The construction industry is one of the most hazardous in the United States. Every time you come to work, you are at risk for injury and always need to be cautious! Construction site injuries are caused by these top four hazards: falls, struck-by, caught-in-between and electrocutions. Check out these basic safety tips:
Preventing Falls
- Wear and use fall arrest equipment.
- Install and maintain perimeter protection.
- Cover and secure all floor openings and label floor opening covers.
- Use ladders and scaffolds safely.
Preventing Struck-bys
- Never position yourself between moving and fixed objects.
- Wear high-visibility clothing near equipment and vehicles so that others can see you clearly.
Preventing Caught-in-between Hazards
- Never enter an unprotected trench or excavation that is five feet or deeper without an adequate protective system in place. Some trenches that are less than five feet may need a similar system as well.
- Make sure that a trench or excavation is protected either by sloping, shoring, benching or a trench shield system.
Preventing Electrocutions
- Locate and identify utilities before starting work for the day.
- Look for overhead power lines when operating any equipment.
- Maintain a safe distance away from power lines and learn your area’s distance requirements.
- Do not operate portable electric tools unless they are grounded or double insulated.
- Use ground-fault circuit interrupters for protection.
- Be alert to electrical hazards when working with ladders, scaffolds or other platforms.
Contact us today for safety resources to help keep you and your staff injury-free—410-213-5600.
