Construction Hazards Continued
Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, and the safety of workers is of utmost importance. In Canada, stringent health and safety legislation governs the construction industry to protect workers and ensure safe project completion. However, even with strict safety measures in place, construction hazards remain a serious concern, with 924 fatalities reported in 2023 alone. That’s why it’s essential to understand these risks and adopt strategies to mitigate them.
In Part 1 of our series, we discussed manual handling hazards, vehicle hazards, working at heights hazards, and slip, trip, and fall hazards. In this part, we delve into three more common hazards in construction—noise, electricity, and dust—and offer practical tips to avoid or minimize them. Let’s get started.
So what are some of the other most common hazards in the construction industry? Read on to find out.
1. Noise Hazards
Construction sites are loud environments, with heavy machinery, power tools, and demolition activities creating continual high-decibel noise. Prolonged exposure to loud noises can lead to hearing loss, stress, high blood pressure, and reduced concentration—all factors that compromise safety.
In fact, an estimated 6.1 million Canadians (56%) out of 11.0 million aged 19 to 79 were classified as « vulnerable » to noise exposure, as they were either not required to use hearing protection or only used it sometimes, rarely, or never.
How to avoid noise hazards
- Use low-noise machinery and tools: Whenever possible, opt for tools and machinery with noise-dampening features.
- Provide hearing protection: Equip workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as earplugs or earmuffs, especially when operating machinery that exceeds 85 decibels.
- Schedule noisy work at specific times: Limit high-noise activities to specific times. These times should be when fewer workers are onsite to reduce the number of people exposed.
- Conduct regular noise assessments: Regularly monitor noise to identify areas where noise exceeds safe levels. This data can guide decisions about equipment use, location, and necessary protective measures.
Noise hazards in construction sites are not just a nuisance; they are a significant health risk that needs careful management. By taking proactive steps, companies can protect workers’ hearing health and improve overall site safety
2. Electrical Hazards
Electrical hazards in construction are among the most dangerous threats. They can cause severe injuries, fires, or fatalities if improperly managed. From temporary wiring setups to exposed live wires, construction electrical hazards are prevalent on many sites. These can arise from poor installation, faulty equipment, or unintentional contact with overhead power lines.
How to avoid electrical hazards
- Conduct regular inspections: Inspect all electrical systems and equipment before use to ensure they are in proper working order.
- Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs): GFCIs help prevent electrical shock. They cut off power in case of a ground fault, making them a crucial safety measure.
- Keep equipment dry: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Make sure all equipment and tools are stored in dry areas. Avoid using electrical equipment in wet or damp conditions.
- Educate workers on safe practices: Train workers to identify and avoid construction electrical hazards, and to understand warning signs and wear necessary PPE.
- Mark overhead power lines clearly: Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines, and make sure that all workers know where these lines are.
With the right training, equipment, and protocols, you can effectively address construction electrical hazards and reduce the risk of accidents.
3. Dust Hazards
Dust is a common byproduct of construction activities, from cutting and drilling to grinding and demolishing. It’s often a fine and toxic mixture of hazardous materials and fibres that can pose significant health risks. These risks can include respiratory issues, eye irritation, and long-term conditions like silicosis.
Workers exposed to dust particles over prolonged periods can also develop conditions like asthma and allergies. Understanding these construction dust hazards is crucial, especially under WHMIS 2015. It establishes guidelines for identifying and communicating hazardous materials in the workplace.
How to avoid dust hazards in construction
- Use water suppression: Spraying water on materials that generate dust can help reduce airborne particles, making the site safer for workers.
- Implement local exhaust ventilation: By using ventilation systems that capture dust at the source, you can significantly reduce the amount of dust in the air.
- Provide respiratory protection: In areas with high dust concentrations, provide workers with appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) to prevent inhalation of harmful particles.
- Regularly clean the site: Frequently cleaning up dust and debris helps control dust hazards at construction sites, creating a healthier workspace for everyone.
- Monitor air quality: Using air quality monitors can help assess the levels of dust in the air, allowing site managers to take corrective measures before dust levels become hazardous.
By effectively managing construction dust hazards, companies can protect their workforce from potential respiratory issues, maintain site cleanliness, and adhere to health and safety standards.
Bonus Tips for Managing Construction Hazards on Your Site
Successfully managing hazards at construction sites requires more than just addressing individual risks. Here are additional tips for creating a comprehensive hazard management strategy:
- Conduct site-specific hazard assessments: Each site has unique risks, so start by assessing the specific hazards present and creating a tailored safety plan.
- Provide ongoing training: Regular health and safety training ensures workers are aware of new hazards. Updated protocols, and best practices maintain a safe environment.
- Use clear signage: Label high-risk areas with clear, visible signs to remind workers of potential dangers and the need for protective equipment.
- Set up safety meetings: Daily or weekly safety meetings allow teams to discuss ongoing hazards. Addressing safety concerns, and refreshing employee knowledge of site-specific risks should be the topics.
- Partner with health and safety experts: Consulting a professional safety organization like Citation Canada can help identify potential hazards, develop a site-specific safety plan, and stay updated on legislative changes.
Choose Citation Canada for Health and Safety Support
Ensuring construction site safety goes beyond basic measures; it involves meticulous planning, ongoing training, and professional guidance. By partnering with Citation Canada, you gain access to a variety of services, including health and safety software, health and safety content solutions, and health and safety support.
If you need risk assessments, staff training, safe working procedures or live health and safety advice, our experts are here to help. Keep your risk management current, and offer ongoing support for all your health and safety requirements.
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