Tips for enhancing your HSE performance in the construction industry

Safety has always been a burning issue in the construction industry. Every year, too many worker’s lives have been a victim of safety hazards. The phrase “time is money” is quite valid to some extent in the construction sector. The project supervisors and the team of workers are constantly in a state of stress due to a restrained budget. The fear of not complying with the deadlines is so natural that they even neglect the safety guidelines on the site. Thus, resulting in the loss of many lives.

The repercussions of any mishap on-site can be severe. Large enterprises often tend to defray the expenses of such events. However, a site incident can cause a massive blow to the significant profits of large corporations. Some other ramifications include reduced employee morale, bad reputation, and loss of potential investors and stakeholders. On the other hand, startups might face financial attacks and pay hefty amounts of fines and insurance. Not to forget how these small companies also have to stand the emotional blow since the entire staff would mourn the loss of the colleague.

While it is true that some mistakes are inevitable in construction projects, companies may ensure necessary preventive measures to avoid such incidents. Making safety a part of the company policy isn’t only beneficial for employees. It also leads the company to unmatched growth. Healthy and safe employees are more likely to invest energy and effort and complete projects in the given period.

The following tips can guide companies to level up their HSE performance and improve the well-being of the workers:

1. Lead by Example

Instead of empty talk, the CEO and the upper management should practice safety culture in real earnest. Managers and executives may encourage other employees to pursue bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety online to play their part in protecting the co-workers. An online degree is a perfect choice for working individuals who wish to progress in their career trajectory and balance work life.

Companies should jot down safety as one of the core values that need to be taken seriously and promoted at all levels. That way, employees will feel motivated and pay extra attention to their health and safety practices.

2. Practice Effective Communication

Companies must review their communication methods and ensure if the workers are getting the messages right. A slight confusion or misunderstanding can cause negative impacts on the construction project. The senior management should hold regular meetings with the employees to discuss health and safety issues and concerns. Employees must participate in the conversations and voice out their points of view openly.

The main reason for accidents often boils down to the lack of knowledge and communication. One best practice is to give first aid training to every worker to know how to handle the circumstances in case of any emergencies. Alongside this, it is wise to hand over smartphones, walkie-talkies, and other gadgets to streamline communication.

3. Provide Training

As per HSE’s Labor Force Survey statistics, the ratio of workplace incidents is relatively higher in the construction sector than in any other occupation in Britain. No doubt, the stat speaks for itself. It is pretty evident how slip, trip, and fall issues are usual on construction sites. Heavy machinery, vehicles, wiring, and other tools also constitute a bustling site and threaten workers’ safety. Not to forget how harsh and stormy weather conditions and rough grounds are potential hazards.

Due to these factors, it is indispensable to provide safety training to the employees. Construction firms may prepare written documents for safety procedures. Continuous engagement will assist the workers in memorizing good safety practices.

4. Hold Responsible for Safety Violation

It is not only the responsibility of site managers and construction engineers to abide by the safety guidelines and regulations. Everyone present on the site should know the consequences of unhealthy and unsafe practices. It is imperative to realize that workers will be susceptible to hazards and team and crew members working with them if anything goes wrong.

Those who fail to comply with the rules and policies must be held accountable for their actions. Safety managers should encourage employees to raise their voices if they notice close calls, near misses, or precarious situations. Instead of feeling fear, they must speak out against the flaws. Also, employees must have the authority and power to put those operations at a halt that do not adhere to the safety precautions.

5. Leverage Latest Technologies

Construction firms should exploit the benefits of modern and cutting-edge technologies to decrease the likelihood of risks. The latest construction equipment goes a long way in keeping the on-site workers safe by detecting the intricacies beforehand. Robotics, artificial intelligence, and automated processes help bridge the gap between distance and time limitations, improve the efficiency of procedures, and ensure safety.

Employers should urge the workers to accompany themselves with wearable devices. The portable device allows the person to check blood pressure, heartbeat, and other metrics. Also, with the help of drones, construction companies can spot unsafe and hazardous areas well in advance. Apart from this, it’s high time companies incorporate augmented and virtual reality in the existing systems to attain a dominant position in the construction industry.

6. Maintain a Healthy Diet

While everybody needs a healthy and balanced diet; however, the nature of a construction worker’s job is quite different. These individuals spend a lot of time on sites under scorching heat and generally experience low energy levels and fatigue. Therefore, it necessitates them to make a nutritional diet a part of their plan.

Final Words

Every business has a legal requirement to make the health and safety of workers its priority. When it comes to the construction industry, the legal obligations get even more stringent. There isn’t any failsafe method that can entirely diminish the ratio of workplace accidents to zero. However, continuous education can help ingrain the employee’s mindset about the safety culture and potential hazards. With the tips mentioned above, companies can dwindle the chances of risks and meet the safety standards. Construction firms that provide incentives and appreciate the employee’s safety practices can reap the benefits in the long run and pave the way to success.