Everyone who works in the construction industry knows the abbreviation BHP. However, it is one thing to be familiar with it, and quite another to know the rules and follow them. And compliance with these regulations is a fundamental duty of every employee in our industry. Everyone must feel this responsibility; there is no room for turning a blind eye here. Any employee who disregards health and safety rules poses a risk not only to themselves but also to others. That is why we must take action. If we point something out to someone, they may initially take offence, but sooner or later they will realise that we were acting in our shared interest.
Ultimately, the whole point of this is to ensure that every one of you returns home safe and sound. Procedures are not there to make work more difficult, but to ensure the safety of the entire team. Is it worth losing a finger or the ability to work for years just to save a few minutes? Remember, taking a shortcut might mean coming back… on crutches.
That is why health and safety must not be treated as a nuisance or a waste of time. Unfortunately, there are still bogus training courses that exist only on paper. I wonder if those who ‘attended’ them and were later victims of accidents still believe they outsmarted the system?
Fortunately, attitudes towards these matters are changing. More and more people are aware of the risks and take a responsible approach to health and safety. As a reminder, however, we present a handful of the most important points for the paving industry. Divided into sections for employees and employers, but we advise everyone to read the whole thing.
Working conditions for a professional
- You are dressed appropriately: you have workwear and full-length boots with non-slip soles, puncture-resistant insoles and steel toe caps.
- You have protective equipment suited to your tasks. E.g. a helmet, knee pads, protective gloves, safety goggles, a face mask, and ear protectors.
- If you are working on roadworks, you are wearing high-visibility warning clothing (you can be seen from a distance in all conditions).
- If you need to transport something manually (i.e. simply carry it), you have been informed of the weight of these items. And you can be sure that lifting standards are being adhered to.
- You are provided with the appropriate tools for lifting, such as a grab.
- If you work in high temperatures, your employer has provided you with drinks.
Duties of a Foreman
- Be aware that you are responsible for implementing and ensuring compliance with health and safety rules in the workplace.
- Ensure hygienic and safe working conditions.
- Take all factors into account and create a coherent health and safety compliance system that takes into account the specific nature of your industry.
- Monitor compliance with health and safety regulations and rules on an ongoing basis, and correct any errors where necessary.
- Respond to changing conditions and needs, and always strive to improve health and safety practices.
- Provide employees with initial and periodic health and safety training. Do not accept bogus training that exists only on paper!
You can find more information on health and safety here, among other places
