Construction Safety

Mental First Aid and Psychological Safety

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Mental First Aid and Psychological Safety are emerging with time. Increasing work stress day by day Mental Health is certainly a hot topic at the moment. Mental health is essential in the workplace for betterment in work and the worker feels safe. The term “Psychological Safety” was not necessarily all about Workplace Health and Safety. … Read more

The Best Safety Shoes

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The best safety shoes with icons of qualities.

What is a safety shoe?

Shoes that protect our feet from hazards of dropped objects, slipping and sharp edge objects are called the best safety shoes. Safety shoes are an essential part of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

Qualities of Safety Shoes

  • With Comfortable footbed
  • Ultimate shock absorption
  • Protective Toe cap
  • Puncture Resistance
  • European or ASTM standards
  • Slip Resistance

With Comfortable footbed

The comfortable footbed should be developed with an exceptional performance structure of safety shoes. Safety shoes must be comfortable during maintenance work and hard work. The shoes should be designed to be light in weight, have air breath ports, and be comfortable all day long.      

Ultimate shock absorption

The quality of shock absorption protects the feet from the impact of the jumps. The quality of shock absorption protects the feet from the impact of the jumps. For this purpose, a cushioned and comfortable footbed is essential in safety shoes.

Protective Toe cap

A protective toe cap of safety shoes should be made according to European or ASTM standards. It protects the feet from impact regardless of the material. It also protects the feet from fallen objects at feet.

  1. Steel Toe cap
    • Steel toe caps are naturally stronger than composite or other material toe caps.
  2. Composite toe cap
    • Composite toe caps are lighter than steel toe caps. It reduces stress and fatigue on the legs and joints throughout a long workday.
  3. Nanocarbon toe cap
    • Nanocarbon toe caps are thinner and lighter than composite toe caps. Therefore this is a solution for the thicker and bulkier composite toe caps.
      • Composite and nanocarbon toe caps are also metal-free and practical when working in an electrical hazardous environment. It is also suitable for work on metal detectors such as courts, banks, and airports.
  4. Layer as conductor
    • A thinner layer should be used in the sole of the safety shoes to reach the same strength as a composite toe. It should be used as a conductor of cold, heat, and electricity.
  5. With Self-cleaning outside

Puncture Resistance

A steel layer must used in midsoles from toe to heel. The steel layer prevents the shoe’s puncture. It protects feet from sharp edge objects entering through the sole that can cause injury to feet.

Slip Resistance

Slipping resistance is very essential quality in industrial footwear. Slipping resistance soles must tested on a ceramic tile wetted with a dilute soap solution. It should also tested on a smooth steel with glycerol. If the safety shoes pass these tests that’s why we should consider them safe safety shoes.

European or ASTM standards

European Standards Safety Shoes

These standards are important for manufacturers, employers, and consumers. To ensure the quality safety footwear for every workplace condition.

  1. EN ISO 20345:2011:
    • This standard specifies basic requirements for safety footwear. It covers features of safety shoes toe protection, impact of objects, compression, and essential safety criteria.
  2. EN ISO 20347:2012:
    • Focusing on occupational footwear, this standard sets requirements for comfort, durability, and other performance aspects.
  3. EN ISO 20346:2014:
    • Similar to EN ISO 20345, this standard pertains to protective footwear. It focuses on increased resistance to penetration. It also covers a higher level of protection for the metatarsal area.

ASTM International Standards

  1. ASTM F2412-18 and F2413-18:
    • These standards cover the performance requirements for various types of safety shoes.
      • ASTM F2412 addresses testing methods for foot protection.
      • ASTM F2413 specifies the minimum performance criteria for the safety of footwear’s toe.
  2. ASTM F2892-18:
    • This standard covers non-metallic safety toe-protective footwear. It specifies requirements for design, performance, and all types of testing.
  3. ASTM F2412-18 and F2413-18 Metatarsal Guards:
    • ASTM standards ASTM F2412-18 and F2413-18 about specific metatarsal guards used in safety footwear. These standards address the performance and testing of safety footwear metatarsal protection.
  4. ASTM F1117-03(2017):
    • This standard provides guidelines for selecting footwear according to the workplace.

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Golden safety rules for construction site workers

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construction site worker with safety and PPEs

10 golden safety rules were introduced for construction site workers by HSE.

  1. Always wear PPE (personal protective equipment) at the site. Always select appropriate PPEs according to task specifications or as required by the job safety analysis.
  2. When boarding or leaving a barge, a vessel, or a platform always use appropriate equipment like a personal basket, pilot ladder, boat landing, or gangway.
  3. Be careful and active when walking and standing. Never walk or stand under a suspended load.
  4. Never work at the site or drive any equipment or machine, under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  5. Don’t smoke outside of dedicated areas or fire-risk places. Always smoke at a specific smoking place.
  6. Don’t work at height without a safety harness. Always use collective protective equipment like guard rails, safety nets, etc.
  7. Report immediately to your supervisor or site in charge of any incident, accident, or near-miss.
  8. Make sure that the power supply of equipment has been cut off. which you want to manipulate for maintenance, repair, or modification.
  9. Do not remove or bypass barricades from the site or machine guarding. If you are not authorized so don’t enter a prohibited signalized area.
  10. Don’t enter a confined space or excavation area without atmosphere control and protection equipment.

Importance of safety rules for workers

  1. Worker’s satisfaction and interest during work.
  2. Control over any incident and accident about the worker.
  3. Create awareness about PPEs in workers.
  4. Inform workers about different situations and hazards.
  5. Realize the importance of the safety of body parts and lives.
  6. Creating activeness in workers for situational responsibilities.
  7. To create a better safe environment at the site.
  8. Increase worker’s information about confined spaces and excavation areas.
  9. Give awareness to workers about alcohol and drugs’ bad effects during work at the site.
  10. Instructions to workers about ladders when they board or leave the work platform.

Industrial Building Safety

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Worker works on industrial building

There are so many workers working in the industry, and industrial building safety for workers safety is very important.

The elements that affect industrial building.

  1. Heavyweight- 2. Weighted carry brackets and supports- 3. Holes for piping- 4. Vibration and Noise- 5. Moving machines- 6. Vapors- 7. Exposure- 8. Radiation- 9. Fatigue

1. Heavyweight

Heavy weight on the industrial building can be very dangerous for the building. It decreases the life of the building and increases the risks of collapse. The cross-metal bridge for the support of pipes is not safe to be put on the building’s wall. For this purpose, a support made with metal pipes should be used from the ground to carry weight.

2. Weight carry brackets and supports

Brackets and supports with walls and under the roof for carrying the weight of pipes and other objects should be used safely.

3. Holes for piping

Necessary or unnecessary holes in the building’s roof or walls make the building structure weak. The proper brackets or iron-made frame should be fit in the walls for building safety betterment. We can use concrete beams for this purpose.

4. Vibration and Noise

Vibrations of heavy machines can collapse the building. Because vibrations affect the foundation and structure of the building by making cracks with time. We can control these issues by controlling the vibration of the machines and following these instructions:

  1. Use the flexible iron rods in the building structure and iron rod-made floor beds for machines.
  2. Don’t connect directly the machine’s connected pipelines with the roof or walls because the vibration of machines transfers to the walls and roof through these pipelines.
  3. Always use insulation or foam-type material around the lines at the point that connects to the roof or walls.
  4. Use flexible joints or rubber bellows at the pipelines that are connected to the machine.

5. Moving machines

Moving machines are commonly hit by buildings when working. Piller corners and doors can damaged when moving machines hit them. For pillars and building’s corner’s safety:
1. Metal putty or metal angle should be grout around the corners.
2. Metal sheets should wrapped around the corners.
3. Grills of metal pipes should be grouted around the pillars and in front of the walls.

6. Vapors

Industrial building safety is very important when industrial buildings are used for chemical storage or used in the building.

  1. Corrosive chemical vapors, such as those containing acids or corrosive gases, can damage the metal components of a building. This can weaken the structural integrity of the building over time. Corrosive vapors can also affect electrical systems within a building.
  2. Certain chemical vapors may react with building materials, leading to their deterioration. For example, vapors from acids and chemicals can react with the paint, sealants, and concrete.
  3. Chemical vapors can cause discoloration of building surfaces. This can be particularly evident on exterior walls, facades, and other exposed surfaces. For instance, sulfur-containing compounds can cause dark stains or discoloration.
  4. Odor Permeation from chemical vapors can permeate building interiors, affecting indoor air quality and workers’ comfort. This can have bad effects on the building.
  5. Some chemical vapors can contribute to the deformation of building surfaces. Salts that can appear as a white, powdery substance on walls and other masonry surfaces.

7. Exposure

Buildings of industrial areas or subjected to chemical spills may face exposure to corrosive or hazardous chemicals. This can lead to material degradation and discoloration. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight can cause fading and degradation of exterior finishes, paints, and sealants. The weather conditions such as rain, wind, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations can affect the building. Prolonged exposure to moisture, through rain, humidity, or leaks, can result in building damage. This may include rotting of wood, mold growth, and deterioration of building materials.

8. Radiation

Solar radiation, primarily in the form of sunlight, can have several effects on buildings:

Thermal Expansion: Sunlight can cause materials to expand and contract due to temperature fluctuations, leading to stress on building components. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight can cause fading of colors in paints, fabrics, and other materials over time. Ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays or X-rays, can potentially have damaging effects on building materials and electronic systems. Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation from sources like cell towers or communication devices can have minimal direct impact on buildings. Nuclear Radiation can cause incidents, buildings may be exposed to radioactive particles and fallout. Electromagnetic radiation is typically at low levels and does not directly harm buildings.

9. Fatigue

Industrial buildings are used for 24 hours commonly and the element of fatigue can affect these buildings. When designing these buildings this factor is considerable.

Industrial building safety audit report

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First Aid

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Girl holding First aid bag

Before arriving at the doctor’s a trained person gives treatment to the injured person is called first aid. First aid is given with the help of available items.

Importance of first aid

  1. to reduce the loss of physical imbalance due to incidents.
  2. To control the bleeding, continuous bleeding can be very dangerous for the patient.
  3. First aid gives a boost to the patient that is very necessary for the patient.

A good first aider

Here are some characteristics of a good first aider:

According to Profession

  1. He should not ask any unnecessary questions from the patient.
  2. Firstly he should know the damaged body parts and their condition.
  3. He should know the reason for this situation and how to control it.
  4. He should start the first aid procedure without time waste.
  5. The first aider should be able to trust the patient can trust his first aid.

According to Nature

  1. He should control his feelings and not be confused or depressed.
  2. He should be able to make the best decision on the spot.
  3. He should motivate the patient.
  4. He should not speak unnecessary words before the patient.

Common First Aid Rules

  1. Don’t consider a patient as a dead person.
  2. Don’t consider yourself a professional doctor.
  3. Remove the real reason for this incident.
  4. Firstly try to keep the patient from shock.
  5. Provide fresh air to the patient.
  6. keep the patient warm and give rest to the patient.
  7. Recover the patient’s respiratory system.
  8. In case of poison absorption, try for the patient who vomits it completely.
  9. Don’t give edible or drinkable items to the patient in case of unconsciousness.
  10. Remove unnecessary clothes of the patient in case of heat stroke.
  11. Try to transfer a patient to a safe place from the place of incident.
  12. If continuously bleeding from the head of the patient then stay up the head of the patient.
  13. Do not discuss the status of the patient in front of the patient.
  14. Try to transfer a patient to the doctor or hospital as soon as possible.

What is personal evacuation plan?

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A Personal Evacuation Plan (PEP) is a customized strategy designed to help individuals evacuate safely from a building or area during an emergency, such as a fire, natural disaster, or other emergency situations. This plan takes into account individual needs, abilities, and scenarios to ensure that everyone can respond effectively in the event of an emergency.

Emergency Evacuation Map

The Emergency Evacuation Map guides the workers, visitors, and contractors on the way into the building and coming in going out of the building.

An Emergency Evacuation Map is a map that shows aisle marking on the floor and everything which has volume on the floor. Location of everything on the floor. Emergency Evacuation Map gives importance to exit ways like lifts and stairs in the building.

How to make an Emergency Evacuation Map?

The emergency evacuation map guides the workers and visitors to go out of the building in case of an emergency with safety. The emergency evacuation map highlights the aisle marking, Emergency exit door, normal exit doors, and all equipment related to emergencies.

Creating an effective Emergency Evacuation Map involves several key steps. Here’s a guide to help you design one:

Step-by-Step Guide to Create an Emergency Evacuation Map

  1. Gather Information:
  • Obtain a current floor plan of the building or area.
  • Identify all exits, stairwells, and emergency assembly points outside the building.
  1. Identify Key Locations:
  • Mark important areas such as restrooms, elevators (not to be used in emergencies), and disabled access routes.
  • Highlight potential hazards (e.g., flammable materials, electrical rooms).
  1. Designate Evacuation Routes:
  • Determine the safest and quickest routes to exits from various locations in the building.
  • Ensure these routes are clear of obstacles and accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities.
  1. Use Symbols and Colors:
  • Utilize easily recognizable symbols (e.g., arrows for routes, green for exits, red for hazards) to enhance clarity.
  • Consider color-coding different elements for easy identification.
  1. Add a Legend/Key:
  • Create a legend that explains the symbols and colors used in the map for clarity.
  1. Include Important Information:
  • Provide details such as emergency contact numbers, protocols (e.g., “Do not use elevators”), and the location of emergency equipment (fire extinguishers, first aid kits).
  1. Create Multiple Versions:
  • Design maps for different floors or areas of the building to ensure everyone has access to relevant information.
  1. Test the Map:
  • Conduct a drill to see how well the map works in practice and make any necessary adjustments based on feedback.
  1. Make the Map Visible:
  • Place printed copies of the map in visible locations throughout the building (near entrances, hallways, break rooms).
  • Consider adding digital versions accessible via building management systems or emergency apps.
  1. Regularly Update:
    • Review and update the map regularly, especially after renovations, changes in layout, or after conducting drills.

Tips for Effectiveness:

  • Keep it simple and easy to understand.
  • Use a large enough font and clear graphics.
  • Make sure everyone in the building is aware of the map and understands how to use it.
  • Conduct regular training and drills to create awareness in workers for safe evacuation procedures.

Creating an effective Emergency Evacuation Map can greatly enhance safety during an emergency by helping people navigate quickly.

Types of this map

  1. Building an Emergency Evacuation Map
    • Office blocks
    • Production departments
    • Workshops
    • Power / Boiler houses
    • Laboratories / canteen / cafeterias
  2. Plant / Unit Emergency Evacuation Map
This map is an individual building evacuation map.

This type of map is designed by EHS or the safety department which mentions everything about safety.

Elements of This Map

This Map highlights the aisle marking and the following things:

Points

  1. You are Here
  2. Emergency Exit Door
  3. Normal Exit Door
  4. Location of fire extinguishers
  5. Location of electric panels and board
  6. Available fire hose cabinet
  7. Available First aid box
  8. Smoke detector
  9. MCP (Manual Call Point)
  10. Fire and water bucket

Evacuation Policy

The Evacuation Policy of the company is written on the emergency exit map. Any worker, visitor, and contractor read this policy and follow it. This policy is very important and shows the rules of the company. Detailed Evacuation Policy

Evidence

Highlighted points of emergency exit map.

Importance

Emergency Evacuation Map supports the workers and visitors to quickly understand the safe exit ways in case of emergency. The emergency exit plan or evacuation policy can save many workers’ and visitor’s lives.

Location of this map

This map should be located near the main entrance door or the gathering area. Because anyone can find and read this map easily in normal or emergencies.

The Ultimate Guide to Ladder Safety: Tips, Best Practices, and Common Mistakes to Avoid

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There are some basic rules for ladder safety.

What is a ladder?

A tool with types and sizes that helps us to climb at a height for different purposes is called a ladder.

Types of ladder

  1. Type ladder
    • Step ladder (A-type)
    • Platform ladder (A-type)
  2. Straight ladder
    • Fixed Straight ladder
    • Extension straight ladder
  3. Step Ladder
    • Fixed step ladder
    • Extension ladder
    • Mobile Step Ladder
    • Extension Mobile Step Ladder
    • Fixed extension step ladder
  4. Monkey Ladder
All types of ladder with ladder safety

Basic Rules for Ladder Safety

There are some basic rules for ladder use safely.

A-type Step ladder safety

  1. Always use a safety helmet when starting work on the ladder.
  2. Always open the stepladder completely and the spreader is locked open before using the ladder.
  3. Never climb onto a ladder from one side, directly upper steps, or from one ladder to another.
  4. Keep your face to the stepladder when climbing up or down.
  5. Put your feet in the center of the ladder’s step.
  6. Choose the right ladder for the right work according to height and space.
  7. Check the load capacity of the ladder before using it.
  8. Inspect the ladder before using it.
  9. Set the ladder at the level surface and up correctly.
  10. Climb and descend the ladder with caution and safety.
  11. Control your body balance while working on a ladder.
  12. Set the ladder at the right place according to the work point.

Straight-type ladder safety

Include these safety points in the above-given safety points

  1. This type of ladder should be fixed with a straight wall at an angle of 75 degrees.
  2. Never lean or reach away from the ladder, hold the ladder when a person climbs at the ladder.
  3. Ensure the ladder’s foot does not slip on the floor.
  4. Depute the person to hold the ladder and control the foot slipping off the ladder.

What angle is a ladder?

The correct angle for an A-type and straight ladder is 75 degrees.

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