Substantial attention is paid to the construction industry’s importance of safety and health. Numerous regulations are established to ensure the construction process can be carried out in the most secure way possible. Safety and health are essential when working in the construction industry to safeguard the workers and their families and ensure compliance with the laws. This article will examine why safety and health are essential and how to ensure that construction is safe.
Why is safety and health vital when it comes to construction?
The Health and Safety Risks
In the first place, numerous hazards to health and safety could be found at a construction site.
To mention some…
Working from high altitudes
Operating machines
Moving heavy objects and heavy materials
Dust inhalation
Other serious health problems
There could be a lot of different materials utilized in an undertaking that may cause harm to our health. The risk of developing dermatitis is high among construction workers because of dust and chemicals. Also, injuries are expected when the regulations and rules are not correctly followed. Employees must be trained in safety and health and know what to perform. Lack of education opens doors to risks and injury to all those affected.
Uncertainty about the safety and health procedures could cause someone’s life to be forever altered. In the absence of proper precautions, one can risk injuries or, in certain instances, even death. There is a vast possibility of the firm being involved in severe legal action if there was carelessness from their side. This alone underscores the importance of safety and health in the construction industry.
Ensuring Health and Safety
It is a significant element of a construction manager’s responsibility to ensure that a project is not at risk. They are responsible for ensuring that all rules are adhered to and that employees wear the correct protective gear. This is particularly important for those who are in supervisory duties.
Safety and health are not only a concern for those working on sites. It is also crucial for all who contact the construction site. If they’re not properly secured, this could lead to massive lawsuits against the construction company.
The effect of legislation on health and safety in the construction industry
Many rules and regulations are legally binding to construction employees and employers. The laws have been implemented to ensure that risk factors are considered. It also provides the steps that need to be taken if risk arises, for instance, RIDDOR.
Main Regulation
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) is among the primary regulations that manage construction workers’ safety, health and welfare. Based on the individual’s role, this regulation details the specific duties they have to fulfil to ensure they adhere to health and safety standards. A few examples are:
Designers involved in construction projects should manage, eliminate or limit the risk of building maintenance or even after the building has been completed.
Contractors must plan, supervise and manage the construction process. This is so that construction work is carried out with no dangers.
Alongside the responsibilities of each role, the regulation outlines the general requirements for health and safety on the construction site. Some of them include (not an exhaustive list):
Construction site
Stability of structures
Demolition and explosives
Inspection reports
Emergency procedures
Emergency escapes
Other Relevant Regulations
One of the relevant regulations includes one of the applicable regulations, Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. It is a condition in this regulation for the risk assessment that is carried out to assess the extent of asbestos exposure. Asbestos may cause a wide range of adverse effects on the body. For instance, it could cause asbestosis, lung cancer and many more. This law ensures that asbestos levels aren’t hazardous and reduces asbestos exposure as much as possible.
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 guarantees that the chance of back injuries caused by using powerful tools for construction is minimized. The machines could cause complete body vibrations, which can cause back injuries to workers.
Furthermore, it is essential to note that the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 was enacted to ensure the safety of those who handle large objects and materials. This law makes it mandatory for employers to eliminate handling materials and dangerous things as much as is feasible. The risks of taking materials and objects include accidents on your back. Employers must adhere to the guidelines recommended by their employers to limit the chance of injury to the greatest extent possible.
Numerous other pertinent legislations and regulations emphasize the importance of safety and health in the construction industry. Workers trained in construction must be aware of these rules and regulations and adhere to these rules to avoid injury or claims against companies.
In response to health and safety in the construction industry
Risk Assessments
One method by which the industry responds to the necessity of safety and health in construction is by carrying out regular risk assessments. The requirement is legal in The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Project managers, site managers, or health and safety workers typically perform risk assessments. Risk assessments for health and safety are designed to identify and evaluate the risks. After identification, controls must be implemented to reduce the risk reasonably. It is essential to minimize risks, even if the risk is minimal.
Additionally, risk assessments must be conducted throughout the entire project. For instance, if workers are using different machines, Then an evaluation needs to be undertaken to ensure that only new risks are created with proper controls. In addition, if accidents occur during work, an analysis of risk is carried out to ensure that it is not repeated.
Implementation of Protective Gear
Another way to ensure the safety of workers and their health is through the use of protective equipment. With this safety equipment, construction work could be safe. Thus, wearing various items can be a lawful requirement at most construction sites.
High-visibility clothing
One of the most essential items of clothing construction workers must wear, especially in rainy weather and at night or in hazardous areas, should be reflective attire. This helps ensure visibility in the workplace. Construction workers can be able to see each other. This helps to avoid the danger of falling materials on workers, collisions between vehicles, and more. Additionally, reflective clothing ensures workers are seen by cars or pedestrians. Construction workers working on roads is crucial.
Hard hats
Along with reflective equipment, hard hats are also necessary to shield workers’ heads from objects falling on them. It is commonplace to build structures that allow materials to fail. Protecting from bumps while working in tight spaces is also essential.
Steel toecap boots
While working on a site, a construction worker has to handle or work with various large objects. These objects could fall and harm anyone who is around. To stop heavy equipment from falling on feet and possibly damaging bones, Steel cap footwear can be very beneficial.
Earplugs/ear defenders
The most significant issue with the loud machinery used on construction sites is the risk of hearing impairment if not appropriately protected. Thus, workers with drills, diggers and other equipment should wear hearing protection.
Other skin protection products and gloves
Hands-on protective gloves are essential when working with hazardous chemicals and help keep hands safe from scrapes and cuts. Protecting the skin is crucial to prevent conditions like eczema, rashes and other skin irritations from dust and other dust particles.
Respiratory Protective Equipment
When working with dusty materials or mixing powders for grout and concrete, masks are required. Without a cover, breathing into the air and dust can be hazardous. Lung diseases were prevalent before acts became an essential precaution in construction.
Eye Protection
Eye protection is vital. Many dangers could affect your eyes when you’re on the job. Looks can be affected by substances such as dust or chemicals. Also, chips or other objects can enter the eye and, when they are serious, can cause blindness. Eye protection, such as glasses, is ideal to use.
First aid kit
It is vital to remember that in addition to all equipment for safety and health provided to construction workers, a first aid kit must always be on hand. Not following the requirements of an emergency kit could result in devastating consequences for employees and employers.
Investigating health and safety issues in the construction industry
Understanding why safety and health are essential in the construction industry can be a great way to gain perspective. Health and safety regulations and regulations are a common sight because of the high likelihood of illness or injury at the site. With proper training, the workplace is safe for workers.
If you are considering a career in construction or are pursuing it, classes in safety and health are essential. In addition, many companies you are employed by require you to be certified at some level of instruction in this field.
Additionally, you’ll be more employable if you possess several health and safety certifications. It shows commitment and awareness of occupational safety and health.
