Associations
PRIORITISING SAFETY
The Master Builders Association Western Cape ( MBAWC )
Statistics published by the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company ( FEM ) reveal that nearly 6500 workplace accidents requiring medical attention were reported in 2021 .
Of those reported incidents , 56 resulted in fatalities . In addition , the report indicates that 11 761 days were lost in 2021 as a result of employees being injured , and five people were permanently disabled .
In light of this , the MBAWC urges its members , employers and employees in the built industry to prioritise safety both on and off site at all times with a view to eliminating accidents .
Health and safety manager at the MBAWC , Deon Bester , says the FEM figures are concerning . “ Not only is any death , injury or disablement unacceptable , the downtime that occurs as a result of accidents impacts the overall delivery of projects .”
“ This is why employers and employees need to work together when it comes to health and safety compliance . The Occupational Health and Safety Act states that all employees have the right to work in a safe environment , but with that comes the responsibility of complying with the health and safety standards that have been put in place ,” he adds .
A closer look at the most common accidents that occur within the built industry reveals that motor accidents are one of the largest contributors to the issue .
“ This is a very difficult area to control , but people who make use of company transport , especially those being transported in open vehicles , must know the rules of the road . These employees should not allow themselves to be transported in unsafe modes of transport . Employers operating these vehicles should always ensure that they
Michael Gaida | Pixabay
abide by the requirements of the National Road Traffic Act , as well as the requirements of section 23 of the construction regulations ,” says Bester .
While many contractors and employers invest significantly in training their staff about health and safety compliance , it is up to all parties to ensure adherence to the safety learnings and on-site measures .
The MBAWC offers assistance to its members to ensure compliance with the Health and Safety Act . “ We believe that nobody should lose their life while at work , which is why we offer advice on how our members can ensure that safety is constantly prioritised – both on and off site ,” concludes Bester . RACA
All parties involved are responsible to ensure adherence to necessary safety measures in the built industry – especially during construction .
QUOTE OF THE MONTH Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet . Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened , ambition inspired , and success achieved .
— Helen Keller
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