Editors Choice
A guide to construction safety
for home builders
By Chris Pendrey, SHEQ
Manager at Actavo Direct
The government recently introduced
changes to make self-builds more
accessible, including reduced stamp
duty and a home building fund. The
plan is to increase new-build homes by
35 percent.
With more people realising the benefits
of self-build homes in affordability and
customisation, we discuss how to stay
safe while managing your project…
Playing fast and loose
Despite recent changes meaning all
construction projects must now have a
‘principal contractor’ – including self-
builds – many home builders still don’t
focus on health and safety.
Self-builders who dip into projects
as-and-when often work in normal
clothing, putting themselves in danger.
For example, a loose-fitting t-shirt
can catch on powerful construction
equipment, plus jewellery like watches
and bracelets can also get caught on
tools.
8
Remove all accessories before dealing
with any equipment and keep clothes
tight-fitting or tucked in to avoid injury.
Manage working conditions
If you’re spending long days on site,
make sure you’ve got access to toilet
and hot water facilities. Dust and dirt
can build up on construction sites and
if you don’t clean your hands regularly,
particularly before touching food, germs
and bacteria can make you ill. If your
home bathroom isn’t built yet, this may
mean hiring a portaloo and making sure
there’s a clean water supply.