The inherent dangers of operating on construction sites are all too apparent. Hazardous materials, elevated and below-grade structures, challenging environmental conditions, and the pressing need to meet strict deadlines are only a few of the risks that pose a threat to field teams. That is why a comprehensive safety program is essential for any construction company. Fortunately, advancements in technology and safety practices have opened up new possibilities to improve construction safety. In this article, we’ll explore the three key ways to do just that:

1. Streamline Your Inspection and Reporting Process With Paperless Safety Technology Solutions

One of the biggest challenges of managing a safety program across construction sites is collecting and managing data. In the past, this was often done using paper-based systems, which were slow, cumbersome, and prone to errors. Fortunately, safety management solutions can streamline both the inspection process, with simplified OSHA checklists, and reporting, with automation capabilities that produce professional-grade inspection reports in minutes instead of hours.

By reducing the time it takes to complete these tasks, valuable resources can be freed up, allowing for a greater focus on safety training and education.

2. Incorporate Safety Into Your Daily Construction Operations

 Another effective approach to elevate your construction safety program is to find ways to make safety an integral part of your daily operations. To achieve this, safety processes and procedures must be embedded with existing site protocols—construction technology can help. For example, it is now standard for individuals on a job site to ‘check out’ tools and equipment from the on site tool crib using a mobile app. By integrating safety within the same application, job site personnel can also be prompted to complete a simple guided safety inspection of the item before use and/or review safety documents or training materials. Toolbox talks are another example of how safety can be engrained in daily operations on the job site, and these too can be enabled and monitored using modern safety management solutions.

Most construction companies claim safety as a top priority, but few have figured out how to make safety part of their culture. By activating safety as part of your daily operations, you can move your organization toward a culture of safety.

3. Identify Risks Before They Lead to Incidents Using Safety Data

 Safety technology solutions make field safety data accessible in near real time from anywhere. This data allows safety directors and back office decision makers to identify and act on trends that indicate job site risks. Ultimately this enables your organization to address safety issues before they lead to incidents. 

 Centralized data collection provides visibility not only into team safety but also the assets they use. For instance, through analyzing data patterns, you may identify a specific piece of equipment that has been involved in multiple near misses. By identifying the asset as the common element in the related incidents, you can effectively address the root cause before it leads to an accident. It’s likely as simple as performing an inspection on the item or perhaps providing additional safety training to your onsite teams.

 Overall, to create a safer construction site for your team, there are several effective strategies to consider. By incorporating modern safety technology solutions, making safety a routine part of your daily operations, and identifying risks by examining safety data, you can take your construction safety program focus beyond compliance to make safety a part of your culture. Whether you're starting your safety program from scratch or looking to improve an existing one, these tips can help you effectively reduce risk and improve job site safety for your employees.