Construction Safety Management

Foundation to HSE
Construction Safety Management
Course: MBSE 304

Module IV
Unit
1: Construction Safety Management
Contents.
1.0 Aims and objectives.
1.1 Introduction.
1.2 Definition and Meaning
- Construction, Construction Safety, Construction Safety Management
1.3 Different Types of Construction Tools and Their Utilities
1.4 Hazards in construction
1.4.1 Excavation
1.4.2 Hot Works
1.4.3 Confined space
1.4.4 Work at height
1.4.5 Maintenance & Renovation
1.4.6 Demolition
1.5 Tool Box Meeting
1.6 Various trades during construction and Safety measures
1.7 Construction Safety Management
1.7.1 Definition
1.7.2 Functions
1.7.3 Construction Safety Management aspects
1.8 Summary.
1.9 Key words
1.10 Fill in the Blanks
1.11 Review Questions.
1.12 Suggested Readings.
1.13 Case Study.
1.0 Aims and objectives
After studying this unit, student shall be able to understand,

the meaning and importance of Construction Safety
the various associated hazards during Construction
the various trades associated during Construction and safety measures during
Construction activities
the role of Construction Safety Management.
1.1 Introduction
India, being a fast developing Nation, is looking forward a rapid growth in the
economical status & infrastructure. Accordingly, there was a boom in the Real estate sector
which led to exuberant constructions of multi-storied buildings. In the past two decades, India
has witnessed rapid urbanization, motorization, industrialization and migration of people
resulting from socioeconomic growth and development. With mechanization and revolution
in technology, traditional ways of living and working are being altered. Injuries are a major
public health problem in India. Lack of reliable and good quality national or regional data has
thwarted their recognition.
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Construction is the most dangerous land based work sector. The leading safety
hazards on site are falls from height, motor vehicle crashes, excavation accidents,
electrocution, machines, and being struck by falling objects. Some of the main health hazards
on site are asbestos, solvents, noise, and manual handling activities. Falls from heights is the
leading cause of injury in the construction industry.
Occupational factors make an important contribution to the global burden of disease.
Work-related morbidity and mortality not only results in suffering and hardship for the
Worker and his or her family, but also it adds to the overall cost to society through lost
productivity and increased use of medical and welfare services. The cost to society has been
estimated at 2-14% of the gross national product in different studies in different countries.
Construction labourers face highest risk at workplace. There are very small number of HSE
managers to cover the vast number of construction sites, so in practical terms the first line of
defense in preventing accidents must lie with individual site project managers and safety
officers.
1.2 Definition / Meaning

(a)
Construction
Definition: Anything Building up with the utilisation of men, materials and
machinery can be termed as construction.
Construction work covers all works below, at or above ground level on any structures
built or assembled on land from the planning of the project to the end of the life of the
structure. Construction work is building a structure or part of a structure including its:
erection, construction, extension or structural alteration
alteration, conversion, fitting-out, renovation, repair, refurbishment, commissioning
Disassembling or decommissioning.
Construction work also includes:
any work connected with site preparation
any excavation or landscaping work done in connection with construction work
assembling or installing prefabricated components for use in construction work
A structure includes all types of buildings, walls, or other steel or reinforced concrete
construction.
(b) Construction Safety
Safety generally applied to the freedom from risk of injury from accidents whereas
health damage arises from both immediate and longer term effects of exposure to an
unhealthy working environment. Accidents that occur during construction and demolition
activities results in injury, mostly but not invariably, to employees on the site. Accidents can
occur even before works begun, during survey and investigating phases of a project, and then
can also occur after the works have been completed, because of faulty design or construction,
causing death or injury to those engaged on maintenance work and to members of the public.
Construction safety means to keep construction workers to be safe from hazardous
and eventually fatal things that they may contract in the Construction workplace, by
educating everyone about the importance of rules, monitoring performance, and continuously
improving all activities i.e. by building a Culture of Safety. Construction safety includes steel
erection, wood truss construction, residential construction, bridge erection, roadway paving,
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excavations, demolitions, large scale painting, chemical and electrical hazards as well as fall
protection.
Managing construction safety is an important part of any contractor or manager's job.
Construction workers need to stay safe, even if it is an inconvenience. Correctly and
effectively identifying potential dangers, establish safety protocol for all of those who work at
the construction site.
Construction Safety equips construction professionals with a step-by-step
methodology for identifying and controlling potential hazards before construction begins.
Construction Safety enables construction professionals to:
Design and plan safer construction sites for residential, commercial, and industrial
projects
Correct safety problems before construction begins
Dramatically reduce costly worker injuries and job delays
Increase productivity and create a more cost-effective project.
(c) Construction Safety Management
Construction Safety Management provides a comprehensive discussion in the
field of construction safety for both new and veteran construction safety Practitioners.
It is a powerful and effective approach for companies that are committed to creating and
maintaining safe, incident-free construction sites, by complying all applicable rules and
regulations.
1.3 Different Types of Construction Tools and Their Utilities

Good project management in construction must vigorously pursue the efficient
utilization of labour, material and equipment. Improvement of labour productivity should be a
major and continual concern of those who are responsible for cost control of constructed
facilities. Material handling, which includes procurement, inventory, shop fabrication and
field servicing, requires special attention for cost reduction. The use of new equipment and
innovative methods has made possible wholesale changes in construction technologies in
recent decades. Organizations which do not recognize the impact of various innovations and
have not adapted to changing environments have justifiably been forced out of the
mainstream of construction activities.
Those who are in construction business would know very well that there are three major
types of construction machines used for constructing buildings, roads, dams, bridges and the
likes. A wide variety of construction machines on every construction sites, which make the
construction jobs easy, safe and quicker. Depending on the application, construction machines
are classified into various categories
1. Earthwork machinery like excavators, dozers and loaders etc;
2. Roadwork machinery like road paver, chip spreaders, and compactor etc; and
3. Lifting machinery like cranes.
The tools and equipments used for construction purposes are known as construction
tools. These tools are essential for the quick completion of projects. Several excellent tools
are available today which is vital for constructing buildings. Though there are several
apparatus which aid in constructing buildings, some of the most essential tools are as follows:
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1. Excavators, Dozer, Loaders Construction Machines

These three are perhaps the most common construction machinery- excavators, dozers
(bulldozer is the most famous name) and loaders.
Excavators- Excavators are the heavy construction and engineering machines that are used
for digging and moving large objects on construction sites, handling materials, demolishing
buildings, digging trenches, heavy lifting and so forth. This heavy building equipment is also
known as the digger with a cab installed on a pivot and has a bucket as well as an articulated
arm. Used heavily for making roads, buildings, highways, skyscrapers etc. excavators are
indispensable for any project.
Dozer- (Crawler or bulldozer, the crawler is a tractor with a dozer blade) A dozer is also
heavy equipment used to clear and grade land. These machines have continuous treads and a
broad hydraulic blade in their front portion and are classified functionally on the basis of
types of blades in a dozer. The two most popular dozers are the bulldozers and the scrape
dozers.
Loaders: Loaders are used for constructing buildings and roads. Loaders are also known as
front loaders, scoop loader, front end loader, bucket loader and so forth. Loaders use buckets
to move resources to different places. The different materials transported by the loaders
include sand, gravel, wood chips, dirt and so forth.
2. Chip Spreader, Road Paver, Compactor- Road Machines
While the excavators, dozers, and loaders can be seen on any construction site, there are
certain specific machines that are only used while making roads.
Chip Spreader- This self-propelled road machine is used for pre-coated chipping surface
treatments. It is also used in repairing works. Most common applications of construction
machineries are in road works and road construction. The milling machine in road works
is used to machine solid materials or remove a layer of unwanted material from roads. Widely
used for repair jobs, so that a new layer can be created by milling off the destroyed layer.
Stone chipping gives quality and durability to roads and chip spreader is the main equipment
used for this.
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Paver- Also called road paving machine, it is used for laying pavement. A paver is an
important construction machine used to lay asphalt or concrete on roadways. Compactors are
used for compacting concrete or asphalt. Compactors as earthwork or road construction
machines are used to compress soil and hard materials in construction sites and roads. They
press and stabilize the soil for further construction purpose or pave the asphalt or concrete
roads to make them smooth and plain roads. Screed, tractor and lorry are its main component
parts. It gets the material from lorry and places it in correct dimensions onto the prepared
surface forming a mat like structure. This mat is then compacted by road rollers.
Compactor- Te compactors reduce the size of waste materials through compaction and are
found in different shapes, sizes and configuration. Plate compactors, vibratory compactors,
sheeps foot compactors, steel rollers compactors with rubber tyres, etc. are some of the
popular types of this construction machinery.
Road roller: Constructive tools also include road rollers or roller compacter which is used to
compact concrete, dirt, gravel and asphalt. The road roller is used mainly for constructing
roads and other construction purposes.
3. Cranes- Lifting Machines -Tower Crane, Portal Crane, Cable Crane, Tractor
Crane, Truck-Mounted Crane
Lifting machinery as the name suggests refers to the lifting machines used to lift
objects in construction sites. There are different types of lifting machines.
For example: Tower Cranes are used to lift concrete, steel, large tools and different
building materials. They can rise to great heights and are a common machine at any major
construction site. Portal cranes can lift heavy loads and seen mainly on storage sites and
trans-shipment centres. There are cable-operated cranes that are seen at dam construction
and other construction sites which have the appearance of a line layout. These cranes can
move over huge distances and deep valleys. The tractor cranes can move freely around the
construction site. The truck mounted cranes are used for lifting jobs of short duration. Their
basic advantage is that these cranes can drive on roads. Forklift: Forklift is one of most
handy constructive tools that are used for lifting heavy equipments. The forklifts are available
in different capacities and sizes. It is mainly used for moving heavy equipments in
warehouses and manufacturing units.
Several apparatus which aid in constructing buildings some of the other essential tools are as
follows:
Concrete mixers: Widely used equipment is the concrete mixer which is used to prepare
concrete mixture by mixing cement, sand, gravel and water. Earlier this homogenous mixture
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was prepared manually but now with the help of this apparatus, concrete mixer can be made
quickly and easily. The mixer contains a rotating drum which mixes the concrete.
Backhoe: Backhoe is used for demolition purposes and for digging holes. It is an apparatus
that is used in most of the construction sites.
Sand screeners: The sand screeners are quite essential to sieve the sand and segregate it from
dirt and other foreign objects. There are many types of sand screener including vibratory
screening machines supplied by the construction tools manufacturers in the online portals.
In addition to the above tools and apparatus, there are many other types of equipment
which are essential in any building construction site such as saws, nail gun, tool belt and so
forth. The use of these construction tools is imperative for better and faster completion of
building projects.
1.4 Hazards in construction and their Management

Construction workers are exposed to a number of significant hazards. These may
include:
Falls from working at height,
Crush injuries in excavation work,
Slips and trips,
Being struck by falling objects,
Moving heavy loads,
Bad working positions, often in confined spaces,
Being struck or crushed by a workplace vehicle,
Receiving injuries from hand tools,
Inhalation of dust,
Handling of rough materials,
Exposure to dangerous substances (chemical and biological),
Working near, in, or over water,
Exposure to radiation,
Loud noise,
Vibration from tools or vibrating machinery,
Collapsing structures and excavations
Falling objects
Hazards from underground services during excavations
Overturning earthmoving machinery
Explosives used in blasting
Electrical hazards from underground or overhead power services
Precautions to be taken:
Designers, engineers and construction workers should be mindful of construction
safety standards for machinery, structures and activities on a construction site. The main
activities that are regulated by specific standards for safety are listed below and in each case
mention is made of the major considerations:
1.4.1 Excavations
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OSHA defines an excavation as any man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the
earth's surface formed by earth removal. This can include excavations for anything from
cellars to highways. A trench is defined as a narrow underground excavation that is deeper
than it is wide, and no wider than 15 feet (4.5 meters)
Following Points are to be considered before Excavation:
The nature and location of underground services must be determined before the start
of work and the appropriate notification made to service authorities
Written notification must be obtained from the local electrical supply authority when
using cranes and other machines closer than 4m from overhead lines
Explosives use must be under the control of a certificated construction blaster
Work near roadways must comply with Transit guidelines
Rollover protection devices (ROPs) must be fitted to certain categories of
earthmoving machinery
Supporting structures for excavations must meet the standard for accepted safe
practice for such work and be designed according to sound engineering practice
Excavations of more than 1.5m in depth and having a depth greater than the
horizontal width at the top are Notifiable.
1.4.2 Hot Works
Welding, cutting, soldering, and brazing in construction, maintenance, and fabricating
activities are considered hot work when there is a potential fire hazard present. Many lives
have been lost due to explosions caused by vapours contained in tanks or storage vessels that
were ignited by a spark or welders torch. Risks involved in performing hot work are
asphyxiation, electric shock, air contamination, fire, and explosions.
When hot work is being performed in confined spaces, such as silos, ship
compartments, furnaces, pipelines, vessels, pits, vats, tanks, degreasers, these procedures are
essential to ensure the safety of all involved in the work:
Have written permit identifying hot work to be done;

In-depth hazards evaluation of location;
Safety training in the hazards of hot work;
Empty and purge tanks beforehand;
Check tanks, vessels, and pipe for corrosion;
Test atmosphere for suitable oxygen content;
Perform gas monitoring;
Gas detectors should always be used prior to and during hot work;
Vapours rise as outside temperature warms up, so continuous monitoring is important;
Keep vents open;
Be sure valves are leak-free;
Be sure all power sources are turned off;
Have NIOSH/MSHA approved breathing devices when required;
Equipment should never block exits;
Have constant communication with rescue personnel close-by.
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If there is any doubt regarding the hot work to be performed, a professional

environmental specialist should check the air quality and make specific recommendations for
the welding/cutting situation. Special precautions should be taken. Welders perform all sorts
of work on a daily basis. They know the risks involved and are specialists in their field.
They also understand that there are several types of PPE that they must utilize:
Fire retardant welders cap;

Welding helmet that contains the correct filter shade lens;
Gloves that are tough, long-lasting, comfortable, and meet the needs and hazards
of the particular job;
Earplugs or muffs in case of loud noise while performing the job, as well as protect
the ears from debris;
Goggles to protect the eyes.
Welding is a job that requires much training and skill. It is up to each company that hires
either its own welders or contract welders to ensure their safety at all costs.
1.4.3 Confined space
Generally speaking, a confined space is an enclosed or partially enclosed space that:
is not primarily designed or intended for human occupancy
has a restricted entrance or exit by way of location, size or means
Can represent a risk for the health and safety of anyone who enters, due to one or
more of the following factors:
o
o
o
o
its design, construction, location or atmosphere

the materials or substances in it
work activities being carried out in it, or the
mechanical, process and safety hazards present
Confined spaces can be below or above ground. Confined spaces can be found in
almost any workplace. A confined space, despite its name, is not necessarily small. Examples
of confined spaces include silos, vats, hoppers, utility vaults, tanks, sewers, pipes, access
shafts, truck or rail tank cars, aircraft wings, boilers, manholes, manure pits and storage bins.
Ditches and trenches may also be a confined space when access or egress is limited.
Mechanical ventilation.
The Entry Permit system
Personal protective equipment (respirators, gloves, ear plugs
Normally, Work where a flame is used or a source of ignition may be produced (hot
work) should not be carried in a confined space.
All flammable gases, liquids and vapors are removed before the start of any hot work.
- Keep the concentration of any explosive or flammable hazardous substance
less than 10% of its Lower Explosive Limit AND
- Make sure that the oxygen content in the confined space is not enriched.
Oxygen content should be less than 23% but maintained at levels greater than
18%. (These numbers can vary slightly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.)
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All potentially hazardous energy sources such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic,

pneumatic, chemical, or thermal must be de-energized and locked out prior to entry to
the confined space so that equipment cannot be turned on accidentally.
Any liquids or free-flowing solids are removed from the confined space to eliminate
the risk of drowning or suffocation.
All pipes should be physically disconnected or isolation blanks bolted in place.
Closing valves is not sufficient.
Provide a barrier to prevent any liquids or free-flowing solids from entering the
confined space.
The opening for entry into and exit from the confined space must be large enough to
allow the passage of a person using protective equipment.
1.4.4 Work at height

Any activity carrying above 1.8 meters or more height is considered as working at
height. There are many common situations where this will be necessary.
Some areas where risk of fall include:
Above ground level (be it construction, demolition, maintenance or cleaning),
including any work over other hazards (such as work being carried out above
protruding reinforcing etc.)
Near unprotected open edges of floors and roofs
Near unprotected penetrations or openings in roofs, floors or walls
Near unguarded shafts or excavations
From unstable structures (temporary or permanent)
On or near fragile or brittle surfaces (such as fiber cement, plastic or fiberglass sheet
roofs or skylights).
Also consider:
Access to and from the work area
The ability of work platforms to support the required people, tools and other
equipment, with particular attention to the work to be carried out
Any changes to the level, friction, slope and conditions on work platforms
Obstructions caused by materials, rubbish or fixed and protruding objects
The position of any unprotected work platform edges or penetrations
The proximity of any overhead energy sources such as electricity
The effect of wind, rain, the sun and the cold.
ensuring safe access and egress
installing guardrails around perimeters and penetrations
setting up fall protection barriers (such as safety mesh or edge protection)
considering the risks involved from overhead services such as power lines
considering the risks involved from objects falling from height
Implementing a suitable means to prevent a fall.
1.4.5 Maintenance & Renovation Hazards
The hazards associated with maintenance or renovation depends largely on the size
and nature of the work concerned. Even smaller scale work is likely to involve the use of
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portable power tools, with the resultant hazards of electric shock, eye injury, inhalation of
dust etc. Those planning and implementing renovation activities should consider the nature of
the area being renovated and in particular any unforeseen hazards. In a laboratory for
example contamination of ductwork from fume cupboards and plumbing with chemicals is
likely and an assessment of the hazards will be necessary prior to the commencement of
work.
Other hazards of maintenance work should not be overlooked and particular emphasis
should be placed on the prevention of hearing loss as a result of exposure to noise, avoiding
back injuries and occupational overuse syndrome as a result of frequent lifting, repetitive or
constrained tasks or poorly designed tools.
Consideration should be given to the following:
Is this an area where flammable goods and/or vapours may be present and hence
where special controls are needed to control possible ignition sources?
Are there hazardous materials in the area ie asbestos cement wall linings or panels
behind heaters?
Have the gas and electricity services in the areas being renovated been identified and
disconnected if necessary?
Have other hazards been reduced to their minimum energy level (eg pressure released,
loads lowered, machines isolated)
Are residual current devices or isolating transformers being used with portable
electrical appliances and have all electric appliances including leads been checked for
safety prior to use
Is all the other equipment required for the work appropriate and in a safe working
condition? For example will a ladder provide safe access to an elevated working
height or is scaffolding required?
Has the area been sealed off in order to prevent others in the vicinity of the work
being exposed to unnecessary hazards
Have unnecessary items and other obstructions been moved from the area
Is there any heavy lifting required and how can this be done in the safest way
Is all the necessary safety equipment relative to the hazards of the maintenance work
required available and in good condition?
Specific guidelines on the safe use of specific items of equipment e.g. gas cutting
plant should be followed.
1.4.6 Demolition
Demolition is the dismantling of a building or structure, or part of a building or
structure and includes refurbishment or destruction. Demolition is high-risk construction
activity and therefore must be planned and controlled according to the regulatory
requirements.
Hazards
Demolition hazards are numerous and if improperly managed can endanger both site
personnel and the public.
Hazards may include:
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The collapse of structures onto demolition personnel or persons in the vicinity of the
work
Flying debris
Falls from structures or through roofs
Noise
Hazardous substances such as asbestos that may be found on the site
Fire from welding or cutting operations
Electric shock, eye injuries, burns, cuts and strains from using power tools
Collision hazards from moving plant
Demolition work is hazardous work by its nature and thorough pre-demolition
planning is essential to ensure the works are carried out in a safe manner.
Consideration at the planning stage should be given to:
Hazards on the site such as asbestos, underground tanks, electric power lines or
cables, gas reticulation or unsafe structural members
Possible effects on adjoining buildings
The location of all public services
Safety of the public or other people who may in the vicinity of the site
The relevant statutory authorities must be notified prior to the commencement of
work.
It may necessary to submit a demolition plan prior to commencement of works. In any
event a demolition plan is highly recommended.
Detail potential hazards on the site, the method by which works will be carried out
safely, and steps taken to safeguard persons not directly involved with the demolition
work is highly recommended.
A demolition safety check list should always be examined prior to commencement of
the works.
1.5 Tool Box Meeting

Toolbox meeting is a short and precise discussion on HSE at the work place before start of
work.
Salient features of Toolbox meetings are Brief (10-15 minute)
On-the-job meeting, interactive discussion on HSE aspects
At the beginning of the shift held.
To keep employees alert to work-related accidents and illnesses and to remind them
each day before they go to work, importance of being safe.
A quick and easy way to impart safety information to employees.
Good options for small groups, or when there isnt time to put on a full-scale safety
meeting with slides, charts, and graphs.
Can be used to address actual problems on the job or in the shop.
Toolbox talks should be clear and concise, addressing just a handful of key points.
To ensure comprehension and retention, the person delivering the toolbox talk should
end it with a recap of the main points.
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Talk about work practices, machinery, tools, equipment, materials, attitudes, and
anything else that may cause or contribute to a work-related accident or illness.
Keep the topic relevant to the job or tasks at hand.
Benefits of a Toolbox Meeting

o Provide a mechanism for communication and consultation on safety and production in
which all employees participate;
o A great way to conduct training on safety or production topics of local Concern;
o Enhance the authority and competency of leading hands, team leaders and
supervisors; and
o Toolbox meetings give managers and supervisors a mechanism for developing their
team, managing their section, and planning their work.
Documenting Meetings
Most commonly, a simple, one page form is used that provides a place to record when
the meeting was held, who attended, and what was discussed.
The topics discussed, hazards raised and plans finalized are also to be recorded.
Very small work groups can get away with recording the meetings in a diary or daybook.
Sample Form
Topic:
Contents:
Feedback:
HSE Recommendations :
Employees Attendance:
Date:
Managers remarks: ------ ---------------- ------------- ----------------------------- ------------------Manager: --------------------Supervisor:
(Signature)
(Signature)
1.6 Various Trades during Construction and Safety Measures

Labor in the construction industry is sub-divided into a variety of inter dependent
crafts and occupations. Each is subject to a characteristic spectrum of hazards from sudden
accidents and illness caused by exposure of toxic substances, bad weather and physical
exertion in cramped or unnatural positions. There are large numbers of occupations which
make up the construction industry. A comprehensive list of occupations is Managerial, Technical and supervisory staff
Safety, welfare and inspection staff
Building crafts and occupations, brick layers and store masons
Carpenters and joiners
Roofers
Concrete workers, plasterers
Bar benders, scaffolders
Service workers - rigger - erectors, fitters
Crane operators.
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Transport workers
Road and ground workers
Pipe layers, cable layers, asphalt layers, timber men
Divers, tunnel workers
Finishing craftsmen, painters, decorators, glazier, ceiling fixers, wall tillers
Flooring layers
Demolition workers
General workers
1.7 Construction safety management

1.7.1 Definition
Construction safety management is a set of procedures, rules and methodologies that a
company puts into place to prevent on-site accidents as work is underway.
The system also ensures that construction personnel abide by safety standards when
interacting with hazardous materials, such as lead-based paint and asbestos.
1.7.2 Functions
The functions of construction project management typically include the following:
Specifying project objectives and plans including delineation of scope, budgeting,
scheduling, setting performance requirements, and selecting project participants.
Maximizing resource efficiency through procurement of labour, materials and
equipment.
Implementing various operations through proper coordination and control of planning,
design, estimating, contracting and construction in the entire process.
Developing effective communications and mechanisms for resolving conflicts.
Construction safety management system helps a company to prevent operating losses
resulting from occupational hazards. The system also helps reduce construction
project delays--and associated costs--and the risk of litigation.
Construction managers formulate safety procedures and guidelines to prevent
occupational accidents while work is in progress. These procedures also provide construction
crews with the necessary tools and knowledge to perform the required tasks effectively.
Construction safety management system cannot be fully ensured in the construction
industry by mere legislation and enforcement. This is true not only in India but in other
countries as well. There must be a provision for checklist of all safety measures in each and
every contract document. The modern trend in HSE management envisages the following:
o Integrated multi-disciplinary approach of a team consisting of specialists drawn from
academics, government, management, and workers.
o Training and information to all concerned and actions at the national, enterprise and
unit levels.
o HSE management for building and construction project and systematic approach to
certain fundamental issues like management policy on safety, objectives of a HSE
programme, organization for HSE implementation, evaluation of HSE systems and
procedures, and ensuing HSE operations. Achieving safety is not accidental one; it is
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the result of deliberate well directed efforts on all matters in relation to its planning
systems: training and supervision, and each one of these is to be based on sound
concepts.
1.7.3 Aspects
Management of HSE in construction industry has to be concentrated on these aspects:
i.
Education and training
ii.
Design safety
iii.
Construction safety
iv. Safety while executing / constructing
v. Fire safety
vi.
Safety against natural calamities
i. Education and training :Construction is one of the largest industries in this
country, and employs nearly 1.9 million workers. It should be providing thousands of
young people with an interesting and valuable career. Instead it increasingly relies on
those who have benefited from the training systems. Training and development is the
field which is concerned with organizational activity aimed at improving the performance
of individuals and groups in organizational settings. Following points depicts the
importance of Education and training.
Education is defined as the overall term for competences, skills and qualifications,
Training is defined as the means of bridging the gap between formal education and
work. This definition encompasses initial and further training, continuous training
(lifelong learning), vocational training, professional training, retraining, training on
the job, and training for jobs.
The workforce on construction sites in recently is under high pressure of change. The
evolution of the requirement of skills and qualifications is non-uniform.
Every construction worker must have at least a basic qualification consisting of the
basics of tools and machinery, materials, technique; health and safety provisions.
A very high qualification is demanded on all levels, but the construction industry is
also the sector which offers access to people from outside the industry, who needs at
least a basic qualification for their own sake and that of their colleagues, their
enterprises and the entire industry.
Education and training must supply the sector on all levels of the hierarchy and in all
stages of the working process with a well-qualified work-force.
Education and training must lead to skills as: autonomous execution of work, team
working, communicative skills, as well as responsibility for quality, cost and
completion dates, health and safety matters, sustainability and environmental matters.
Education and training must secure the transmission of knowledge and
communication skills (i.e. speaking, reading, writing and information and
communication techniques).
Education and training programmes must integrate theoretical knowledge and
practical experience.
To promote the integration of environmental concerns in the structure and content of
education and training courses, including, in particular, aspects of waste generation
and its recycling, as well as energy consumption.
ii.
Design safety:
o Conceptual / architectural planning
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o Correct appreciation and evaluation of forces and loads during execution

and erection
o Following the bye-laws and statutory regulations
o Correct structural analysis and detailing
iii.
Construction Safety
Fallowing strictly the design analysis .outputs of dimensions and other
parameters of structure and the services.
Using right quality materials in right quantity and fallowing the right
specifications.
Selection, use and up-keep of proper construction plant and machinery.
Trained manpower.
Proper supervision at all stages .of construction.
Construction safety can be ensured by vigorous training and skill
upgradatian .of persons involved in construction.
iv.
Safety while Execution:

Safety in execution is different from construction safety, as much as this is
mainly to take care of safety of temporary facilities provided in executing the job
for all works. The safety in execution centre comprises housekeeping at work site,
neatness and cleanliness, proper scaffolds, personal attire like helmets, gumboots
and dresses.
v.
Fire Safety:
During construction, improper storage/disposal of inflammable waste,
inflammable liquids and explosives, largely hung temporary electrical wiring and
fittings, compounded with proximity of these to the source of fire like welding
operations could invite fire hazards. Fire fighting precautions and first aid fire
fighting measures is needed to be incorporated in finally completed building or
any other civil engineering facilities to ensure safety of the occupants and users.
The planning, design and construction of any building should be such as to
ensure safety from fire. For multi-storied, high rise and special buildings
additional fire precautions are to be taken.
Every building meant for human .occupancy shall be provided with exits
sufficient to permit safe escape of its .occupants in case of fire or other emergency.
Some buildings are to be equipped with fire alarm system.
The fallowing fire safety arrangements are to be made:
o Fire extinguishers and fire buckets, painted red should be provided at all fire
hazardous locations.
o Extinguishers should be inspected, serviced and maintained in accordance
with manufacturers instructions.
o Excavation facilities and fire exits should be provided at all locations featuring
fire hazards.
o Sirens or other suitable fire alarm arrangements should be provided at all
hazardous apparatus.
vi.
Safety against natural calamities:

235
Foundation to HSE
In case of Natural calamities, follow the procedure developed for the

Emergency Management.
1.8 Summary:
Managing construction safety is an important part of any contractor or manager's job.
Workers need to stay safe, even if it is an inconvenience. Correctly and effectively identifying
potential dangers can help to establish safety protocol for all of those who work at the
construction site.
Safety in the workplace is crucial, especially on a construction site. Construction
companies need to establish a safety plan in order to keep their employees informed and to
help ensure a secure work environment.
Most businesses and industries are required to have written safety and health
programs on file at the place of business. These plans cover worker safety, chemical use and
storage, and other pertinent aspects of company operations
Construction sites often pose various accident risks and other hazardous conditions
for workers and passersby, including pedestrians and motor vehicles. Construction site safety
audit procedures help mitigate accident risks.
1.9 Key words

Safety culture is a term used to describe the way in which safety is managed in the
workplace, and often reflects "the attitudes, beliefs, perceptions and values that employees
share in relation to safety".
Emergency (emergency management application): A Hazard impact causing adverse
physical, social, psychological, economic or political effects that challenges the ability to
rapidly & effectively respond. It requires a stepped up capacity and capability (call-back
procedures, mutual aid, etc.) to meet the expected outcome, and commonly requires change
from routine management methods to an incident command/management process in order to
achieve the expected outcome.
Emergency Management: The science of managing complex systems and multidisciplinary
personnel to address emergencies and disasters, across all hazards, and through the phases
of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
Emergency Management: Organized analysis, planning, decision making, and assignment of
available resources to mitigate (lessen the effect of or prevent) prepare for, respond to, and
recover from the effects of all hazards. The goal of emergency management is to save lives,
prevent injuries, and protect property and the environment if an emergency occurs.
Emergency Management Program: A program that implements the organizations mission,
vision, management framework, and strategic goals and objectives related to emergencies and
disasters. It uses a comprehensive approach to emergency management as a conceptual
framework, combining mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery into a fully
integrated set of activities. The program applies to all departments and organizational units
within the organization that have roles in responding to a potential emergency.
Calamity: A massive or extreme catastrophic disaster that extends over time and space.
Catastrophe: An event in which a society incurs, or is threatened to incur, such losses to
persons and/or property that the entire society is affected and extraordinary resources and
skills are required, some of which must come from other nations.
236
Foundation to HSE
1.10 Fill in the Blanks

1) ------- ----- Meeting is a short and precise discussion on HSE at workplace, before start
of the work.
2) ---------- Safety management is a set of procedures, rules, and methodologies that a
company puts into lays to prevent on-site accidents as work is underway.
3) Anything building up with the utilization of men, materials and machines can be termed
as----------.
4) -------- Crane is used to lift concrete steel and different building material during high-rise
building construction work.
5) -------- is defined as a narrow underground excavation deeper than the width and no wider
than 4.5 meters.
6) Welding, cutting, soldering are considered as ----- work.
1.11 Review Questions

2 Marks Questions
1) Define construction.
2) Define construction safety management.
3) What is meant by working at height?.
10 Marks Questions
1) a.) List the various hazards in construction work.
b.) Explain any two of them.
2) List the various trades involved in construction.
3) List the precautions to be taken during Hot work.
15 Marks Questions
4) a) What are the aspects to be considered during construction activities?
b) Explain any two of them.
5) a.) what is tool box meeting?
b.) list the salient features of tool box meeting.
c.) What are the benefits of tool box meeting?
6) a.) What is confined space?
b.) What are the precautions to be taken during working in a confined space?
1.12 Suggested Readings

1. A .M. SARMA Industrial Health and Safety Management
2. N.K. TARAFDAR and K.J. TARAFDAR - Industrial Safety Management
3. R .K. MISHRA Safety Management
4. R. K. JAIN AND SUNIL. S. RAO - Industrial Safety, Health and Environment Systems
1.13 Case study

Domino Theory of Accident Causation: Construction Material Supplier
237
Foundation to HSE
Construction Product Company (CPC) is a distributor of lumber, pipe, and concrete products. Its customers are
typically small building contractors. CPCs facility consists of an office in which orders are placed and several
large warehouses. Contractors place their orders in the office. They then drive their trucks through the
appropriate warehouses to be loaded by CPC personnel.
Because the contractors are small operations, most of their orders are also relatively small and can be loaded by
hands. Warehouse personnel go to the appropriate bins, pull out the material needed to fill their orders, and load
the materials on customers trucks. Even though most orders are small enough to be loaded by hands, many of
the materials purchased are bulky and cumbersome to handle. Because of this, CPCs loaders are required to
wear such personal protection gear as hard hats, padded gloves, steel-toed boots, and lower-back-support belts.
For years CPCs management team had noticed an increase in minor injuries to warehouse personnel during the
summer months. Typically, these injuries consisted of nothing worse than minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
However, this past summer had been different. Two warehouse workers had sustained serious back injuries.
These injuries have been costly to CPC both financially and in terms of employee morale.
An investigation of these accidents quickly identified a series of events and a central causal behaviour that set
up a domino effect. The investigation revealed that CPCs warehouses became so hot during the summer
months.
Discussions:
What are causes of the accident? What is your suggestion to avoid similar accident in the future?
NOTES
238
Foundation to HSE
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