813 Construction Worksite Safety

Precautions

Walking-Working Surfaces

Take these precautions to help prevent injuries due to slips, trips, and falls on worksite walking-working surfaces:

• Housekeeping: Maintain good housekeeping practices by keeping work areas clean, organized, and free from debris, materials, and tools that could pose tripping hazards. Regularly remove any spills, mud, or ice from walking surfaces.

• Lighting: Provide adequate lighting in all work areas to improve visibility, especially in stairways, walkways, and areas with potential hazards. Proper illumination helps workers identify potential trip hazards and navigate safely.
• Signage and Barricades: Clearly mark and barricade any hazardous areas, such as open holes, excavations, or uneven surfaces, to warn workers and prevent accidental falls. Use caution signs, barricades, and safety cones as needed.
• Slip-Resistant Surfaces: Use slip-resistant materials or coatings on walking surfaces, especially in areas prone to wetness, oil, or other potential slip hazards. This includes using anti-slip mats, abrasive tapes, or textured surfaces to enhance traction.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Encourage workers to wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles that provide good grip and traction. PPE, such as safety shoes or boots, can help reduce the risk of slips and falls.
• Handrails and Guardrails: Install sturdy handrails and guardrails around floor holes and on platforms, stairs, ramps, and other areas with fall hazards. These safety barriers provide stability, support, and protection against accidental falls.
• Safe Work Practices: Encourage safe work practices, such as maintaining three points of contact when ascending or descending stairs, avoiding distractions while walking, and using proper lifting techniques to prevent tripping or falling.

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