This is how you reduce the risk of workplace accidents in construction

Let's start with the good news: over the past decade, the number of major workplace accidents in the Belgian construction sector fell by almost 30%. Yet there were still 2,782 major accidents in 2023. And every accident is one too many, isn't it? Fortunately, a warned construction worker is worth at least two.

Common causes

Those "no trespassing" and "no entry for unauthorised persons" signs hang on every worksite for a reason! We note some common hazards and list practical tips that will help you avoid accidents or health problems.

Traps

Are you working at height, using scaffolding or ladders? Then install fall protection, such as handrails and safety belts, and make sure that all workers on site wear the necessary protective equipment (e.g. helmet, safety shoes or boots). Also prevent anyone from tripping or slipping: avoid uneven surfaces and obstacles (e.g. loose cables), do not set up ladders on scaffolding, clean up immediately when something has been spilt ...

Moving or falling objects

Be wary when moving building materials, tools, machinery or scaffolding on a construction site, as they still too often cause workplace accidents. Simple shielding prevents small items from falling down scaffolding. If you are moving larger or heavier equipment, you would do well to signal this clearly with warning signs. Clear procedures and safe working methods for moving loads will also prevent accidents.

Collapse

A construction site is a 'work in progress' and is constantly changing. An extra scaffold here, a temporary trench there, an almost-completed wall over there ... Everything is temporary, provisional or 'almost', and this increases the risk of collapse and industrial accidents. So pay close attention to cordoning off dangerous areas, propping up trenches and walls, and so on.

Long-term risks

Workers in the construction industry are also at risk of health problems that only become apparent afterwards:

• Noise can cause hearing damage. So provide hearing protection and investigate whether quieter machines are an option.

• Asbestos and construction dust can make workers seriously ill. Provide protective suits and face masks and do not allow anyone to work in these conditions unnecessarily.

Prevention on the construction site: obligation and culture

As an employer in the construction sector, you are obliged to ensure the safety of your employees. The since 2022 compulsory basic safety training is central to this. It creates awareness and promotes safety on every construction site. It is therefore compulsory for all workers in the construction sector, including self-employed or foreign workers working under your supervision. New employees have one month to complete this training.

In addition, a range of legal obligations fall on employers, prevention advisers and construction workers alike, such as the Belgian welfare law, various European directives and ministerial decrees. On top of that, on sites larger than 500 m² or sites where more than one contractor works, it is mandatory to appoint a safety coordinator.

Of course, you can also count on the sense of responsibility of every employee on a construction site. Everyone plays a role in preventing workplace accidents. A strong safety culture, embedded in the entire operation of the construction company, helps.

So encourage people to report safety risks or discuss concerns, and respond positively to such reports. Organise regular (repeat) training so that employees learn to assess risks and react correctly to dangerous situations. And ensure that site supervisors and other managers set a good example at all times. In this way, all employees together build a safe working environment for everyone.

After reading this article, are you inspired to make your company an (even) safer workplace? If so, this article will also interest you: Preventing accidents in 3 steps