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Construction site safety requires a broad approach

There is a lot to go wrong on a construction site. Yet when companies look at safety, they tend to focus on a narrow range of actions.

 

Most construction site injuries are the result of human error. Yet, often the root of these errors lies beyond where people look. Earlier this month, Construction Safety Week focused on the importance of taking a holistic approach to safety. It aimed to help people realize they must take a broader view of what being safe means.

 

Workers who are mentally healthy will be safer at work

 

Construction sites can be stressful environments. If that leads to a worker lying awake each night worrying, they will not be alert when they come to work the next day. They will be more prone to oversights and errors than if they are well-rested.

 

Building site culture also has a role to play in the dangers of the job. Sometimes workers need support yet feel unable to ask for it, knowing colleagues or bosses will tease them for showing weakness. It can lead to tense environments. If someone snaps while in charge of heavy machinery or high off the ground, it can be dangerous for everyone.

 

When you work in construction, you rely on everyone else doing their part to make it a safe place to work. Employers have a duty to ensure they create healthy workplace environments.

Poor environments can lead to mental health issues among staff. These can have longer-term effects on the ability to make the correct safety decisions.

 

If injured while at work, you rely on your employer having adequate workers’ compensation insurance. The problem is, some employers and their insurers are not team players. You may need help to ensure they provide you with the compensation you need.

 

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