By Dave Sanders, Director of Safety & Risk
Construction sites are dynamic environments—what’s safe one day might be hazardous the next. That’s why safety awareness must be constant, and every team member is responsible for following the rules and looking out for one another.
We know our teams are well-trained and familiar with these rules, but safety is never something to take for granted. Even the most experienced crews benefit from a quick refresher to keep these principles top of mind. A busy workday can make it tempting to cut corners or get complacent—but by revisiting and reprioritizing safety, we make sure it stays the number one priority on every job.
Stay Focused — Your attention is your first line of defense. Keep your mind on your work and avoid horseplay or distractions that could endanger you or others.
Wear the Right PPE — Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for all personnel and visitors on site. This includes hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, reflective vests, and steel-toe boots. Never allow anyone into the work area without proper PPE.
Keep Work Areas Clean — A clean job site is a safe job site. Remove rubbish, store tools properly, and clear pathways to reduce hazards.
Watch Your Step — Slip, trip, and fall hazards are everywhere—uneven surfaces, mud, oil spills, trenches, tools, or debris. Don’t run, and always look for changing ground levels, moving equipment, and overhead work.
Lift Smart — Back injuries are one of the most common—and preventable—construction injuries. Always lift with your legs, not your back, and ask for help with heavy loads.
Operate Equipment Safely — Only trained, authorized personnel should operate tools and heavy machinery. Perform a pre-operation inspection, wear seat belts, and use spotters when lifting or backing up. Never ride on equipment without proper seating.
Protect Others — Do not enter barricaded areas, bypass safety guards, or distract fellow workers. Use cones, tape, or fencing to mark hazards and ensure operators can always see you when working around equipment.
Tool and Machine Safety — Never remove guards or operate damaged equipment. Shut down, disconnect, and lock out power sources before servicing tools or machinery. Never lubricate or refuel equipment while it’s running.
Plan for Emergencies — Know your site’s emergency procedures—locations of phones, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and evacuation routes. Begin each day with a pre-job briefing to review hazards and safe procedures.
Lifting & Rigging Safety — Rigging requires extra focus and caution. Keep loads balanced, inspect them thoroughly, and ensure your team is qualified for the task. Never use damaged machinery and keep people out of the lift area. Thorough inspections and situational awareness can prevent accidents before they happen. Always:
- Use a spotter
- Respect weight limits, boom length, and radius
- Understand sling configuration, number of legs, and maximum angles
- Store rigs and supplies properly
- Never leave loads suspended
Accidents are often caused by not thinking, ignoring instructions, skipping PPE, or overlooking warnings. Your actions affect not only your safety, but also the safety of your teammates. If you can’t do a job safely, stop and find a safer way. Safety isn’t just a rule—it’s a responsibility we all share. Stay safe out there!