Housekeeping in Construction Safety Talk

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Limpieza en la construcción – CompSource Mutual

What is the purpose of job site housekeeping?

There can be many moving people, equipment, and trades working on a job site at any given time. Poor housekeeping can contribute to accidents, such as:

  • tripping over loose objects on floors, stairs, and platforms
  • being hit by falling objects
  • slipping on greasy, wet, or dirty surfaces
  • striking against projecting, poorly stacked items, or misplaced material
  • cutting, puncturing, or tearing the skin of hands or other parts of the body on projecting nails, wire, or steel strapping.

To avoid these hazards, a job site must “maintain” order throughout the project. Although this effort requires a great deal of management and planning, the benefits are many.

How do we implement an effective housekeeping program in construction?

Housekeeping must be “maintained” not “achieved.” Cleaning and organization should be done regularly, not just at the end of the day. Integrating housekeeping into each task can help ensure this is done.

A good housekeeping program identifies and assigns responsibilities for the following:

  • organized setting up of tools, equipment, and debris collection areas
  • regular clean up throughout the job
  • clean up at the end of the task or day
  • regular disposal of debris
  • removal of unused materials
  • inspection to ensure the cleanup is complete

Less obvious areas should be addressed as well such as the walking path to and from the site and vehicle organization.

Disclaimer:

This article is provided solely as a reference tool to be used for information purposes only. The information in this article shall not be construed or interpreted as providing legal or any other advice. The information material does not amend the provisions of any insurance policy issued by CompSource Mutual. It is not a representation that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all applicable policy provisions, and any applicable law.

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