As the air turns crisp and leaves take on autumn hues, the construction industry must adapt to new challenges and hazards with the changing seasons. While the beauty of fall is undeniable, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about safety on the job site. This blog will dive into essential autumn safety and wellness tips tailored specifically for the construction industry.

Slip and Fall Prevention: A Slippery Slope

Slip and fall accidents are a significant concern in the construction industry, especially during autumn. Studies have shown that wet leaves and frost can significantly increase the risk of falls.

Clear Walkways

Wet leaves can create slippery conditions. Make it a point to clear walkways, scaffolds and work areas of wet or decaying leaves. Here’s a guide on how to do it effectively.

Frost Alert

Morning frost can make surfaces like roofs, scaffolds, and ladders particularly slippery. Extra caution is advised during the early hours. Learn more about frost hazards.

Footwear

Opt for boots with slip-resistant soles to minimize the risk of falls. Check out safety standards for recommended footwear.

Dress for the Weather: Layering Up

Flexible Layers

Dress in layers that can be easily added or removed as the temperature changes throughout the day. Here are some layering tips.

Task-Appropriate

Ensure you dress for the occasion and are comfortable while carrying out your tasks. Keep yourself warm and cozy with appropriate clothing that suits your needs.

Lighting the Way: Shorter Days, Dimmer Lights

Well-Lit Areas

Ensure that work areas are adequately lit, especially if you’re working during dawn or dusk. Choosing the right lighting can be a daunting task. However, you can make the process much easier with a few helpful tips.

High-Visibility Clothing

When working in areas with low light or near traffic, it is essential to prioritize safety. To ensure visibility and protection, it is crucial to wear high-visibility clothing.

Equipment Maintenance: Pre-Winter Checks

Damage Inspection

Check tools and equipment for any signs of wear and tear that may have occurred during the warmer months. Here’s a maintenance checklist.

Winterization

Prepare machinery for colder temperatures to ensure they operate efficiently throughout the season. Learn how to winterize your machinery.

Training: Seasonal Hazards and Emergency Procedures

Seasonal Hazards

It’s crucial to equip workers with the necessary skills to recognize and manage the potential hazards of autumn, such as slippery surfaces and strong winds. Proper training can ensure a safe and productive work environment for everyone involved.

Emergency Procedures

Anticipate unforeseen weather conditions, such as early snowfall. Being prepared is key, so consider the steps your team can take to ensure your team and jobsite are ready for any situation.

Mental Health: More Than Just Physical Safety

Supportive Environment

Encouraging a positive work culture and supporting employees can lead to a productive and enjoyable work environment.

Mental Health Resources

Provide resources or avenues for workers to seek help for mental health issues. Here are some recommended resources.

Maintaining Safety and Efficiency

The autumn season presents unique challenges to the construction industry, but we can effectively navigate them with proactive measures and a focus on safety. By taking necessary precautions, construction sites can maintain a safe and productive environment during this beautiful time of year.

Construction jobsites always impose general risks to the health and well-being of workers. Taking all safety precautions seriously, and proactively implementing measures to mitigate them is extremely important. With autumn upon us and winter right behind, there are few additional construction safety concerns to consider in keeping workers safe.

Flu Shots

Autumn is the start of flu season, and doctors recommended all adults get vaccinated against the flu. Health experts warn that the addition of another respiratory illness, such as the flu, on top of catching the ongoing COVID-19 virus could land people in the hospital much faster. Avoid the possibility by getting your flu shot now.

Ladder Safety

Autumn weather can leave the ground wet and muddy, making it harder to place ladders securely. Gusty winds may even knock over some ladders. In addition, messy boots can also cause slipping as workers ascend. Remember these tips for ladder safety:

• Clean any excess mud or water off boots before climbing on a ladder
• Use the right ladder for the job and inspect it before using
• Never do these:
  • Place the ladder on unstable ground
  • Climb higher than the third rung from the top
  • Try to move a ladder while you are on it

Respirators and Facial Hair

With November, also known as Movember, just around the corner, men will grow mustaches to raise awareness for men’s health issues. Workers need to be aware that facial hair could compromise a respirator’s seal. As long as the facial hair does not protrude under the respirator seal or interfere with the device’s valve function, there should be no issue. Short mustaches, sideburns and small goatees usually do not present a hazard, but always ensure that masks fit properly and snug before beginning work.

Review Standard Procedures

Now is a great time to remind employees about standard procedures that may not regularly be discussed on jobsites. Below are some important examples to cover during fall safety meetings.

• Evacuation: Remind employees of the designated meeting area and the importance of them going there in an emergency.
• Fall Arrest Systems: Provide a refresher on how to inspect fall arrest systems and ensure that they are fitted, rigged and anchored properly.
• Hearing Protection: Remind workers that while loud machines can cause hearing loss very quickly, lower decibel levels can also cause irreparable damage over time.
• Hand Protection: Remind employees to use the right gloves for each task and to keep them on until they are finished to avoid hand injuries.

Safety should always be the top priority on a construction site. Following these autumn safety tips can help ensure knowledgeable and safe workers. For more safety tips, visit the OSHA website.