The health and safety of your team are one of the most integral responsibilities of an employer. It is critical to take into consideration everything that might present a risk to your team when they’re working. Doing so will fulfil both your legal and moral obligations to your team.
There are plenty of options to consider that can help you improve employee health. Some are legal requirements, while others are ways to go above and beyond, and the impact of prioritising your team’s health cannot be overstated. Being known as an employer that cares for their employees’ health can help you attract the most talented staff and boost the overall efficiency of your business.
Provide Suitable Training
Giving your employees regular, quality health and safety training can be an excellent way to empower them to take ownership of their health and safety roles at work. You should provide comprehensive training on hiring new employees to ensure they understand your company policy relating to health and safety. Regular top-up training can also be invaluable to keeping health and safety at the forefront of your team’s minds.
Improve Air Quality
Construction can result in a wide range of possible air pollutants. Over time, if exposed to harmful breathable toxins, this can cause serious health conditions. You should take steps to ensure that the workplace is well ventilated and that the correct safety gear is provided. You could also use equipment that helps filter out harmful toxins. Take a look at this article from the Dantherm Group, which answers the question: should you use an air scrubber or air purifier?
Communicate With Your Team
Talking to your team about the hazards and best practices can be an excellent way to keep their health and safety training at the forefront of their minds. Consider having a daily or weekly team meeting or huddle before work begins, and discuss the specific hazards they might face on the day ahead. This will ensure that they are aware and alert to the potential danger when they start their day.
Be A Stickler For Cleanliness
Tripping and slipping are the most common causes of workplace injuries in the UK. Many slips and trips are easily preventable and making cleanliness your top priority can help ensure your team is safe at work. Ensure that any spills are cleaned up immediately, and provide safety cones or signs to alert employees of possible slip hazards. You should also foster a habit of ensuring that all walkaways and surfaces are clear and no items are left out of place.
Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
The working environment can change from day to day when working on a construction site, so you must conduct regular risk assessments. Being aware of the dangers and ensuring your team are informed can be one of the most effective ways to improve safety on a construction site. In addition to risk assessments, you should also conduct regular inspections of the tools and equipment used by your team.
