Have you ever come across construction site collisions? However, there could not be an exhaustive list of safety hazards on a construction site. It is extremely important to know about most of them so that responsible people of construction projects may take necessary actions for prevention of tragedies.
Top Safety Hazards on a Construction Site
Here are some safety measures to ensure your safety at a construction site.
Electricity
According to the statistics of HSE, around 1000 accidents happen yearly due to high voltage. Electric shocks often become a common cause of falls from scaffolds or ladders. If the workers are not qualified electricians, then any tragedy can happen due to lack of knowledge.
There must be proper training provided to the workers for construction safety and the health of workers to minimize such mishaps. Mandatory training to carry on electrical works at the construction site can ensure safety.
Working At Height and Scaffoldings
Most of the fatalities at a construction site are due to the fall of a worker from a height. Falling from height is the most common cause of injuries to workers. Adequate training should be provided to the task force, which needs to work frequently on heights.
The tasks which could be done on the ground must be done on the ground, like assembling. The scaffolding is a temporary structure, so there are numerous hazards in working on it; some are falls, being struck by falling equipment, and tip-overs.
Noise
There is always a loud noise on construction, and the level of noise is hazardous to health. Long-term hearing of loud noise can cause hearing disorders. It can cause damage to the nerves as well. It can also create a distraction to the other workers from the task they are doing, and that can cause accidents due to mishandling of equipment.
Ensure the use of machinery and tools that produce less noise. Timely lubrication of machines should be done. The worker’s hours of exposure to loud noise must be limited.
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Forklifts
Forklifts are used in close quarters, so they become dangerous machinery. Only trained workers must be allowed to operate forklifts. They are hazardous to other workers working in close proximity as well.
According to OSHA, every year, around 95000 people are injured due to forklifts. Forklifts need to be properly maintained with all the lights, alarms and forks working properly.
Housekeeping and Clutter Management
On a construction site, a lot of dust is produced. Mixed with fine and toxic hazardous materials and fibre particles, the dust can cause harm to health, leading to chronic obstructive diseases, silicoses, and asthma. If there is clutter or spill and there is a need for specialized training to clean it up, it could be a safety hazard.
The task force is required to alert their supervisor, who can handle the situation by sending the appropriate staff.
The Closing Note
Additionally, it is strongly recommended to set aside an extra few minutes, either at the end of the daily shift or on Fridays, to clear up the clutter before leaving for the day. Furthermore, here, you need to consider an additional safety measure to ensure your health.
The construction hazards mentioned above are very common and preventive measures to avoid accidents can ensure well being of the workers.