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Published on Oct 19
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As nearly 6.5 million people report to work at construction sites across the country every day, the importance of protecting these employees cannot be overstated. The fatal injury rate for construction workers is higher than any other industry in the nation so proper safety training and constant reinforcement of the information gleaned from these trainings is paramount. Our five construction site safety tips can help your employees avoid injury and stay healthy.
Lift Properly
Backaches are every construction worker’s number one enemy. While it’s easy to get injured by carrying heavy loads, it’s not that hard to avoid this hazard altogether.
Remember to always bend your knees and to avoid twisting to the side when lifting. To maintain balance, put one foot slightly in front of the other.
Sit when necessary
Avoid squatting or kneeling when you have to work at lower levels. By sitting on a stable stool, you avoid straining your knees and waist.
Neutral wrists
Maintain your wrists and arms in a neutral position whenever possible. Otherwise, by the end of the shift, your body will be suffering from swelling, tingling, strains and pains. If things get worse, you could develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
Exit equipment properly
Getting on and off the machine is the No. 1 cause of injury to equipment operators, forklift drivers and truck drivers, any one of whom will readily share their “learning episode.” It happens a lot.
First, check your gloves and boots. Clean the mud off before climbing, and use “high grip” gloves for a secure hand hold. Next, use a three-point stance going and coming. Use large size hand and foot holds. Securely engage the entire hand and foot, avoiding a toe-hold or finger-hold grip. Use a step ladder for access when no hand or foot holds are provided. Avoid carrying objects while climbing.
If the machine needs additional hand holds or steps installed, do it. Operators come in different sizes. Make it as easy and safe as possible to ascend/descend. Avoid the need to stretch by putting the grab rails where they’re easy to securely reach.
Mind slopes
Caution is always required when operating equipment on slopes. You might make it up the slope with a load, but coming down is another story! Know the limits of the machine, allow for surface conditions and don’t push it.
Safety and Sheakley
Keeping your workforce safe is priority one for your company. Sheakley can help you develop better policies and provide assistance with developing construction site safety programs to help you achieve your safety goals. Our experts are here to keep your employees and your business safe. Sheakley’s Workforce Management Services experts provide complete safety resources for your company.
Get your free safety consultation today with an expert from Sheakley. Stay up-to-date on all things Sheakley by subscribing to our blog and following us on social media. Join in the discussion by commenting below.
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