Construction sites are one of the most dangerous types of workplaces for workers and other visitors. Workers on these sites may have to manage and operate heavy equipment every day, which can increase the risk of serious injuries. This is why it is so important for construction workers to wear proper safety protection equipment and undergo training.
An untrained worker may be at a higher risk of getting injured in an accident. Construction workers find themselves in a risky environment every day, and employers have a duty to safeguard their workers from avoidable injury. Employers must ensure that each worker has proper training and is well-qualified for the role.
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Additionally, employers are also required to follow certain safety norms to minimize the risk of injuries. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were more than 60 fatal work-related injuries in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington area alone in 2018.
Many injuries are not reported to the authorities and are therefore not included in accident statistics because people do not have sufficient knowledge about their rights when they face a workplace accident. Below we outline some of the standard safety norms that every employer should maintain to reduce the risk of a work injury.
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Conduct safety training programs and workshops for employees.
One of the most important steps that an employer can take is to conduct safety training programs and workshops regularly. You should ensure that all employees are well-trained and know how to operate different equipment properly. Lack of equipment knowledge can lead to injuries and unnecessary harm to them.
Therefore, employers should ensure that the workers and employees on their construction site are properly trained at regular intervals.
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Promote consistent use of protective equipment and clothing by workers
Wearing proper safety equipment and protective gear can reduce the risk of worksite injuries. It can also help to minimize the impact of the severity of the injuries if they do occur. This is why employers should always encourage workers to wear safety protection at all times. Workers should consider wearing a hard hat, high-visibility clothing, and safety boots while performing construction work.
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Always introduce new workers and ensure that they are familiar with site procedures.
New construction workers may not be aware of the critical consequences of failing to take proper safety precautions. To set them up for success and reduce the risk of accidents, employers should introduce all new workers to others on the site and familiarize them with any unique hazards. It is especially important to make them aware of the risks that may be associated with that work. Brief them about what they can do to avoid injury and hazards to avoid at that construction site.
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Ensure electrical safety at the construction site.
Electrocution can lead to severe injuries for workers who do not take the proper precautions. Mishandled power sources and electricity can be hazardous at a construction site. Before engaging in any electrical work, all cables and electrical wires should be checked properly. Additionally, the products used during construction should be UL-approved and follow the basic safety guidelines.
When construction workers have to perform electrical work at great heights, they may be at increased risk of suffering a slip and fall injury in Philadelphia. Employers should implement necessary precautions, including safety harnesses and stability devices, to ensure that workers are safe. If a worker faces an injury on a construction site, they may have the right to file a personal injury claim against you.
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Display signage clearly.
Pay attention to the safety signage and ensure that all hazards are clearly marked. One of the most important things to include on the signage is a 24-hour emergency number in case of an after-hours issue. The safety signage should also provide information about emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and first aid supplies.
- Plan and prepare for risky situations.
Construction site accidents are usually unpredictable and may occur even after you implement all of the recommended safety protocols. Therefore, it is necessary to have an emergency plan ready and to follow it if an incident occurs. Having a risk management plan can help you protect your workers in the event of an accident or hazardous condition.
Failing to follow the recommended safety protocols can injure the workers on your construction site and potentially harm your reputation in the industry. Therefore, be sure to prepare a risk management plan and be ready to put it into action if an accident occurs.
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Identify the risks and hazards on your construction site.
Employers should ensure that the work area is as safe as possible for the people performing work on the construction site. Working in an unsafe area could significantly increase the risk of injuries and damage. Additionally, employers should also carefully examine the construction materials and equipment for defects and faults that may cause an accident.
If an employer or worker identifies some kind of defect or unsafe condition, it is the employer’s responsibility to take immediate action to rectify it. When employers fail to take proper precautions, they can be held liable for negligence if their workers suffer injuries.
Employers’ negligence can lead to hazardous situations in which workers may be injured or killed. If a worker suffers injuries at a construction site, they can consult with a Philadelphia construction accident lawyer to discuss the legal options available to them. Employers may be required to properly compensate an injured worker who has evidence of the employer’s failure to take proper safety precautions. Employers should implement all recommended safety practices to help minimize the risks of worker injuries.