Reducing Job Risks to Iron Workers

Some jobs are just more hazardous than others. It is a fact that cannot be avoided. Iron workers, unfortunately, have one of the most dangerous jobs according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). One of the most common dangers iron workers face are structural collapses. Other dangers include falls and electrocutions from contact with power lines. Here’s more information about reducing job risks to iron workers.

Thankfully, the construction industry is working closely with OSHA to develop new safety standards to protect its members while they’re building the nation’s skyscrapers, bridges, and towers. As a result, there are now more safety standards in place for iron workers than there have been in previous years.

One safety standard that has been put in place in light of accidents involving iron workers is the requirement that all iron workers wear safety harnesses. Though it was always recommended, it is now required that all iron workers wear an approved and appropriate safety harness to prevent falls.

Another safety standard that has been put in place is the use of hard hats. The requirement that all iron workers wear hard hats helps to prevent head injuries should there be a fall, something strikes an iron worker on the head, or they hit their head on a beam. While hard hats are always needed on a construction site, it is especially important for iron workers in light of the fact that they are especially vulnerable to head injuries.

Another way that employers are keeping iron workers safe is through careful monitoring of weather conditions. When weather is predicted to be especially rainy or windy, iron workers should be kept off the job until the weather improves.

Lastly, all iron workers are monitored by how much time they work. Though overtime is an option, it is important that iron workers be rested and are given enough time to recuperate between shifts. This will help to insure that workers are not fatigued when they come to work.

Keeping workers safe is the main priority of most employers. Keeping iron workers safe is especially important since they work in such a high risk job. With crucial safety measures in place to protect iron workers, there should be far less accidents that result in serious injury or death.