As the seasons change and we transition into fall, jobs in construction bring with them unique challenges, especially when it comes to safety. One of the biggest risks on any construction site is the possibility of slips, trips, and falls. “Within the private construction industry, nonfatal workplace falls, slips, and trips that required at least one day away from work occurred at an annualized rate of 31.5 per 10,000 full-time workers in the 2-year 2021–2022 period. The rate across all private industry was 22.6,” says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These incidents are among the most common causes of injuries in the industry, but the good news is that they are largely preventable. To keep our teams safe at Kilgore Companies, we need to focus on practical strategies that can make a difference, ensuring that safety remains a priority at all times.
Understanding the Risks: Why Slips, Trips, and Falls Happen
Slips, trips, and falls can happen for a variety of reasons, and the onset of fall weather introduces additional factors like wet or slippery surfaces, fallen leaves, and poor visibility due to shorter days. Whether it’s due to uneven ground, misplaced tools, or inadequate lighting, we must be aware of these hazards to reduce the likelihood of injury.
On construction sites, materials and equipment are often scattered around, increasing the chances of trips. Wet surfaces from rain or frost can lead to slips, while elevated work environments introduce the risk of falls. By understanding these risks, we can better prepare our teams to handle them and prevent accidents before they happen.
Maintaining a Clean and Organized Worksite
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce the risk of slips and trips is to keep our worksites clean and organized. It might seem basic, but a clutter-free environment can reduce accidents. Tools, materials, and debris should always be properly stored and disposed of to prevent hazards from piling up.
In addition to regular clean-up, it’s important to mark uneven areas and make sure that walkways are clear. This includes not just the main pathways but any areas where workers might need to move or carry equipment. In jobs in construction, where the workspace is constantly changing, we must stay on top of worksite conditions.
The Importance of Proper Footwear
Footwear plays an important role in preventing slips and trips. Workers should have appropriate boots that offer good traction, especially during fall when wet and muddy conditions are more frequent. Boots should also be sturdy enough to protect against sharp objects and heavy materials, while still allowing for flexibility and comfort. “Footwear is your first line of defense against the wear and tear of an active lifelong lifestyle. Proper footwear provides not only protection but helps you maintain your balance and posture and prevent falls,” says Caruso.
Ladder and Scaffold Safety
Falls from heights are a risk on construction sites, and proper ladder and scaffold use is essential in preventing them. Before using any ladder or scaffold, it’s important to inspect it for stability and make sure that it’s set up correctly on firm ground. Using the right ladder for the job is equally important—shortcuts here can lead to serious injuries.
When working on scaffolds, workers should always wear proper fall protection equipment, including harnesses when necessary. While it may take some extra time to set up this equipment, it’s time well spent. We should never prioritize speed over safety, especially when working at heights.
Training and Communication
Safety training should be a regular part of any job in construction, particularly when it comes to preventing slips, trips, and falls. Workers need to understand the risks they face and know how to avoid them. This includes not just how to use equipment correctly, but also how to recognize potential hazards and address them.
Communication is equally important. We need to foster an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting hazards and asking for help when they’re unsure about safety measures. Having regular safety briefings, where the team can discuss potential hazards and solutions, helps keep everyone on the same page and reinforces the importance of safety.
Fall Protection Equipment
Beyond ladders and scaffolds, fall protection equipment is a big aspect of preventing falls from any height. Harnesses, guardrails, and netting are just a few examples of equipment that can provide an extra layer of protection. The key is to make sure this equipment is used consistently and correctly.
Fall protection isn’t just about equipment; it’s about knowing when and how to use it. Workers should be trained not only in using fall protection gear but also in recognizing situations where it’s required. Whether we’re working on roofs, scaffolds, or even a few feet off the ground, fall protection can make the difference between a close call and a serious injury.
Weather-Related Precautions
With fall comes unpredictable weather, which can increase the risks on a construction site. Rain, frost, and even early snow can make surfaces more slippery, while wind can create additional hazards when working at heights. Staying aware of the weather forecast and adjusting our work plans accordingly can help mitigate these risks.
On days when conditions are particularly hazardous, we might need to reschedule certain tasks or take additional precautions. For example, it may be necessary to secure materials more thoroughly to prevent them from blowing over or to create extra traction on walkways.
Lighting and Visibility
As the days get shorter, proper lighting becomes even more important. Poor visibility can lead to slips, trips, and falls, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when natural light is limited. Temporary lighting solutions, like floodlights, should be set up in areas where workers are most active, and these lights must be maintained and kept free from obstruction.
Reflective gear is another important aspect of keeping workers visible on the job. This is especially true for those working near heavy machinery or in areas with limited space.
The Role of Leadership in Safety
Safety is everyone’s responsibility, but leadership plays a key role in setting the tone. Supervisors and managers must lead by example, making safety a priority on every job. This includes enforcing safety regulations, providing necessary equipment, and ensuring that everyone is properly trained. When leadership takes safety seriously, it sets the standard for the entire team. By fostering a culture of safety, we can reduce the risks associated with jobs in construction and help prevent the slips, trips, and falls that can so easily happen. This fall, let’s commit to making our worksites safer so that everyone returns home healthy at the end of the day. Safety is an ongoing effort, and it benefits us all. To learn more about Kilgore Companies, check out our website.