In any workplace, especially if you are an employer, it could be tempting to cut some costs. However, there are some instances when you unintentionally compromise something just for the sake of lowering your overhead. For example, safety. Some employers, unfortunately, are willing to invest in cheaper work equipment without any regard for their employees’ safety.

One of the industries that has a higher risk of accidents is construction. In this industry, there are a lot of external threats that cannot only bring damages to your worksite but could also cause injuries and deaths. In the 2017 report from the Integrated Survey on Labor and Employment (ISLE) shows 3.9% of the total fatal and non-fatal occupational injuries have been recorded under the construction industry. Across industries, manufacturing accounted for the highest shares of total occupational injuries.

In the Philippines, it is mandatory for people in the construction industry to have occupational safety and health standards. Chartered cities and municipalities are allowed to conduct technical and safety inspections on construction project sites. But as an employer, how can you really ensure that your employees are protected while at work?

1. Conduct health and safety training.

It states in the DOLE Department Order No. 13 or the Guidelines Governing Occupations Safety and Health in the Construction Industry that “every construction project shall have a suitable Construction Safety and Health Program”.

This will ensure that the employees are fully aware of all the risks associated with the project, and they can save their lives (or other people’s) when needed.

2. Provide Personal Protective Equipment or PPE.

Providing PPE’s to employees can reduce their exposure to hazards. Furnishing your employees with adequate and approved protective gear also encourages them to work safely, no matter how hazardous their environment is.

Below are Buildeee partners for PPEs

Top-Rigid Industrial Safety Supply, Inc.

Proteq A. Alvarez Trading & Services Corporation

3. Regularly inspect your tools and equipment.

A way to avoid serious accidents, make sure that all of your tools and equipment at work are working efficiently. Malfunctions and defects should be reported immediately to prevent further injuries.

4. Have emergency health personnel.

There should always be someone in the workplace that could respond to medical emergencies, especially if the accident is severe and needed to be attended to quickly.

5. Constantly communicate.

If there are existing potential hazards on site, anyone who goes to work should be informed. Being aware of any danger that might happen could save anyone from a disaster.

When working in a high-risk environment, you should always make sure that safety is being practiced to reduce any chances of injuries and deaths. As employers, not only is this the right thing to do, you also have a legal responsibility to protect your employees while they are at work.