Managing health and safety on construction sites and in quarries is no small task – when working with massive machinery and complex jobs, there’s no room for shortcuts.
Unfortunately, worksite fatalities in the UK are still a reality. Between April 2023 and March 2024, the number of deaths from work-related accidents rose by two, bringing the total to 138 people.
Despite these sobering statistics, we believe that, with the right perspective and a game plan, workplace safety practices can become second nature for everyone working in construction jobs and quarrying jobs.
Read on for tips on how to prioritise safety health and safety on construction sites and quarries – and ensure you and your team members get home safely each day.
Safety Starts with Mindset
There is no point running through key action points for safety if your workplace culture doesn’t take safety seriously in the first place. Workplace safety is an attitude as much as it is a practice.
Creating a culture where safety is a priority means encouraging everyone to stay alert, look out for one another and always think about the risks before starting a task.
When safety is treated as a core value rather than just a set of guidelines, workers are more likely to engage in safe practices without needing constant reminders. They’ll naturally start double-checking equipment, communicating hazards, and ensuring they’re using the right protective gear because it becomes second nature.
Encouraging this mindset can start with small steps, like rewarding safe behaviour, holding regular safety meetings and leading by example. Open communication is key – employees should feel comfortable reporting hazards or unsafe behaviour without fear of being ignored or blamed.
Start the Day with Maintenance Checks
Before any work begins, carry out daily maintenance checks to make sure everything is in proper working order. Quick and regular inspections can catch issues like low fluid levels, worn-out parts, or any unusual noises that might hint at a bigger problem.
By starting the day with these checks, you’re ensuring that key components won’t malfunction when you least expect it – like in the middle of a crucial job. Something as simple as a faulty brake or hydraulic issue can turn into a serious hazard, so regular checks help you spot these problems early.
It’s also a good habit to keep a log of these daily inspections. This helps track the condition of each machine but also makes sure that nothing slips through the cracks. A well-maintained fleet not only keeps everyone safe but also saves you from costly repairs and downtime in the long run.
Understand Construction and Quarry Safety Risks
HSE data shows that being struck by a moving vehicle was the second most common cause of work fatalities in the UK over 2023-24, second to falling from a height. And in quarries, transport accounts for 40% of all accidents and 60% of all deaths.
If you’re managing teams on quarry sites, there is a complex set of conditions that can heighten safety risks. Heavy dust can significantly reduce visibility, making it harder for both operators and ground workers to see what’s going on.
Mud and loose gravel can make it tricky for heavy vehicles like dump trucks and bulldozers to move safely across the site. Similarly, road slopes and elevated areas are danger zones, especially for rigid vehicles, as the risk of losing control is much higher on uneven ground.
One of the best ways to prevent accidents is to make sure team members stay at safe distances from heavy machinery and vehicles at all times. Clear communication between operators and ground workers is essential, and everyone should know exactly where they should and shouldn’t be on the site.
Ensure Staff are Current on their Training
Training is the number one prevention for accidents and fatalities on work sites. Ensure all workers, including plant operators and vehicle drivers are fully qualified and trained to handle the specific equipment they’re operating. Regular checks on qualifications and refresher courses keep everyone up to date and working safely.
When everyone understands that safety isn’t just about avoiding accidents, but about keeping everyone healthy and productive, you’ll see a positive shift in how risks are managed on-site.
Use an Accredited Construction Recruitment Provider
Working with a construction recruitment agency that puts safety at the heart of its work will ensure you’re engaging workers who are fully vetted, trained and have a strong safety mindset.
At Mando Solutions, we specialise in recruitment and labour-hire for the quarrying and construction sectors. As an ISO 9001 accredited company, we are proud to champion safety, competency, and a high standard of service for candidates and employers.
Partner with us for reliable, high-standard workforce solutions or to find construction jobs and quarrying jobs – contact us today for a chat.
