Letter of the Day | Address safety risks on construction sites

THE EDITOR, Madam:

In Jamaica, construction is now a familiar part of everyday life. Most of us have learned to work around these activities. We slow down when approaching roadworks, walk around construction areas or follow the signs directing traffic.

But, when something becomes familiar, there is a risk that we stop noticing the dangers. An open trench near a sidewalk, construction materials close to traffic, heavy equipment moving around workers, or people working at a height, may become part of the normal scene. These conditions do not necessarily mean that safety rules are being ignored. Construction work will always involve some level of risk.

Safety is a shared responsibility. Contractors have a responsibility to provide safe working conditions and the right equipment. Supervisors have to ensure that procedures are followed. Workers also have a responsibility to use the equipment provided and report dangerous conditions.

Engineers, project managers and clients have a role as well. Safety should be considered when work is being planned.

The public also has to exercise care. Motorists should slow down near work zones, and pedestrians should avoid entering restricted areas. Signs, barriers, lighting and proper traffic control can make construction areas safer for everyone. There is another area that deserves more attention: near misses.

If a vehicle almost hits a worker, a piece of equipment nearly strikes someone, or a trench collapses without causing an injury, we should not simply say, “Nobody got hurt.”

A simple safety check can help. Is the work area clearly marked? Are pedestrians protected? Are trenches secured? Is traffic being controlled? Are workers using the necessary protective equipment? Are equipment and materials positioned safely? These questions can make a difference.

There is also a need for sensible and consistent enforcement. Safety requirements are most effective when they are understood, followed and, where necessary, enforced. Inspections and corrective action can help encourage safer practices without treating every construction site as though it is unsafe.

Jamaica needs construction and infrastructure development. But development should not come at the expense of the people doing the work or the members of the public living around it.

A successful project is not only one that is completed on time, within budget and to the required standard. It is also one where people return home safely.

DENTON MOORE