Safety risks in infrastructure and road work - identification, management and solutions

Road and infrastructure works involve a variety of safety risks that must be carefully managed to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. Here is a guide to identifying, managing and implementing solutions to safety risks in road and infrastructure works:

Risk identification

Identifying risks in road and infrastructure work includes understanding the operations and the potential risks associated with them:

1. Movement of vehicles and work equipment :
   • Passing vehicles may hit workers.
   • Heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators and trucks.
2. Unstable terrain conditions :
   • Working in areas with unstable infrastructure or near places with a risk of collapse.
3. Exposure to extreme weather conditions :
   • Working in conditions of high heat or extreme cold.
   • Exposure to strong winds, heavy rain or snow.
4. Working at height :
   • Repair of electricity poles, bridges and other structures.
5. Chemical hazards :
   • Exposure to asphalt, concrete, and other chemical materials used to build roads and infrastructure.
6. Earthquakes and changes in soil structure :
   • Using heavy tools and performing excavation work can cause vibrations and changes in the structure of the soil.

Risk management

Risk management in road and infrastructure works includes implementing procedures and plans for monitoring and reducing risks:

1. Guidance and training :
   • Regular training on safety risks and safe work procedures.
   • Training on the use of personal protective equipment and heavy equipment.
2. Safe work procedures :
   • Clear marking of work areas and use of barriers and signs.
   • Procedures for working near vehicular traffic, including the use of guards and direction indicators.
3. Supervision and control :
   • Ongoing supervision of work areas by safety supervisors.
   • Performing periodic inspections of equipment and tools.

Solutions

Implementing prac