Construction site hazards and commonplace
Construction sites can often be dangerous places to work, with construction site hazards a hazardous numerous. The nature of the job is physical and often workers are required to use powerful machinery or to climb great heights. This creates risk of injuries in construction, faced every day due to construction site hazards.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, the UK was accountable for £15 billion estimated cost of injuries and ill health from current working conditions. To add there were 38 fatal injuries to workers in 2017/18.
Injuries in construction come in all types of shapes and sizes and are varied. Although some are easy to spot, others are less noticeable. Familiarising yourself with the most common types of construction injuries and construction site hazards will help you to prevent their occurrence.
So, what are the most common injuries in construction?
Falling objects
One of the biggest construction site hazards where work is being carried out at height is the potential for falling objects, such as tools, equipment and materials. Dropped objects have been a problem for as long as the force of gravity has existed, however, this can be prevented quite easily by carrying out a risk assessment as well as making sure loose debris and materials have been removed from workplaces at height.
Falls
Given the size of the structures many builders work on, it’s no surprise that falls are among the most common sources of injuries in construction. Construction workers are mainly at risk from falls when using scaffolding, cranes, roofs and ladders at work. These risks can significantly be lowered by implementing simple measures such as wearing a safety harness at dangerous heights.
Slips and trips
Slips and trips are also a common cause of injuries in construction. Statistics from the HSE show that over £500m per year is spent on injury-related costs. These can also be reduced through small changes to the working environment such as keeping the flooring clean and clear of spills and other hazards.
Electric shocks
The vast number of electric tools and appliances used on a construction site presents major risks to safety. Since construction sites are a work in progress, workers are often exposed to wiring, power lines, and unfinished electrical systems around. Coming in contact with the exposed could lead to electrocution or serious shock.
Recording accurate records of any incidents should be maintained. This will help assist in ensuring that health and safety is managed appropriately. Through effective monitoring and reporting of quality processes, construction site hazards can be managed and injuries in construction can be reduced.
Find out more information about how we can help you manage construction site hazards or call the SmartSite team on 03330 430 644.
