Why Safety Training is Important for Construction Workers

Construction sites are a dangerous place to work and safety should always be the top priority. Safety training is an essential part of construction training and vital for anyone who works in the industry, as it teaches them how to build safely and efficiently without endangering themselves or others. It also provides knowledge on health and safety regulations that must be followed in order to reduce the risk of accidents occurring.

Construction health & safety training is not only important for those working all the time on building sites, but also for bricklayers, plumbers, electricians and other tradespeople who work in the construction industry at some point and may find themselves on a building site at one time or another. By learning about the different safety measures that need to be taken when working on a building site, workers can stay safe and ensure that their colleagues do too. Safety training also helps workers understand their rights when it comes to health and safety at work.

The importance of safety for construction workers is increasing, with a rapid increase in the number of accidents reported on construction sites. Statistics compiled by ConstructionHealth.co.uk show that between 2006 and 2014 there was an overall 2% increase in fatalities, with 97 people dying annually from work related injuries. This means that over 6,000 people died as a result of work-related accidents during this period – more than 64 people each week or almost 10 every day. In 2015 alone 434 deaths were recorded on building sites in England and Wales – an increase from 2014’s death toll of 473. The impact on families and friends of construction workers is significant, with 95% of people who die on building sites being men. The average age at death in the UK is 43-years-old, with around half of those who died in 2015 being older than 50.

The financial impact of accidents on construction companies is also significant, with compensation claims and legal fees adding up to millions of pounds. In addition to the financial cost, accidents can delay projects, damage equipment, and lower morale among workers.

To address this issue, employers are being urged to take a more proactive approach to safety, implementing strict protocols and providing appropriate training and personal protective equipment to workers. The UK government has also introduced legislation aimed at improving safety standards in the construction industry, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations. Amongst other things, those working in the construction industry need to have CSCS training and possess a CSCS card that provides proof they have received the required safety training and are qualified to work on a building site.

However, the responsibility for safety doesn’t solely fall on employers. Workers themselves also need to take responsibility for their own safety and that of their colleagues. This includes following all safety protocols, reporting potential hazards, and speaking up when their own safety or that of others is at risk.

Ultimately, it is essential that everyone involved in the construction industry recognizes the importance of safety and takes the necessary steps to prevent accidents and injuries. By working together, we can create a safer and healthier environment for all construction workers.