Whereas many job sites prioritize factors like efficiency and productivity, keeping safety in mind is also important. This guide covers a few reasons why safety should always be at the top of your mind, whether you’re a crew leader, client, or laborer. We’ll also review a few tips on maintaining a safe job site.
Improved Worker Morale
A safe work environment also improves worker morale. Employees who feel unsafe are less likely to be satisfied in their positions. Injured workers call out more often, leading to others picking up the slack. Too many injuries and crew members may develop the idea that their employer doesn’t value them as a worker. Improved worker morale also means lower turnover rates, which can benefit companies cost-effectively.
Fewer Employee Injuries
Preventing employee injury is one of the biggest benefits of prioritizing safety on the job site. An injured worker isn’t only a barrier to productivity but can also be expensive. An injured worker means the use of company resources and fewer workers at the job site. Other crew members have to pick up the additional work, which can also negatively affect company morale. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that implementing a safety program can reduce worker injury and illness by between 15% to 35%, with up to $23 billion in savings each year. While your exact savings may vary depending on your business size and crew numbers, most companies will save in the long run with a good safety strategy in place.
Better Insurance Rates
Implementing certain safety protocols on the job site can also offer financial advantages, such as better insurance rates. Commercial insurance can be expensive, especially if you lack the necessary safety tools that might otherwise qualify you for a discount. Additionally, multiple insurance claims could ultimately lead to an increase in insurance rates or even the provider dropping your company altogether. A comprehensive safety strategy can also help your company qualify for better disability plans.
Greater Client Satisfaction
A safe job site also improves client satisfaction in a few ways. For one, it makes the client feel better about choosing your company when they know you have the proper safety protocols in place. Since a safe job site also boosts productivity, clients enjoy the ability to stick to the timeline of their projects. A safer work environment can also reduce client liability.
Tips for Maintaining a Safe Job Site
Looking for ways to maintain a safe job site? Here are a few tips to keep your crew safe.
Regularly Reevaluate Existing Safety Programs
Putting a safety program in place isn’t enough. It’s important to regularly reevaluate that program to identify any areas of improvement. You may need to make adjustments based on the number of workers, job tasks, and existing training programs.
Ensure Crew Members Have the Right Safety Training and Tools
It’s also important to ensure your crew members have the safety training and tools they need to prioritize safety. Ongoing training ensures all new employees receive the safety information they need while also making sure existing crew members are up-to-date on the latest safety protocols.
This also includes ensuring that all crew members have access to safety gear, including personal protective equipment (PPE). A few items to keep stocked on the job site include protective gloves, ear covers, chemical goggles, and fall protection devices. The proper cleaning products also make it easier for workers to clean up. Tools like a dust collection system help remove dangerous particles from the air regularly.
Post Safety Notices and Expectations
Ensure that all crew members and visitors are aware of the safety expectations when on the job site. Whether this means clearly marking unsafe zones or listing cleaning requirements at the end of each work day, it’s crucial to let everyone know how they can be a part of maintaining a safe work site. Posting OSHA requirements also ensures everyone is aware of the safety requirements and protocols.
Make Daily Housekeeping an Expected Task
Daily housekeeping tasks should be a part of everyone’s work expectations. Ensure all employees are aware of the tasks you expect them to complete before leaving for the day. Make sure they also have sufficient time to complete these tasks so they’re not rushing to leave. Task a project manager or crew supervisor to ensure all housekeeping duties are complete at the end of the day. This allows workers to come to a safe, clean job site the next work day, ensuring productivity.
Safety should always be a priority on the job site, whether building a new home or working with other crews on a commercial build. Prioritizing safety is a collective effort that requires the dedication and commitment of all crew members, supervisors, clients, and managers. An ongoing safety strategy can offer crews many benefits, including better productivity and staff morale.
