7 Best Practices to Improve Construction Safety on Site

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways
Common Jobsite Safety Risks
7 Best Practices to Improve Construction Safety on Site

1. Prioritize Safety as Part of Company Culture
2. Develop a Comprehensive Site Safety Plan
3. Implement Regular Jobsite Safety Training
4. Maintain and Service Equipment Regularly
5. Ensure Open Lines of Communication
6. Document and Track Safety Incidents
7. Collaborate with Your Insurance Provider

How to Choose the Right Construction Company for Safety-First Projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Choose Safety Excellence with Claris Design•Build!

Construction safety is the foundation of any successful project. It not only protects workers but also supports smooth project timelines, reduces costs, and ensures compliance with regulations. Here are seven best practices for improving construction safety to keep the sites safe, efficient, and compliant.

Common Jobsite Safety Risks

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there were 5,486 fatal work injuries, equating to 3.7 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers in 2022.

In 2021, there were 1,008 deaths in the construction industry. To address such high rates, OSHA has identified the "Focus Four" hazards, which are responsible for the majority of jobsite incidents:

• Falls: The leading cause of fatalities in construction. Falls can happen due to unmarked or unguarded edges, holes in walking surfaces, or slippery conditions. Ensuring proper railings, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems is crucial.
• Caught-In or Between: Workers risk being caught in or between machinery, equipment, or materials. This can occur if loose clothing is caught in machinery or when heavy materials create pinch points.
• Struck-By Incidents: Injuries occur when workers are hit by moving vehicles, equipment, or falling objects. Examples include workers being struck by cranes, boom arms, or tools dropped from heights.
• Electrocution: Electrocution risks arise from contact with overhead power lines or improperly grounded equipment. Electrical safety protocols, proper wiring, and awareness of high-voltage areas are essential.

7 Best Practices to Improve Construction Safety on Site

Implementing best practices for construction safety is crucial for protecting workers, reducing risks, and ensuring project success.

1. Prioritize Safety as Part of Company Culture

Construction safety begins with leadership. When managers and company leaders visibly prioritize safety, it fosters a culture where everyone understands that construction safety is non-negotiable.

• Establish Clear Safety Policies: Safety policies should be well-documented and accessible to all employees. They must outline specific protocols, emergency procedures, and safety expectations, creating a foundation that everyone understands.
• Lead by Example: Leaders who consistently adhere to safety policies set a positive example. When workers see managers actively following safety protocols, they’re more likely to do the same.
• Provide Continuous Safety Education: Construction safety shouldn’t only be a focus during onboarding. Leaders should ensure that safety is consistently emphasized through training, meetings, and company communication, reinforcing its importance.
• Encourage Reporting and Feedback: A strong construction safety culture empowers workers to report hazards or give feedback without fear. Open communication channels between employees and management foster trust and support a safer environment.

2. Develop a Comprehensive Site Safety Plan

A thorough site safety plan tailored to each specific project is a powerful tool for construction safety. The plan should cover potential hazards, emergency procedures, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Key elements of a strong safety plan include:

• Project-Specific Hazard Assessment: Every construction site is unique. Conducting a site assessment to identify specific hazards, such as areas with unstable ground or proximity to power lines, allows the team to develop targeted preventive measures.
• Emergency Response Procedures: An effective construction safety plan includes well-defined steps for handling emergencies. From medical response procedures to evacuation routes, workers should know exactly what to do in various situations.
• Role of Safety Personnel: The plan should list contacts for designated safety personnel, such as site supervisors and emergency coordinators, along with their responsibilities.
• Communication Protocols: A clear communication system that allows rapid alerting of all workers to potential risks is essential, particularly on larger sites with multiple teams and activities.
• Plan Updates and Regular Audits: Safety plans must be reviewed periodically to ensure they remain relevant. Regular audits of the plan help identify new risks that arise as the project progresses.

3. Implement Regular Jobsite Safety Training

Regular training is key to ensuring construction safety and mitigating hazards. Training enables workers to recognize risks, understand protocols, and respond correctly in emergencies.

• Comprehensive Onboarding: New workers, especially those without prior experience, should receive thorough onboarding that includes safety protocols, hazard recognition, and equipment usage. A strong start helps new employees become more safety-conscious.
• Frequent Refreshers: Safety procedures and equipment handling evolve, so workers benefit from frequent training sessions to keep knowledge current. This ensures that even experienced workers are reminded of best practices.
• Tailored Training for Specific Hazards: For example, sites with a high risk of electrocution should provide additional electrical safety training, while high-rise sites should focus on fall prevention. Tailored training addresses specific risks associated with the project.
• Utilize Safety Stand-Downs: Safety stand-downs are events dedicated solely to discussing jobsite hazards and incident prevention. Held weekly or monthly, these sessions keep construction safety at the forefront and allow workers to share their experiences and concerns.
• Certifications and Compliance Checks: For certain high-risk activities, ensure that workers hold necessary certifications. Periodic checks on these credentials help guarantee that all workers are qualified to perform their tasks safely.

4. Maintain and Service Equipment Regularly

Proper equipment maintenance is essential for construction safety. Regular inspections and maintenance schedules help prevent equipment-related accidents.

• Establish Routine Inspections: Frequent checks on equipment ensure that parts are intact and functioning properly. Workers should know how to inspect their tools daily, with more comprehensive inspections conducted by qualified personnel regularly.
• Create a Replacement Schedule for Outdated Equipment: Construction equipment wears down over time. A replacement schedule ensures that older machinery is replaced with modern tools equipped with enhanced safety features.
• Use Ergonomic and Safety-Enhanced Tools: Modern, ergonomic tools reduce strain injuries and are often designed to prevent common mishaps like slips or cuts. These tools help prevent musculoskeletal issues, improving both worker comfort and safety.
• Log All Maintenance Activities: Documenting maintenance and repairs helps identify recurring issues with certain machines. Regular documentation keeps a clear record of when and what was serviced, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

5. Ensure Open Lines of Communication

Clear communication plays a pivotal role in construction safety. Workers need a way to report hazards quickly and receive updates in real-time to stay safe on the job.

• Establish Daily Safety Briefings: A short daily meeting to discuss potential hazards for the day keeps everyone informed and prepared. Workers feel more engaged when they start the day with a safety-focused mindset.
• Use Real-Time Communication Tools: Construction sites can benefit from using mobile devices or radios to instantly alert workers to any new hazards. Construction safety apps and platforms help streamline this process, especially on larger sites.
• Encourage Hazard Reporting: Workers should feel comfortable pointing out hazards without fear of repercussions. An anonymous reporting system, if possible, can help workers report hazards freely, making the site safer for all.
• Document Communication Practices: Keep records of any safety announcements, especially those that introduce new hazards or highlight recent incidents. This ensures accountability and provides a reference in case of future safety reviews.

6. Document and Track Safety Incidents

Tracking safety incidents and near misses allows contractors to understand which areas need improvement and which safety measures are working well.

• Record All Incidents and Near Misses: Documentation should include all injuries, property damage, and close calls, as each provides insights into potential weaknesses in safety protocols. Analyzing near misses is especially helpful as it provides a chance to address issues before they result in injury.
• Use Digital Tools for Tracking: Digital platforms make it easier to log incidents, organize data, and generate safety reports. Construction safety software often includes automated reporting, which streamlines the entire process.
• Analyze Incident Trends: Look for patterns in incidents and near misses. Recurring issues often signal that specific areas need more stringent safety protocols. Addressing these trends proactively reduces risks.
• Implement Changes Based on Incident Reports: Use the information gathered from tracking to adjust safety protocols, training, or equipment usage. Adaptability is key to maintaining construction safety as projects progress and conditions change.

7. Collaborate with Your Insurance Provider

An insurance provider can be an invaluable resource for construction safety improvements. Many insurers offer guidance, training, and assessments to help minimize risk.

• Leverage Safety Training Resources: Insurance providers often have access to the latest construction safety resources, including training materials and risk management tools. Using these resources can enhance site safety without additional cost.
• Request Risk Assessments and Audits: Some insurers conduct on-site risk assessments to identify areas where safety improvements can be made. These assessments are valuable in spotting risks that may not be immediately obvious.
• Reduce Premiums by Lowering Incident Rates: Fewer accidents translate to fewer claims, which can help reduce insurance premiums. A focus on construction safety is financially beneficial in the long run.
• Utilize Insurance Expertise for Compliance: Insurers often stay updated on industry regulations. They can advise contractors on compliance to avoid fines and violations, ensuring that safety standards meet or exceed regulatory requirements.

How to Choose the Right Construction Company for Safety-First Projects

When safety is a top concern, choosing the right construction company is essential. Not all companies prioritize construction safety equally, so it’s important to evaluate potential contractors carefully.

Check Safety Records and Past Performance: Companies with excellent safety records are more likely to deliver a safe jobsite. Reviewing a contractor's history helps to assess their commitment to construction safety and their ability to execute it effectively.

Verify Certifications and Training Programs: Reputable contractors typically invest in OSHA compliance and certifications for high-risk activities. Certifications indicate that the company prioritizes safety by ensuring their workers are trained in best practices.

Inspect Equipment Quality and Maintenance Schedules: Quality equipment maintained on a regular schedule reduces risk. A company’s attention to equipment quality and maintenance is a reliable indicator of its dedication to construction safety.

Evaluate Communication and Incident Reporting Systems: Contractors with structured communication and reporting systems demonstrate proactive construction safety management. Transparent, two-way communication ensures that hazards are quickly identified and addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for construction safety?

Essential PPE for construction includes hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots, high-visibility vests, and hearing protection. These items protect workers from common hazards such as falling objects, sharp materials, and loud machinery. Proper PPE usage reduces the risk of injuries and is often a regulatory requirement on construction sites.

How can weather conditions impact construction safety?

Weather conditions like rain, snow, and high winds can increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls on construction sites. These conditions can also affect the stability and functionality of equipment, making accidents more likely. Monitoring weather and adapting safety measures accordingly is essential to maintain a safe work environment.

What role does site supervision play in construction safety?

Site supervision is crucial for enforcing safety protocols and ensuring that workers adhere to them consistently. Supervisors identify and mitigate risks, ensuring that equipment is used safely and that PPE is worn as required. Effective site supervision helps maintain a safe and compliant working environment, reducing incidents.

Choose Safety Excellence with Claris Design•Build!

At Claris Design•Build, construction safety isn’t just a priority — it’s a standard we uphold across every project. With an industry-leading Insurance Safety Modification rate of 0.87, Claris Design•Build ranks among the safest companies in the field, underscoring our commitment to excellence and risk management. Our team is dedicated to applying top-tier safety protocols and expertise, ensuring each project is completed smoothly, safely, and in full compliance.

Reach out to Claris Design•Build today to learn how we can support your project’s success from concept to completion with safety at the forefront.