Every year, 34% of all deaths on construction sites are attributable to falls, more than any other category. And whenever this happens, it is a tragedy for everyone involved, from owners to families of the deceased. However, construction insurance can protect against liability claims. Coverage compensates victims (if injured) or their next of kin if they die, letting you keep more money in your pocket.
Of course, as a company manager or business owner, your goal is to reduce slips, trips and falls on your construction site as much as possible. You want to keep it safe for everyone.
But how can you do that effectively? Let’s find out.
Ensure Workers Wear Full Body Harnesses While Working Above Six Feet
The first (and most obvious) safety precaution is to get workers to wear full-body harnesses when working over six feet (as recommended by the OHSA). Reins should connect to an anchor point using tough nylon cords and feature deceleration devices that break falls if workers plummet to the ground.
Guard Or Cover Holes, Opening, And Skylights
You also want to take precautions around any building features workers could fall through, such as holes, openings, and skylights as a construction site manager. Covering them with safe equipment is the best option and eliminates the possibility of tumbles.
If you can’t do that, use guardrail systems to protect trips. Even if workers slip, they can grab onto bars instead of falling into a gap.
Mark Hazardous Areas
At the same time, mark hazardous areas to make them more conspicuous for workers. Bright paint, warning signs, stickers, or additional lighting can help reduce risk. Site managers should communicate these known hazards to workers and explain their danger. Staff should understand the reasons for the safety precautions.
Develop A Training Plan
You should also develop a training plan alongside any physical measures you implement to improve safety. Teaching employees about the risks they face helps them understand how to conduct themselves on-site safely.
Training plans should include:
- Talking about how the job will be done
- How to use safety equipment
- The essential safety equipment for specific types of works
- Mitigation strategies (such as covering skylights and leading edges)
- The value of fall prevention or mitigation systems
Keep Sites Clean And Organized
Finally, construction managers can reduce the risk of falls on construction sites by keeping them clean and clutter-free. Removing debris from walkways and clearing up spills promptly can protect workers and stop them from slipping or tripping over things.
Be particularly mindful of power cords for machine tools. These are a significant hazard because workers can’t always correct themselves when they feel like they are about to fall.
Once you start implementing these methods, you’ll notice the culture of your staff changes. Focusing on safety reduces risk-taking and subsequent claims against you while improving worker well-being.
The Best Rates on Contractor Insurance
Contact American Insuring Group for the best rates on contractor and workers’ compensation insurance. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the best rates on quality insurance for contractors, construction companies, and builders. Contact us online or call (610) 775-3848 today!
