Despite the precautionary measures taken by many project managers and owners, devastating accidents still take place on construction sites across the country. Unexpected weather conditions, curious pedestrians and hidden hazards can result in life-changing mishaps that have both a personal and financial cost for everyone involved.

As a result, it is vital that everyone works together to champion construction site safety. Whether working on the ground or well above it, having the proper protocols in place will ensure the protection of the team, the community and the project.

Here are six key risk factors that construction site workers should consider, as well as the steps necessary for augmenting the chances of success.

1. Planning
Before construction even begins, a comprehensive site safety plan should be at the foundation of the operation. It should address all possible threats to the people and project, as well as create a complete schedule for routine site inspections. Once a plan is developed and in place, it can be easily updated and repurposed for future jobs.

2. Site safety management
To simplify construction safety for the team, appoint a site safety manager to supervise scheduled inspections and implement any necessary protocols. This should also include the examination of heavy equipment such as cranes and all machinery. Once this designated person is clear on their role, insist the site safety manager record their check-ins in a log book that can be reviewed by certified site inspectors whenever necessary.

3. Weather
Canada’s weather can be very unpredictable and construction sites become more vulnerable to damage during severe conditions. For example, forceful winds can bring down a seemingly secure steel frame and, in addition to the potential for serious or fatal injuries, a setback of this magnitude can push projects back several months. Before the weather patterns change, ensure the site is thoroughly assessed and braced by an experienced contractor, and speak to an insurance loss control consultant for additional safety advice.

4. Fire
Though people may think it unlikely, one of the primary causes of construction accidents is fire. Because working with heat is second nature to many in this trade, it is often easy to forget just how dangerous one spark can be. Temporary heating appliances used in areas with improper ventilation can ignite fires and cause carbon monoxide poisoning, so be diligent by taking extra safety measures. Put designated team members on “fire watch” and, whenever the possibility of a fire exists, make sure that extinguishers are present, within reach and tested in advance to ensure they are in working order.

5. People
A sense of curiosity and adventure can be a disastrous combination on an unattended construction site. Children, animals and passersby looking for a shortcut are easily drawn to the excitement of a project in progress. Keep the site and those around it safe by employing adequate fencing, security and signage, and by installing guardrails around areas that are particularly dangerous. Also, insist that welcomed visitors are supplied with the proper safety equipment, which will also protect the team against costly liability claims in the event of an accident.

6. Housekeeping
Fortunately, housekeeping is one of the easiest safety measures to put in place on a construction site and it is also relatively easy to control. By regularly taking a few simple steps such as clearing piles of debris, unpredictable disasters can be prevented. Get the team in the habit of securely storing flammable liquids and cleaning as they go, and the best practices necessary to keep the site safe will soon become common practice.

Rob Cruickshank is practice director, construction and renewable energy, at RSA Insurance.