No matter how small or large a company is, regular and updated safety training in construction projects is essential. In fact, this field is one of the most dangerous industries. For example, safety risks can come from heavy machinery, working at heights or near roads, changes in the industry best practices due to new construction technologies… However, with regular training, people in the construction industry can stay on top of the best practices.
Specifically, the construction industry has to deal with potential hazards, and constant time pressures. And, also relentless demands to complete different phases of construction by particular deadlines. As a result, providing workplace health and safety becomes a priority to prevent construction workers from being at a risk for injuries, illness, or even death.
Therefore, the Australian Work Health and Safety Strategy 2012-2022’s national priority is to reduce the number and rate of fatalities and serious claims. So, providing work health and safety training is a key element to ensure this reduction.
And, all companies need to provide health and safety training to their workers. And, they also have to ensure that their training is updated on a regular basis. So, let’s see what are the benefits of regular safety training in construction.
Construction industry hazards and the PCBU duty
Recently, thanks to legislative and policy reforms, we’ve seen an increased awareness of WHS issues and positive changes across a range of industries and workplaces. In fact, SafeWork Australia has identified:
– 35% decrease in the number of traumatic injury fatalities over the 2018–20 period.
– 24% decrease in the incidence rate of serious claims between the base period and 2018–19.
– 30% decrease in the incidence rate of musculoskeletal claims between the base period and 2018–19.
For example, some of the hazards construction industry workers face include falls from height, falling objects, exposure hazardous materials, or injuries from operating machinery. But, also motor vehicle injuries, dust inhalation, or working in confined spaces.
So, if you are a person or business conducting an undertaking (PCBU), your duty of care involves a few tasks.
First, ensuring the health and safety of your workers and that they are not at risk from the work being carried out. Additionally, providing and maintaining a safe work environment including machinery, structures, substances and systems of work. Also, provision of and access to adequate facilities for the welfare of workers. And, adequate supervision and monitoring of workers’ health and safety.
Equally important, the provision of any information, training, instruction or supervision that is necessary to protect all persons from risks. And, these are risks to their health and safety arising from work carried out as part of the conduct of the business or undertaking.
How regular safety training can prevent or avoid hazards
The first benefit is that training prevents injuries and fatalities. And, this comes as a result of the 4 following benefits of regular safety training.
Better awareness
First, regular safety training allows workers to anticipate workplace hazards. Before starting the workday, construction workers must be aware of the hazards at their job sites.
Better communication
Second, regular training helps workers develop action plans, make quick, informed decisions, and keep each other safe.
Better documentation
Third, it also provides details on how to react in case of a workplace accident or injury. This includes keeping records of injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. It is mandatory and makes it easier to see where your Health and Safety Program may require updates or extra material.
Job success
Last but not least, many types of safety training suited to the different job sites and duties are available. For example, different hazards exist for traffic controllers than for workers in excavation and trenching.
Some of the specialised construction safety training courses our partners offer include:
– White card courses
– Traffic control courses
– Asbestos awareness courses
– Confined space courses
– And more…
Other benefits of providing work health and safety training
Less costs
First, your company is less likely to get penalties and fines, compensation claims and associated administrative costs, and legal expenses.
Higher productivity
Second, providing work health and safety training results in fewer injuries. Consequently, productivity improves.
Better motivation
Third, providing training can help create a safer work environment. And, an environment where employees can focus on their tasks create better motivation as they don’t have to worry about their safety and health.
More efficient and successful recruitment
In addition, a workplace where people feel safe provide your company with a better retention of workers. So, you get better return on recruitment investment.
A competitive edge
Finally, thanks to a good health and safety record, your company gets a competitive edge on the market. In fact, you get better chance to win contracts with better retention and recruitment, better reputation in the industry, and more money.
So, at Absolute Traffic Management, safety is our number 1 priority. And, we know that ongoing training is essential for construction workers. Consequently, we always train our teams to look out for their own safety and foster a positive safety culture at work.
Get Discounts On Safety Courses Today!
Now, with so many potential hazards to consider when working in the construction industry, it is important that teams receive regular safety training.
Absolute Traffic Management has partnered with Skillsify, Training.com.au and Workscene. So, you can get discounts on nationally recognised courses related to safety training in construction as well as on PPE.
To learn more, visit our traffic control training page, call us on 0414 560 949 or contact us online today.
