In a construction site setting, keeping the waste resulting from daily processes contained is important for keeping the job site functional and safe. Therefore, at least one construction dumpster on the premises is a must. While these waste receptacles are pretty much harmless, their usage can come along with some risks to employees. To prevent workplace injuries at a construction site that are associated with dumpster usage, there are a handful of basic safety rules and best practices you should keep in mind.
Encourage employees to wear gloves when putting items inside the dumpster.
Dumpsters on a construction site can be brimming with everything from hazardous chemicals to shards of glass, which poses a threat to anyone who is placing items in the receptacle. To prevent employees from injuring their hands while throwing items inside, encourage them to wear heavy gloves that keep their hands and wrists protected.
Prevent back strain by placing a step platform at the side of the dumpster.
Most dumpsters open only from the top, which means trash and debris going in must be hoisted overhead during disposal. The repeated action of lifting heavy materials up and over an employee's head can easily lead to back strain and injury. To prevent this excessive strain, situate a small step platform beside the construction dumpster where employees can simply step up and toss the discarded items over the side.
Never allow dumpsters to be overloaded.
In a busy construction setting, the dumpster may get little attention, so it may be overloaded before you even realize it. Unfortunately, an overloaded dumpster creates the potential for workplace hazards because the objects inside could easily topple out and hit someone near the receptacle. Implement stern rules about load levels in dumpsters and make sure you work with a waste management company that can retrieve the dumpster and replace it in a short time frame.
Keep the area around the dumpster clean.
Bits of lumber, scrap metal, broken glass, plastic strips, empty containers—all of this is an example of the trash that will likely be making its way to the construction dumpster. If any debris gets dropped around the dumpster in the disposal process, it creates a trip hazard in an area where visibility could be low. Make sure you implement rules for employees to continuously keep the ground around the dumpster clean, as anyone carrying armloads of trash to the receptacle will likely not notice items along the ground and could trip and fall.
For more information, contact local professionals like Parks & Sons of Sun City, Inc.
