By Todd Bush, Resource Manager
You are a jack of all trades! As a plumber you have to deal with water, gas, heat, pipes and fittings. You have to climb ladders and work in confined spaces that call for extra attention to construction job safety. In other words, you are going to find yourself working in different plumbing works areas and environments. This means that you need to take every action to ensure plumbing safety on the jobsite for you and the rest of your team. Below we provide a few plumbing safety tips to take into account before starting to work on a project.
Avoid Surprises
Unless you like unpleasant surprises that put your construction safety at risk and compromise the schedule of your project, it is wise to do the necessary research on the project. Ensure plumbing safety on the jobsite by preparing yourself for what you are getting into. Are you going to work in a confined space with limited freedom of movement that requires extra caution? Are there dangerous materials in the area where you are going to work and what measures do you have to take to avoid exposure? Do you need a permit for the project you are asked to carry out? Do not wait to find out at the last minute. Do your homework and avoid surprises.
Use PPE
Regardless of the nature or size of the project you work on, never start the job without the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). From demolition to gas leakage to hazardous materials, construction job safety must be second nature. There are numerous plumbing accidents that could be avoided if the right PPE is used. When you walk around the worksite, make a list of the PPE you need to ensure plumbing safety on the jobsite. Do not underestimate danger but rather be ready for it. Remember that your safety is at stake.
Use the Proper Tools
A common safety issue in construction and the plumbing world is the tendency of workers to use the wrong tools for the project or to misuse equipment. This leads to preventable accidents and injuries. If you want to ensure plumbing safety on the jobsite then you have to use the right tools for the job. You need to forget about convenience and keep thinking of construction job safety. Before starting to work on your project, check to see whether you have the tools needed and if these tools are in good condition. Always avoid using equipment that doesn’t meet safety requirements.
Ask for Help
Being a plumber for a long time makes you feel that you have the experience to complete every project that is assigned to you. This confidence sometimes works against construction safety because it leads you to work on projects by yourself when in reality you should ask for help. Having a helper on difficult and complicated projects is going to eliminate mistakes and ensure plumbing safety on the jobsite. You are going to have an extra pair of eyes and an extra hand that will allow you to finish your job faster, easier and more efficiently. Make your life easier.
Stay Current
The construction industry changes on a daily basis and with it new building standards and codes are being introduced. The plumbing world is not an exception. It is important that you stay up-to-date and current with safety requirements and regulations. Connect with your association and follow up with local resources to know what is new in your field, both on a national and local level. Don’t sit back and wait for information to reach you. Be proactive and find out what you need to do to comply with safety regulations. It is your job to enhance construction job safety for you and for your colleagues.
Key Takeaways to Plumbing Safety Tips:
1. Before you start working on a project, identify potential risks and hazards
2. Always use personal protective equipment to protect yourself
3. Use the right tools and equipment for the project that is assigned to you
4. Have an extra pair of eyes and an extra hand to help with difficult projects
5. Stay up-to-date with plumbing safety requirements
About TradeSource
Founded in 1993, TradeSource is a construction labor solutions firm focused on delivering labor solutions to contractors throughout the United States. By supplying skilled tradespeople – where and when they’re needed – we help contractors grow their companies, without the associated costs and hassles of full-time hires. Likewise, we match qualified employees with rewarding and well-paying job opportunities in the construction industry. www.tradesource.com
