Construction site workers are constantly exposed to risks. It is an inherently hazardous job that normally involves heavy machinery, different kinds of building materials, and working at heights. For protection, safety equipment for construction should not be overlooked. Let’s take a look at the equipment that should be used at construction work at all times. Keep reading to learn more.
Construction sites are areas prone to falling objects. With high-rise buildings built at 50 floors and more, dense and hazardous materials from above can fall.
These can cause risks like accidental bumps from fixed objects hanging from ceilings and exposure to electrical hazards. Because of this, head protection such as hard hats should be provided by construction companies.
Construction workers are also often tasked to operate handheld devices to weld, cut, nail, and grind. In some cases, bulldozing the ground and working with electrical components is also performed.
In these activities, flying debris such as small rocks, dust, and chipped metal is common. To prevent injuries, eye shields and welding masks are worn.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), sounds below 75 dBA is generally considered safe. Sounds that go over 85 dBA, however, can damage hearing if hearing protection isn’t worn. Most tools and machinery construction sites go above this boundary. For example, a backhoe will emit sounds up to 93 dB, while a pneumatic chip hammer can operate at 113 dB.
To prevent this problem, it is paramount for workers to use earplugs and earmuffs.
Construction workers do their tasks in various types of environments. Some are deployed for night work, while others may be scheduled during the day. Because of this, exposure to sunlight or cold weather can be a concern.
To remedy this, different types of workwear — depending on the field of work — should be provided. Body protection can also guard workers against chemical splashes, cuts, and burns.
May it be applying concrete, fixing electrical components, mixing solvents, cutting pipes, or working in extreme temperatures—wearing safety gloves is a must.
Not all types will protect against the same risks. One made from cotton may not be enough to eliminate risks such as cuts, chemical burns, and electrocution. For these applications, other more durable materials must be used.
Crushed glass, sharp rocks, and harsh chemicals around the site can also impose risks to the feet. This is why workers are required to put on safety boots before they enter a construction site.
Protective footwear can shield against falling objects, cuts, and punctures. They also prevent burns, electrocution, and freezing. Apart from these, the right safety boots can also help a worker avoid tripping and slipping.
Low visibility—whether it’s due to obstruction of vehicles or dim lighting—can be a problem in construction sites. To fix this, high-visibility clothing that reflects light is worn by workers. This will signal to other people, especially drivers, of a person’s presence.
Falling is the top cause of fatalities at construction sites. This can be prevented from planning ahead, providing the right equipment, and training the workers about their job.
Fall arrest equipment includes an anchor, connection, and body support. A safety harness or body belt that is worn by a worker is connected to a lifeline. It is then fixed on a sturdy material such as a beam, column, or floor.
Accidents may happen anytime on a construction site.
For these incidents, hydraulic rescue tools can be useful. These are equipment that is also used in fire protection to cut, ram, pinch, or spread heavy objects. Because of their power, these items can save a person involved in an accident.
In addition to personal protective equipment, one of the most important things that should always be on a construction site is an emergency kit. As wounds and injuries can happen anytime—especially if workers do not wear their PPEs correctly—a first aid kit should be on hand.
Other than that, other items that can be useful in emergencies are a stretcher, spine board, and wheelchair.
Risks will always be present in the construction industry. But to protect workers from hazards, the use of safety equipment for construction is a must. Companies should provide workers with curated and high-quality items.
Aside from providing corporate uniforms, Dels Apparel has always been a trusted source of personal protective wear and equipment for construction. They ensure only the highest quality of materials to prioritize your safety.
