Now that the season for road construction has begun, safety is essential. Road construction projects are vital for infrastructure development but come with significant risks. For small Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), prioritizing safety not only protects workers but also helps prevent costly delays and ensures compliance. Here are key safety measures tailored for small DBEs:
- Conduct Safety Assessments: Identify hazards such as heavy machinery, traffic, and uneven terrain. Develop strategies to mitigate risks before starting any project.
- Provide Proper Training: Train workers on equipment use, safe material handling, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Regular refreshers help reinforce safety protocols.
- Enforce PPE Use: Require workers to wear hard hats, high-visibility vests, gloves, and steel-toed boots. Ensure PPE is in good condition and replaced as needed.
- Implement Traffic Control Measures: Use signage, cones, barriers, and flaggers to protect workers from passing vehicles. Ensure traffic control personnel are properly trained.
- Maintain Equipment: Regularly inspect and service construction vehicles and tools to prevent malfunctions and accidents on-site.
- Promote Clear Communication: Encourage open communication between workers and supervisors. Conduct daily safety briefings to address hazards and ensure coordination.
- Establish Emergency Preparedness: Train employees in first aid, CPR, and evacuation procedures. Keep emergency kits and fire extinguishers easily accessible.
- Foster a Safety Culture: Encourage workers to report hazards, reward adherence to safety protocols, and promote awareness through signs and regular meetings.
- Stay Hydrated & Prevent Heat Stress: Ensure workers take breaks, drink water, and wear sun protection, especially in high-temperature environments.
- Comply with Safety Regulations: Stay updated on local, state, and federal safety requirements. Consider seeking guidance from industry associations for additional support.
Small DBE businesses can protect their workforce, maintain efficiency, and build a strong safety culture in road construction projects by implementing these safety measures.
For more information, contact Mary Zimmerman at maryz@iastate.edu or 515-450-1278.