Give Them More Than a Hard Hat

A recent ABC EyeWitness News Report mentioned that a construction worker was struck unconscious by a large chunk of concrete that fell on him while working demolition in Midtown Manhattan. Reporters noted that this was not the first incident of workplace injury at  that site.

Construction companies experience accidents routinely. It is part of their breakfast. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that for every 100 full-time workers, there are 4.3 injuries and illnesses due to nonfatal accidents per year. The CDC calculates that of the 3.3 million nonfatal injuries and illnesses reported in 2009, more than 9% were experienced by construction workers.

Training is the secret sauce when it comes to reducing Workers’ Compensation injuries.

OSHA created a training program that construction companies can implement to teach their workers about safety concerns and how to avoid them. Here’s why you should consider implementing a Safety Program:

Decreases competition

According to the Statistic Institute, as of 2015, there are almost 729,000 construction companies in the US. It’s estimated that 565,000 new business startups are created monthly. Of these, the construction and service industries have the highest startup rate and are the most likely to persist creating a plethora of competition. OSHA certification sets you a part from the competition.

Streamlines Operations

The OSHA program teaches employees to work safer and more effective. Details of the course include discussions regarding safety, health hazards, and accident prevention.

Money Savings

OSHA training is all about injury mitigation. Insurance carriers favor companies who have strong loss control measures in place. The better your safety programs, the less injuries, the less claims – ultimately the less you will pay in Workers’ Compensation insurance.

Details of the OSHA Course

OSHA has two courses: the 10 and 30-hour classes. The 10-hour class covers the basics and is best suited for onsite personnel – especially construction workers, and consultants. Thirty-hour classes go into more detail, as they examine various policies, procedures, and standards – which is ideal for supervisors and project managers.

Accidents are bound to happen – that’s why they are called – well – accidents. Taking a proactive vs. a reactive approach to Risk Management is the first step to a better run business and a stronger balance sheet.

Have you implemented a safety program? Share with us the positive effects the program had for your business in the comments below!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mark Greco
Commercial Account Executive
mgreco@foundersgrp.com