Depending on the nature of the profession, some workers in the construction trade are prone to little or extreme levels of risk. Plasterers are no exception when it comes to job safety and protection. The everyday work of a plasterer entails some dangers that need mitigation.
Contractors of commercial construction projects comply with strict standards of safety. Fortunately, the safety standards required in construction sites guarantee workers protection. Here are some sources of work-related risks for plasterers:
- Improper use of tools and equipment may cause accidents.
- Proximity to loose debris and falling objects.
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals and airborne particles.
- Airborne irritants may get inhaled or enter the eyes.
- Working at heights increase the risk of falling.
Even if professional plasterers already know the necessary safety measures on construction sites, reminders are still required from time to time. Here are the safety measures each professional plasterer should adhere to
- Workers should wear proper plastering workwear at all times. Contractors may prescribe uniform outfits for plasterers to distinguish them from other workers. A plasterer’s uniform may include plastering overalls, trousers, or polo shirt. If a contractor does not provide a uniform, plasterers may wear DIY overalls, decorators overalls, or decorators trousers bought from any construction supply shop.
- Aside from proper workwear, plasterers should have protective accessories for the face, eyes, head, and hands. Lastly, sturdy work boots are also essential to protect the feet from falling objects and ensure good floor traction.
- Working with power tools and equipment require skills. A plasterer should not attempt to operate machinery with no experience or training. Another precaution is in using vibrating tools. As much as possible, workers should avoid using tools that vibrate for extended periods of time. Prolonged use of such equipment may cause muscle, nerve, and joint damage.
- As much as possible, plasterers should avoid carrying heavy loads. Permanently debilitating accidents result from moving heavy objects. Plasterers should use equipment designed to help raise heavy objects from one location to another.
- Ask for assistance when installing scaffolding. For every construction project, scaffolding should be inspected first before approved for use. Makeshift platforms and ladders are incredibly prone to accidents. There should be no shortcuts when creating raised working platforms for plasterers.
In spite of these safety standards enforced in construction sites, some plasterers still forget to adhere to them. For example, some plasterers forego wearing gloves or face masks thinking there is no harm in doing so. Similarly, plasterers may choose not to wear a helmet while working. These examples of negligent behaviour are common reasons why work-related accidents are still rampant. While contractors are responsible for enforcing safety guidelines and regulations, it is every worker’s responsibility to look after personal safety. As a mitigating measure, contractors may also employ a team of safety experts tasked to check daily compliance with safety regulations. The constant vigilance of workers, safety experts, and contractors is the only way to minimise the occurrence of work-related disasters.
