The construction site can be one of the most dangerous places to work in Tampa and really anywhere else in Florida. Even though there are laws, rules, and policies in place at the state and federal levels there are still accidents happening that lead to injured workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does its best to protect workers from the dangers of a hazardous workplace. Today, we will take a look at how you can avoid common construction site accidents.
Attend Safety Training
More than likely your employer is going to provide you with safety training. This training will be offered when you are first hired, again at some point during the year, and likely at the beginning of every new year. Most construction workers will ignore training offered by their employers but you should take any class or seminar that is provided. These are for your own benefit and might come in handy one day if an incident begins to unfold in front of you.
Wear PPE at All Times
PPE, or personal protective equipment, is typically provided to construction workers by their employers. If not, you need to invest in some of it on your own because it can save your life. PPE you should wear includes a hard hat, steel-toed boots, gloves, goggles, ear plugs, reflective vests and sometimes full body suits.
Use Harness When on Scaffolding
If you are climbing scaffolding while on the job you need to use a harness approved for the job. Scaffolding should be inspected each morning prior to use. You should never board scaffolding unless you have a harness on you and it is properly secured to the scaffolding and the ropes are tied correctly. Don’t just go through the motions of putting on a harness. You need to make sure it is secured to your person so that it can save you if you fall from the scaffolding or if the scaffolding collapses.
Report Dangerous Conditions
It is important that you report any and all dangerous conditions you encounter on the job immediately. Don’t wait until it’s too late and someone suffers an injury. The minute you come across a dangerous condition, and it can be anything, make sure a supervisor is notified. You should report these conditions in person, in writing, and with the use of pictures so they are properly documented and no one can deny the report was made.
Keep Tools in Good Condition
Do your best to keep the tools you use on the construction site in good condition. If they need to be calibrated or repaired, make sure it is done prior to using them again. If you don’t maintain the tools they could wind up causing you an injury or other malfunction.
Keep Work Area Clean
Keep your immediate work area clean of all debris and any items that could cause an accident. This includes removing unused work items, putting tools away, cleaning up spills, and making sure there’s no dirt or other debris that can cause injuries to your eyes.
When to Contact an Attorney
The minute you suffer an injury on a construction site you need to seek medical care and then contact an experienced Tampa personal injury attorney. The team at Dennis A. Lopez & Associates has the experience necessary to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and provide you with an honest review. Contact the office at 813-278-7321 to schedule a consultation about your injuries and how we can help.
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