Safety Lessons the Construction Sector Can Learn from Other Sectors
Construction is a high-risk industry that encompasses a wide range of alteration and repair activities. As a result, construction workers are exposed to various risks, including falling from rooftops, unprotected machinery, being struck by heavy construction equipment, electrocutions, silica dust, and asbestos.
Construction sites are hazardous environments in which to work. Thousands of individuals are harmed on building sites every year.
Importance of Safety Lessons in the Construction Sector
Safety is critical to completing your project on time and within budget. Downtime is costly, and so is replacing workers who can’t perform their duties due to an accident. In addition, claims for workers’ compensation and lawsuits might raise your insurance premiums.
1. Public Safety is Protected on Construction Sites
Safety on construction sites protects your staff and the public. Construction sites are typically located in high-traffic regions.
2. Workplace Safety Reduces Workplace Accidents
According to OSHA, the construction industry accounts for a quarter of all workplace deaths. The four most common causes of accidental deaths and injuries are falls, being struck by an object, electrocution, and being caught between equipment.
3. Reduce the Time and Money Lost Following an Accident
Work is halted when an accident results in injury or death. Accidents on the job site could raise the overall cost of your project.
Safety Lessons from Other Sectors
The Agricultural Sector
1. Appropriate Clothing
In agriculture, loose clothes are a common cause of harm. Wear close-fitting clothing; button cuffs and tuck shirts in; avoid wearing a tie while working and remove any loose jewellery. Wear long hair under a cap or head covering.
Construction application: loose clothes, jewellery, ties, and cuffs should be avoided when working on a construction site.
2. PTO Safety Recommendations
PTO drives (power take-off) are extremely dangerous. Key rules:
- A PTO shaft should never be stepped on
- Replace PTO guards if they are not covering the shaft and u-joints properly
- Before exiting the tractor seat, ALWAYS disengage the PTO, turn the tractor off, and remove the key
- While the shaft is spinning, NEVER grasp a PTO guard
Construction application: the PTO in any machines used on construction sites should be guarded.
3. Preparedness for Emergencies
Every member of a farm family, as well as hired workers, should be trained in first aid and CPR.
Construction application: employers should train workers in first aid and CPR. First aid boxes should be provided and emergency numbers made visible.
4. Field Services
Always use a two-way radio or mobile phone. Someone should call you if you do not call back within 10 minutes. Never clean equipment clogs while the machine is running.
Construction application: a walkie-talkie or mobile phone should be with every worker on site.
5. Fire
Fire prevention recommendations: keep ignition sources away from flammable materials; regularly test fire and smoke alarm systems (at least once a year); keep dust and oil off motors; inspect wiring; choose a suitable fire extinguisher; invite the local fire department to check access routes at least twice a year.
The Health Sector
1. Limit Shift Durations
According to research, medical residents who are acutely or chronically tired are more prone to make mistakes.
Construction application: workers working 24 hours should have shift lengths reduced. Workers should take at least 5 hours of rest.
2. Effective Communication
Train hospital workers to work together efficiently using evidence-based techniques (TeamSTEPPS).
Construction application: employers should ensure workers are trained to work together with effective communication and teamwork skills.
3. Wear Comfortable Dress That Will Not Restrict Movement
Healthcare personnel are at increased risk of back pain due to physical demands.
4. Implement Appropriate Training to Prevent Injuries
According to a University of Maryland School of Nursing study, nurses were 9 to 12 times more likely to have a neck or back injury on the job. Healthcare spending on musculoskeletal injuries reached $183 billion (Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation).
Construction application: appropriate training must be given to all workers before they are allowed to work on construction sites.
5. Ensure All Employees Are Trained in Fire Safety
Medical workers are exposed to combustible gases and chemicals requiring regular fire safety training.
Construction application: fire training must be given to any worker in the construction sector. Sharp and hazardous waste should be disposed of properly each day.
6. Get Enough Sleep Between Shifts
Shift workers are particularly at risk of injury due to excessive drowsiness.
Construction application: workers should take enough rest and sleep.
7. Monitor Personnel Safety Procedures Regularly
The presence of senior management on the site can help prevent further problems with proper safety procedures.