The construction industry is one of the biggest in any country. One of the many responsibilities of an employer is to look after the safety and wellbeing of their employees. Workers that are confident in their skill and trust that their security is a priority will be more effective in their duties. The first step of accident prevention is knowing the danger, so scaffolding training should be considered mandatory for all at-height construction workers working on supported or suspended scaffolding.
The Dangers of a Construction Site
OSHA regulations detail the responsibilities and standards that construction companies must follow in their relations with customers and workers. The regulations also pay special attention to worker safety at every step of the construction process. Suspended scaffolding is necessary for particular construction work at height, which has several potential hazards:
- inadequate worker training - lack of periodical professional training among workers is the most common reason for construction site accidents,
- suspended scaffold failure - properly constructed scaffolding is crucial for safe operations. Therefore they need to be put together and maintained by the experienced and trained crew,
- falling objects (debris, tools, and materials) - along with scaffolding, other security measures, like safety nets and harnesses, need to be considered. When used correctly, they will prevent workers from falling and from possible injuries caused by falling debris,
- getting struck by electrocution - electricity is essential on modern construction sites, so it should also be set up and maintained by a trained professional,
- hoists - often used to move heavy load are indispensable in a worksite. However, they pose a significant danger to workers when misused. That is why they need to be operated and maintained by trained specialists.
Scaffolding training
One of the solutions that are used to ensure safety on the construction site is scaffold training. Knowledge shared during the training by experienced construction industry professionals will help workers to stay safe. In addition to training, it is beneficial to keep an eye out for any updates to OSHA regulations and undertake audits once they take place.
The responsibility for safety on a construction site lies on the employer and the employees. However, once organized, the training is mandatory, and workers need to pay full attention - the knowledge shared may save their lives or health and that of their coworkers.
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Author: Charles Hunt (CEO of Able Safety Consulting) - a workplace safety manager and trainer based in New York, specializing in construction and safety. Charles joined the family business in 2009 and conducts courses in construction safety - OSHA, SST, EPA, and NYC DOB training courses online and in-person.
On Ablesafety.com, you will find comprehensive solutions for construction safety training. Do you have any questions? They will answer all of them! Call them - 718-593-4789 or text - 347-422-6742.
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