors. Perhaps a client wants to check
the progress on a new building, or a team leader at a contracting company needs to see the
worksite before agreeing to provide services for a project.
You could make every person sign in on arrival and only move around the area while
accompanied by an authorized person. Another smart thing to do is decide that all visitors
must have their visits approved before coming. As the COVID-19 pandemic makes it crucial
to maintain safe distances, virtual visit software is becoming popular for letting people see
construction zones remotely.

5. Investigate How to Reduce Fatigue

Research shows that construction workers who feel tired during their workweeks are more
likely to experience difficulties with physical and cognitive functions. That means fatigue
could directly contribute to accidents. Construction work can be physically demanding, but
practical ways exist to reduce the strain. Giving workers access to the right equipment is a
great start.

For example, a boom-style concrete pump can take the material to the upper floors of a tall
structure, such as a high-rise apartment building. The machine does the job quickly, safely
and easily. It’s also arguably much less labor-intensive than earlier methods of transporting
concrete with cranes and even buckets.

In addition to providing the right tools for every job, ensure that employees take regular
breaks and know how to spot the signs of overexertion, no matter which tasks they do.

6. Install Signs to Remind People of the Risks

and Requirements
People can also make construction sites safer by using signs that let individuals know
about ongoing or possible risks. For example, a part of a construction site where workers
regularly use loud equipment might have signs telling people to insert ear protection before
entering it. Alternatively, an area of high traffic from heavy machinery might have speed
limit signs or ones that tell pedestrians to stay alert.

Make sure the signs you choose are easy to read and visible from a distance. It’s also
effective to have a mixture of text-only and picture-based signage. For example, post a
written warning about wearing safety goggles, plus an image of someone donning them.
That approach helps emphasize mandatory procedures.

7. Establish Procedures for Reporting Faulty

Equipment
Teach construction workers how to inspect tools and machines before using them. Make
checklists available so that people can get into routines of knowing what to examine and
when.

Discuss the importance of never using equipment that fails inspection. Mention what
process people should follow after noticing problems. Should they immediately report the
issues to a supervisor, or fill out an official report? Confirming precisely what the process is
eliminates doubts and encourages adherence to a standard procedure that everyone knows
and understands.

8. Invest in Construction Wearables to Improve

Safety
There’s an ongoing push to attract younger workers to the construction sector. Some
people think that focusing on safety technology could help meet that goal. Outside of
recruitment, however, high-tech safety products are useful for people of all generations.

Products exist today that give automatic alerts when people fall, sending assistance to their
locations. Others measure characteristics such as a worker’s heart rate and advise when
they should take breaks. Companies have also developed products specifically to help
construction businesses manage the COVID-19 crisis. These wearables emit sounds when
people stay too close to each other for prolonged periods. They also assist with contact
tracing.

9. Remain Mindful of Weather-Related Hazards

Since many construction workers stay outside for their whole shifts, they are at an elevated
risk of weather dangers. Always take seasonal considerations into account for any projects
and determine what you can do to promote safety.

People working in hot temperatures are more likely to become dehydrated, especially as
they lose fluid due to sweating. Schedule water breaks and think about how accessories
such as cold packs worn around the neck or head could help people beat the heat.

The winter brings concerns to accommodate, too. Recommend that workers wear layers,
and shift your work hours to occur in the warmest part of the day when possible.

10. Establish a Strong Safety Culture

You don’t want potential or current workers to get the impression that you only care about
safety if regulatory authorities threaten to issue fines for non-compliance. Use your words
and actions to demonstrate that staying safe is an ongoing priority. Make it so that people
quickly associate excellent safety measures with your company.

You might hold monthly team meetings that reward people for working safety and urge
attendees to weigh in with their thoughts about how to make improvements. Many
companies also keep running tallies of the number of working hours completed without
incidents. Seeing the total rise keeps people motivated and highlights how preventing
accidents is a collective effort.

Safe Practices Lead to Success

Maintaining worker safety at your worksites could increase efficiency while reducing
accidents. Working while limiting the threats is a continuous goal — not one you merely
strive for occasionally. These 10 tips can get you off to a good start in making gains to cut
the risks faced by your employees.