Workplace safety might not be the first thing you think about when it comes to the real estate industry, but it’s a big deal. Whether you’re managing properties, overseeing construction, or working in an office, creating a safe environment benefits everyone.
Regular construction workplace safety inspections are your secret weapon in preventing accidents, avoiding costly legal issues, and building a reputation as a responsible company. Gharpedia brings you a guide on hazards in real estate workplace and the benefits of construction workplace safety inspections, which a site engineer must be aware of.
Common Hazards in Real Estate Workplaces
Real estate covers a wide range of environments, each with its own set of hazards. From construction sites to everyday property tours, the risks can vary significantly.
01. Construction Sites
The construction side of real estate is notorious for being one of the most dangerous industries. In 2022, the U.S. construction industry recorded 946 worker deaths, accounting for about 20% of all workplace fatalities.
The most common causes of these accidents include falls, being struck by objects, and electrocution, often referred to as the “Fatal Four” by OSHA. Each of these could be avoided through regular safety inspections that identify structural weaknesses, improper equipment handling, or missing safety barriers. Most of these accidents could be prevented with a first aid certification for the workers and personnel in the area.
02. Office Buildings
Even office spaces, which might seem safe compared to construction zones, can pose significant risks. Faulty wiring, poor lighting, and cluttered hallways are often the culprits. Regular construction workplace safety inspections in offices catch these hazards in real estate early, preventing injuries and keeping the workplace running smoothly.
03. Property Showings and Site Visits
Real estate agents face unique safety concerns, particularly when showing properties. Vacant homes can have hidden dangers like broken stairs, mold, or hazardous wiring. There’s also the risk of agents or clients slipping on unmarked wet floors or tripping over debris during a site tour.
Poor maintenance of a property doesn’t just impact sales, it can lead to personal injuries, which could land your business in legal trouble. Safety checkups make sure that any space open to clients or employees is free from hazards.
04. Legal Help After an Accident
Unfortunately, no matter how many precautions you take, accidents can still happen. When they do, it’s not just a health issue for the injured party; it’s a legal and financial issue for your business.
You could face serious legal claims, especially if it’s alleged that the accident occurred due to unsafe work conditions. Deciding to seek help from a personal injury lawyer can make all the difference.
They can counsel you through the complexities of the case, ensuring that all aspects of liability, negligence, and safety compliance are fully examined. This helps your business maintain transparency and ensures the case is handled properly from the start.
What Happens During a Construction Workplace Safety Inspection?
A trained professional will evaluate every aspect of the workplace, depending on the specific environment.
One major focus is structural integrity. On construction sites, inspectors will assess the stability of scaffolding, load-bearing beams, and walkways to ensure they meet safety regulations. For properties that are further along in development, or office spaces, inspectors check for issues like cracks in foundations or loose railings.
Next, there’s fire safety. This includes making sure that fire alarms are functional, extinguishers are available, and there are clearly marked exit routes. Lack of proper fire safety measures is one of the leading causes of large-scale accidents that could have been prevented through a simple checkup.
Inspectors also check electrical and plumbing systems to ensure they are in good condition. Electrical failures, in particular, pose serious risks on construction sites and older properties.
Hazardous materials are another big concern, especially on older construction projects were asbestos, lead, or other dangerous substances might still be present.
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Construction Safety Tips for Workers’ Well-Being
The Benefits of Construction Workplace Safety Inspection
Besides the already mentioned benefits such as accident prevention and legal compliance, construction workplace safety inspections also improve employee morale and productivity. Employees are more likely to perform well when they know they’re working in a safe environment. When workers see that their employer cares about their safety, they are more motivated and less likely to take sick days due to injury.
And let’s not forget about client safety. If a client or visitor is injured while on a property due to negligence, the legal fallout can be substantial. Beyond the financial costs, a serious injury could damage the company’s reputation. Clients expect to feel safe when visiting properties, and regular inspections help ensure that your spaces are hazard-free.
The Consequences
Failing to conduct regular safety inspections can have serious consequences. First, it dramatically increases the likelihood of accidents. Injuries like falls, burns, and fractures are not only devastating to the individuals involved but also costly for the company. On average, a workplace injury costs a company $41,353.
There’s also the risk of legal action. A company can be vulnerable to lawsuits from employees, contractors, or clients who get injured on-site. In some cases, these lawsuits can cost millions, especially if it’s proven that the accident could have been avoided.
Companies that are found to be negligent in their safety practices can face severe penalties from OSHA and other regulatory bodies, which can include fines, shutdowns, or even criminal charges.
Best Practices for Construction Safety
To ensure that safety inspections are effective, they must be conducted regularly. Monthly or quarterly checkups are a good rule of thumb, depending on the environment. It’s also important to train employees to recognize potential hazards and report them immediately. Using digital tools, such as safety apps, can streamline the process so that all findings are recorded for future reference.
Assigning a dedicated safety officer to oversee everything can also help maintain accountability. This says that safety isn’t just a one-time effort but an ongoing priority.
Final Words
Workplace safety isn’t just about preventing accidents, it’s about protecting your people, your clients, and your business. They ensure that hazards are caught early, compliance is maintained, and everyone can do their job without fear of injury.
So, whether you’re managing a real estate office, showing properties, or overseeing construction sites, make construction workplace safety inspections a non-negotiable part of your routine. And if an accident does occur, remember that a personal injury lawyer can help navigate the legal side of things, so the injured party gets the support they deserve.
Now, go ahead and make safety your priority because it’s more than just good business; it’s the right thing to do.
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