Oftentimes, accidents on a construction site are avoidable and being aware of what the main hazards are will help those in this industry to make their sites much safer for all.
Working at a Height
Working at a height is common and essential in the construction industry whether this is on a ladder, roof, scaffolding or working on below-level walkways. This poses two key hazards with the first being that people can easily fall from heights, especially when using a ladder or when the weather is hazardous. On top of this, items can easily fall which could then harm anyone below. Precaution is obviously key here along with adequate training in working at a height as well as everyone on site wearing protective equipment.
Slips & Trips
Construction sites are very hard to keep neat and tidy because there is constantly work being done and materials everywhere. This means that slips and trips are common with HSE reporting several thousand construction worker injuries through slow and trips each year. Having clear access routes, risk reporting and tidying up as you go are all ways to reduce the risk of slips and trips. Keep in mind that an accident such as a slip or trip could lead to a personal injury claim, so it is vital that a safe work environment is provided for staff. Here are some common first aid mistakes that you should avoid.
Hearing Problems
Just walking past a construction site can be loud enough, so it is no surprise that an estimated 21,000 construction workers suffer from work-related hearing problems. High-quality soundproof headphones are important for everyone onsite when power tools and groundwork equipment are being used and taking regular breaks is key.
Back Injuries
Back injuries are very common in construction and occur when workers move heavy objects which are either too heavy, with bad form or through overuse. This is why proper training in lifting is important as well as asking for help when it is needed and taking a break when a lot of lifting is required. Similarly, material and manual handling can lead to injury and again training is hugely important in order to do this both safely and efficiently.
These are the most common hazards on a construction site and all areas that need careful attention by every construction business before getting started.
