OSHA Defense

Basic Safety Rules for Construction Professionals Part 1

Construction is one of the most dangerous professions. Every day workers go to work and face unique hazards that are potentially life-threatening. Before any worker sets foot on a construction site, they must be fully cognizant of possible hazards, otherwise, their lack of knowledge can place them and others at risk. Unsafe acts and conditions in the workplace can be mitigated by educating workers on basic safety rules. If you have any questions about maintaining a safe work environment, a Florida OSHA lawyer can assist you.

Use Tools Properly

Serious accidents happen if tools and equipment are not inspected before use. Workers that use hand and power tools are prone to hazards such as flying, abrasive, or splashing objects, as well as harmful dust, fumes, and gases. Tools should be kept in good condition and regularly inspected and maintained, workers should use the right tool for the job at hand, and damaged tools should be removed from the site or repaired. In addition, tools should always be operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and workers should be provided with the proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

Wear a Seatbelt

We tout “Seat belts save lives,” but not everyone wears them. Excuses range from forgetfulness to seat belts being uncomfortable. When operating vehicles, seat belts should be worn to prevent serious injuries and death on the construction site. For specifics about seat belt requirements, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website.

Wear PPE When Working at Heights

With falls being the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, it is shocking the number of workers who do not wear PPE while performing at heights. Workers should utilize guardrails or a full-body harness with a self-retracting lanyard to prevent falls. Wear a harness that fits well and stay connected to the lanyard.

Blind Spot Awareness

Equipment operators must maintain a constant awareness of machine blind spots. It is not uncommon for operators to easily wander close enough to a machine to be struck by or caught in between machinery when it is moved. Keep your distance and maintain eye contact with the operator or other workers to ensure they see you.

In the second part of our article, we will list more basic safety rules for construction crews to follow to decrease the risk of accidents on the jobsite.

If you would like to speak with a Florida OSHA defense lawyer, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.