Safety on building sites is paramount. Each building site is unique, with the hazards and dangers often changing on a daily basis. Most site managers will be very concerned if you stroll on to what is their building site, unaccompanied, without prior appointment, and without any safety equipment. Most house builders will insist on you making a prior appointment so you can be accompanied by someone with knowledge of the site hazards that will include:
Open excavations * trip hazards * falling from height * being hit by falling materials * low headroom * moving plant and machinery.
The sales advisor should provide you with the necessary protective equipment to comply with both site safety rules and legislation.
Building sites can be very dangerous, whether the site is busy or appears quiet. There are many situations that can present a risk to people unfamiliar with the workings of a building site.
Please follow the safety guide:
- Always ask before entering areas under construction and make a prior appointment. Only visit in daylight.
- Always wear protective equipment (safety helmet and high visibility jacket a minimum requirement) these should be provided by your builder.
- Use only designated pedestrian routes (proper footpaths) and watch your footing.
- Only park in designated parking areas.
- Be aware of large vehicles and construction plant manoeuvring. The drivers may not be able to see you. When passing, make sure the driver has seen you before crossing.
- Never walk under scaffolding, unless the site manager or his assistant is escorting you.
- Look where you are walking. There may be trip hazards everywhere.
- Stay with the person escorting you and stay together as a group.
- Inform any children that building sites are potentially dangerous places and are not an area in which to play.
- Keep away from excavations and trenches, material stacks.
- Do not for any reason (eg. to take a photograph) climb ladders, material stacks or use scaffolding.
- Be aware of wet paint, adhesives or concrete and sharp objects for example cut wall tiles
You should expect to be escorted out of the building area if you are found there unescorted and/or without protective safety equipment. No house builder can afford to take a relaxed view about the importance of your health and safety.
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