There are many ways to effectively tackle the concept of health and safety on construction sites. Common practices include the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and recognising the dangers associated with heavy machinery. However, the generally fast-paced nature of these locations dictates that hygiene needs to play an equally important role. This particularly the case when referring to the practices carried out by staff members. It is therefore important to take a look at five takeaway points in regards to health and hygiene in construction operations. Adopting these procedures will dramatically reduce the chances of a potentially serious accident occurring.
The Presence of Boot Wash Stations
The notion of health and hygiene in construction sites should always take into account the presence of cross-contamination between different areas. One of the ways in which management can mitigate the transmission of hazardous substances between two or more location is to deploy boot wash stations at specific locations. Not only will this enhance levels of on-site hygiene, but it also reduces the presence of slippery surfaces and the potential for slips and falls. Another takeaway benefit is that chemicals and substances that might otherwise cause harm will not inadvertently be allowed to leave the construction site in question.
Addressing Staff Safety at Work with Reliable Sewage Storage Solutions
Another risk posed to staff safety at work involves the presence of hazardous organic waste in the form of sewage. Gastroenteritis, hepatitis A and even cholera can all be transmitted if the proper steps are not taken. On-site sewage storage tanks provide viable solutions which can be used to store this type of waste until it can be disposed of properly. It is also important to mention that the storage tanks provided by Cross Plant Hire have been manufactured from robust materials and are available in a number of different capacities (depending upon how many employees need to be serviced). As workers will not come into contact with this type of biological waste, the chances of diseases being transmitted while on the job site are dramatically reduced.
Access to Clean and Potable Water
Whether referring to drinking water or sanitary washing requirements, employees always need to be provided with access to clean water. Health and hygiene in construction likewise involves the ability to employ methods which are able to separate potable water from contaminated liquids that would otherwise cause harm. The good news is that Cross Plant Hire supplies reinforced tanks that are capable of holding up to 200 gallons. Workers can have immediate access when required; important when washing up before eating or leaving the site itself. This also reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
The Inclusion of Dust Suppression Systems
Dust is another topic which needs to be covered when addressing modern health and safety on construction sites. Airborne particulate matter can pose a number of surprising risks; particularly when workers are exposed to these materials on a regular basis. Respiratory infections and chronic health problems such as COPD are two common examples. Dust can be generated by the operation of certain types of equipment, during demolition projects or due to the presence of machineries such as heavy loaders and excavators. While many workers will overlook the presence of dust, the fact of the matter is that long-term exposure can lead to potentially serious health issues. This is why the presence of sprinkler head systems and suppression fans are often required on construction sites. This equipment will lower levels of airborne dust and provide employees with a safe working environment.
Daily Techniques to Ensure a Clear Construction Site
Addressing health and hygiene in construction also involves adopting regular practices in order to ensure that the associated risks are kept to a minimum. Some professional suggestions include:
- - Cleaning the immediate area after major tasks have been completed.
- - Preventing the accumulation of hazardous, caustic or flammable materials.
- - Placing warning placards and signs in the appropriate locations.
- - Carrying out regular risk assessments in order to determine any additional hazards which may be present.
- - Ensuring that all waste is disposed of in the proper manner and in accordance with governmental regulations.
Management should also stress employee accountability, as this will provide a proactive means to identify any health and safety issues that may arise over time. Problems which are immediately reported will be much less likely to pose serious threats.
Promoting on-site health and safety represents a top priority within the construction industry. Cross Plant Hire is capable of offering a range of innovative solutions intended to address the needs of the modern workforce.
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