Construction Safety Tips
A Comprehensive Resource

Always inspect a ladder or stairs before stepping upon it.

• Avoid stepping on anything that appears loose, worn, weak, or otherwise defected or damaged.

Opt for aerial lifts or elevated platforms, which are safer options than balancing on a ladder.

Install guardrails with toeboards, warning lines, and control line systems.

Use fall arrest systems (body harness) and safety net systems in the emergency of slipping and falling.

Keep steps clean, clear, and dry.

Don’t use metal ladders on stormy or windy days.

Choose a ladder that is taller than the spot that you need to reach; at least 3-4 feet above your desired location.

Move as you work; never overreach, as you could easily lose your balance and fall.

Calculate the distance intelligently: for every four feet of height, move the ladder’s base a foot further from the wall.

Keep tools in your belt to keep your hands free while climbing and descending.

Never enter an unprotected or unsupported trench.

At least one person should remain outside of the trench at all times to warn of changing soil conditions or any other discerned hazards.

Any trench deeper than four feet must have:

• Protective sloping, cutting the trench walls at angles that incline away from the excavation,
• Or protective shoring: support systems (best for trenches smaller than 20 feet deep) which prevent the shifting of soil.

Safe exits (with ladders, staircases, or ramps) must be positioned regularly along the trench.

Obstacles must never block the exits; keep excavated debris at least 2 feet from the openings.

A support system planned and implemented by a licensed expert engineer should always be used for excavations beneath the footing of a foundation or a wall, or any excavations deeper than 20 feet.

Be especially careful when boarding and descending from heavy equipment—especially watch the placement of your hands and feet, to ensure that they don’t get caught or you don’t slip.

Never balance or keep yourself in place by a toe-hold or finger-hold grip. Safely engage your entire foot or hand in the process.

Don’t carry objects while climbing.

Use proper gloves and footgear with excellent traction for the safest handhold.

Use a helper or spotter for guidance, who can act as your eyes along the blind spots of your vehicle and can alert you to any hazards you might overlook from your viewpoint or angle.

Ensure that you have enough room to maneuver your vehicle or equipment; always alert those around you about your next step or stop, should they need to get out of the way.

• Always check in all directions when maneuvering the machine, especially when going in reverse.
• Calculate your machine swing radius (how much room you’ll need to swerve or turn the vehicle; i.e. forklifts, which are steered from the rear, need more room behind them when they’re making a turn); make sure it’s clear of people. You might even rope or mark off the area if you’re keeping to one general location.
• Practice extra precaution when moving up or down slopes.

Never leave the machine unattended when keys are in the ignition; never allow anyone who is not trained and authorized to use the machine.

In the scenario of a chemical spill within the workplace, first assess the situation and determine if it is a low- or high-hazard spill.

• Report it immediately either way
• If it is high-hazard, evacuate and allow qualified personnel to deal withthe situation. Note that many toxic vapors can’t be smelled (some chemicals even anesthetize the nose), so don’t just rely on your sensory perceptions to judge this.
  1. It is safest to assume that all spills are high-hazard.
• If it is low-hazard— there is 100% certainty that the spill is not toxic or poses any immediate danger—do your best to keep others away and prevent the spill from spreading.

Don’t panic; alert everyone in the location and evacuate safely.

If possible, ventilate the area by opening windows and doors.

Remove all sources of heat, to eliminate the chances of an explosion.

Never touch a chemical spill with your bare skin. Protective gloves and clothing are essential for your health and safety.

Always wear appropriate clothing and shoes respective to your job.

Always store your tools and gear in a cool, dry place.

Fire extinguishers must be available and readily attainable.

First aid kits must be available and readily attainable.

Never remove or tamper with safety devices.

Use a back brace if you’re lifting heavy objects or you’ve got a sensitive back.

A hard hat will protect you if there’s a risk of falling objects, as well steel-toed boots.

Wear gloves if you’re handling sharp objects or toxic substances.

Wear goggles if your work poses a hazard to your eyes.

Wear safety harnesses if you’re working from an elevated location and there’s the risk of falling.

Wear non-skid footgear:

• If your workspace involves slippery or elevated surfaces
• If you’re lifting heavy items

Wear a breathing mask at all times, especially if:

• You deal with dangerous or toxic chemicals or fumes
• Your workspace has poor ventilation
• Your workspace has debris, dust, and other flying particles.

Wear the protective equipment that is intended and recommended for your particular task.

• Seat belts
• Safety glasses or goggles
• Protective clothing, headgear, and/or footgear
• Safety harnesses, etc.

Ensure your electrical tools are used with a G.F.C.I. grounded power supply;

• Essential for all electric power tools
• Especially important if working outdoors or in wet conditions

Immediately replace all worn, frayed, torn, or otherwise damaged electrical cords, cables, outlets, etc.

Equip temporary lights with non-conductive guards.

Always unplug unused appliances.

Keep your wrists and arms in neutral to avoid mild or severe symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Choose a small and handy tool belt that you can easily keep balanced with small adjustments.

Opt to sit (instead of squatting or kneeling) if working at lower levels, to avoid straining your lower body—knees, waist, and back.

Reduce and eliminate back aches and strains by lifting properly. Use your knees instead of your back; avoid twisting your body when picking, carrying, or releasing a heavy load; place one put slightly in front of the other to promote better balance.

To save yourself and others from slips and falls:

• Keep all surfaces clear of littler, debris, and excessive materials.
• Only work on surfaces that are sturdy, level, clean, and dry.
• Immediately report and/or clean surfaces that have grease, water, oil, or chemical spills.
• If you need to cross a slippery surface, take small steps, putting your whole foot down slowly, toes pointed outwards.
• If you fall, roll as you land to reduce the shock and the blow.

Cover floor holes with sturdy material and warning signs.