Construction sites are one of the most hazardous environments in the professional world. There’s heavy machinery, moving vehicles, power tools, as well as environmental factors such as loud noise and potentially poor air quality. As such, construction sites are some of the most thoroughly risk-assessed and managed work environments in any industry. Safety on such work sites is taken very seriously and policies all stem from a few key fundamentals – which we explore in more detail below.

Restricted access and perimeter security

Access to construction sites needs to be strictly controlled to ensure that no unauthorised person gains access to the worksite. This can put both a member of the public and construction workers in danger, hence why many sites have a perimeter gate and manned barrier. Controlling who is present onsite is key to being able to manage the risk factors and also help prepare for contingencies and emergencies.

Personal protective equipment

One element of a construction site that should be present, no matter how big or small the project, is personal protective equipment (PPE). This is absolutely necessary to mitigate health and safety risks for staff and visitors alike. Keeping PPE supplies stocked to an adequate level is a vital step in site management and there are many suppliers such as RS that provide hand protection and other safety equipment. Safety hats, glasses, boots and ear protection are perhaps the most commonly seen across a range of construction projects.

Communication

Communication is a significant factor in site safety because it plays a big part in mitigating health and safety risks. Its an important process with regard to presenting safety expectations and policies from the top-down, but also for identifying and reporting issues from the bottom-up. Moreover, communication between construction workers, especially in and around heavy machinery or vehicles, is key to avoid mistakes or accidents from occurring.

Safety procedures and signage

Managing risk on a worksite is largely manifested in policies and procedures that keep staff and visitors out of harm’s way. Safety signage is one part of this – highlighting hazardous elements and reminding everyone about the need for PPE or no mobile phones, for example. Safety signage should be adhered to at all times and everyone is accountable for ensuring that their colleagues are following procedure. The emergency procedure should be clear to follow and known by all staff, so an effective response can be organised.

These are just some of the fundamental safety considerations that are commonplace on construction sites in the UK. There are many more specific factors and policies that will change depending on the associated risks with each project, which are essential to make sure that everyone on site remains safe and secure.