Over a fifth of all fatal workplace accidents occur in the construction industry. Do you work in construction? So be on the lookout for possible dangers and avoid emergencies with these five tips.
What are the Most Common Dangers?
Workers in the construction industry are exposed to a lot of hazardous equipment. Beware of the following five most common accidents:
Fall: you fall from scaffolding.
Trip: you trip over a cable.
Electric Shock: you receive an electric shock while using a hammer drill.
Entrapment: you are stuck between two objects.
Hit by an object: a brick falls on your head.
These five types of accidents are the most dangerous in the workplace. In a high-risk profession like construction, even small mishaps can have serious consequences. It is, therefore, better to be safe than sorry.
Here are some tips for avoiding accidents as much as possible.
1. Always Wear Protective Clothing
Protective clothing makes all the difference when an accident occurs. When a brick falls, a helmet will protect you from serious head trauma. If you work in construction, you are advised to wear protective clothing such as a helmet, safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
2. Assess Your Environment Well:
Humans have an average reaction speed of 0.2 seconds. In a new and unfamiliar situation, this reaction time increases to 1 second. Make sure you always carefully assess your environment in order to react on time.
Are some objects being moved? Keep an eye out so you can protect yourself or your colleague in a dangerous situation. If you are a victim of a construction accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
3. Protect Your Body:
If your job is physically demanding or requires you to lift a lot of heavy loads, there are ways to protect your body as much as possible to prevent pain or injury.
Stretch before you start working out. Try to work seated as much as possible, rather than bending your knees. Know the limits of your body and don’t twist into unnatural or impossible positions. Carry as few items as possible when climbing. These precautions make a difference and help prevent strains, back pain, and other injuries.
4. Handle Hazardous Equipment with Care:
There is a difference between electrical and non-electrical work equipment. Non-electrical work equipment causes more accidents than electrical devices. Below are some of the dangerous non-electrical equipment.
– Cutting tools (knife or cutter)
– Digging tools (shovels)
– Work tools (hammers)
The most dangerous electrical tools are mainly drills, saws, and electric sanders.
Therefore, use the right equipment for the job at hand. Inspect all equipment before using it and verify that it is functioning properly. Always wear gloves and other protective gear.
5. Beware of Floors, Stairs, and other Unsafe Surfaces:
On a construction site, the danger is everywhere. Beware of surfaces such as unfinished land, stairs, steps, and elevators. Always watch out where you are walking, especially where you might trip over.
As it is not always possible to avoid accidents on construction sites, always wear special shoes with a non-slip sole. This will give you a head start on the fall! Did a colleague spill something? Is the floor wet? Wipe it up quickly to ensure your safety and that of the other workers.