“All workers have the right to return home each day safe and sound.” – Source: Ontario Ministry of Labour

Preventing work-related illnesses and injuries is something that Terlin Construction takes very seriously. We are all responsible – employers, supervisors and workers – for preventing workplace illnesses and injuries. Construction sites and millwork shops can be full of potential hazards. With the proper training and hazard assessments, incidents and injuries can be prevented. We have put together a short list of important safety tips as a guide to help prevent illnesses and injuries in the workplace.

• Accidents are far more likely to occur when workers are unsure of what’s expected of them. Direct communication regarding the goals and activities for the day (and ultimately, the goals of the overall project) will cut down on surprises that could potentially cause harm.
• Every site should have a strong, experienced supervisor who is willing and capable of enforcing important safety standards. This supervisor must keep tabs on all employees throughout the day and correct those who fail to commit to proper safety techniques.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE should be worn at all times while on a jobsite. Wearing proper PPE will help keep you safe. Did you know that using power tools for extended periods of time can have significant effects on your hearing? This is why hearing protection is an absolute must and the same goes for your eyes. A small spec of concrete, dust or metal can lead to serious damage. Make sure you always wear the proper PPE.
• Where is the First Aid Kit? Accidents can happen at any time – and usually when you least expect them! That’s why they call them accidents. Not only should you know where the first aid kit is located, but it should be easily accessible. Time is of the essence when dealing with injuries, so someone responsible should be in charge of making sure the kit is well stocked and knowledgeable on what to do in an emergency (no matter how big or small).
• Innovation and New Ideas. The accident rate would be even higher than it is today if it were not for businesses willing to devote extra resources to keep their employees safe – lunch and learns, training sessions and safety demonstrations. The development of new practices to enhance workplace safety should always be encouraged.

 Finally, accidents can happen, however, as long as you are doing your due diligence to foster a safe environment for all workers, any accident that occurs can be used as a learning opportunity and a tool to help perfect your current safety practices. Transparency and open dialogues are the keys to an overall safer construction industry.