Cotney Blogs

Plumbers Face Numerous Safety Risks

The best thing a plumber can do to stay safe on the job is to know the potential dangers in advance of any job. Even with a great safety plan in place, there are many hazards, and accidents can happen.

Plumbers install and repair water, gas and drainage pipes, as well as fixtures in homes and businesses, including toilets and dishwashers. They need to give proper attention to plumbing safety tips and precautions to avoid accidents.

Plumbing Safety Tips

• Before each job, study detailed drawings and specifications to be prepared for any difficulties ahead. Make necessary changes to your job plan beforehand.
• Conduct all plumbing activities in a systematic way as outlined in your pre-planning preparations.
• Hand tools are more powerful today than ever before, which comes with risks. Hand tool injuries can include fractures, broken bones, cuts and more. Take care that all hand tools are in good working order.
• Mold infestation is not only a homeowner’s nightmare, but also a plumber’s nightmare, as well. Plumbers may be working in a confined space and exposed to mold in bathrooms, under sinks and in paneling. Keep a look-out.
• Extreme temperature conditions are common for plumbers from frozen pipes to extremely hot spaces, which increase the chance of severe injuries.
• According to the World Health Organization, up to 48% of plumbers have reported hearing loss due to noisy pipes, electronic machinery and banging tools. Use appropriate ear protection.
• A plumber’s eyes can be exposed to bacteria and foreign objects which can affect eyesight. Wear safety glasses at all times to limit this risk and prevent eye damage.
• Millions of people are exposed every year to asbestos, the No. 1 cause of respiratory death. This includes plumbers. Ask the proper owners if the building in which you are working contains asbestos. That way you can avoid inhaling the dangerous fibers that can cause mesothelioma.
• Avoid repetitive work that requires prolonged periods of pushing, pulling or carrying loads. This will help you avoid muscle strains and sprains.
• Use proper scaffolding when plumbing work must be done from a height. Inspect scaffolding for stability and use sufficient care when using ropes/zulas to prevent accidents.
• Coordinate with other agencies to help maintain safety of all workers.
• Check to see if the contractor has a good first-aid kit on site in case of accidents.
• Great training and experience ensure safety at every phase of work and helps avoid accidents.
• Poor lighting and ventilation, especially in narrow shafts or ducts can be hazardous. Arrange in advance for proper lighting and ventilation to avoid injuries.
• When working in trenches, observe all safety norms to avoid a collapse.
• Use only the proper tools on every job. Old and worn-out tools may lead to more accidents.

Qualified plumbers with excellent work experience can prevent small or large accidents and even save their own life or someone else’s by following all safety precautions.

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.