In construction, you’re presented with an extremely hazardous environment on a daily basis. Nothing is more important than staying safe when you are working on a construction site and using construction equipment. Whether you’re the worker using construction equipment or you’re the business owner in charge of the safe running of a site, safety is always key.
Here are six ways construction equipment safety can be improved.

1. Ensure That Everyone Has the Relevant Training

Every new piece of construction equipment is going to require adequate training for everyone expected to use it. Even if an employee has used a similar model before, a new piece means training needs to be done exclusively for that item until it can be demonstrated to be used confidently and safely.

2. Provide a Safe Environment

Construction locations should always be clear and hazard-free so that equipment can be used safely within them. Any hazards should be cleared away, such as trip hazards, and there should always be a risk assessment done for any location to ensure that problems can be pinpointed and to clear the area for safe use of equipment, large or small.

3. Be Aware When Using Equipment

Distractions should be kept to a minimum where construction equipment is being used. Workers should be reminded of the importance of being aware of everything around them when they are working with dangerous equipment, as well as being aware of other workers, too, so that team support can be provided for safety.

4. Test Equipment Before Use and Optimize for Efficiency

Always perform the necessary checks on any piece of construction equipment before you use it. Any piece of equipment should always be in good working condition, and any potential problems should be reported immediately. Proper checks should include the electrics of warning lights, too.
You can also optimize equipment for efficiency by thinking about various uses for certain equipment or making your equipment budget go even further. Items such as a miniature load cell can help to extend battery life in portable equipment, meaning you can concentrate more fully on your task, as well as health and safety, instead of worrying about equipment battery life.

5. Protective Equipment is a Must

When using any construction equipment, correctly-fitted PPE is essential. The basics of construction site PPEs include hard hats and protective gloves, but PPE can be tailored and personalized based on the particular equipment in use or the location. High-visibility is always a must, so the right jackets or vests are key. You may also want to color-code particular PPE equipment if it helps to assign to certain people, tasks, or equipment.

6. Improve Communication

To avoid accidents, equipment being used incorrectly, or problems being overlooked, communication within a construction setting needs to be at its absolute optimum. This way, problems with equipment can be reported immediately, safe practices can always be adhered to, and the best supportive atmosphere can be created.