The construction industry is inundated with risks. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 60% of construction worker deaths are attributed to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Fatal Four Hazards:

• Falls
• Struck-by
• Caught-in/caught-between
• Electrocution

4 Safety Tips to Keep Your Employees Injury-Free

1. Fall Prevention

• Mandate and provide employees with fall arrest equipment
• Install and maintain perimeter protection
• Secure and label all floor openings and covers
• Safely utilize ladders and scaffolds
• Verify each job uses appropriate equipment
• Provide employees with proper equipment training

2. Struck-by Prevention

• Never position workers between moving and fixed objects
• Provide and mandate high-visibility clothing to identify workers easily
• Employ positive barriers between workers and traffic
• Inspect all tools and equipment
• Make appropriate protective gear available (safety glasses, hardhat, face shields, etc.)
• Encourage equipment certifications

3. Caught-in-/Caught-between Hazard Prevention

• Refuse access to any unprotected trench or excavation (five feet or deeper) without an adequate protective system
• Ensure trenching or excavation is protected by sloping, shoring, benching or a trench-shield system
• Perform a site analysis for potential hazards

4. Electrocution Prevention

• Locate/identify utilities daily
• Recognize overhead power lines when operating any equipment
• Maintain and enforce local safety distance from power lines
• Ensure all portable electric tools must be grounded or double insulated
• Use protective ground-fault circuit interrupters
• Be alert to electrical hazards near ladders, scaffolds or other platforms

We're Here to Help

A responsible employer must ensure the worksite is free from serious hazards and follows all relevant OSHA safety and health standards. Working with a construction risk manager can provide more insight on safety recommendations and review your insurance coverage to ensure adequate protection.

For more information on how to protect your company and employees, connect with a member of our team.