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Tips for preventing injuries on West Virginia construction sites

Proper workplace expectations, signs, equipment and agency keep West Virginia’s construction workers safe. Employees should know how to hold employers accountable.

Those who work in the construction industry in West Virginia have to take extra measures to ensure they do not suffer an avoidable personal injury while on the clock. While employers bear a great deal of responsibility, employees should educate themselves on the essentials of safety and safety improvements, so they know how well their company protects them.

Setting the right expectations

Those in management and leadership positions should not only let employees know company expectations regarding safety and accident prevention, but demonstrate those expectations. No matter how basic or complex safety messages are, demonstrating them during regular safety talks helps reinforce them and makes them easily understood.

Covering the basics

Construction employees need to have quality personal protective equipment and items to keep them uninjured and healthy. Basic items include work boots, protective eyewear, hard hats, gloves and ear protection. Having essential items is great, but investing in quality and reputable equipment from trusted manufacturers is better.

Giving employees a voice

Because there are more employees than managers or supervisors, employees often notice safety hazards and other risks that those in higher positions my overlook. For that reason, construction companies should empower employees to come forward to voice safety concerns, all without worrying about ridicule. Such a policy helps pinpoint and resolve safety issues faster.

Implementing safety checklists

A lot goes into completing a construction job, which means there is often a lot to keep up with in regard to personal injury risks. Creating multiple checklists often proves beneficial. For instance, having checklists for elevated safety, electrical safety, crane safety and hazard communication better ensures safety at every level and facet of a construction project.

Using technology

Modern technology goes a long way in protecting construction workers. Wearable technology makes it easier to keep a close eye on everyone present at a construction site and respond to incidents when they occur. Some tech can even detect falls and trips, sending an alert to medical personnel when necessary to save time and lives. Other technologies, like drones, can be used to complete inspections without requiring workers to enter confined or otherwise dangerous areas.

Including safety signage

Although simple, safety labels and signs are another way to keep employees on their toes in regard to worksite safety. For this particular aspect of personal injury avoidance, it is a good idea to rely on the latest OSHA standards and regulations; not only for the most effective signage, but also to avoid unnecessary fines and safety infractions.

Adhering to safety regulations and providing workers with effective training is essential to preventing personal injuries. Construction workers in West Virginia who get hurt on the clock should consult with a legal professional to determine if their employer bears responsibility for their injuries above and beyond the State’s workers’ compensation laws.

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