Adopting a Culture of Health and Safety in Construction
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
The construction industry routinely draws criticism for its track record on health and safety. In basic terms, it appears to understand the theory, but seem to be very bad at putting it into practice.
This does not seem to be the result of a lack of understanding or resources. Many construction sites absolutely follow the letter (and spirit) of the law when it comes to establishing effective health-and-safety practices, including creating robust reporting systems and providing suitable protective equipment.
It seems to be more an issue of culture, of getting people to do in practice what they know they are supposed to do in theory. With that in mind, here are three tips as to how to foster a culture of health and safety in construction.
[edit] Be a role model
Employees are quick to notice whether or not managers are actually practicing what they preach. Make sure you do so at all times, not just when you think someone might be watching.
[edit] Communicate
As the old joke goes, we have two eyes, two ears and one mouth. The law requires that employers communicate important health-and-safety information to their employees and there are also many practical reasons why employers may, in fact probably will, need to talk (or write) and have their employees listen (or read).
At the same time, however, communication is a two-way process and it is often very valuable to listen to feedback from the people who actually have to implement your policies in practice.
Listen means really listen, sincerely, in good faith and with the humility to accept that there is a difference between theory and practice, which means that the ideas which looked great to you on paper (or these days on screen) and which may have worked perfectly in simulations, may not work in practice or, at the very least, may be perceived as more hassle than they are worth and hence be met with user resistance.
As with management in general, a lot of health-and-safety management ultimately consists of having the judgement to understand when to stand firm (usually because the law requires it) and when to show adaptability to what employees want.
[edit] Reward good behaviours
Another old phrase is “carrot-and-stick”. Employers may understand that there need to be “sticks” to (try to) ensure that health-and-safety policies are followed so that the company stays in compliance with the law (and probably its insurance policy as well), but using a stick is generally unpleasant for everyone and to be avoided whenever possible.
Using a carrot, by contrast, is often at least as effective and more appreciated. So instead of just penalizing employees for failing to adhere to health-and-safety policies, reward them for doing so. Rewards don’t have to be big to be effective and they don’t even need to be completely guaranteed, just as long as the possibility is there.
For example, if you need employees to complete a certain online health and safety training course, as well as levying a penalty for non-completion, you could offer one or more potential rewards for employees who do complete it, perhaps some for objective criteria (such as best score in a test) and some just at random so everyone has a chance of winning.
--WatsonandWatson 11:59, 19 Aug 2019 (BST)
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Construction health risks.
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH).
- Design risk management (DRM)
- First aider.
- Health and safety at work etc act 1974.
- Health and safety consultant.
- Health and Safety Executive.
- Health and safety file.
- Health and safety inspector.
- Health and safety policy.
- Injuries on construction sites.
- Keeping your mind on the job.
- Near miss.
- Personal protective equipment.
- Principal contractor.
- Reporting accidents and injuries on construction sites.
- Safety.
- Site induction.
- Statutory obligations.
- Toolbox talk.
- What is a hazard?
- Work at height regulations.
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).