Construction Hazards are one of those things that need to be properly and adequately managed on a construction site before commencing any type of work. There are literally many hazards that could be found on a worksite and this short article will cover just some of them. But more importantly for construction companies and contractors, it is the legal obligation to manage these in the Australian construction industry that should be of primary concern.
The potential consequences of incompliance of current Occupational Health & Safety legislation at both the Commonwealth and state level are simply not worth it. Ignoring construction site safety could cost thousands of dollars in fines or even lead to prosecution which would be detrimental to small and medium-sized companies and contractors.
Types of Hazards
Below are just a small number of potential Construction Hazards that are likely to require attention on a worksite:
- Silica dust – this is naturally found in the Earth’s crust, however, prolonged exposure can lead to health problems such as lung fibrosis
- Asbestos dust – probably the best known hazard for the wrong reasons, keep on the lookout for insulation materials, fire resistant walls and cement sheets are these are likely to contain such dust
- Gases and fumes – this can be generated through welding, burning or even painting and can have long-term health effects
- Noise – it’s common sense that long-term exposure to loud noises will have an effect on hearing
- Heat – prolonged exposure in the Australian sun can lead to heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.
The most common way to inform and educate all those involved in a project about Construction Hazards is by obliging them undergo Construction Safety Training. This is probably the best way of preventing any hazards from evolving into bigger problems for the construction project.
Further Construction Information
You may want to find more information about other hazards that may be present on a construction worksite and how to best manage them. UnionSafe explores health hazards on construction sites on its website and it would be wise to access that resource for further information on the topic.
There’s little doubt that Construction Hazards are always present, it’s up to you to manage them in the best way possible.
