How proper storage reduces risks on construction sites
Due to their heavy machinery, power tools, building materials, and constant flow of busy workers, construction sites are among the most potentially hazardous work environments.
Unfortunately, the risk of accidents is high if stringent safety protocols are not followed, one of which is the need to properly store your equipment, tools and materials when they are not being used.
If you don’t do this, it can lead to a wide range of dangers, so it is imperative you find storage solutions that will help you create a safer and more efficient construction site.
In this post, we will outline some of the best practices for storage solutions on a construction site. We’ll also examine how proper storage can significantly reduce the risks of injury, accidents, or fatalities.
What are some good storage solutions on a construction site?
There are a number of effective storage solutions you can implement to keep a construction site safe and organised.
Some of the best options include tool chests and lockable storage cabinets, which not only provide a secure place for small tools and equipment but also prevent theft and accidental misuse.
Additionally, by installing heavy-duty shelving units or material racks, you will be able to reduce tripping hazards by keeping building materials like lumber, pipes, or steel beams off the ground.
Hazardous materials such as chemicals and flammable substances can be very dangerous on-site. So, it is a good idea to use fire-resistant storage cabinets to make sure these items are kept safely away from anything that could potentially ignite them. At the same time, it is worth having an Eyewash Station and Safety Showers to quickly and effectively deal with any incidents that may occur.
Other storage solutions you can implement at your construction site include designated zones for heavy machinery and large tools surrounded by clear signage and storage bins and portable containers that provide convenient on-the-go storage.
Why is proper storage so important?
Installing proper storage solutions on a construction site is very important for several reasons. Here are some of the major benefits of doing so.
1. Minimises tripping hazards
Tools and materials that are left lying around on site, can easily become tripping hazards because workers moving through the site – particularly at pace – are more prone to tripping over things like cables, loose boards, or equipment.
By designating specific areas to store your tools and making sure walkways are always kept clear, you will significantly reduce the chances of injuries and accidents happening on-site.
2. Protects workers from falling objects
If your construction site covers multiple levels, there is always a risk present of objects falling from above.
By properly storing loose tools and materials in locked containers and with safety nets or tool lanyards, you will prevent them from accidentally falling off ledges or scaffolding, which could otherwise potentially cause significant injuries to workers below.
3. Reduces fire hazards
As mentioned, construction sites often contain flammable materials, such as wood, oils, greases, lubricants, chemicals and oil-based paint.
Failure to store these correctly, increases the potential of them igniting and causing fires which could severely delay your project timeline and even have fatal consequences.
To reduce the risk of fire, you should keep flammable substances in appropriate storage containers, well away from ignition sources. Just to be on the safe side, make sure these containers are well away from electrical equipment or open flames.
4. Prevents equipment damage
Risks on construction sites don’t just relate to those who work on it but also to the tools and machinery that are used.
If not stored properly, they are more likely to get damaged, which not only becomes costly to repair or replace but can also become dangerous to use.
Ideally, you should have a designated area to keep your heavy machinery and other power tools to keep them in good condition. It is also worth regularly checking them to ensure they are fit for purpose.
5. Makes workers more efficiency
The most efficient construction sites are the ones that store all of their tools and materials properly. That is because workers can quickly and easily find what they need to perform their tasks.
By clearly labelling storage areas and keeping them tidy and orderly it goes a long way towards reducing downtime and keeping projects on track.
More importantly, it reduces the temptation to rush and cut corners, which is one of the leading causes of accidents on construction sites.
6. Makes workers more prepared for emergencies
In the event of an emergency within a construction site, such as a fire or a structural collapse, it is critical that workers can evacuate the site as quickly and safely as possible.
Tools and materials that are scattered across the site can make it much more difficult to do so by blocking exit routes and slowing down the speed at which workers can leave the site.
Crucially, proper storage solutions onsite help to keep escape routes clear. However, site managers should always conduct regular checks to make sure the exit routes are always unobstructed.
