There are almost 3 million work-related injuries each year. Working with construction equipment increases your odds of being involved in a workplace injury. That is why practicing construction safety is essential for workers.
We have created this guide to help save lives and prevent injury in the construction field by sharing tips for handling heavy construction equipment. These 5 construction safety tips could be the difference in whether or not a major injury occurs, so let’s get started!
- Be Prepared
The thing about accidents is that you never know when one is going to occur. That is why it is crucial to have an incident action plan for when something happens.
This type of action plan can help you handle the accident safely and quickly. Additionally, having a plan that includes taking witness statements and logging the accident can help to identify what when wrong and how to prevent the accident in the future.
- Training
When working with heavy construction equipment all workers must understand the tools that they will be using during the job. A lack of understanding of the equipment being used is incredibly dangerous and could lead to injury or death.
For example, when working in metal fabrication laser cutting is often used. Without proper knowledge of the process, it can be very hazardous. This guide from Ametals.com can explain further.
- Maintain Focus
A construction work zone is no place for horseplay or slacking off. When workers become lax about rules and regulations accidents will soon follow. You and your team must stay vigilant when working with heavy equipment.
Avoid crowding and unnecessary workers to be involved when not needed on site. Keep everyone held to the standard that they must be aware of their surroundings and focused at all times.
- Inspect Equipment
When working with heavy machinery or construction materials they should be inspected properly and regularly. Well maintained equipment will last longer and be less likely to cause injury due to malfunction.
If the equipment is not working at 100% it should not be used. Additionally, if the materials that the workers are handling looks compromised they should not work with them.
- Personal Protection
Every worker on-site should have and be wearing the proper personal protective equipment to avoid injury or even death. Some examples of PPE include the following:
- Hardhats
- Goggles
- Reflective Clothing
- Steel-Toe Boots
- Fall Protection Equipment
These are just a few examples of personal protective equipment. Depending on the type of work the PPE will vary, however, it should always be worn for safety.
Practicing Safety With Construction Equipment
These 5 tips for working with construction equipment could prevent serious injury or even death at the worksite. Working with heavy-duty materials and construction equipment is a dangerous job, however, it can be safer if you follow this guide!
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