Dangers In The Workplace – #WinterWithSelectequip

The final in the #WinterWithSelectequip series is here. So for the final instalment we’re talking about the common winter workplace dangers, and a few points on how you can avoid them. Many jobs come with attached risks however, working within construction or maintenance possibly holds more risks than most; with one in ten construction workers being injured every year. So what are the most common dangers in the industrial workplace?

Slips, trips and falls are reported as the greatest cause of injuries and fatalities in the industry. As some construction sites are littered with holes, scaffolding and work equipment you really need to be aware of whats around you at all times in order to reduce the risk of an accident. There are many causes of slips and falls within the workplace, some are related to the footwear that is being worn at the time; without robust and slip resistant footwear then accidents are more likely to happen. Poor lighting or a cluttered site, could also add to the risk of an accident, with so much happening on site it’s important to keep equipment stored in the appropriate place and keep the environment well lit.

Moving objects can also be a concern within a workplace, with so many moving vehicles and trades people it could potentially become crowded, or unorganised. Not only do ground workers need to be aware of whats happening onsite at all times but, the operator of machinery need to be alert and consider their surroundings. Along with this hazards will only increase with the expansion of the building site. so in order to prevent any unnecessary accidents from moving objects, being fully aware of your surroundings is essential.

Working from a height requires training in safety awareness to make sure the safety of the employee and those around them is secure. If the worker hasn’t had appropriate training then they are not only risking their own life but also the lives of others around them. Examples of accidents that may occur includes dropping tools or equipment from a height or even falling themselves. The necessary procedures and regulations should be adhered too if you are working in conditions that require you to work above ground level.

Noise is another common workplace danger if you’re working in construction or maintenance… as well as many other industries. Repetitive or even excess levels of noise for long durations, can cause damage to the hearing of workers which in turn may even offer a distraction to the job at hand, leading to another workplace accident. Damage to hearing could include ringing in the ears, a burst ear drum or even damage to the delicate bones in the ear; all providing a significant level of pain. Ear plugs can help in easing the level of noise in the workplace but more secure PPE like head muffs are sometimes needed; especially if you’re exposed to the noise for long periods of time.

Respiratory diseases from things like dust particles or a toxic mixture of hazardous materials and fibres can cause serious damage to the lungs. With even long term effects such as chronic obstructive pulmonary, asthma and silicosis. Asbestos, although it isn’t commonly used in buildings today, can still be found- in small traces- in older buildings, presenting a risk for many workers. It’s very important to wear protective masks to reduce the risk of being exposed from the hazardous fibre and from any form of particle/matter that could harm your health.

You can find all the necessary PPE, tools and other products on our Selectequip Hub. We hope you’ve found the #WinterWithSelectequip series helpful and if you didn’t already, you’ve found out how important health and safety is in the workplace, not only for you but for everyone around you.