On every jobsite, safety should be paramount. Injuries and accidents not only slow projects down, but they can also be costly, create legal issues, and negatively impact everyone’s reputation. One way to safeguard against unwanted injuries and accidents is to engage in ample planning for jobsite safety before the first shovel ever hits the ground.
There are significant risks with every project, from excavation to utility work and everything in between; danger and hazards are around every corner. Collisions, falls, weather impacts, equipment failure, trench collapse, and even human error all contribute to the risk that exists on a jobsite. Proactive management can help mitigate those risks, prepare crews to expect the unexpected, and adequately handle all risks as they arise.
By including safety in the planning and preconstruction phases of a project, expectations are set for all stakeholders that safety is not something that can be sacrificed for a faster timeline, a cheaper price tag, or simply to complete the job. This keeps everyone on the same page, better equipped to anticipate challenges and create solutions before they’re on the job, and ultimately, creates better jobsite safety for everyone.
The Role of Pre-Planning in Jobsite Safety
Pre-planning jobsite safety starts at the beginning. Typically, stakeholders like municipal clients, contractors, engineers, utility agents, and safety planners will get together for a preconstruction meeting.
This meeting occurs long before construction is expected to start. The meeting covers the expected start date, an outline of the project’s timeline and phases, troubleshooting worst-case and what-if scenarios in advance, suggesting preventative measures, identifying PPE necessary, and creating safety plans and emergency protocols.
Together, these construction subject-matter experts evaluate all aspects of the job, the job site, and any external factors that may impact the job. This typically will include a site analysis, logistics planning, design coordination, and an assessment of any and all potential risks. By incorporating safety at the start, it is embedded into all aspects of the project.
With proper pre-planning, everyone can enjoy fewer incidents that impact the timeline, health of employees, and budget for the project. The role of pre-planning is critical because it sets the tone for the project.
Safety Considerations During Planning
Several safety considerations must be addressed during the planning phase of a project to adequately address jobsite safety. By planning for each of these critical areas, contractors can ensure a safer project. The job site is more predictable, risks and hazards are identified well in advance, and everyone can expect a project that will be completed safely and delivered without sacrificing the safety of contractors for success because ample preparation has been made and risks mitigated.
-
Traffic and Site Layout
Traffic is a major component of a project and ensures that everyone can move and operate equipment safely and without risking collisions. By mapping out the site, using clear signage, and planning specific areas for equipment to operate, walkways, delivery vehicles, the ingress and egress of the jobsite, and temporary equipment, the job site will be safer for everyone.
-
Utility Location
Underground utilities can pose risks for contractors and equipment, and they can even create dangerous situations for not just the employees on the job site, but for the general public as well. All utilities, including gas, electric, water, and telecom, must be identified, located, and marked before commencing any work. By properly identifying and locating utilities, it avoids any potential conflicts, utility strikes, and project delays, and it contributes to better jobsite safety and a better working environment.
-
Excavation and Soil Examination
Understanding the soil conditions is an important safety pre-planning consideration for jobsite safety because it will dictate shoring needs and allow contractors to complete ample preparation before a contractor sets foot inside a trench. There are significant risks associated with underground work, and excavation plans must include adequate safety precautions.
-
Environmental and Weather Risks
Knowing the environment where a project will take place is imperative to maintaining a safe environment for all who enter the job site. Stormwater management is a major component of project safety and must be evaluated, as are seasonal weather impacts and erosion concerns.
-
Proper Permitting and Compliance
Every safe job begins with planning, which includes obtaining all the proper permits designed to ensure everyone’s safety. This consists of any requirements set by state or federal regulatory bodies, as well as local regulations, depending on the project. Additionally, compliance with OSHA regulations is a non-negotiable aspect of safety.
Benefits of Early Safety Planning
When jobsite safety is incorporated into every element of a project and when safety is included early on in the planning phases, projects tend to go more smoothly. With fewer incidents, accidents, and delays, projects can be completed on time or even ahead of schedule because the work is more predictable, there is less confusion, and time-consuming delays like utility strikes are eliminated.
Additionally, employees will feel comfortable and safe in their environment and won’t fear reporting unsafe conditions because they know that instead of being ignored, it will be promptly addressed. Having a safe work environment will not only improve the working conditions for everyone, but it will also improve morale and likely increase productivity.
Furthermore, with a strong jobsite safety program, everyone can enjoy the benefits of a stronger compliance record, including lower insurance and liability costs. Contractors that prioritize safety typically will enjoy a high-quality reputation because anyone who works with them knows they can count on them to complete the job safely, and that means on time and within budget.
Put Safety First: Choose Brock Civil
Being proactive about jobsite safety is something that should be evident right away. At Brock Civil, we are proactive about safety and put it at the forefront of every job we complete. If you’re looking for heavy civil construction contractors who have the experience, skill, and commitment to safety to complete projects the right way, contact Brock Civil today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is jobsite safety important in heavy civil construction?
A: Jobsite safety prevents injuries, reduces project delay, and protects workers and the public. In heavy civil construction, where risks like excavation, utility strikes, and traffic hazards are high, safety planning is critical to avoid costly incidents.
Q: How does early planning improve construction site safety?
A: Early planning helps identify hazards before work begins. It enables the proactive design of traffic flow, utility location, PPE needs, and emergency protocols, thereby improving worker safety and project efficiency.
Q: What is included in a jobsite safety pre-planning meeting?
A: Pre-planning meetings often include risk assessments, site layout review, safety equipment planning, coordination with subcontractors, and regulatory compliance checks. This ensures everyone is aligned on safety before mobilization.
Q: How does safety planning affect project costs and timelines?
A: Proactive safety planning can reduce accidents, avoid delays, and lower insurance and liability costs. Fewer disruptions mean projects stay on schedule and within budget, making early safety planning a cost-effective strategy.
By Brock Civil
