Construction Worker - General

Construction is an industry that requires working at ever-changing locations and work environments. This profile refers to general construction workers. Others at a construction site include electricians, carpenters and plumbers.

Some of the main duties of a general construction worker are to:

• Install various commercial, industrial or residential systems.
• Ensure that projects conform to building codes and regulations.
• Use, clean and maintain various types of equipment.
• Supervise or apprentice other workers.

• Pain or injury from physical overexertion, repetitive manual tasks, or working in awkward positions.
• Exposure to moulds, fungi and bird or rodent droppings.
• Exposure to lead, wood dust, asbestos, paints, solvents, and other toxic chemicals or materials.
• Working in extreme temperatures and UV radiation.
• Working with hand tools, powered tools and heavy powered equipment.
• Excess vibration in the hands, arms or body from powered tools or equipment.
• Confined spaces.
• Noise.
• Working at heights.
• Electrical hazards.
• Hazardous energy control including lockout/tag out.
• Working with cranes, hoists, and other material handling equipment.
• Slips, trips and falls.
• Respiratory hazards from wood dust.
• Explosion and fire hazards from combustible dusts.
• Stress.
• Shift work or extended work days.
• Working alone.
• Struck by mobile equipment.
• Maintaining good housekeeping.

• Scan the workplace for existing and potential hazards before work begins and take appropriate controls. Be aware that conditions can change constantly.
• Inspect all equipment and machinery for any defects before work begins.
• Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
• Use correct personal protective equipment and apparel, including safety footwear.
• Keep all work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Avoid awkward body positions or take frequent breaks.
• Learn safe lifting techniques.
• Have training before beginning any task, especially high risk activities such as working at heights, hazardous energy control (lockout/tag out), or confined space entry.
• Follow a recommended shiftwork pattern, and be aware of the associated hazards.
• Be aware of seasonal hazards from working in extreme temperatures.
• Know how to get help in an emergency for working alone situations.
• Be aware of the emergency response plans before work begins.

• Follow safety procedures for:
  • Confined space entry
  • Working at heights
  • Electrical safety
  • Lockout/tagout of machinery
  • Machinery
  • Ladders
  • Material handling
  • Working with tools and equipment
  • Working alone
  • Extreme work temperatures
  • Fire safety
• Practice safe lifting techniques.
• Follow company safety rules.
• Stay informed about chemical hazards and WHMIS 2015.
• Know how to report a hazard.
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.

General information is available in OSH Answers or through the CCOHS person-to-person Inquiries Service.