Health and Safety in Construction
Health and Safety in Construction - An Overview
- Awareness of hazards on a construction site is the first step towards preventing accidents.
- Compliance with Health and Safety legislation is not only a legal obligation but it protects workers.
- Understanding Risk assessments is crucial to reducing risks on site.
- Safety training is mandated for workers on a construction site.
Hazard Identification and Evaluation
- A hazard is any source that has the potential to cause harm.
- Effective hazard identification involves understanding the work environment and possible work-related diseases.
- An evaluation of each hazard, considering the likelihood and potential severity of harm, is known as a risk assessment.
- Hazards can be categorised into three groups: physical hazards, health hazards, and ergonomic hazards.
Safety Measures in Construction
- Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like helmets, gloves, and safety glasses can protect against certain hazards.
- Regular safety training and safety drills can equip workers to handle emergencies.
- It's crucial to keep the workplace tidy, as clutter can lead to slips, trips, and falls.
- Fire safety measures such as fire exits and extinguishers should be in place.
Health and Safety Legislation
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 provides the legal framework to promote and encourage high standards of health and safety in the workplace.
- The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 is aimed specifically at improving health and safety in the construction industry.
- Ignorance of or non-compliance with these laws can lead to severe penalties for companies.
Reporting and Recording Accidents
- The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) stipulates that employers must report certain serious workplace accidents, occupational diseases and specified dangerous occurrences (near misses).
- Accurate recording and timely reporting of such incidents can help to prevent their future occurrence.
Importance of Health and Safety
- Good health and safety practices can reduce absenteeism and increase productivity.
- A safe work environment enhances the reputation of the company, making it a desirable place to work.
- Organisations that neglect health and safety can face costly legal proceedings and compensation claims.
Emergency Procedures
- Emergency protocols should be put in place for quick and efficient response.
- Workers must have access to first aid facilities and trained first aiders should be on site.
- Evacuation plans should be developed, displayed and communicated to employees.
- Regular drills for emergencies such as fires or chemical spills strengthen the preparedness of the workforce.