Site safety is incredibly important. It is the key that keeps a balance between progress and protection. Prioritising the safety of these professionals isn't just a legal obligation; it is a basic responsibility and fundamental duty of employers and contractors.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is getting ready to make some big changes to the site safety rules to ensure workers' safety and well-being. This article will explore the importance of site safety for construction workers and how the HSE is set to ramp up safety checks starting in September.
Elevating safety awareness
Construction workers' top health and safety issues include: falling from heights, manual handling, loud noise, respiratory issues, electrocutions, moving objects, and trips and falls. In 2022, approximately 42,000 workers in the construction industry reported experiencing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, leading to long-term pain and discomfort and impacting their ability to perform tasks effectively1. These health issues can detrimentally impact workers' overall quality of life.
Employers are responsible for providing their workforce with comprehensive health and safety guidance and relevant training to enable them to work safely2. It is critical for workers to be aware of the risks and know what to do to stay safe on the site.
Elevating safety awareness in construction sites is extremely important for:
- Worker well-being: Promoting safety awareness helps protect the well-being of all workers on site. The risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities can be significantly reduced by raising awareness of potential hazards and educating employees on proper safety practices.- Worker well-being: Promoting safety awareness helps protect the well-being of all workers on site. The risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities can be significantly reduced by raising awareness of potential hazards and educating employees on proper safety practices.
- Accident prevention: Construction sites are hazardous environments with various potential dangers, such as heavy machinery, working from heights, and moving equipment. 135 workers were killed in work-related accidents in 2022/23, according to HSE3. Elevating safety awareness helps prevent accidents by ensuring that workers are vigilant and equipped with the knowledge to identify and avoid risky situations.
- Productivity and efficiency: A safe work environment increases productivity and efficiency. Workers who feel secure and confident in their surroundings can focus on their tasks and perform effectively without worrying about unnecessary risks.
- Reduced costs: Accidents and injuries can result in significant financial losses for construction companies. Medical expenses, legal fees, compensation claims, and project delays can be avoided or significantly minimised by prioritising safety awareness.
- Positive work culture: A culture of safety fosters a positive work environment where workers feel valued and cared for. This fosters greater job satisfaction, higher morale, and better employee retention.
- Company reputation: A construction company that prioritises safety demonstrates its commitment to the well-being of its workers. This commitment can enhance the company's reputation, making it more attractive to potential clients, partners, and employees.
Site safety under the microscope
In May, June, and July 2023, HSE conducted site inspections to check whether employers had implemented the right protocols to safeguard workers from inhaling harmful dust4. The industry supervisor plans to visit construction sites again across England, Scotland, and Wales this autumn. The campaign's primary objective is to ensure that workers are being adequately protected against potential hazards related to the moving and handling of goods and materials.
During the visit, the HSE will look at whether the employers and workers are:
- Aware of the risks in their work environment
- Revising their work plans to mitigate risks where possible
- Implementing appropriate measures in cases where complete elimination of risks is not viable.
The campaign 'Your health. Your future' aims to enhance the safety and well-being of construction sector workers. As part of the campaign, HSE has formed a collaborative network of partners, including:
- Health in Construction Leadership Group5
- CECA (Civil Engineering Contractors Association)6
- British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS)7
- Hire Association Europe (HAE)8
- Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH)9
Conclusion
With its dynamic and challenging work environments, the construction industry has long demanded a vigilant approach to the safety of workers. By emphasising safety awareness, providing comprehensive training, and enforcing stringent protocols, the HSE not only safeguards the health and safety of workers but also improves the resilience, efficiency, and professionalism of construction projects, large and small.
‘Safety First’ is not just a slogan; it is a commitment to a set of superior health and safety standards. The HSE's efforts to elevate site safety standards set the stage for a future where progress and development are underpinned by a commitment to the well-being of those who help to build it.
