Construction is a high-risk activity. It requires workers to be close to heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and tools that must be used cautiously. In addition, many tasks involve physical labor, which can be dangerous if not done correctly.
For this reason, it is essential to ensure that safety procedures are in place to protect workers and those near the construction site.
Safety is likely at the forefront of your mind as a construction business owner. With all the potential risks of working in the construction industry, it’s essential to ensure you’re doing all you can to protect your employees and your business.
Here’s your ultimate guide to keeping your construction business safe.
1. Safety Policy
A written safety policy is the first step in creating a safe environment. This policy should include a clear outline of safety protocols, including proper use of safety equipment, safety training and inspections, and any other safety measures that need to be taken.
2. Safety Equipment
The most important thing you can do to ensure safety on the job site is to provide your team with the proper safety equipment. This includes personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, and steel-toed boots. Not only should you provide these items for your employees, but you should also ensure they are correctly maintained.
3. Safety Training
Your team must be properly trained in safety protocols and procedures. Ensure all employees understand the risks associated with their job and how to minimize them.
This can include proper lifting techniques or how to use power tools. Every employee should receive safety training covering PPE, lockout/tagout procedures, and proper safety protocols for hazardous materials.
4. Safety Inspection
Always inspect your work sites for potential safety hazards. You never know when danger will strike.
This should be done regularly, and any hazards should be corrected immediately. Before work begins, make sure that the site has been inspected for safety hazards, like checking for any potential fall hazards or other potential dangers. Ensure that you comply with all local and federal safety regulations.
5. Safety Plan
Create a safety plan that outlines the safety protocols and procedures. Workers should be aware of the safety guidelines in place and that they are followed at all times.
The guidelines need to follow any rules and regulations set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for using hazardous materials, such as chemicals and power tools, and properly disposing of these materials. It should also outline safety measures, such as lockout/tagout procedures, that must be followed when working with electricity and other hazardous components.
6. Emergency Plan
Have an emergency plan in case of accidents or injuries, like emergency evacuation plans, first aid procedures, and emergency shutdown procedures. Include a list of emergency numbers, contact information for first responders, and a detailed plan for responding to a medical emergency or hazardous material spill. It’s also vital to ensure employees are aware of any potential hazards and know how to respond to them.
It is not enough that employees know the emergency plan. They must act on instinct. Have random practice drills prepared throughout the year to help them transfer their theoretical knowledge into automatic action.
7. Safety Officer
A safety officer serves as a dedicated resource for safety-related matters, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed and that potential hazards are quickly addressed. A safety officer is also responsible for providing training and education to employees on safety topics.
Officers should be able to keep up with changes in safety regulations and respond quickly to any reported hazards. Additionally, they should be able to guide and support employees on handling dangerous materials safely.
What About a Lawsuit?
As a contractor, you know that anything can happen on the job. Unfortunately, this means that you may be sued for several reasons.
Whether you’re a contractor for a large corporation or a sole proprietor, you can be held liable for any mistakes you make. That’s why having the right contractor insurance coverage in place is so important.
Contractors benefit from contractor insurance to protect them from potential legal issues and provide financial protection if their equipment or supplies are damaged or destroyed. It can also help cover the costs of defending themselves in court and paying any judgments or settlements required.
By having contractor insurance in place, contractors can rest assured that they are fully protected from potential lawsuits. Make sure you research the different types of insurance available to ensure you get the right coverage for your business. Proper protection lets you focus on your work and avoid costly litigation.
Do you want to protect your business from unexpected lawsuits? Getting contractor insurance is the solution. Pascal Burke Insurance Brokerage has specialized in the construction-related business for many years. Rest assured that we know the construction business from the ground up. Our contractor specialists are ready to help you, so get a fast quote now!