Health and safety regulations change often; thus, many companies are in a constant scramble to stay up to date. Being up to date with the latest construction health and safety regulations need not be a headache. In this article, we explore how to stay updated, keeping your safety standards in the clear.
Consult a Professional
Business entities have a legal obligation to comply with the latest health and safety regulations. Failing to do this could lead to fines or severe legal penalties. Business owners and senior executives don’t have time to study the latest safety regulations personally. Should they add this daunting task to their already full schedules, they are likely to miss something important. For this reason, it is wise and practical to get professional help.
There are countless health and safety professionals available on a consultation basis. They follow and study regional, national, and international safety standards, staying abreast of the latest developments and trends. Who better to ensure that your company meets the requirements?
Alternatively, companies can use information from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a UK government agency that offers related resources to the public free of charge. Most countries have an equivalent resource pool available to the public.
Know the Rules
Health and safety regulations are strict, and non-compliance often has serious legal repercussions. For this reason, it is essential that executives and business owners understand the most pertinent rules and accompanying legal risks. In the construction industry, the main concerns relate to lifting equipment and water systems.
Another critical aspect, regardless of the relevant industry, is employee education. To this end, the central health and safety guidelines should be displayed in the workplace, either as a poster or in leaflet form.
Minimize Risks
The first line of defense in any potentially dangerous working environment is a sober risk assessment. Here, potential hazards and the likelihood of their occurrence are identified. After this, the risk is eliminated or minimized. Risk mitigation is an ongoing process – job site hazards should be re-evaluated regularly.
Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is protective gear and clothing issued to employees to protect them from potential harm. In the construction industry, steel-toed safety boots, hard hats, safety glasses, and high-wear gloves are generally standard PPE. When personnel is required to work at heights, harnesses and fall-arrest equipment are added to the list.
The specific PPE required for your personnel would depend on your job site and the accompanying risks. Always ensure that the PPE issued to your staff is in good condition and is adequate for the job at hand. A safe workplace is a more productive workplace.
