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Worksite safety: the issues in the construction

Worksite safety is of crucial importance in the construction and building industries. Every day, thousands of workers work in potentially dangerous environments, exposed to a multitude of risks and dangers. From handling heavy tools to using chemicals and working at height, worksites are places where accidents can happen at any time, putting workers’ lives and health at risk.

Occupational risks in the building and public works sector account for :

  • 8 million working days lost through accidents at work.
  • 379,000 working days lost in commuting accidents.
  • 1.6 million days lost to illness (for example in France)

Worker awareness and training are crucial factors in preventing accidents on worksites. Making workers aware of the risks and training them in good safety practices can significantly reduce the number of accidents and incidents by creating a safer and healthier working environment.

worksite safety

The importance of worksite safety awareness

The aim of training is to provide workers with the skills and knowledge they need to work safely on a worksite. This includes training in the safe use of equipment and tools, first aid training and training in emergency procedures in the event of an accident. By investing in training their workers, construction companies can not only reduce the risks of accidents, but also improve productivity and the quality of work.

The importance of worksite safety training

Raising awareness involves informing workers about the various risks to which they may be exposed on a worksite, as well as the potential consequences of these dangers. With a better understanding of the risks, workers are more likely to avoid them and adopt safe behaviour on a daily basis.

In practical terms, employees take part in safety meetings (1/4 safety, safety talks, etc.). By making them aware of the risks of falls or exposure to harmful substances, they will be more inclined to use the appropriate protective equipment and comply with established safety procedures.

During these meetings, digital solutions can be used to gather a range of data (attendance, subjects to be discussed, PPE, feedback, etc.). Beyond InSite, with its MyForm module and a safety form template, supports all managers (QSE or SPS where they exist) in preparing, carrying out and monitoring the proper execution of these meetings.

The use of protective equipment

Safety on worksites is a major concern for any construction or public works company. Worksites are dynamic and often unpredictable environments, where workers are exposed to a multitude of risks and hazards. In this context, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Collective Protective Equipment (CPE) is of crucial importance in guaranteeing the health and safety of workers.

Collective Protection Equipment (CPE)

CPEs are collective devices designed to protect a group of workers or a work area against certain risks. For example, safety barriers can demarcate hazardous areas, safety nets can prevent falls from height, and ventilation systems can control exposure to harmful substances. By installing appropriate CPE on worksites, companies can reduce the risks for all their personnel and create a safer and more secure working environment.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

PPE is personal protective equipment designed to protect workers against the specific risks to which they may be exposed on a worksite.

For example, safety helmets protect the head against falling objects, safety goggles protect the eyes from dust and debris, and safety harnesses protect against falls from height.

By providing workers with the appropriate PPE and ensuring that they wear it correctly, employees are protected and companies can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and serious injuries. The model form in Beyond InSite can be used to check that all workers have the appropriate equipment.

Conclusion on Protective Equipment

The importance of CPE and PPE lies in their ability to protect workers from the risks inherent in construction worksites. By investing in these safety devices combined with digital solutions, companies are demonstrating their commitment to the health and safety of their workforce, while reducing the costs associated with workplace accidents and worksite interruptions. In addition, by providing adequate training in the use and maintenance of CPE and PPE, companies can ensure that their workers are well equipped to face the safety challenges on worksites. Digital solutions, meanwhile, help to optimise the time of QSE managers while ensuring that safety policies are properly applied on projects.

Who is in charge of worksite safety?

  1. Employers, whether they are construction companies, general contractors or project owners, are legally obliged to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes putting in place safety policies and procedures, providing appropriate personal and collective protective equipment, and training and making workers aware of the specific risks on the worksite. Employers must also ensure that safety regulations and industry standards are complied with at all times.
  2. Management (QSE or SPS managers where they exist) plays a crucial role in the day-to-day supervision of worksite activities. They are responsible for ensuring that work is carried out safely and in compliance with established safety policies and procedures. This includes coordinating the various trades present on the worksite, organising regular safety inspections and resolving safety issues as they arise.
  3. Journeymen (workers) have individual responsibility for safety. They must comply with established safety policies and procedures, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, actively participate in safety training and awareness programmes, and report any potential hazards or incidents. Workers must also follow the instructions of supervisors and collaborate with their colleagues to maintain a safe working environment for all. Digital field applications such as Beyond InSite, with the MyCheck module, enable the exchange of observations and collaboration in complete safety: it is possible to report a potential hazard or incident as an observation.
  4. Other health and safety partners (occupational medicine, labour inspectorate, etc.) have an important role to play in prevention and the application of safety regulations and standards on worksites. They are responsible for promoting best practice in worksite safety, inspecting worksites and imposing penalties for non-compliance with safety regulations.

 

Conclusion

Safety on construction worksites is essential to prevent accidents and protect workers’ health. It requires the commitment of all those involved, from employers to workers, including worksite managers and other health and safety partners. In-depth awareness, appropriate training and the use of protective equipment are the cornerstones of a safe working environment.

Digital solutions, such as Beyond InSite, can help everyone involved to achieve one of the crucial objectives of the construction industry: zero accidents.

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