Construction can be a dangerous job. Whether you are running a construction business or managing a team to build your own home, no matter how big or small, the nature of construction means that there will always be risks. As an employer, self-builder, or manager, it can be tempting to cut corners to save cash or time. But this is a mistake. When you cut corners, you don’t just put the lives of your crew at risk, you also endanger site visitors, risk your reputation, and possibly damage the quality of the work.
Keeping your team safe means that they trust you and that they will stick with you. They’ll go the extra mile, and put the effort in. They’ll come to you if there is a problem, and you’ll know that your jobs are completed to an excellent standard. Oh, and you won’t face any costly court cases. So, let’s take a look at some of the ways that you can keep your team safe.
Personal protective equipment or PPE won’t necessarily prevent an accident or error, but wearing it could be the difference between a minor injury and something far more severe. Make sure your team has easy access to the appropriate PPE for the work they are doing, that it is well looked after, and replaced or restocked when needed.
Keep Machinery and Tools in Good Repair
Firstly, use technology to make things safer. Hoists with an advanced high-speed linear actuator can make life easier and prevent severe accidents on site. Then, make sure any machinery and tools that you use are kept clean and in good repair, and regularly inspect them. If something is unsafe or is showing warning signs, remove it from the site immediately.
Commit to Thorough Training
Often the best thing that we can do to keep people safe is to teach them how to use things and how to protect themselves. Commit to the thorough health and safety training of new starters and regular refreshers for yourself and existing team members.
Display Clear Signage
Construction sites are filled with potential dangers to your crew but also to the general public, which may be less aware of the risks. Display clear signage around any of these dangers, and make sure your signs are easy for a layperson to understand.
Offer Flexible Working
Mistakes are made when people are tired, overworked and stressed out. A worker at the end of a 12-hour day or working the 13th day in a row is far more likely to make a silly mistake, cut corners to save time, or miss a sign, than someone who is well-rested. Offer more flexible working and shorter shifts to keep your team alert and focused.
Maintain Good Relationships
Maintaining good relationships with the people on your site means that they are more likely to come to you if they need help. They are more likely to speak up if they spot a problem, and they are more likely to protect each other.
Yes, construction can be dangerous, and there will always be risks. But, with proper care and training, you can minimize them.
