Construction sites are some of New York’s most dangerous workplaces. There are many causes of injury at a construction site, one of which is dropped objects. Falling tools, building materials, and other construction equipment pose serious risks. Both workers and employers share responsibility for reducing these risks.
Employer responsibilities
Employers are responsible for creating and maintaining a safe work environment. This starts with adequate training and providing the right safety equipment. Your employer must enforce safety protocols, such as securing tools and materials. The safety audits and maintenance checks they regularly conduct are necessary to find potential hazards. Employers must also adhere to OSHA standards. This includes tools like toe boards, debris nets, and tool tethering to prevent falling objects.
Worker responsibilities
Workers must follow the safety training and protocols they receive. This includes securing all tools and materials, especially when working at heights. Workers should also report any unsafe conditions to their supervisors immediately. You need to be aware of your surroundings at all times to help prevent accidents.
Protecting yourself on the job
To protect themselves from injuries, workers should always use appropriate personal protection equipment. Hard hats are essential as they provide protection from falling objects. Using tool lanyards and safety nets can help prevent material from dropping.
When workers and employers know what to look for and work together on implementing safety protocols, construction sites can significantly reduce the incidence of dropped objects and other construction injuries. This creates a safer work environment for everyone involved.
