In construction, safety isn’t an option – it’s a priority. Nearly one in five workplace fatalities occurred in the construction industry in 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, with over one-third of these deaths caused by falls.
Those fatalities would be preventable with proper training, jobsite equipment and requirements. That’s why events like the OSHA National Safety Stand-Down, observed May 6-10, are important for the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga and businesses across the Tennessee Valley.
OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down, with support from NAHB, is more than a one-off event; it’s a concerted effort to tackle one of the construction industry’s most pressing challenges: falls. Whether it’s from a roof, scaffold or ladder, falls are common and often avoidable. The Stand-Down provides a platform for employers to pause, reflect and take proactive steps to safeguard their workers from these hazards.
Participation in the National Safety Stand-Down isn’t limited to big corporations or industry giants; it’s an inclusive initiative that welcomes businesses of all sizes. Here are some ways local Tennessee Valley employers can make a meaningful impact:
Review your fall prevention program
Give your current prevention plan a thorough evaluation. Consider what types of falls could happen or have happened, what areas of your plan could use improvements and how aware your employees are of your current safety procedures.
Conduct safety equipment inspections
Regular checks should include helmets, harnesses and gloves for signs of wear or damage, ensuring they meet regulatory standards and are fit for use. Consistent inspection protocols promote a safer work environment and reduce potential hazards on-site.
Promote toolbox talks
Incorporate short, interactive safety discussions – known as toolbox talks – into your morning meetings. Use these sessions to address hazards relevant to your worksites and reinforce safety protocols.
Facilitate training sessions
Partner with local safety organizations to provide specialized training on topics such as scaffold safety, harness usage and risk assessment. Invest in developing your workforce by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely at heights. Utilize free resources for training such as the newly released NAHB Jobsite Safety Handbook App.
Engage in community outreach
Extend the reach of the Stand-Down by engaging with local schools, vocational programs and community groups. Offer educational resources, volunteer for safety awareness events, or sponsor initiatives aimed at promoting construction safety within the broader community.
As your local home industry advocate, our commitment at HBAGC is about protecting the individuals who make our local businesses thrive. By promoting OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down, we reaffirm our dedication to creating safer workplaces, nurturing our workforce and building a stronger, more resilient community.
Let’s stand up for safety together and ensure that every worker returns home unharmed at the end of each day.