Slips and over-exertion in the construction industry

As per FEM's quarterly accident statistics, slips and over-exertion are among the top three causes of workplace accidents in the construction industry, accounting for 13.77% of claims in 2024. These incidents resulted in 857 accidents, leading to 3,628 lost workdays, 49 permanent disabilities (not resulting in pension), and an average cost per accident of R 36,847. These figures underscore the significant impact of these hazards on worker safety, productivity and financial costs.

Preventing Slips and Over-Exertion in Construction: A Guide to Workplace Safety

Construction sites are dynamic environments with numerous hazards and two of the most common risks workers face are slips and over-exertion. These incidents can lead to serious injuries, lost productivity and increased costs. Understanding the causes and implementing effective prevention strategies is essential for maintaining a safe workplace.

1. Slips in Construction

What is a Slip?

A slip occurs when there is a loss of traction between a worker’s footwear and the walking surface, often resulting in a fall. Slips are particularly dangerous on construction sites due to uneven terrain, debris and exposure to the elements.

Common Causes of Slips:

• Wet or oily surfaces (e.g., spills, rain, or snow).
• Loose materials (e.g., gravel, sand, or sawdust).
• Uneven or unstable flooring.
• Poor lighting in work areas.
• Inappropriate footwear.

Prevention Measures:

• Housekeeping: Regularly clean and clear walkways of debris, spills and obstacles.
• Footwear: Ensure workers wear slip-resistant boots with proper grip.
• Signage: Use warning signs to highlight slippery or hazardous areas.
• Surface Maintenance: Repair uneven surfaces and install non-slip mats or coatings where necessary.
• Weather Preparedness: Monitor weather conditions and take precautions (e.g., salt icy walkways).

2. Over-Exertion in Construction

What is Over-Exertion?

Over-exertion occurs when workers push their bodies beyond their physical limits often due to lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling heavy objects. This can lead to muscle strains, sprains and long-term injuries.

Common Causes of Over-Exertion:

• Improper lifting techniques (e.g., lifting with the back instead of the legs).
• Repetitive motions (e.g., bending, twisting, or reaching).
• Handling heavy or awkwardly shaped materials.
• Lack of rest breaks or recovery time.
• Poor ergonomic practices.

Prevention Measures:

• Training: Educate workers on proper lifting techniques and ergonomic practices.
• Mechanical Aids: Provide equipment like dollies, forklifts or hoists to reduce manual handling.
• Team Lifting: Encourage team lifting for heavy or bulky items.
• Workplace Design: Organize workspaces to minimize unnecessary lifting or reaching.
• Rest Breaks: Ensure workers take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

Key Differences Between Slips and Over-Exertion

Case Study: Reducing Slips and Over-Exertion on Site (The case study and information provided is problematic example created to illustrate how a construction company might address slips and over-exertion incidents based on best practices in workplace safety.)

A construction company implemented the following measures to reduce slips and over-exertion incidents:

• Conducted regular safety training sessions on slip prevention and proper lifting techniques.
• Provided workers with high-quality, slip-resistant footwear.
• Installed non-slip flooring in high-traffic areas and used mechanical aids for heavy lifting.
• Encouraged a culture of reporting hazards and near-misses.

Result: The company saw a 40% reduction in slip-related incidents and a 30% decrease in over-exertion injuries within one year.

Conclusion

Slips and over-exertion are preventable hazards that require proactive measures. By addressing environmental factors, providing proper training, and promoting safe work practices, construction companies can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and create a safer workplace for all employees.

Remember: Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Stay vigilant, report hazards, and prioritize health and safety on every construction site.

Source: https://roe.fem.co.za/Stats#/Accident-Stats

Neil Enslin | Head: Occupational Health and Safety