Hazards come with the territory in most trade professions, and plumbing is no different.
So, let’s do a round-up of the most common hazards that plumbers will encounter in the field – and how you can take some simple steps to avoid them.
Slips and trips may seem innocuous enough…until they’re not. There’s always a chance you’ll land on a hard surface, or a sharp corner.
To reduce risk of slips and trips, make sure that your worksite is sufficiently lit. Ensure that any wet or slippery surfaces are clearly signed – if they can’t be cleaned up altogether.
Falling from heights is a very real risk for plumbers – made worse because you’ll likely fall on a hard surface. To reduce the risk of dangerous falls, ensure your work platforms are set at an appropriate height and sufficiently secured for the work to be done.
There is no such thing as being too safe. So wear appropriate non-slip boots, check that your surroundings are free from debris and if necessary, wear a harness.
Don’t underestimate the risk of electrocution. You can reduce your exposure to arcing and electric shocks by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and having the right electricity knowledge and experience.
Wear a respirator or dust mask when there are particles present in the air that could affect your health. Also, equip yourself with PPE such as goggles, gloves, or a face shield if you think you’ll be exposed to hazardous materials.
Our eyes are precious, delicate things, and they can often be in the firing line. However, most injuries that affect a plumber’s eyesight are preventable.
Exposure to bacteria and foreign objects are some of the eye hazards affecting plumbers. Wear safety glasses at all times and you’ll go a long way to reducing your risk of exposure and preventable damage.
Australia is a land of extremes, and that certainly extends to our climate. In many parts of our country plumbers work in extreme conditions. Pipes may be frozen, or they may have to work in hot, confined spaces with little airflow. A raft of injuries could occur as a result of working in such conditions, for all types of plumbers.
6 common plumbing hazards and tips to minimise the risks, bizcover, www.bizcover.com.au/plumbers-hazards-guide/
Worker health focuses on protecting employees’ physical and mental well-being in the workplace.
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