Construction firms with strong safety programs and strict onsite safety policies can protect workers from accidents and fatalities while maintaining and enhancing community relations, as well as attracting and retaining quality employees.
Protecting workers is ultimately the construction executive’s responsibility, and a firm that takes that extra step earns the respect of its employees.
But, even when requirements exist, there is no guarantee of compliance. The consequences of improper or ill-maintained safety standards came to light during Las Vegas’ major construction boom. As reported by the Las Vegas Sun, 23 construction workplace fatalities occurred between Jan. 1, 2008, and June 1, 2009. One worker died from a 59-foot fall because there was no backup deck or netting, as required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
From a community perspective, nothing spells frustration—or ruins a company’s reputation—like an unsafe construction site. Most major cities have scaffolding and other requirements to protect pedestrians, but other risks exist. Children love to explore construction sites, unfinished buildings, trucks and equipment, which often are unguarded and look like fun—until someone gets hurt.
Although project budgets may be strained, it’s a lot more expensive to have someone injured around a construction site—whether it’s a passerby or an employee. It’s a pay now or pay later situation for construction firms.
Extra security at construction sites adds to a community’s reassurance, particularly in the wake of worker injuries and fatalities.
Additionally, meeting and exceeding worker safety guidelines polishes a company’s reputation in the eyes of employees. Good safety programs yield a better work environment and increase self-esteem among workers.
Creating a culture of safety, as opposed to just a safety program, is the best solution for construction firms.
"Safety is a culture that, when instilled, adds many hidden benefits," says Barry Unger, OCIP construction safety manager for R. Garrison Strategic Risk Management. "On a safer, cleaner worksite, where the manpower is not working over construction debris and in contact with hazardous conditions, employees take more pride in their work. They own it, they’re proud of their work, and that results in employees who come to work with a different attitude."
When Unger worked for 14 years as a project manager and safety director for a major electrical contractor in North Carolina, he met some employee resistance to implementing a culture of safety. But, he says, "once it’s established, the benefits to all parties are exponential."
One major benefit is increased profits. Good insurance ratings ensure future work for safety-oriented firms, too. When a culture of safety exists, Unger says, "There are no go-backs or punch lists; the product is better and the customers are happier."
![]()
Saturday, February 4, 2012