Construction work is one of the most challenging and risky of all. There is always a chance of accident and mishap. In the United States, almost two workers die every day due to accidents that happen on the construction site. Thus is it of utmost important to use certified safety products and use Liebherr construction equipment which ensures your safety on construction site. Though, the employer is responsible for providing you with safety equipment, supervise your work and train you efficiently, it is essential to follow a few safety tips for your own well being.
Here are five safety tips for construction workers:
1. Ask yourself
One of the basic and easiest ways to protect yourself is by being conscious and asking yourself what could go wrong. If you’re going to work with equipment that requires safety equipment, make sure you wear it before operating. If you see someone doing a work in the wrong way, immediately stop them and show them the correct way to do so. Similarly, if you’re unsure about some technique or use of equipment, ask your supervisor or fellow workers instead of just guessing around. It could be fatal to you and others if the equipment is not operated properly. Be careful with every work and ask for help whenever needed.
2. Safety Gears
The safety gears are provided for a reason. Make sure you never operate or use any equipment without wearing the necessary clothing and safety gears. Wearing of safety gears like a hard hat for your head, wearing glasses while using equipment that could be fatal to your eyes, wearing non-skid footwear, etc. ensures that you’re protected at all times from any kind of accidents that can prove to be fatal. Make sure you never compromise on using the safety equipment. If you find any defective equipment you should inform to your supervisor. Make sure you know where the first aid kit is placed.
3. Scaffolds and Ladder Safety
Scaffolds are used in almost all kinds of construction and are one of the most accident-prone equipment. You should be careful to never erect a scaffold on the uneven or slippery ground. There should a supervisor who overlooks your work on scaffolds. Scaffolds should be kept clean and should never be overloaded. You should be careful while climbing or descending it. The people who are below the scaffold are also prone to accident and should be aware. Ladders are also used extensively in construction. You should always use a ladder that is longer than where you need to reach. Make sure your hands are free and you keep your tools in your clothes and climb carefully. Don’t use them during bad weather condition as you can easily slip. For both this equipment, use a safety net system to protect yourself.
4. Chemical hazards
There are a lot of chemicals that are present around the construction site. Chemicals are hazardous as they can react with something unknown and become explosive. Chemicals hazards can be prevented by being quick to respond to any kind of spill whether they are explosive or not. Make sure you don’t touch any of these chemicals with your bare hand. Always wear a protective glove while handling them. Alert your supervisor of any spill or mismanagement of the chemicals. You should also be trained to know how to use these chemicals and avoid being around them if you have no idea about them. Chemical hazards are extremely dangerous and can even cost you your life. Make sure there is a fire extinguisher.
5. Proper Training
There are many types of equipment and safety protocols that may never be known to you. Make sure your supervisor trains you before you start your work. You should be trained on how to use various equipment and the accidents that can occur while using them and how to avoid them. You should be trained to never use equipment without knowing the proper usage. Training should also cover the usage and danger of chemicals and you should be aware of all the consequences. Don’t do any work during bad weather and risking your life. Wear the necessary equipment and never be careless while doing any work.
It is not possible to eliminate all risks and accidents involved. But it can be reduced to a minimal level by following the safety procedures and wearing protective clothing.