One of the most common causes of work-related injuries and fatalities stem from electrical accidents. When safety precautions are ignored, workers are put at risk of fires, electrical shock, burns, and explosions, all of which have the potential to cause severe injury or death. Fortunately, no matter how large-scale a construction project is, there will always be ways to mitigate electrical risks on the site: Here are some of them:
1. Quality wiring
There’s no room for cost-cutting on electrical wiring; every project manager should know that. The use of high-quality industrial or marine-grade wires gets rid of a myriad of electrical dangers, such as getting shocked by an exposed wire or a frayed wire starting a fire on the site. If subpar wiring is used, the cables can get frayed, cut, and torn very easily, making room for many electrical hazards.
2. Proper PPE
Personal protective equipment should always be worn within the premises. For workers who are going to handle electrical materials or equipment, electrical gloves and boots should be added to the standard PPE. For precarious electrical work, a fire-resistant helmet, safety glasses, a face shield, and earmuffs should be added to the mix as additional protection.
3. Training
The risk for electrical mishaps decreases dramatically when all workers are well informed about the risks and how to avoid them. Make sure everyone receives basic safety training before they are allowed to work on the site. Give additional electrical safety sessions as you see fit, especially for those who are working closely with electricity.
4. Risk assessment
Identify potential hazards on the construction site and implement risk reduction measures that will help protect workers. As the project progresses, identify new dangers that may have arisen and then modify your mitigation plan accordingly. In this way, you’re proactively preventing accidents and avoiding unnecessary delays, injuries, and damage on the site.
5. Communication
Workers should be encouraged to inform supervisors if they spot any potential hazards on the site, such as loose wiring, frayed cables, or a burning electric smell. If there’s someone who will spot the hazards first, it will be the workers, so make sure their comments are always heard and acknowledged.
6. Signage
Warning signs are essential safety features on every construction site. To protect both workers and civilians who may be passing through the site, put up signages that indicate warnings for electrical hazards in an easy-to-spot location. If necessary, place multiple signs and caution tape around the area.
7. Equipment
Ensure that the workers who handle electrical equipment and wiring are qualified to do so and give them additional training if needed. Moreover, don’t forget to have the equipment tested before allowing workers to use it to avoid any chances of electrical shocks or burns.
Any type of electrical accident has the potential to cause injury, damage, and in worst cases, even death. To protect the construction site and all of the workers, taking safety precautions is important. In turn, construction companies will maintain consistent operations and a healthy workforce.
