Colorado has a booming construction sector. Development throughout the state has created lots of work for our construction workers.
Unfortunately, it also creates more opportunities for accidents on job sites. Construction work is routinely one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Colorado is no different.
There will always be risks when working with heavy machinery and massive amounts of materials. But you can take steps to reduce the daily risks of construction. Here are some things you can do to reduce accidents when working construction:
Pay attention to your safety equipment
Steel-toed boots, hardhats and goggles are all necessary equipment on a job site. But like the tools you use on the job, these safety measures wear down.
Safety equipment needs to be replaced on a regular basis. A helmet with a crack in it will not do its job. Neither will scratched safety goggles.
The hope for safety equipment is that you never need it. However, if you do, you want the equipment to be up to the task.
Keep an eye on your safety gear and replace it as needed.
Take regular breaks
While it may seem counter-intuitive, taking a five-minute break on a regular basis can help you complete projects faster and more safely.
Studies show that regular short breaks make work safer. Taking breaks helps fight mental fatigue and rest sore muscles. This leads to fewer mistakes on the job and better safety habits.
Small breaks throughout the day can actually increase the work you get done on a job site.
Keep sites clean
When the pressure’s on to finish a job or you’re just ending a 14-hour day in the Colorado sun, it can be tempting to rush clean up or skip it all together.
Garbage and extra materials can cause problems at a site. Removing waste and materials gets rid of a tripping hazard for all workers. It also takes away an obstacle while driving heavy machinery.
It also makes the start of each day a little easier, because you begin the day with a clean work area.
Construction sites have hazards that other jobs will never encounter. It’s important to keep safety in mind when you are on a site.
Reducing accidents helps lower job times and reduce the chance of someone being hurt or disabled.
If you have suffered an injury or disability at a job site, an attorney with expertise in Colorado disability and workers’ compensation laws can help.