Despite advances in protective equipment and safety tools, it’s no understatement to say that the construction industry can be a risky place to work. According to OSHA, about 20% of all worker fatalities in 2019 were in construction—which is why the industry focuses so heavily on improving safety in the workplace.
It’s not enough to post a few construction safety signs around a jobsite; it’s important to have an effective construction safety plan in place. If you’re not familiar with the creation of this type of document, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn how to protect your employees and worksite with a thorough plan.
Create a Unique Plan for Each Project
Each construction project you take on is different, which is why you should avoid creating a “one size fits all” construction site safety plan. Instead, create a plan for each project by considering the job’s unique hazards and potential future risks.
In this plan, be sure to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the people on the jobsite. Name the project manager, emergency contact person, safety representative, and any other essential personnel. Don’t forget to also spell out the safety chain of command.
Invest in Ongoing Training
All employees should undergo constant training to ensure that they recognize and can deal with potential hazards on the job. This safety training can help reinforce construction safety topics and keep proper safety protocol at the top of your employees’ minds.
Get the Right Construction Safety Tools
Identify the equipment and tools you’ll need for each project, and make sure your plan sets aside time for regular inspections.
In addition, consider investing in additional construction safety products, such as an effective fall arrest system for tasks involving pulleys, cranes, or high platforms. Don’t forget to outline what protective equipment each employee should use on the job!
Outline an Incident Response Plan
No one wants accidents to happen on the job, but you still need to have a protocol in place for reporting them. Make sure to clarify who employees should report to, who creates the incident report, and where it should be filed. You’ll also want to outline the details surrounding the ensuing investigation, meetings, witness statements, and other necessary items.
Ensure That All Bases Are Covered
While a construction safety plan should address the major areas above, you should also address a variety of additional areas. Some of these items may depend on the project in question, but be sure to put thought into them as you outline your construction safety program:
- First aid and medical treatment
- Housekeeping and clean-up
- Work zone warning devices
- Subcontractor liability
- Fire protection
- Hazard communications
You’ll also want to review the plan on an ongoing basis, creating a living document that changes along with your worksite.
Start Your Construction Safety Plan Today
The right construction safety plan can help protect a jobsite from potential hazards, injuries, equipment damage, and more. With the tips above, you can work to create an effective plan that will develop and change with your project as it progresses. Get started today to create a safer workplace!
Looking for more of the critical tips you need to get the job done? Check out our other posts for additional insights!
