Due to the type of work they do, tradies risk injuring themselves each time they set foot on a job site. They account for a large percentage of compensation claims for workers, which is why health and safety for tradies are so important. Aside from the ethical considerations, protecting the well being of workers is an effective way to reduce the running costs of businesses.
Typically, the injuries suffered by tradies are caused by muscular stress, resulting from carrying and lifting heavy objects. Tradesmen can not work productively if their bodies are injured, so it is vital for them to take responsibility for their own physical health. No tradesman should do anything that exposes himself to undue risks. Instead, he should request assistance from his manager or colleagues, when required. Tradies should educate themselves about the correct ways to perform work tasks and ask their employers for further details if they are unsure. Indeed, many employers hold information sessions about worker safety or offer other resources and training relating to this subject.
Workers who do hurt themselves on the job should not ignore any pain they feel. If anything seems wrong, they should speak to a medical professional as a matter of urgency. All tradesmen should take breaks regularly — even if it is just to have a glass of water or stretch their legs. Also, they should sleep and eat properly, and exercise on a regular basis.
Risks can be further reduced by ensuring that all job sites are organized and have suitable measures implemented – from employee facilities to signposting. In addition, there should be a clear separation between the transport area, working area, and site area (with regards to public safety). This can be achieved by keeping the job site boundaries fenced off, to protect the public from danger, and using posts to separate vehicle routes from employee walkways.
Excavations and trenches should be fenced, signposted and frequently inspected. When demolition work is taking place, all necessary precautions ought to be taken. Surplus materials and tools should be stored in allocated areas, when not being used, and the job site ought to be accessible to certified staff only. Every worker needs to know the job site rules, concerning cleanliness and organization.
Part of running a good business is observing good strategies, as far as health and safety for tradies go. Everyone in the workplace has a key part to play in looking out for each other, managing and identifying risks and maintaining a safe, healthy and accident-free working environment.
