As hiring in construction increases, construction safety issues become imminently more important. Fatalities are on the rise as demand for construction projects climbs. Now is the time to shore up your safety processes and procedures to keep on-the-job injuries low.

The Associated General Contractors of America released 13 steps to improve workplace safety in construction jobs. Today I’m going to focus on the four tips for improving construction safety for new hires.

1. Buddy System

Establish a buddy system for new hires. When you have your initial orientation for new hires, pair an experience construction worker with each new hire. This helps create a mentor relationship during their safety training. The experienced worker can be there to help guide the new hire during the first 30 days of working on the job site.

  • The mentor and supervisor should then review the new hire’s training after 30 days to evaluate the new hire’s understanding and application of the training.
  • Both the mentor and supervisor must approve the new hire to work without a buddy after the training period is successfully completed.

2. Safety Orientation Sessions

Hold safety orientation sessions for each new hire. Each new hire should undergo a thorough orientation on safety procedures before being allowed to work on-site. This should include all new hires regardless of employment status. New hires including full-time, part-time, staff, and temporary workers should undergo the orientation.

  • During the orientation worker should be shown common and uncommon hazardous scenarios to be aware of.
  • They should be quizzed to recognize these hazards in the workplace.
  • A group discussion should follow and questions fielded for clarity.
  • This is also the appropriate time to review company policies and procedures.

3. Operations Procedures: Safety Pocket Guides

Each worker should be given task-specific safety pocket guides to help them navigate situations on-site. They can also help with operating specific machinery on the job site. These can be excellent quick reference tools for new hires.

  • They should be kept on the worker and shown to the supervisor if requested.
  • These pocket guides can be used by each worker to lead a portion of the morning meeting by talking about the correct safety measures to use on a specific task.

4. Easy to Read Badges

Issue badges showing the employee’s level of training and certification. These should be issued and worn on the project site.

  • They should be easy-to-read and color-coded.
  • They can be very helpful in assigning appropriate tasks according to training.

These are just a few of the critical safety training measures your company can put into practice for your new hires. There are several more tips for ongoing training and operating procedures that were issued by the AGC which will help your firm stay safe on the job site.

Are you ready to build your dream team?

The Birmingham Group is a tenured construction recruiting firm dedicated to helping you build your dream team. If you are ready to take a proactive approach to recruiting and retention, reach out today to discuss a custom recruitment strategy.