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�UNIT 5 �HEALTH & SAFETY �IN CONSTRUCTION

Dr Adewale Abimbola, FHEA, GMICE.

www.edulibrary.co.uk

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AIM & OBJECTIVES

Aim:

  • Health & safety requirements within the workplace.

Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, the students should be able to:

  • Discuss the training and education in the construction industry.
  • State the purpose of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998.
  • Discuss the roles of employer under PUWER.

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

  • Employers have a legal duty to train, educate and provide instructions for operatives to operate safe systems of work in the workplace.
  • This may involve training courses for specific pieces of equipment and plant. It also covers the use of construction materials.
  • HASWA 1974 requires that employers must train and educate all operatives to ensure that they are competent in their work activities on a construction site.
  • CSCS cards provide employers with a means to certify that individuals working on construction sites have the required qualifications and training (including health and safety awareness) for the job they do on site.

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

  • CDM 2015 puts less emphasis on competence that previous versions of CDM.
  • Regulation 8 states that anyone appointing a contractor must ensure that they have received necessary information, instruction and training, and has appropriate supervision. In practice, this may mean that the person or organisation appointing these workers performs a training needs assessment.
  • Training can be conducted on site or off site depending on whether it is a practical operation or requires theoretical knowledge.
  • A simple toolbox talk may suffice. All records must be kept in event of an accident investigation.
  • Offsite training is often provided by specialist contractors who are certified to deliver this specific training.

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION – IMPORTANCE/BENEFITS

  • Enhanced Safety:
    • Proper training reduces accidents and injuries on construction sites, creating a safer working environment for all workers.
  • Increased Productivity:
    • Well-trained workers are more efficient, leading to increased productivity and smoother workflows in construction projects.
  • Quality Workmanship:
    • Training ensures a high standard of work. Skilled workers produce work that meets or exceeds industry standards.
  • Adaptation to Technology:
    • Ongoing education allows workers to stay current with technological advancements in construction, fostering a technologically competent workforce.
  • Code and Regulation Compliance:
    • Regular training keeps professionals informed about changes in building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards, ensuring compliance and quality assurance.
  • Career Advancement:
    • Certifications and additional skills open doors to higher-level positions within the industry.
  • Specialised Roles:
    • Specialised training prepares workers for roles such as project management, green building practices, and safety supervision, thus contributing to a well-rounded workforce.
  • Sustainable Construction Practices:
    • Training in sustainable construction practices help to promote eco-friendly building methods and contributing to the industry's commitment to sustainability.

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION – IMPORTANCE/BENEFITS

  • Industry Standardisation:
    • Training programs contribute to standardisation within the industry by providing a common set of skills, practices, and knowledge, fostering a shared understanding among professionals.
  • Reduced Turnover:
    • Investing in the training and education of employees can lead to higher job satisfaction, reducing turnover rates and retaining experienced, skilled workers.
  • Innovation and Creativity:
    • Continuous learning fosters innovation and creativity within the construction industry. Workers with diverse skills contribute to problem-solving and the development of innovative solutions.
  • Soft Skills Emphasis:
    • Training programs are increasingly recognising the importance of soft skills, such as communication and leadership, alongside technical expertise, creating well-rounded professionals.
  • Industry Reputation:
    • A commitment to training and education enhances the overall reputation of the construction industry. Clients and stakeholders are more likely to trust and invest in a workforce that prioritises skill development.
  • Risk Management:
    • Educated and trained professionals are better equipped to identify and mitigate risks, reducing the likelihood of costly errors or project delays.

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

Types of Training Programmes

  • Apprenticeships:
    • Structured programs combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
  • Vocational Education:
    • Formal education programs providing specific skills and knowledge for construction trades.
  • Safety Training:
    • Focus on safety protocols and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Technology Training:
    • Keeping workers updated on the latest construction technologies and tools.

Construction Education Paths

  • Trade Schools:
    • Specialised institutions offering training for specific construction trades.
  • Community Colleges:
    • Associate degree programs providing a broader understanding of construction management and technology.
  • University Programmes:
    • Bachelor's and advanced degrees for construction management, engineering, and related fields.

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SELF-ASSESSMENT TASK

  • Research how the CSCS card system operates. Also, state the different types, colours and status of the holders.
  • Compare the advantages and disadvantages of the scheme.

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THE PROVISION AND USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS (PUWER) 1998

  • http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1998/2306/contents/made
  • It is a legal requirement in the UK, and compliance is mandatory for employers. It establishes legal obligations for the safe use and maintenance of work equipment in the construction industry.

Employer duties are:

  • To assess the risks of using particular equipment.
  • To ensure that provided work equipment is suitable for the intended use.
  • To inspect and test all equipment and maintain it in a serviceable condition, including carrying out portable appliance testing (PAT) of electrical devices.

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THE PROVISION AND USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS (PUWER) 1998

Employer duties are (cont’d):

  • To provide all information, instruction and training for employees on equipment.
  • To ensure that all guards and safety measures operate and are maintained around any dangerous parts.
  • To ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all control systems of work equipment are safe.
  • To provide at least one readily accessible emergency stop controls, where appropriate.

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THE PROVISION AND USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS (PUWER) 1998

Employee duties are:

PUWER does not apply directly to employees, but they are:

  • To operate the equipment in accordance with the training and instructions provided by the employer.
  • To follow all control measures identified within a risk assessment.
  • To use all specified PPE for the operation of the work equipment.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF PUWER IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

  • Reducing Workplace Accidents:
    • Compliance with PUWER significantly contributes to reducing workplace accidents in the construction industry. By ensuring that work equipment is used safely and maintained properly, the risk of injuries and incidents is minimized.
  • Financial Implications:
    • Non-compliance with PUWER can result in significant financial consequences, including fines and legal liabilities. Complying with PUWER regulations is a cost-effective way to prevent accidents and legal repercussions.
  • Enhancing Workplace Culture:
    • Prioritising safety through PUWER compliance contributes to a positive workplace culture. It demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of workers and fosters an environment where safety is paramount.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF PUWER IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

  • Client Confidence:
    • Clients and stakeholders in the construction industry often require contractors and companies to demonstrate compliance with safety regulations, including PUWER. Adhering to these regulations builds client confidence and trust.
  • Adaptability to Changes:
    • PUWER regulations are designed to be adaptable to changes in technology and work processes. This ensures that safety measures remain relevant and effective in evolving construction environments.
  • Global Best Practices:
    • While PUWER is specific to the UK, its principles align with global best practices for ensuring the safe provision and use of work equipment. Following these principles contributes to international standards in construction safety.

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SELF-ASSESSMENT TASKS

Consult the link below and answer the following questions: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg229.pdf

  • Identify any FOUR risks associated with using a work equipment?
  • How can the risks identified above be reduced?

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REFERENCES/BIBLIOGRAPHY

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