Staying Safe on a Work Site in 2023

The Australian construction industry is one of the country’s largest employers, with over 1 million  workers in 2022 involved in projects ranging from residential homes to large infrastructure projects. As a result, it is essential for workers to be aware of associated risks that require a high level of awareness and preparedness, and how to best mitigate them.

According to Safe Work Australia, construction and manufacturing have the 2nd and 3rd highest proportions of serious workplace accident claims – at 13% and 12% respectively. These worksites are inherently hazardous environments that require workers to follow strict safety protocols in order to protect themselves and their colleagues from these serious accidents and injuries.

In this article, we explore some of the best strategies workers can employ to increase construction site safety.

Wear Protective Personal Equipment (PPE)

One of the best ways to stay safe on a worksite is to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes items that act as your ‘last line of defence’ in the event of safety hazards, like falling objects, flying debris and loud noises.

Ensure you are using the proper items such as hard hats, safety glasses, earplugs, high-vis and work boots – you only have one head, two ears, feet and eyes, so it’s important to protect them!

Receiving proper training on how to use and maintain PPE will also help you maximise its effectiveness, so reach out to your Site Manager if you’re not receiving the support you need.

Keep Worksites Clean & Organised

Keeping the worksite clean and organised is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment. A cluttered worksite increases the risk of slips, trips, and falls, which are common causes of workplace injuries. It is important to keep the worksite free of debris, loose materials, and obstacles that can cause accidents, which is why tidying after yourself is vital.

One strategy to keep workspaces in order is the creation of dedicated storage areas that are clearly labelled and easily accessible. In addition, good lighting should be provided throughout the worksite to ensure that potential hazards can be identified.

You should also be trained on the importance of maintaining tools and equipment to ensure that they are in good working condition. This includes performing regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating, and reporting any damage or malfunctions to the Supervisor or Safety Manager immediately to avoid accidents or injuries.

Practice Safe Lifting

Lifting heavy objects is a common task on construction sites. However, it is also a hazardous activity that can cause back injuries and other musculoskeletal problems – according to Safe Work Australia, “almost half (47%) of the serious claims for body stressing were the result of muscular stress while lifting, carrying, or putting down objects”.

In order to mitigate this, use proper lifting techniques such as bending your knees, keeping your back straight, and using your legs to lift weight. Avoid twisting your body while carrying heavy objects, as this can increase the risk of injury.

Follow Established Safety Protocols

Construction sites have established safety procedures and protocols that are designed to ensure the safety of workers. Familiarise yourself with these procedures and protocols and follow them closely to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the worksite.

Report any safety hazards or concerns to your Supervisor or Safety Manager immediately. There should be policies in place already but if you see things that could use improvement, speaking up is better for everyone.

Stay Hydrated & Take Breaks

Working outside in Australia's heat can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Make sure to drink plenty of water and take regular breaks in shaded areas to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Pay attention to your body be aware of signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion, such as thirst, fatigue, and headache.

Communicate with Your Employer

Maintaining an open line of communication with employers goes a long way in helping everyone stay safe at work. Under Australia’s Work Health and Safety Act, employers have a duty of care to ensure that all workers have a safe environment and where possible, communicate how to be more safe on site.

If you feel that you are not adequately trained or equipped to perform a task safely, speak up and request additional training or resources. This will not only help prevent accidents and injuries, but also promote a culture of worksite safety.

Furthermore, by reporting safety concerns, workers can also help identify potential hazards that may have been overlooked by their employers. This can help employers take proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of their workers.

Conclusion

Working on a construction worksite in Australia comes with inherent risks that require workers to be vigilant and prepared to stay safe. By following our tips, you can reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries on the worksite. By working together and communicating clearly, workers and employers alike can contribute to maintaining a safe environment.

As specialists in construction recruitment, we prioritise safety above all else. If you’d like to have a chat about your safety at work, or the next steps in your construction career in Australia, please don’t hesitate to reach out.