Jobsite Safety

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Homeowner FYI: Worksite Safety Tips

From the moment the project begins until the last bit of plaster has been wiped up, a home under construction is officially a work zone – with potential accidents waiting to happen.

Damon Alcock, Chief Safety Services Officer with the Nova Scotia Construction Safety Association (NSCSA), says homeowners often underestimate the risks associated with new home construction or a renovation.

“Each situation will present its own unique hazards, from tripping due to uneven surfaces when replacing flooring or falling into holes or getting electrocuted from touching live wires,” explains Alcock. “A person could also experience breathing problems due to fumes from strong adhesives or paint.”

He says homeowners need to be cautious about moving about their home during the process, and that includes making sure their children and pets are following the rules.

“Ensuring family, friends and pets stay out of work zones is very important to keeping themselves and the work

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Pets and children may damage equipment or pose tripping hazards for the crew, as well as hurt themselves by falling into holes or ingesting dangerous materials.

If possible, Alcock recommends staying out of the home during a renovation so the work can be completed without any risks to the homeowner. If that’s not an option, homeowners need to talk with their contractor about which areas of the home they should refrain from entering.

Of course, it’s also important to hire the right contractor or renovator in the first place.

“You want the work completed correctly and safely, and a trained and certified contractor has the skills

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and knowledge required to ensure

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that happens,” says Alcock. “Insured contractors may reduce any financial costs to the homeowner if something happens.”

You’ll know you’ve hired the right contractor when you feel comfortable asking plenty of questions and discussing how to ensure the project goes smoothly for everyone involved.

Alcock says contractors will want to know if anyone in the home has food allergies (so they don’t bring allergens in their lunches) or respiratory problems (which could be made worse by dust or fumes). They’ll also encourage you to be up front about needing to use power or water in the evenings so they ensure it’s safe to do so.

“Everyone has a responsibility for workplace safety, including the homeowner,” says Alcock. “Talking to your contractor prior to the start of any job, will help ensure everyone stays safe.”

The NSCSA has a wealth of information and resources for contractors and homeowners alike and also offers over 40 health and safety compliant courses. www.nscsa.org