- Human error, lack of safety measures, negligence, fatigue and stress, and unsafe equipment are all factors that can lead to accidents.
- Companies must provide workers with adequate training and preparation, hire experienced employees, and implement safety measures to protect them.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety protocols must be used to protect workers against potential hazards.
- Regular inspections should be conducted on sites and equipment, and unsafe equipment must not be used.
- It is essential for construction firms to prioritize safety to protect their employees from harm.
Construction sites are always bustling with activity, with workers moving around trying to complete their assigned tasks. Despite the efforts made by construction firms to ensure the safety of their workers, accident rates are still high in the industry. Safety should be a top priority for construction firms to ensure that their employees are safe while working.
Accidents in the Construction Industry U.S.
The construction industry is known for its number of accidents when compared to other industries. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), from 2011 to 2016, there were 4,836 construction industry fatalities. Over this same period, OSHA also found that one in five worker deaths occurred in the construction sector. Here are some reasons behind the high accident rates in this industry.
Human Error
Human error accounts for a high percentage of accidents at construction sites. Workers may forget to adhere to safety guidelines, overlook important details, or make poor decisions. It’s easy to get distracted or complacent in a busy construction site, leading to accidents. Here are two ways to reduce accidents due to human error:
Hire Experienced Employees
It might be hard to hire experienced employees today due to the skills shortage, but it can be done with the right incentives and training. Experienced workers are more likely to know the safety regulations for the job and will be better able to spot potential hazards before they cause an accident.
Training and Preparation
It’s essential to provide workers with adequate training and preparation before they start any job. Poorly trained employees may not be aware of the different safety procedures and protocols that need to be followed, leading to accidents. Companies should assess their training and preparation methods to ensure workers are prepared for the job before they start working.
Lack of Safety Measures
Some construction sites may lack safety measures to prevent accidents and injuries. Adequate safety measures should be put in place to protect workers and prevent accidents. Here are some essential safety measures for your projects:
Personal Protection Equipment
Each worker must use the proper personal protection equipment (PPE) while on the job. This may include gloves, helmets, goggles, or other protective gear to protect them from potential hazards.
Safety Protocols
Establishing safety protocols is essential to ensure workers know the safety rules and regulations they must follow when working at a construction site. It’s essential to inform workers of the risks and potential hazards at a construction site.
Regular Inspections
Companies should regularly inspect their sites and equipment to ensure everything is in good condition. This will help identify potential dangers or hazards that could lead to an accident.
Negligence
Negligence from the construction firm or worker can lead to accidents at the site. For instance, a construction firm that skimps on safety equipment to save on costs is putting its employees at risk. Workers may also be negligent by disregarding safety procedures or misusing equipment. The construction firm is responsible for ensuring that safety protocols are in place and that workers are adequately trained to prevent negligence.
Fatigue and Stress
Construction sites are fast-paced, and workers are often under tight deadlines. This can cause fatigue, which can lead to errors and accidents. A stressed worker may also be more prone to negligence, as the mind is not focused on the task. Construction firms should provide regular breaks for workers to reduce fatigue. They can also try to manage the workload more effectively to reduce stress.
Use of Unsafe Equipment
Using unsafe equipment is a significant contributor to accidents on construction sites. Using old or poorly maintained equipment puts workers at risk of injury. Equipment should be inspected regularly to ensure it is safe to use, and repairs should be made when necessary. Construction firms should also invest in high-quality equipment that meets safety standards. Here are some of the most unsafe equipment on the field and how to ensure that people using them are safe.
Cranes
The crane is one of the most crucial pieces of equipment on a construction site. Cranes should be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure proper operation. Operators should also be trained in the correct use of cranes and safety protocols followed when using them. Crane operators must have the essential NCCCO tower crane certification. This certification covers all aspects of safe crane operation. Additionally, it is essential to ensure all crane operators are medically and physically fit to operate the crane.
Scaffolding
Scaffolding is another standard piece of equipment found on construction sites and can be dangerous if not used correctly. Workers should use scaffold safety harnesses to protect themselves from falls. They must also inspect the scaffolding before using it and ensure it is adequately secured.
Overall, construction firms should focus on preventing accidents and injuries at their sites by implementing safety measures, providing training and preparation to workers, hiring experienced employees, and using only safe equipment. With the proper safety protocols, construction firms can ensure their sites remain safe for all personnel.
