As construction companies pour more resources into safety programs and technology, the threat of industry hazards is starting to subside. The national construction injury rate has reached its lowest level in 12 years. Plus, senior leaders are recognizing that top-earning contractors heavily invest in safety culture.
However, the mission to reach zero incidents has only begun. Despite improvements, construction still accounts for nearly 1 in 5 workplace fatalities across industries.
Safety standards are continuing to evolve, but skilled trades workers can take proactive steps to quickly reduce risks for themselves and their crews. Here are six ways you can advocate for construction site safety and maximize personal protection on the job.
1. Wear and Maintain Proper Safety Gear
Did you know a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) triples your injury risk and contributes to the majority of falls? OSHA has strict safety gear standards for a reason: Compliance significantly reduces accidents and the severity of injuries if they do occur.
Most managers know to provide properly sized, OSHA-required construction PPE like hard hats and safety goggles. Whether or not wearing it is enforced, tradespeople can do their part by consistently utilizing PPE, leading by example to encourage their peers.
To ensure your safety equipment stays effective, you can also:
- Frequently clean your PPE to ensure it is free of debris, chemicals, and other hazardous materials.
- Safely store gear away from direct sunlight and in a dry place.
- Regularly inspect PPE to proactively identify signs of wear and tear, requesting a replacement when degradation occurs.
2. Stay Hydrated on the Job
Not all construction site safety incidents occur due to physical injuries. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke can quickly occur when performing strenuous tasks, especially in extreme heat. That’s why staying hydrated, which can regulate your body temperature and ease physical strain, is critical to your well-being. The CDC recommends drinking a cup of water every 15-20 minutes when working in heat, as well as hydrating before and after work.
Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion can also help you protect yourself and your team.
If you or your crew member experience these signs, move to a cool area, loosen your clothing, and drink plenty of water until they subside. Call 911 and report to a supervisor if symptoms worsen—especially if confusion or loss of consciousness occur.
3. Follow All Onsite Protocols
Are you familiar with all the safety protocols related to your job? Adhere to them without any shortcuts every time you perform a task. While you may be capable of flying through construction tasks, taking a precise step-by-step approach—especially when operating machinery—reduces the chances of injury.
Follow all equipment maintenance and testing requirements to further prevent accidents caused by malfunctions or failures. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your company’s emergency response plans to ensure you’re prepared if things do go wrong.
4. Keep an Eye Out for Potential Safety Hazards
Maintaining vigilance on a construction site is essential to ensure a safe working environment. Potential hazards, from loose wires to unstable scaffolding and obstructed pathways, can arise even with frequent inspections. Proactively identifying and reporting issues can create a safer space for everyone onsite.
Staying alert means eliminating distractions. Avoid using cellphones while performing construction tasks and take frequent breaks to maintain mental clarity.
5. Maintain a Tidy Work Area
Cluttered spaces can be the culprit behind trips, falls, and cuts. Properly storing and organizing tools and materials can reduce hazards, all while ensuring they’re easy to find when needed.
Throughout your workday, regularly clean up debris like sawdust and scraps. Plus, take care of spills as soon as they occur, following waste disposal protocol for flammable or hazardous materials to a T. A tidy site reflects professionalism and a commitment to safety, benefiting everyone involved.
6. Work with a Safety-First Staffing Agency
Choosing a safety-first staffing agency can be a smart move for tradespeople who want to prioritize their well-being at work. Staffing firms like Skinner—a 2024 Texas Mutual Platinum Safety Award winner—provide high-quality PPE, up-to-date safety training, and continuing education to keep you protected before you start your job.
Our agency holds clients (your potential employers) to high safety standards, too. We stay in the know about your approved tasks and their emergency procedures. If an injury or illness does occur, collaborate with clients to record the incident, improve safety programs, and ensure you get the care you deserve. Plus, we always have your back if your employer isn't fulfilling their safety responsibilities—just let us know when to step in.
Work with a North Texas staffing agency committed to your construction site safety. Contact Skinner to find a job opportunity that gives you peace of mind.
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