In 2001, there were 481,400 non-fatal injuries related to construction jobs.
In order to avoid accidents, it’s important to train workers in hazard recognition and the safe use of ladders, scaffolds, fall protection systems, and other equipment. Hard hats and steel toe boots are a basic necessity for safety during any construction job, but there are also other useful pieces of equipment workers can use to make the job safer and easier.
Improper handling of materials is one of the most common causes of injuries on construction sites. Web slings aid in moving materials, safely and effectively, with their 300,000 pound capacity (roughly 25 midsize cars), flexibility, temperature resistance, and ability to absorb shocks without damage. Web slings are often used for marine and construction jobs. Other lifting slings include chain slings, wire slings, and rope slings, all of which have their own properties and common uses.
Before setting up web slings or other lifting materials, riggers should carefully walk the path of travel before the job begins and remove potential tripping hazards. The rigging capacity and the material to be lifted should always match. Using lifting material with too small a weight capacity is just asking for an accident to happen.
Construction companies that have high quality equipment, and safety training have been shown to have less accidents. When estimating the cost of a job, employers should always include safety equipment, and plan to have all the necessary tools available at the construction site (this includes proper rigging and lifting equipment). All workers should be trained in safe material handling take fall protection courses.
By following these simple tips, accidents will become much less likely and jobs will get done safely and effectively. As with any job, always consider safety first.
