When you are working on a construction project on behalf of a client, they are likely to have scheduled visits. This way, the client can check on progress or look over any problems with the build that might be slowing things down or need rectifying.
When your clients visit the construction site, it is essential they are kept safe. After all, construction sites can be dangerous places to work, as well as visit. With that in mind, below are six practical steps for keeping both employees and visitors safe.
- Personal protective equipment
Anyone visiting a construction site needs to follow the rules on wearing the right equipment to protect them from harm. It will include wearing hard hats, high-visibility clothing, steel toe-capped footwear, and additional gear, such as safety goggles and gloves if the environment demands it.
- Signing in and out
A record of who is on site and who has left is essential for employees and visitors and is legally required in case of emergencies such as fire.
- Insurance
Having the right insurance in place is vital to protect clients as well as your business. Should an accident occur, there may be medical costs or damage to equipment that will need to be paid for, which is why public liability insurance is so crucial.
Additionally, another important level of cover that businesses who supply goods alongside construction services is product liability. This, as Hiscox explain, is insurance for against product defects.
- Site inductions
Before moving around a construction site, any visitor needs to be informed of fundamental rules and be made aware of what to do in an emergency. It will include information including knowing where emergency exits are, the location of first aid supplies, as well as where the local hospitals are should they be needed. This information can be can be done with a site induction, where you can brief your client of health and safety matters that apply to visitors on a construction site.
- Guided tours
Clients visiting a construction site should be chaperoned, so they don’t inadvertently get into dangerous situations. Ask your client to come to the site office as soon as they arrive, rather than going to look around by themselves. You can also make sure you know when to expect your client by asking them to book an appointment to visit, rather than arriving unannounced.
- Deny access to restricted areas
Some areas of a construction site may not be safe for visitors, even if it is your construction clients. It is essential that you do not allow access to restricted areas, and most clients will be happy to comply if you explain that it is for safety reasons.
When working or visiting a construction site, there are many potential risks and hazards. As a construction site manager, you are responsible for keeping both workers and visitors safe. Following all the health and safety regulations that apply to your site will help you to do that, as well as implementing these practical tips for visiting clients.
