The Fatal Four, as identified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), are responsible for a majority of construction worker fatalities each year. These include falls, being struck by objects, electrocution, and being caught between or in objects.
To help protect yourself or your employees from these preventable risks, consider following the construction safety tips below:
1. Use proper fall protection gear, such as safety harnesses and lanyards. OSHA requires that fall protection be used when working from a height of six feet or more.
2. Wear high-visibility clothing whenever possible to make sure workers are visible at all times on the job site. This can help reduce the risk of being hit by objects, such as falling debris or moving machinery.
3. Make sure all electrical equipment is properly grounded and inspected before use to avoid electrocution. OSHA recommends having a licensed electrician check the site’s wiring before starting any projects that involve electricity.
4. Utilize machine guards to protect workers from being caught between or in objects. OSHA standards require that all machines with moving parts be guarded to prevent any contact with them.
5. Take regular breaks and remain aware of your surroundings. OSHA recommends taking five-minute breaks every hour when necessary to avoid fatigue, which can lead to accidents.
Construction Worker Safety Tips
Construction workers must be diligent about safety when on the job. When tackling OSHA’s Fatal Four and beyond, here are some additional construction worker safety tips for a safe and efficient job site:
1. Provide proper training and instructions. OSHA requires that construction workers receive appropriate instruction on construction worker safety standards that are applicable to their job duties. This includes regular training sessions on OSHA regulations as well as specific instruction in hazardous job activities such as working at heights.
2. Ensure the right equipment is used safely. The right tools, machinery, and protective gear must be used safely to reduce the risks associated with OSHA’s Fatal Four. OSHA has specific regulations on using certain types of equipment and workers should be familiar with these requirements.
3. Maintain the worksite in good condition. OSHA requires that all construction sites are kept in a safe working environment, free from debris and other obstructions. OSHA also requires that all workers are provided with the necessary protection equipment, such as hard hats and safety glasses.
4. Implement a stop work order if needed. OSHA allows companies to issue a stop work order in emergency situations if there is an immediate threat of danger to workers or passersby. This allows supervisors and construction managers to quickly halt activities until the situation can be properly assessed.
Construction Worker Safety: Summary
By following OSHA regulations and the necessary construction worker safety tips, construction companies can significantly reduce the risks of OSHA’s Fatal Four. It is important for construction companies to remain vigilant in enforcing OSHA standards and providing a safe working environment for their workers.
With proper training, equipment, and safety protocols, construction workers can have the confidence to complete their jobs safely and efficiently and OSHA’s Fatal Four can be avoided.
