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In the U.S. in 2021, 1,015 construction workers lost their lives while another 162,500 suffered injuries in work related accidents. Many of those accidents were avoidable. As Circadia Group frequently acts as the owner’s representative for our clients, we are committed to ensuring that the contractors we manage maintain a secure job site, both for their employees' safety and our client's liability.
Trench collapses pose the most significant threat to workers in the civil trades. To prevent cave-ins, trench walls should be sloped or benched, shored with supports, or shielded with trench boxes per OSHA requirements. Ensuring safe entry and exit with ladders or ramps, keeping materials away from edges, and addressing water accumulation risks are also crucial responsibilities for site safety leaders.
To facilitate heavy equipment deliveries in construction projects, crane picks are commonly employed. In order to prioritize the safety of workers and pedestrians, as well as to prevent disruptions to parking and traffic flow, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive lift and crane site logistics plan. This plan should include precise details on the crane location and the proximity of existing utilities. To enhance safety measures further, it is recommended to fence or cone off the crane swing radius from pedestrian traffic. If overnight parking is necessary for the crane, ensure the provision of adequate detour signs, flaggers, and lighting. Verify that all crane operators possess valid licenses, certifications, and medical certificates before granting them permission to operate on construction sites. This verification process guarantees that only qualified and medically fit individuals are given crane operation responsibilities.
Slips, trips, and falls accounted for nearly half of all injuries reported. By strategically placing clear and visible signage in easily accessible areas, enforcement of these can significantly enhance the safety of job sites. Whether it's loose materials outside a laydown yard, a small spill on a concrete surface, or challenging weather conditions, every potential hazard must be addressed. When entering a new job site, it's crucial to ask, "Does this belong here?" - a simple question that can make a world of difference.
Investing an extra few minutes to promptly clean up spills, return tools to their designated places at the end of each shift, and question the placement of materials is a small effort that pays substantial dividends. By taking these proactive steps, you not only contribute to a safer work environment but also help ensure that your colleagues return home each day just as they arrived - unharmed.
Finally, adhering to PPE requirements, including steel-toed shoes, hard hats, high-visibility vests, gloves, hearing protection, and harnesses for heights, is crucial. Merely having PPE available is insufficient. Regular checks are essential to confirm correct usage and replacement of worn equipment. Let's collectively foster a safety culture, with each team member actively contributing to a secure and hazard-free work environment.
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