Managing Subcontractors
Introduction
One of the greatest challenges the general or prime contractor has is managing the work that is being conducted by one or more subcontractors on a project. Change is continual on the worksite and subcontractors routinely create hazardous conditions, and unless all employees of other contractors are continually aware, they may get seriously injured or killed by a hazard that didn't exist just moments ago. Consequently, one of the greatest hazards in any construction project is the lack of subcontractor awareness of what's going on around them.
The Project Safety Plan
Both the Project Manager and Project Safety Representative/Manager have the responsibility to take reasonable care to recognize and control all worksite hazards and to make sure subcontractors comply with all safety and health requirements. To do that, a specific project safety plan needs to be written.
Click on the link below to review what a well-designed project safety plan will include:
- Project Overview: A description of the construction project, including its scope, timeline, and key stakeholders involved.
- Safety Policy Statement: A clear statement that emphasizes the commitment to safety, outlining the expectations and responsibilities of all individuals involved in the project.
- Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: A systematic assessment of potential hazards and risks associated with the project, considering factors such as site conditions, activities, equipment, and materials used. This helps identify specific safety measures to mitigate or control those risks.
- Safety Procedures and Protocols: Detailed procedures and protocols for various activities, including excavation, working at heights, electrical work, machinery operation, material handling, and others. These procedures outline step-by-step instructions to be followed to ensure safe execution of tasks.
- Training and Competency: A plan for providing appropriate safety training to all personnel involved in the project, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their tasks safely. It may include training on hazard awareness, equipment operation, emergency response, and any specialized safety requirements.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Specifications for the required PPE for different job tasks and areas within the construction site. It outlines the types of PPE to be worn, such as hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, high-visibility clothing, hearing protection, and respiratory protection.
- Emergency Response and Incident Reporting: Procedures for responding to emergencies, including evacuation plans, fire safety measures, medical response protocols, and communication channels. It also establishes a system for reporting and investigating incidents, near misses, and hazards to ensure lessons are learned and corrective actions are taken.
- Site-Specific Safety Considerations: Identification of site-specific safety considerations, such as nearby traffic, environmental risks, utilities, or public access, and the corresponding control measures to mitigate those risks.
- Safety Inspections and Audits: A plan for conducting regular safety inspections and audits to identify and address any safety deficiencies, non-compliance, or potential hazards. This ensures ongoing monitoring and improvement of safety performance throughout the project.
- Communication and Collaboration: A communication strategy to ensure effective dissemination of safety information, including safety meetings, toolbox talks, safety signage, and coordination with subcontractors, suppliers, and other project stakeholders.
By developing and implementing a comprehensive construction contractor project safety plan, contractors can proactively address safety concerns, promote a culture of safety, and minimize the potential for accidents or injuries on the construction site.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
9-1. What is one of the greatest hazards on any construction project?
You forgot to answer the question!