How Technology Can Build a Safer Work Culture in Construction

How Technology Can Build a Safer Work Culture in Construction

Construction is a dangerous industry, one of the most hazardous jobs in the country. Safety initiatives are critical to protecting workers from severe and fatal injuries. But an article by EHS Today reported that a lack of new technology in the construction industry is preventing some companies from optimizing their safety efforts. 

Safety is complex and ever-changing. No two jobs in construction are ever the same and must be evaluated for safety risks individually. Outdated methods of monitoring risk and tracking accident data take more effort and still allow for preventable injuries. Here’s where the construction industry could benefit from some advancements. 

Accurate Tracking 

When injuries occur on the job site, the details of the accident must be inspected and recorded. Supervisors responsible for these tasks may not have ample time for manual recording alongside other duties. When they do, it can be hard to remember pertinent information that helps reduce the risk of a similar incident occurring in the future. Technology can help track incidents in real-time, remembering all the details for more accurate tracking and safety planning.

Trend Recognition 

Establishing safety and accident trends using manual assessments is time-consuming and difficult. Risk assessment programs for construction allow contractors and supervisors to address critical issues quickly and spot accident trends to reduce future incidents. Free risk assessment programs are available for companies interested in creating a safer environment but may not have a large budget for advanced programs. 

Easy Recall of Information 

Advanced programs that track accidents and investigation results also store and organize information in a centralized location. This allows supervisors to access data easily for future safety planning and to share information across job sites. 

Higher Productivity 

The more time contractors and supervisors spend on administrative tasks, the less what gets done. Reducing manual tasks helps projects run smoothly and reduces the amount of time needed for paperwork and filing.

Mobile Accessibility 

Carrying a clipboard and pen around can be difficult on construction sites when scaling tall buildings and multi-level surfaces. Several construction mobile apps have come out in the last few years that make tracking information, training and sharing project information easier. These six highlighted by Safety HQ are some of the most popular. 

Where Technology CAN’T Help

Technology will never be able to replace experience and human instincts. When it comes to tracking and inspecting job site concerns, supervisors and contractors will need to be physically present. 

The EHS Today article states that balancing human interaction and technology is critical. Each trade will require its own level of technology, and determining where human interaction is necessary for construction and where it can be replaced by technology will take time and effort. 

Follow OSHA Guidelines to Keep Workers Safe

Whatever technology you choose to implement on the worksite, make sure you are following all federal and New York State guidelines for keeping workers safe. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has recommended and required safety practices for every trade. Do your research to find out which practices apply to your workplace to create the most effective and efficient safety policies. 

Pazer, Epstein, Jaffe & Fein NYC Construction Accident Attorneys 

At the law firm of Pazer, Epstein, Jaffe & Fein, we have been fighting for New York City workers and victims of construction accidents for over 60 years. If you or a loved one has sustained a serious injury due to the negligence of another, our experienced trial attorneys are here to help. To speak to one of our attorneys for a free consultation, please fill out our online form or call 212-227-1212.