The construction industry, especially the construction of prefabricated steel buildings, has many potential risks of labor accidents. Ensuring the safety of workers is not only the responsibility of businesses but also a key factor affecting work efficiency and business reputation. The article provides comprehensive solutions for labor safety, from regulations and standards to practical application, helping businesses create a safe and effective working environment:
1. The importance of labor safety in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings
Labor safety in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings is a key factor in ensuring the safety of workers and the efficiency of the work. Strict compliance with safety regulations not only helps prevent occupational accidents but also contributes to improving the quality of the construction. Every worker must be fully equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills, and must use personal protective equipment properly. Strict labor safety management will create a safe working environment, and boost morale and responsibility, thereby accelerating progress and ensuring the success of the project.
The importance of labor safety in pre-engineered steel building construction
2. Common labor safety risks when constructing pre-engineered steel buildings
2.1. Falling accident
This is the most common risk in the construction of pre-engineered buildings, especially during the installation of frames and roofs. Falling hazards can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities.
Some causes of falling accidents include:
- The cramped and slippery working environment
- Workers who are caught off guard
- Weather conditions that limit visibility and operations.
2.2. Impact by falling material
The transportation and movement of heavy materials such as steel beams and corrugated iron sheets can lead to collisions, endangering workers.
2.3. Accidents caused by machinery
The use of dangerous machinery such as cranes, cutting machines, and welding machines, if not operated properly, can lead to occupational accidents.
2.4. Risk of fire
The construction of pre-engineered steel buildings often uses many flammable materials such as EPS foam and galvanized steel. Welding and using metal cutting machines, if not done carefully, can lead to fires and explosions.
2.5. Chemical poisoning
Some construction materials such as paints and solvents may contain harmful chemicals. Without proper protection, workers can be exposed to chemical poisoning.
Common labor safety risks when constructing pre-engineered steel buildings
3. Regulations on labor safety in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings
3.1. Vietnamese laws on labor safety
- Vietnamese Labor Safety Law: Regulates general principles of labor safety, responsibilities of employers and employees, measures to protect workers, etc.
- Vietnamese Decree on Labor Safety: Details the provisions of the Labor Safety Law, applicable to specific industries and fields, including the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings.
- Vietnamese circular on Labor Safety: Provides Specific instructions on how to implement the provisions of the Law and Decree on Labor Safety.
- Vietnamese technical regulations on labor safety: Specify technical requirements on labor safety in various fields, including the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings.
3.2. Vietnamese standards on labor safety in construction
- QCVN 18:2014/BXD: Issued by the Ministry of Construction, accompanied by Circular No. 14/2014/TT-BXD and approved by the Vietnamese Prime Minister on September 5, 2014.
- Content: Detailed regulations on safety requirements in construction for housing, industrial, and technical infrastructure (construction works).
- Application:
- Organizations and individuals executing construction projects.
- Activities involving the construction and erection of steel structures.
Vietnamese standards on labor safety in construction
3.3. Requirements for labor safety and technical safety
- Compliance with current regulations: Follow the regulations on labor safety and technical safety issued by the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids, and Social Affairs.
- Specific content:
- Ensure safety conditions for workers during the steel fabrication and erection process.
- Use quality, safe machinery, equipment, and tools.
- Apply appropriate measures to prevent occupational accidents.
- Organize training on labor safety for workers.
- Closely supervise steel construction and erection activities.
3.4. Vietnamese Industry Standards
- TCVN 16:2021 – Vietnamese technical regulations on safety in construction: Regulates technical requirements for safety in all stages of construction activities, including the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings.
- TCVN 5007:2009 – Safety for machinery and equipment: Electronic welding machines: Regulates technical requirements for safety for electronic welding machines, one of the main equipment used in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings.
- TCVN 5035:2009 – Safety for machinery and equipment: Tower cranes: Regulates technical safety requirements for tower cranes, another important piece of equipment used in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings.
Vietnamese Regulations on labor safety in pre-engineered steel building construction
4. Solutions to ensure labor safety in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings
4.1. Raise awareness of labor safety
Organize labor safety training for all officials and employees before construction to raise awareness of the importance of complying with labor safety regulations. Encourage workers to report potential labor safety risks.
4.2. Fully equipped with personal protection equipment (PPE)
Provide adequate PPE for workers such as helmets, gloves, goggles, safety shoes, seat belts, etc. Instruction on how to use protective equipment properly and regularly check its quality.
4.3. Establish and implement labor safety procedures
Establish specific rules for working at height, using ladders, scaffolding, machinery, and equipment to ensure labor safety in bad weather conditions.
Widely disseminate regulations on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure all construction workers are well-prepared for safety before and during the construction process of pre-engineered steel buildings.
4.4. Ensure a safe working environment
Keep the construction area airy and clean, and provide adequate lighting for the construction site.
Install railing systems and safety nets at dangerous locations, and maintain a clean and level construction site.
4.5. Closely monitor construction activities
Regularly monitor compliance with labor safety regulations. Detects and promptly handles violations of labor safety.
Encourage the organization of fire prevention and rescue drills periodically.
Closely monitor pre-engineered steel building construction activities
4.6. Use of safe machinery and equipment
Use machinery and equipment of clear origin, ensuring quality.
Periodically check machinery and equipment before use as well as periodically maintain machinery and equipment.
4.7. Provide full tools and spare parts
Keep tools and spare parts always in the best condition and instruct all workers on how to use tools and spare parts properly in the construction of pre-engineered steel buildings.
4.8. Ensure electrical safety
Use safe electrical systems that meet standards, and periodically check the electrical system.
Besides, combine the use of safe electrical equipment and provide guidance on safe electrical use.
4.9. Ensure fire fighting and prevention
Equip with fire fighting and prevention equipment, and instruct on its use. Plan and organize training on fire fighting and prevention.
Solutions to ensure labor safety in pre-engineered steel building construction
Ensuring labor safety in the construction of prefabricated steel buildings is the responsibility of both employers and employees. Businesses must have a high awareness of ensuring labor safety for workers, contributing to building a safe and effective working environment. Workers must raise awareness and comply with labor safety regulations to protect themselves and their colleagues.
For comprehensive solutions in prefabricated steel building construction, feel free to contact Pebsteel via email at [email protected] or hotline (+84) 908 883 531 for immediate assistance!
