Photo courtesy of Brinkmann Constructors

Proactive measures for reducing risk at job sites     

By Ethan Harris

Conduct an initial risk assessment
    No two job sites are the same. From crowded pedestrian walkways to dangerous existing infrastructures, each project requires specific layouts, materials and processes to be fully functional both during and after construction. Given the unique nature of each site, a detailed risk assessment must be conducted before any other design and building activities begin. During this initial assessment, careful consideration should be placed on the overall flow as it relates to the people, processes and equipment located on or near the construction site.

Develop site-specific safety plans
    The initial risk assessment also serves as the foundation for developing site-specific safety plans. By creating a detailed plan that aligns with the distinct job site needs and requirements, the team is able to understand, identify and address any safety issue that can occur on a specific project. A well-developed site-specific safety plan outlines all project procedures and guidelines related to safety, including clearly outlined roles and responsibilities, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, mandatory training programs, audit and inspection information, an emergency response plan, reporting requirements and more. This proactive approach not only demonstrates a company’s commitment to making safety the top priority on every job site, but it also serves as a strategic way to promote compliance and minimize the likelihood of serious accidents.

Reinforce fall protection solutions
    According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls are the leading cause of work-related injuries and deaths on job sites. This fact elevates the importance of fall protection standards when planning a project centered on safety excellence. By proactively approaching fall protection with tools such as guardrails, handrails, safety nets, harnesses, toe-boards, and floor hole covers, workers can stay protected from serious injuries or fatalities that result from a devastating fall. Implementing fall protection solutions goes beyond protecting workers. By creating an environment that supports physical well-being, workers are more confident in completing daily tasks, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity overall.

Select high-quality, durable building materials
    Certain building materials create greater health and safety concerns for both construction workers and future building occupants. Some materials contain toxic components that present an increased risk of flammability, chemical exposure and other severe health complications. Although a seemingly minor aspect when it comes to overall construction safety, these materials can have serious consequences long after construction is complete. Be sure to investigate the potential hazards of each material used on a project, from paints and adhesives to doors and windows.
    Durability is another important consideration when selecting safety-focused building materials. High-quality materials will be more likely to withstand adverse weather conditions and environmental changes, resulting in less frequent maintenance that could create an opportunity for worker accidents and injuries.
    Universally, refining the approach to safety on construction sites will remain an ongoing priority for industry leaders and frontline workers actively planning, designing and building success. To follow through on this priority, a safety-focused mindset is ingrained into each phase of the project, from procurement to design. By making safety a key design element, both the project and those bringing it to life will benefit from a culture where safety is not just a goal but a shared, non-negotiable value guiding each aspect of the work from preconstruction to closeout and beyond.