In the world of construction and industrial work, clear and effective communication is the cornerstone of safety. Whether you're collaborating with coworkers, inspectors, terminal personnel, or other contractors on a jobsite, maintaining open lines of communication can mean the difference between a safe work environment and potential hazards.
In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of communication in jobsite safety, identify common pitfalls, and provide practical ways to prevent communication breakdowns.
- The Consequences of Communication Breakdowns
- Preventing Communication Breakdowns
- The Role of the Superintendent
The Consequences of Communication Breakdowns
Miscommunication and inadequate communication can lead to a host of safety issues on the jobsite. Here are a few scenarios where communication breakdowns can cause problems:
Unsafe Task Combinations
Tasks that are typically safe on their own can become hazardous when combined with other tasks. For instance, if someone is welding inside a dike area and another contractor opens a nearby gasoline tank, explosive vapors could travel to the welder's worksite.
Changes in Work Area Safety:
A work area that was previously safe may become unsafe due to changes in procedures. For example, a line may have undergone Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures during tank isolation, but the LOTO was later removed to allow the terminal to run a pump. If an employee assumes the line is still locked out, they might be exposed to a more dangerous situation than expected.
Lack of Awareness of Hazards:
Workers may not be informed of hazardous conditions that are known to others on the site. For instance, the terminal may suspect that the tank bottom has trapped product underneath, but if this concern is not communicated to the welders on-site, they may proceed with potentially dangerous tasks.
Preventing Communication Breakdowns
Effective communication is a proactive process that requires constant attention. Here are some strategies to prevent communication breakdowns on the jobsite:
At the Start of the Day:
- Morning Safety Briefing: Begin the day with a comprehensive review of all planned job tasks with the entire crew, the jobsite inspector, fellow contractors, and facility personnel.
- Share Plans: Ensure that terminal personnel and other contractors on-site are aware of your planned work activities.
- Stay Informed: Take the time to find out what the terminal and other contractors have planned for the day.
During the Day:
- Regular Updates: Regroup and communicate after each break, informing the entire crew and other affected personnel of job progress and any changes that have occurred.
- Critical Task Communication: If someone performing a critical task is not within sight of others, establish an alternative means of communication.
- Active Supervision: Designate a superintendent or employee to regularly inspect the tank or work area for potential problems.
- Check-Ins: Employees who arrive after the morning safety meeting should check in with the superintendent and review the planned activities and hazards before starting work.
The Role of the Superintendent
One of the keys to effective communication on the jobsite is having at least one person who is fully aware of all current jobsite conditions. Typically, this role falls to the site Superintendent.
Employees should promptly notify the superintendent of any changes to the work plan or jobsite conditions. It is then the superintendent's responsibility to relay this information to anyone who may be affected.
Conclusion
Clear and continuous communication is the linchpin of safety on any jobsite. By taking proactive steps to prevent communication breakdowns and fostering a culture of open communication, we can minimize risks, prevent accidents, and create a safer work environment for everyone involved.
Always be vigilant and learn from past communication breakdowns to ensure that your jobsite remains a safe and secure place to work.
ABOUT CONCORD TANK
Concord Tank Corporation specializes in tank repairs and terminal maintenance. We help simplify and expedite your projects without sacrificing safety and quality. From initial decommissioning through to the final return to service, our experienced team can take care of your tank project needs. Our services include API 653 tank repairs, in-service leg pinning, terminal maintenance projects, storage tank cleaning, floating roof seal repairs, aluminum IFR installation, and more.