According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, first-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers experienced the second most fatal work injuries in 2018. Because of how inherently dangerous it is to work in the construction industry, it’s crucial that all construction workers adhere to all of their safety guidelines.
We’ve compiled some of the most important construction safety tips out there for your own benefit. So continue reading and we’ll walk you through everything that you have to know.
1. Getting In and Out of Equipment
Many people may not realize it but one of the most dangerous hazards to equipment operators is just getting in and out of the equipment. Thankfully, you can greatly lower your risk of injury by being mindful of your actions.
You should always check your gloves and boots for slippery substances and make sure to wipe them down. You also always want to make sure that you have a hand- or foot-hold before you hoist yourself into the equipment. If necessary, you should use a step ladder in order to make sure that you can safely get into the equipment.
Also, if you ever need help, don’t be afraid to ask.
2. Remember the Three T’s
There’s a helpful ASSP article that you can refer to so that you make sure that objects at your site don’t get dropped.
The three T’s are trapping, tethering, and topping. Trapping has to do with the installation of retrofit attachment points. Tethering refers to attaching equipment to anchor points and topping is when containers have secure closures the prevent spilling.
3. Ladder and Stairs Climbing Hazards
If you use stairs or a ladder, you should always inspect them before stepping onto them. Look out for loose, weak, damaged, or worn areas. Make sure that you don’t stand on these compromised sections and inform the foreman about these safety issues.
Ladders and stairs should be well-maintained, clean, dry, and uncluttered. Workers should never use metal ladders when there are wet or rainy conditions.
When you can, utilize elevated platforms and aerial lifts. These machines are safer than balancing and standing on a ladder. Also, you should install safety features like control line systems, guardrails with toe boards, and warning lines.
When you’re using a ladder, you should pick one that’s at least four feet taller than the area that you want to reach. You should also make sure that you calculate the distance carefully. For every four feet of ladder height, scoot the bottom of the ladder out one foot from the wall.
The Importance of Knowing About These Construction Safety Tips
Working in construction can be a very satisfying and rewarding experience. However, it also demands plenty of caution. By following the construction safety tips listed above, you should be able to get your job done efficiently and safely.
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