Construction Law
Expecting the Unexpected: How Contractors Can Remain Steady in a Tumultuous Industry Part 2
In part one of this two-part article, we discussed how construction companies can protect themselves from unforeseen events, such as natural disasters and construction defects. Below, a Ft. Myers construction lawyer will discuss how a contractor can prepare their workforce for the unexpected. While you can’t plan for every variable in the construction industry, you can put your team in the best position to succeed when faced with the unexpected.
An Experienced Team
Construction is all about collaboration. This concept applies to the many parties that come and go on a project site as well as the supervisor and laborers on a specific team. We’ve previously covered the labor shortage plaguing the construction industry. Holding on to skilled workers is more important than ever, especially when attempting to combat the unexpected.
An experienced team of workers will know how to avoid the mistakes that can lead to a costly construction defect. They are also your eyes and ears on the construction site and will be the first to spot potential hazards. In order to deal with the unexpected, you have to train and retain skilled workers. You can do this by offering team members a career path instead of temporary work and by pairing new workers with older, more experienced mentors. This is easier said than done, but construction isn’t a job that can be done alone.
Making Safety a Priority
As mentioned in part one, force majeure contract clauses are designed to minimize liability in the event of unforeseen circumstances, including unavoidable fatalities on the construction site. However, they will not protect you from preventable injuries.
Remember the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) “Fatal Four:” falls, struck by object, electrocutions, and caught-in/between. Always have your workers wear the required personal protective equipment, including hard hats and personal fall arrest systems. Ensure that your workers treat all power lines as if they were active, and verify that your workers are licensed and aware of those around them when operating heavy machinery.
Consider a Construction Attorney for Your Team
No matter how much you plan, no matter how accurate your estimates are, you will always be faced with unexpected issues and hazards. When the unexpected occurs, the fallout may include a dispute, lawsuit, or OSHA investigation. In all of these circumstances, the best team member you can have is a Ft. Myers construction attorney. Having an attorney on your team is the best way to prevent and defend against the unexpected when it threatens project completion. For a worthy addition to your team, partner with the Ft. Myers construction lawyers from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
If you would like to speak with one of our Ft. Myers construction attorneys, 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.