Today, the construction industry is considerably safer than in years past. This is attributable to growing awareness of its dangers and the implementation of preventative strategies for reducing the number of deaths and injuries associated with it. Despite this, hazards still exist, as does room for improvement. There is still work that needs doing to safeguard construction workers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the sector’s fatality rate actually rose by 5% in 2019, hitting its highest peak since 2007. There are steps some major construction figures are making that may contribute to continuing to increase its overall security.
1. Making smaller contractors aware of available resources
Smaller businesses or subcontractors may occasionally benefit from the vast resources of general ones they work under. However, independents who work solely by themselves may lack the same knowledge of available documents like OSHA guidelines. Reaching out to them and letting them know about accessible information is a good way to help spread protection to even small-scale operations.
2. Encouraging active safety measure engagement among workers
This means creating a culture like the ones that generally exist among employees in larger workplaces. In such environments, older individuals teach and watch out for younger ones. Rather than simply reading a pamphlet, they apply everything learned from it, not just with regards to themselves. but with their coworkers.
3. Enacting real-life training exercises
Interactive training on topics like the “Fatal Four” top reasons for demise in the industry is integral to preserving lives. It also needs to constantly evolve rather than staying stagnant.
In spite of the tremendous leaps made regarding safety in construction, the occupation remains a high-risk, growing one. Employers putting into place new changes and practices for ensuring worker well-being may further reduce the likelihood of injuries and deaths.
