Safety Check List For A Construction Site
A safety checklist for construction sites is key to keeping workers safe on the job. Accidents on construction sites are not uncommon, and in many cases could be prevented if employers and workers took safety precautions. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has codes that must be followed by employers and workers in the construction industry. Corners are often cut when it comes to implementing and following safety regulations.
Scaffolding
Scaffolding must be inspected for safety. There must be proper access to the scaffolding by ladder or ramps when stair access is not practical. The platforms and guard rails must be properly assembled. The scaffold must be balanced. Local codes and OSHA regulations apply for the specifications on scaffold construction and safety.
Hazard Communication
A written and posted program for hazard safety must be implemented. Employees need training on safety regulations and precautions. Containers holding hazardous or caustic chemicals must be labeled. Proper masks or protective clothing must be used when handling these substances.
Fall Protection
Employees must be protected against falls. This includes installation of guard rails, especially when working around open pits or holes and on sloping roofs or elevated equipment. Workers must be trained to be aware of fall hazards, and in how to use fall protection aids and equipment.
Respiratory and Head Protection
Protection must be provided to protect workers from inhaling toxins or debris while on the site. A written program of mask use requirements must be posted. Hardhats or other helmets required by law must be used. Employees must be warned about using proper respiratory and head protection. These items must be tested for fit. Respiratory hazards must be posted.
Heavy Equipment
Construction equipment like forklifts and back hoes must be operated by qualified employees. Equipment must be evaluated for damage, and taken out of service if it is not up to par. Workers using such equipment must be given refresher courses and updated evaluations according to OSHA requirements, usually every three years. Machines must be properly inspected before use.
Electrical Wiring
Temporary electrical set-ups used on the work site must be properly grounded, wired and placed. Conductors entering boxes, cabinets or fittings must be closed and protected from damage. Pull boxes and junction boxes must be covered. Flexible cords must have appropriate strain relief, and cannot be exposed to traffic.
Ladders
Ladders must have side rails that extend to a prescribed height above the landing. They must be used only as ladders, not for other tasks. The top step is not safe for standing. Damaged or defective ladders must be removed from service and labeled as unsafe. Ladders must be used only on a stable and level surface.
Machine Guarding
Machines must be guarded. They should be anchored by so that they do not tip or shift position. Blades and moving parts, such as spindles, must have appropriate guards. The material or surfaces to which the machinery is applied must be guarded, like where a blade meets wood, or where a jackhammer meets rock.
Obstruction
Work areas, stairs and passageways must be kept free from such debris as scrap lumber or materials accumulated during demolition. Protruding nails and broken glass or any other sharp objects must be removed from work areas.
Scaffolding
Scaffolding must be inspected for safety. There must be proper access to the scaffolding by ladder or ramps when stair access is not practical. The platforms and guard rails must be properly assembled. The scaffold must be balanced. Local codes and OSHA regulations apply for the specifications on scaffold construction and safety.
Hazard Communication
A written and posted program for hazard safety must be implemented. Employees need training on safety regulations and precautions. Containers holding hazardous or caustic chemicals must be labeled. Proper masks or protective clothing must be used when handling these substances.
Fall Protection
Employees must be protected against falls. This includes installation of guard rails, especially when working around open pits or holes and on sloping roofs or elevated equipment. Workers must be trained to be aware of fall hazards, and in how to use fall protection aids and equipment.
Respiratory and Head Protection
Protection must be provided to protect workers from inhaling toxins or debris while on the site. A written program of mask use requirements must be posted. Hardhats or other helmets required by law must be used. Employees must be warned about using proper respiratory and head protection. These items must be tested for fit. Respiratory hazards must be posted.
Heavy Equipment
Construction equipment like forklifts and back hoes must be operated by qualified employees. Equipment must be evaluated for damage, and taken out of service if it is not up to par. Workers using such equipment must be given refresher courses and updated evaluations according to OSHA requirements, usually every three years. Machines must be properly inspected before use.
Electrical Wiring
Temporary electrical set-ups used on the work site must be properly grounded, wired and placed. Conductors entering boxes, cabinets or fittings must be closed and protected from damage. Pull boxes and junction boxes must be covered. Flexible cords must have appropriate strain relief, and cannot be exposed to traffic.
Ladders
Ladders must have side rails that extend to a prescribed height above the landing. They must be used only as ladders, not for other tasks. The top step is not safe for standing. Damaged or defective ladders must be removed from service and labeled as unsafe. Ladders must be used only on a stable and level surface.
Machine Guarding
Machines must be guarded. They should be anchored by so that they do not tip or shift position. Blades and moving parts, such as spindles, must have appropriate guards. The material or surfaces to which the machinery is applied must be guarded, like where a blade meets wood, or where a jackhammer meets rock.
Obstruction
Work areas, stairs and passageways must be kept free from such debris as scrap lumber or materials accumulated during demolition. Protruding nails and broken glass or any other sharp objects must be removed from work areas.
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