Category Archives: Head Protection

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Protective Clothing

SAFETY OF MARITIME WORKERS: DO YOU KNOW YOUR RIGHTS? (GUEST POST)

Written by Saam Banai.

Every industry has workplace hazards, although some industries are more hazardous than others. Maritime occupations such as crab fishing rank as some of the most dangerous in existence. This is due to the unique variety of threats faced at sea and limited medical facilities. To exacerbate matters, receiving compensation for an injury at sea can be difficult.

Common Threats at Sea

Maritime workers face a variety of threats at sea, the least of which are the mundane threats faced by workers in any industry. Slip and fall accidents, injuries from overexertion, and even intentional acts caused by coworkers are all hazards while at sea. Due to the physically intensive nature of work at sea and the presence of excessive moisture, these ordinary threats become magnified for sailors.

Work at sea also entails threats unique to the ocean. The ship itself is one potential threat. Moving nets can snag workers, causing falls, muscle strains, broken bones, or even ejection over the side of the ship. Other moving equipment can cause blunt force trauma of any severity, including death. Unlike most working environments, ships are also at risk of sinking, thereby exposing workers to frigid waters and potentially harsh waves.

Exposure to severe weather is another hazard at sea. Severe winds can send equipment flying into workers or even send the workers overboard. Large waves can destabilize the employee’s footing, causing falls. In freezing temperatures, accumulated ice that becomes dislodged from the ship can also become a flying weapon.

Employer Duties and Employee Recourse for Injuries at Sea

The nature of an employer’s duty to its employees varies depending upon the nature of the vessel. The United States Coast Guard regulates fishing vessels while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, otherwise known as OSHA, regulates the remainder of the industry and shipyards.  Employers regulated by OSHA are expected to provide employees with certain equipment, such as helmets and fall restraints, otherwise, our maritime injury lawyer tells us, they might be liable for negligence. Employers not regulated by OSHA will have less restrictive requirements.

The United States has a sophisticated workers’ compensation and tort system that will remedy most complaints. The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 extended this system to sailors, permitting them to bring actions for negligence and other traditional torts against the owner of the ship, the captain, or other individuals who committed the tortious acts. The action may be filed in state or federal court like any other tort action.

Actions for negligence require a showing that the actor breached a duty of care. The standard duty of care is to act reasonably. If the injured party is injured as a result of another party failing to act reasonably, then the injured party may recover for damages like any other plaintiff. Failing to comply with regulations may also constitute a breach of the duty. The defense will also contest the other elements of negligence, such as causation and injury.

In practice, recovering for injuries suffered at work while at sea can be more complicated. Vessels are routinely registered out of different countries and assigned for different purposes. There are also certain limitations as to what constitutes a sailor under the Merchant Marine Act. Anyone injured at sea should contact an attorney specializing in admiralty law. An attorney can give legal advice to injured plaintiffs and help them understand their options for recovery, if any. 

Saam Banai is a freelance writer, editor, and certified sailor.  He contributes this article for Doyle Raizner LLP, trial lawyers experienced in maritime law. Having a maritime injury lawyer on your side in the event of a work accident at sea might mean the difference between receiving compensation or not receiving compensation.

Thank you, Saam, for another informative article. I didn’t know that fishing vessels were regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard rather than OSHA.  It would seem that these industries would provide the proper safety supplies for their workers, because it is such a dangerous occupation.

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Weather Protection

SAFETY MEASURES WHILE CONSTRUCTING HOMES (GUEST POST)

Another great article sent by Grace Beckett. 

Most homeowners rely on the contractor to take responsibility for any mishap that may happen to a laborer.  But the fact is that the homeowners are equally responsible in case of any untoward circumstances that occur during construction. Mishaps can happen due to negligence on the part of the labour or faulty procedures. 

The homeowner will be asked to pay necessary compensation or he may have to confront legal authority in case of any accident caused to the labour due to his negligence. Even fatal incidents are possible, when safety measures are not adopted in construction sites. For smooth completion of the construction process, the homeowner and labour must adopt certain best practices, some of which are listed below: 

Safety tips for labours and homeowners  

When constructing a basement, place supporting planks in the portion that is excavated. The planks prevent the sides from collapsing into slushy, soft soil. Even in partially-built areas, you should provide protection at excavated areas by installing signboards. You could also make lighting arrangements to prevent passersby from falling into pits.

Before cement is laid, the homeowner should make sure that the contractor is not using old, decayed construction material. Ant-bitten planks, which cannot take up much load, can be the cause of construction mishaps. 

When old buildings are brought down, the contractor may not always incorporate safety measures during the dismantling operation. So, the owner should also prevent the labour from moving near the construction area. Barricades can be erected to keep away trespassers as well. 

The tank built for water storage should be shallow to avoid fatal incidents such as children falling into it. You could instead increase the breadth and length of the tank to store a greater volume of water. The tank should also be provided with steps. 

From the point of view of safety, the homeowner should use electrical wires encased in plastic pipes or sticks of bamboo. In some cases, the steel bars on roofs are bent and touch the power lines passing close to the construction area; this may lead to accidents which can happen when these current-carrying electric wires are touched. 

Common-sense tips for labours and homeowners 

Ban alcohol and drugs: Prohibit the use of drugs or alcohol on the construction site as they give room for injuries due to impaired judgment. As it is very important that you as well as the labour have a clear focus on the task at hand, never allow drugs or alcohol to cloud your thoughts. 

Avoid getting angry: Anger distracts you from your purpose and while you’re in a construction site, you are more likely to hurt yourself. Don’t lose your focus while monitoring tasks on the site. 

Use of protective gear: Protective gear includes everything from sunscreens to sturdy safety helmets. Wear a hat or jacket to get protection from heat and cold. Distribute protective goggles and gloves to labours and instruct them to use them when working with power tools. Make sure you as well as the labour wear strong soled shoes as a form of protection against injuries.
Using correct tools: Make sure that the right tool is used for the task. When a tool is used for a task for which it is not designed, it leads to injuries. 

Grace is associated with SHS Ltd, a UK based company that is a balustrade supplier and a steel designing and manufacturing firm.

 

 

 

 

 

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection

DECEMBER IS SAFE TOYS AND GIFTS AWARENESS MONTH

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For several years, Prevent Blindness America has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month.  For parents, grandparents and others shopping for children, there are many things to consider about the choices they make.  Children have been seen in emergency rooms due to choking, eye injuries, or even poisoning.  Most of this was caused by injuries due to poorly made items and misuse of toys. 

In a 2010 report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission,  it was estimated that hospital emergency rooms treated 251,700 toy-related injuries throughout the U.S.  Of that number, 72 percent of injuries were to those less than 15 years of age.  They also found that 46 percent of the 251,700 ER-treated injuries occurred to the head and face area.  Lacerations, abrasions, and contusions made up most of the injuries.

There are two things to keep in mind when shopping for toys:

(1)   Keep the age of the child in mind when purchasing gifts and consider their maturity level.  Read the age recommendations and any warnings on the packaging, and abide by them.

(2)   Select toys that are well constructed and meet the American society for testing and Materials’ (ASTM) approval.  You will see a label on the package if the item meets these standards. 

Prevent Blindness asks you to make these recommendations to family members and friends about gifts that you feel are appropriate for your child, and be diligent about inspecting the gifts before the child plays with them.  This may seem a little heartless at Christmas, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Choose toys that are a developmental tool as well as a recreational activity for children, not to cause harm.  Children should be supervised at all times, and instructed on the proper use of the toy.  Labels are the best way to decide whether a toy or other item is right for a child.  Most new toys have appropriate age labels and these should be followed.  Stuffed items should be machine washable, fabric items should be non-flammable and/or flame resistant, and art supplies should read non-toxic.  Crayons and paints should say ASTM D-4236 on the package, ( evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials).  Outdoor recreational items such as skateboards or baseballs should be accompanied by the appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and gloves.  BB Guns should be given to only those of the proper age and maturity to handle them safely, and comfortable safety goggles should be included. 

Keep these tips in mind throughout the year, as children are given toys more often than just at Christmas.  It’s just a good time to emphasize that we want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season! 

Source: PBA

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection

TEN PLUMBING SAFETY TIPS (GUEST POST)

Submitted by Jim Klossner 

Many people are choosing to DIY when repairs need to be done in their home. With the increase in home handymen, or handywomen, comes more risk because non-professional plumbers naturally will not think about some of the safety precautions. It is critical to take safety steps to ensure that you get the job done unscathed, as well as to make sure that the job is done correctly. 

Be Mindful of Electricity

Since plumbing usually does not involve electricity, many people do not think to turn off the electricity. Keep in mind that water and electricity do not mix. This is especially important if you are doing something near a power source. 

Do Not Panic

If something goes wrong, like a pipe bursting, do not panic. You need to take the steps to correct the issue as quickly as possible and panic will prevent this. Take a little time before even starting the task to think about some things that could go wrong and then make a few rough strategies to fix these. 

Make Sure Your Eyes are Protected

When you are cutting into things and have the risk of water spraying everywhere, it is important that your eyes are protected. There is always the risk of things flying at your face and when you are wearing protective goggles you can pretty much eliminate the risk of eye damage. 

Protect Your Ears

Plumbing work can get loud and the ears can become damaged with too much loud noise. Things like power saws and other equipment can become loud and ear damage can occur without you even noticing it.  Wearing earplugs will help protect your hearing.

Protect Your Lungs

When doing plumbing work, you are sure to run into some type of dust and/or chemical fumes. If chemicals are being used, a respirator is something you may want to consider. If you will only run into dust, then a basic face mask is enough to prevent breathing in the dust. 

Make Sure You Have the Right Tools

Using the wrong tools can result in injury. For example, if you need a chisel, use a chisel and not a screwdriver. The screwdriver could slip when you are hammering, resulting in slamming the hammer on your hand. The wrong tools could also damage the thing you are working on, causing more issues and costing you more money. 

Have Emergency Numbers and a Way to Call Them Handy

Accidents happen and you need to be prepared to get help if necessary. Numbers like poison control should be handy, as well as utility company numbers. Keep a phone nearby just in case something happens and you need to call quickly. 

Practice Before Doing

Before you start the actual job, get used to the tools you will need to use so that you are confident in using them. You do not want to just learn that new saw when it is time to get work done as this adds more pressure which can lead to mistakes. 

Protect Your Hands

Chemicals, tools and hot water are all potential hazards to your hands. Be sure to wear gloves that are appropriate to what you might run into. For example, gloves that protect against chemicals generally differ than gloves that can protect hands from hot water. If it also a good idea to wear long pants, long sleeves and shoes to protect all of your skin. 

Know Your Plumbing

It is important to know things like the type of pipes used in your home, where the on/off valves are and where the pipes are behind the walls so that you can quickly access what you need. You also want to be able to quickly get to things if something were to go wrong. 

About the Author: Jim Klossner has been writing about plumbing and HVAC solutions for companies like John J Cahill, Inc. for nearly ten years. When he’s not writing, you can find Jim teaching safety courses at his local community center.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, High Visibility Safety

LOOKING FOR A DIFFERENT PRESENT FOR THAT “HARD-TO-BUY FOR” SOMEONE?

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Look no further, friends, for quality safety products than Texas America Safety Company.

No more shopping in malls, crowded stores, or searching the “net”, when you can catch some useful things that your friends or family will enjoy having.  Giving the gift of safety means you really care. 

For the hard-working lady, we have all kinds of pink protective gear, ranging from pink hardhats to pink headsets.  Who says Mechanix is just for men?  Our pink Mechanix gloves are perfect fits for your favorite girl, to protect those delicate hands!  There are also some pink safety glasses that would complete the look. 

If you know someone who has hobbies, such as woodworking, or yardwork, goggles are a must!  T.A.S.C.O. has all types of goggles that will keep the eyes safe from flying particles, or sawdust.  Goggles are also needed for those who need exceptional eye protection at work. 

For your friends who like to ride bicycles or motorcycles, goggles also come in handy, as well as high visibility vests or high visibility decals that warn motorists to move aside and let them by! 

Anyone who works in manufacturing, construction, or other heavy duty-type work needs a good hardhat.  Ranging from team hardhats, (NCAA, NFL, MLB, NHL, NASCAR) to patriotic hardhats, or Western-style hardhats, and, if the company allows them to have their own personal hardhat, this is an excellent way to ensure compliance.  It’s fun to show your personality and team spirit with the just-right selection, at a very sensible price. 

Another great gift is a set of brim LED lights that clip onto a hardhat or baseball cap.  This would be an excellent way to be seen while riding after sunset.  For do-it-yourself tree trimmers, a chainsaw safety kit would be an excellent gift, offering a safe cutting.  (Always keep a first aid kit on standby, just in case!)

You may want to check out our huge selection of safety glasses.  Many styles don’t have the old “safety glass” look – they are stylish , and best of all,  priced lower than most sunglass stores.  The good thing about it is, they not only look cool, but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. 

A nice pair of leather gloves would be a welcome gift.  We have all types to choose from.

What person couldn’t use a Personal First Aid pouch to keep in their car?  Flashlights are also a must-have for your car.  There are so many things to select that we invite you to check out our website, www.tasco-safety.com.   We have linked some of our suggestions to make your shopping easier.   Place your order early for a timely arrival. 

Last but not least, if you call Texas America Safety Company (1-800-646-5346)  to place an order between now and Christmas, you will receive “Free Shipping”!  Just be sure to mention this to our customer service personnel, so you can get that savings. 

Have a safe and very happy holiday season.

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing

BE ON THE WATCH FOR WINTER STORMS!

Do you know the difference between Winter Storm Watch, Winter Storm Warnings, and Winter Weather Advisories?  Chances are, most of us don’t; only those who must be out in those conditions to work or get to work pay attention to the forecast.  If you don’t understand, please read on: 

WATCHES:  According to weather professionals, there is a 50% chance that severe winter weather will materialize:

  •       Winter Storm Watch:  Possibility of severe life-threatening winter weather conditions that include: heavy ice and/or near-blizzard conditions, or heavy snow. 
  •       Blizzard Watch:  Blizzard conditions may happen.
  •       Lake-Effect Snow Watch:  Heavy lake effect snow likely.
  •       Wind Chill Watch:  Potential of wind chills of -25°F or less, causing risk of hypothermia and rapid frostbite. 

WARNING:

  •       Winter Storm Warning:  Winter weather is expected to cause life-threatening public impact from winter hazards that include ice, near blizzard conditions, heavy snow, drifting snow and dangerous wind chills.
  •       Heavy Snow Warning:  When 7 inches or more of snow is expected in 12 hours or less, or 9 inches or more is expected in 24 hours or less. 
  •       Ice Storm Warning:  Issued for ½ inch or more of ice accumulation, which can cause damage to trees and power lines. 
  •       Blizzard Warning:  When blizzard conditions are about to happen or expected in the next 12 to 24 hours.  These include frequent gusts of or above 35 mph and falling, blowing and drifting of snow, reducing visibility to ¼ mile.
  •       Lake-Effect Snow Warning:  Potential of 7 inches or more of lake effect snow.
  •       Wind Chill Warning: Issued when the wind chill is expected to be -25°F or less.  In less than 10 minutes,  frostbite can happen.

ADVISORIES:

  •       Winter Weather Advisory: Hazardous combination of ice and snow that exceeds warning criteria.  These may be significant and/or life-threatening if proper precautions are disregarded.
  •       Snow Advisory: When forecasters are confident that the entire event will be snow and an average of 4-6 inches of snow is expected in 12 hours or less.
  •       Freezing Rain Advisory: These advisories are issued only when there is a high probability that the whole event will be freezing rain, resulting in very slippery roads.
  •       Snow and Blowing Wind Advisory:  Prediction of frequent gusts or sustained wind of 25 to 34 mph, accompanied by falling and blowing snow, which can occasionally reduce visibility to ¼ mile or less for three hours or more.
  •       Wind Chill Advisory: Given for wind chills of -15°F to -24°F.  

Brrrrrr!  For those of you who must work in these conditions, there are all types of warm weather gear you can layer to be more comfortable!  From winter liners for wearing  under hardhats or hoodies, tube style helmet liners, rainsuits, raincoats, cold weather work gloves, to Kevlar fiber heat sleeves that furnish insulation, check out Texas America Safety Company!  We are your winter warmth headquarters!

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

VFW ASKS US TO “CELEBRATE OUR VETERANS ON THEIR DAY”

VFW invites all Americans to celebrate the service of our nation’s heroes

“On Veterans Day we honor every man and woman who has proudly worn the uniform of the United States military. We celebrate all those who have bravely defended our nation from the forces of evil and tyranny, and helped free countries around the world from the grips of despair. 

This Veterans Day weekend, patriotic Americans will gather to remember the countless sacrifices our veterans have made. As we honor them, we should also reflect on the price paid for our victories, as well as the many liberties we enjoy today because of the selflessness of our nation’s heroes.  

Our veterans cherish the values and virtues upon which our nation was founded, and generations have bravely answered the call to preserve them. We owe them so much, and we must not forget the thousands who are deployed all over the world defending our freedoms at this very moment. We pray for their safe return, and the VFW stands ready to support their families while they are away.  

Over the course of America’s history, it has been those who have worn the uniform, those who have tenaciously defended our way of life, who we will be forever grateful to: America’s proud Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Coastguardsmen, and National Guardsmen.  Today and every day, we thank you for your service. ”

This year, Veterans Day, as designated, will be observed on November 11th.  Because the date falls on a Sunday, persons will also observe the holiday on Monday, November 12.

Listening to friends and family who  served in World War II, Korea, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, Iraq and/or Afghanistan bring us closer to the realities of war.  Many of these men and women lived through such terror we cannot imagine what they faced on a daily basis.  It continues, and our prayers and support should be given to them every day of the year.  If you know a veteran, please say “Thank You for your service to our country”!  Hopefully, someday, somehow, we will be at peace with the world.  Let’s make that our goal.

The employees of Texas America Safety Company and Blog4Safety are very grateful for your service, past and present. 

 

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

SAFETY FIRST – HOW TO MAKE SURE YOU WILL NOT GET INJURIES WHILE EXERCISING (GUEST POST)

Regular exercise has many health benefits. Exercise can help you lose weight and reduce the risk of developing diseases, such as type II diabetes and hypertension. However, you should take precaution while exercising to avoid getting injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of Americans who receive treatment for exercise related injuries stands at 10,000 every day. Common injuries related to exercising include abrasions, sprains, broken bones, and dislocated joints. Figures published by the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPCS) show that the cost of treating these injuries tops $49 billion annually. To avoid adding to this enormous health bill, follow these tips while exercising. 

Warm up 

Many people overlook the importance of warming up first. This prepares your body and muscles to handle stresses related to working out. Your exercise build up should start with light cardiovascular exercises such as brisk walking or light jogging. This stimulates muscle nerves to function more efficiently. It also enhances the delivery of oxygen through increased blood flow to the muscles. As a result, muscles and ligaments move more freely. 

Use the Right Equipment and Attire 

When it comes to exercise, you should only use the right equipment. If you exercise at home, find a good elliptical trainer to fits your needs. It is best to buy equipment endorsed by reputable sports organizations and bodies. Besides equipment, you should have the right exercise gear and clothing. For example, you need shin guards, helmet, and gloves to ride your dirt bike outdoors. In addition, examine and check the equipment before beginning your exercise. This is to ensure that the equipment does not have faulty parts. 

Do not Over Exercise 

This may seem like a no brainer but many injuries result from over working certain body parts while exercising. CDC statistics show that high school athletes suffer more than two million injuries every year. If you have not been exercising in the past, start your daily exercises slowly and build up momentum slowly. For repetitive exercises, take adequate rests in between workouts. This will give your muscles time to recover and avoid injuries. 

Listen to Your Body 

Learn to listen to your body and take a rest when your body becomes tired. If an injury occurs, do not try to tough it out or push your body too hard. Instead, stop your exercises and apply first aid to the injured body part. You should seek medical treatment if the pain does not subside within 24 to 48 hours. The rule of thumb is to heed your common sense. 

Exercise related injuries could hamper your dreams of staying fit and healthy. In the US, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries gobble up $1 billion in rehabilitation costs alone. This is according to numbers published by CDC. This does not mean that you should shun exercise altogether. Instead, use common sense while exercising and always start by warming up. This will redistribute more blood to your tendons and muscles making movement smoother. Finally, do not over do your regular exercises. 

About the Authors: 

Joyce G. is a professional health blogger and writer.  She currently partners with Nordictrack.com in raising awareness about the importance of health and fitness.NordicTrack has come to symbolize the means for serious athletes and fitness-buffs alike to “get ready for adventure,” whatever that may be. Visit our website and find a good elliptical trainer to fits your needs.

 Another tip: when riding your outdoor bike, wear a high visibility vest or other means of being seen, especially if riding early in the morning or late in the evening. Pat

 

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Head Protection

TIPS TO ENSURE INDUSTRIAL SAFETY (GUEST POST)

By Grace Beckett

Industrial work is one of the most hazardous jobs that can affect the lives of its workers. Whether it is a minor cut, a major injury, or exposure to toxic substances, workers get affected everyday with any of these accidents which can otherwise be avoided with a little care and effort.

Tips You Should Follow for Industrial Safety

If you are involved in industrial work, it is high time you follow the tips that make sure you are safe and secure while you perform your tasks.

  • Protection from chemicals:If you are working with a lot of chemicals, paints and grease, it is better to apply ointments and creams on the exposed parts of your body before you get to work. This will save you from getting affected with skin diseases.Once you have completed working with the chemicals, you should clean your hands with a good quality lotion that can give a soothing relief to your hands.   

In fact, you can wear leather gloves to save your hands from getting injured due to rough surfaces and materials. Such gloves will also protect your hands when handling sharp tools and objects for industrial work.

In case you are dealing with acids, pesticides, petroleum, medical and other industrial agents, good quality rubber gloves can ensure that your hands are safe. But you should make sure that the gloves fit your hands exactly. If they are oversized, they won’t be able to work for your benefit.

  • Undertake safety measures:There are certain steps that you can take so as to avert accidents when lifting a load or working with screws. Be cautious against getting hurt due to broken glass, wood splinters and nails. Make sure you handle heavy objects such that they don’t your hurt your hands and fingers.You should also avoid testing the temperature of a liquid or gas through direct contact with your hand. Even if you get hurt, take quick medical precaution, or else it can lead to fatal results.
  • Concentrate on your tasks: Work–related accidents may happen if you don’t concentrate fully while performing a task. Often you are distracted and wipe your eyes off with your hands which are not clean because you have been working with chemicals or machines. This can actually affect your eyes adversely.

Sometimes, you may not be careful with your clothes when working with machines. This can result in your clothes getting torn, thereby affecting your body. It is also advisable to keep your hands away from rotating machines; be careful when using them to control the speed of such machines.

In addition to the above procedures, you can wear hard hats to save your head from injuries caused due to the fall of any heavy object. When it comes to protecting your eyes, you can put on goggles so that dust and debris in industrial areas can hardly affect you.

Grace is an expert associated with Intersafety that deals with the distribution of workplace safety equipment and products. Browse through www.intersafety.co.uk/hand-sanitisers/c037 to check out their hand sanitizers and hand wipes.   

 

 

 

General Safety Issues, Head Protection

FIVE REASONS WHY SAFETY MATTERS ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE (GUEST POST)

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By Matt Hornsby
 
Health and safety is very important in all industries, but there are some types of businesses which must take extra care to make safety a priority. One of these is construction.
 
Here are SafetyShop’s top five of the most pressing reasons why construction business owners need to take health and safety seriously. In fact, some of these reasons show you what can happen if you indon’t make safety a priority within your business.
 
1. A worker or visitor could be injured
 
This is the most important reason to invest in health and safety equipment and training on
construction sites – because people could be injured or even die as a result of a construction
accident. As an employer, you have a responsibility to look after the welfare of all your
workers.
 
2. The construction industry is the most dangerous to work in
 
Last year, a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report revealed that there were 50 fatal
injuries to construction workers and 36,000 cases of work-related ill health within the
industry. Construction business owners need to develop health and safety policies and
implement measures to tackle the unique challenges faced within the industry, to try to
reduce worker injuries and deaths.
 
3. Working days are lost because of health and safety failings
 
The HSE report from 2010/11 also revealed that around 2.3 million working days were lost
as a result of workplace injury. This is costing the construction industry a lot of money, as
well as hampering progress.
 
4. Businesses can be fined, sued or banned from operating
 
If the HSE finds that unsafe working practices are being carried out on your construction
site, it can issue fines and prohibition notices and it can even prosecute. Similarly, workers
who are injured can file compensation lawsuits against you, which also hurts the business
financially.
 
5. Projects can be compromised
 
If a serious accident takes place on your site, this could halt progress on the project,
angering the client and potentially losing the business the contract.
 
Thank you, Matt, for pointing out the importance of safety on construction sites.  Businesses should provide the correct personal protective equipment for their workers, and have extra construction hardhats for visitors to wear while on site.  Pat