Every year, BESIX France organises Safety Days based on the themes identified in its annual action plan. This year, these prevention days took place on 28 and 29 October, and were attended by more than 320 people, including employees and subcontractors. This event is an excellent opportunity to raise everyone's awareness of the safety issues associated with our operations.
This year, we chose to focus on four main themes:
1. Same level falls
Same level falls are one of the most common accidents on construction sites. By focusing on preventing these incidents, we can significantly reduce the number of injuries and improve overall safety.
- Life Saving Rules: follow the marked paths and avoid hazardous areas.
- Do’s: wear non-slip footwear, keep work areas clean and tidy, make sure appropriate lighting is on.
- Don’ts: do not run on the construction site or leave objects lying on the ground, do not take shortcuts.
2. Working at height
Working at height presents particular risks, which is why we have planned two specific workshops:
- Use of scaffolding, lightweight individual rolling platforms (LIRP) and cherry pickers: this equipment is essential for working at height in complete safety. Proper training in their use helps prevent accidents.
- Life Saving Rules: always check the stability of scaffolding before climbing, and ensure that it is assembled in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For the aerial platform, have the appropriate licenses to drive it, and ensure that a traffic warden is on hand to manage the joint activity.
- Do’s: use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and regularly check the condition of scaffolding and record it on the assembly report ('scaffolding tag' or 'scafftag').
- Don’ts: Never overload scaffolding, and avoid working alone at height.
3. Wearing a harness
The harness is a crucial safety element when working at height. Knowing how to wear it correctly and making sure it fits properly can save lives.
- Life Saving Rules: Always attach the harness to a secure anchorage point. If a temporary anchorage point is used, ensure that it complies with the requirements of the standards in force (e.g. EN 795 in Europe).
- Do’s: Check the condition of the harness before each use, and follow training courses on the correct use of the harness.
- Don’ts: never use a damaged harness, and avoid working unattached.
- Re-read Life Saving Rule #1 and #2 in detail in the presentation on the QHSE page here
4. Lifting
Lifting operations involve major risks. By providing training in safe lifting techniques, we can prevent serious accidents and protect our employees.
- Life Saving Rules: use the appropriate lifting equipment for each task, checking that lifting equipment and slings are inspected and in good condition, have the adequate training as a foreman or slinger.
- Do’s: plan lifting operations, use clear communication.
- Don’ts: never exceed the load capacity of lifting equipment, and never stand under a suspended load.
- Re-read Life Saving Rule #4 in detail in the presentation on the QHSE page here
Everyone's safety remains an absolute priority for our company. By organising these prevention days, BESIX France is reaffirming its commitment to protecting its employees and promoting a culture of safety.
What are the latest safety initiatives you've taken in relation to your project? Share them with us and send us your photos and stories! Together, we can create a safer and healthier working environment for everyone.