Construction work is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the world because of the multitude of dangers associated with a construction site, such as working from heights, handling heavy loads and hazardous materials and operating heavy equipment. Although health and safety in this industry have improved significantly in recent decades, this doesn’t mean we should become complacent.

Many construction workers are involved in workplace accidents each year, resulting in serious injuries or even death, while others develop musculoskeletal disorders, dermatitis, asbestosis and other occupational health problems. And the dangers aren’t limited to those who work on construction sites. Members of the general public can also get injured or killed by construction activities that are not adequately controlled.

Construction companies should make health and safety a top priority in their training and operations, and all contractors should undergo health and safety assessments before starting work.

According to the latest HSE figures, 40 construction workers died in 2020, with falling from a height being the most common cause (47%). The other most common causes were being trapped by something collapsing/overturning – 16%, being hit by a moving object -12%, being hit by a moving vehicle – 10% and coming into contact with electricity or electrical discharge – 4%.

There were also 61,000 non-fatal injuries reported under RIDDOR. Furthermore, an estimated 81,000 construction workers have work-related health problems, and in 57% of cases, it’s a musculoskeletal disorder.

People tend to look at statistics such as the ones above and choose to think that somehow it will never happen to them, but unless we recognize and confront our own vulnerability, construction workers will continue to get injured needlessly.

Workers in the construction industry have a right to safe working conditions, and their employers have a legal duty to protect them by taking the necessary precautions. Neglecting this duty can result in investigations, litigation, sanctions, and a loss of reputation. Moreover, workers have a right to claim compensation if they get injured or develop health issues because their employers failed to comply with UK health and safety standards.

Risk Assessment in Construction

When it comes to risk management, the same principles apply to both health and safety. The employer has to consider the workers’ daily tasks, the risks involved, the potential consequences of those risks and what they could do to prevent and control them.

Risk assessment is mandated by law, but the goal isn’t to create piles of paperwork but to identify risks and take reasonable and necessary steps to mitigate them.

The most serious risks are the ones that are most frequent and result in the most damage. Employers should consult their workers since they will be better able to detect problems that the management team might miss as well as offer some helpful suggestions for improving safety.

When it comes to chemicals and equipment, the manufacturer’s instructions or data sheets are quite useful in explaining the risks.

Please note that specific categories of workers – workers with disabilities, young workers, new workers, temporary workers, migrant workers and lone workers – are subject to different regulations.

Using Technology to Manage Safety Reporting

Managing inspections and safety in the construction industry is a demanding endeavour because every project is different with its own set of requirements and procedures.

Because of the accelerated deadlines, workers are subjected to increased physical strain and stress, making them more likely to miss certain details that compromise construction site safety.

This is why the industry has begun to rely more on technology, but many companies are still struggling with the transition, which has resulted in disparate approaches to safety reporting and management.

Since some reports comprise hundreds of elements, filling out the documentation for quality inspections can be very time-consuming, but it can be done faster, more easily, and with greater accuracy through technology. Issues can be recorded in real-time with mobile-friendly software, improving safety outcomes. Sensors and wearable devices make it easier to gather data and comply with safety standards while minimizing the impact on productivity. Automation can facilitate communication, making it easier for workers to get access to the information they need when they need it.

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has appointed Paul Morrell OBE, a former government adviser and construction expert, and Anneliese Day QC, a legal expert, to oversee an independent evaluation of the system used to test construction products in response to concerning reports that some construction product manufacturers may be jeopardizing worker and public safety by circumventing the current testing system.

The evaluation will look into methods for improving the current system in order to ensure that these materials are safe and work as they should.

Worker Engagement and Participation

Workers who are involved in safety procedure decisions are more likely to have positive outcomes because they can aid their employers in identifying hazards and ensuring that risk controls are practicable. Worker engagement also improves safety protocol adherence.

Employers should consult with their workers through health and safety representatives from unions. This can be done through other elected officials or directly in non-unionized workplaces.

Before making judgments about potential risks, employers should not only present information to their employees but also ask for and consider their feedback.

The following are some of the topics where workers’ feedback is particularly valuable:

  • the risks they are exposed to in their work-related activities
  • ideas on how to mitigate these risks
  • ways to share relevant information and provide training.

Workers are more likely to comply with health and safety regulations if they understand how it benefits them and they’re consulted in the decision-making process.

Mental Health

Working in the construction industry can be very demanding and stressful. The workforce is predominantly male, which has led to a culture of appearing “tough” that makes construction workers reluctant to open up about their struggles with mental health, preferring to suffer in silence.

This is why it’s crucial for employers to be aware of the warning signs and make sure that their employees get access to support services. They should also facilitate peer support by providing relevant information and create a culture that’s focused on removing the stigma and empowering staff members to look after their well-being.

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