10 SIMPLE CONSTRUCTION SITE SAFETY RULES

Construction sites are dangerous places to work. Follow these 10 simple construction site safety
rules to keep yourself, and others, safe.
1. Wear your PPE on site at all times
PPE is your last line of defence should you come into contact with a hazard on site. Wear your hard
hat, safety boots and hi-viz vest as a minimum, along with any additional PPE required for the task
being carried out.
2. Do not start work without an induction
Each site has its own unique hazards and work operations. Make sure you know what is happening
so that you can work safely. Your induction is important, don’t start without one.
3. Keep a tidy site
Construction work is messy. Remember to keep your work area tidy throughout your shift to reduce
the number of slip and trip hazards. Pay particular attention to high risk areas such as a ccess and
escape routes.
4. Do not put yourself or others at risk
You are responsible for your own behaviour. Construction sites are dangerous places to work. Make
sure you remain safety aware throughout your shift.
5. Follow safety signs and procedures
Your employer should ensure a risk assessment is carried out for activities. Make sure you read and
understand it. Follow signs and procedures – control measures are put in place for your safety.
6. Never work in unsafe areas
Make sure your work area is safe. Don’t work at height without suitable guard rails or other fall
prevention. Don’t enter unsupported trenches. Make sure you have safe access. Don’t work below
crane loads or other dangerous operations.
7. Report defects and near misses
If you notice a problem, don’t ignore it, report it to your supervisor immediately. Action cannot be
taken quickly if management are not aware of the problem, and the sooner problems are resolved the
less chance for an accident to occur.
8. Never tamper with equipment
Never remove guard rails or scaffold ties. Do not remove guards. Do not attempt to fix defective
equipment unless you are competent to do so. Do not ever tamper with equipment withou t
authorisation.
9. Use 110v equipment
110v equipment only, must be suitable for use on site. 240v equipment strictly prohibited without
prior authorisation from management and will only be used if no 110v alternative available and
additional safety precautions taken.
10. If in doubt – Ask
Better safe than sorry. Mistakes on construction sites can cost lives - don’t let it be yours. If you
need help or further information speak to your supervisor.