Why It Is Unsafe To Use Cigarettes At A Construction Site

Smoking is one habit that can get you addicted quickly. Smoking may be great, depending on one’s perspective. However, it may pose several challenges due to the danger involved. Also, it matters where you are smoking. At a construction site, smoking may bare more harm than good. There are chances of electrical faults and fires occurring with just one spark of cigarette droppings. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of the fires occurred on construction sites are due to sheer negligence, and cigarette smoking is one example. Most construction safety courses encourage people to avoid cigarettes when working and any other drugs. But are you aware of the actual reasons why it is imperative to avoid them in the first place? Here’s why: 

Due to the risk of accidental fires

This is the number one reason why you need to avoid cigarettes at your work station. It is the leading cause of accidental, or otherwise known as man-made fires. Most fire fatalities occur when one person decided to smoke inside a workstation, ignoring the obnoxious risks posed on others. The best way to address this is to completely avoid smoking while working. By doing so, you will not only keep yourself safe but also ensure the safety of your colleagues and fellow workers. In addition, you can also encourage your colleagues to employ safety and avoid smoking while working. Inform them of the negative consequences, allowing them to stay mindful of their actions. 

As a boss, you need to be clear on why you don’t approve of smoking within the company premises, and that anyone found guilty will face harsh disciplinary measures. Additionally, mount NO SMOKING tags around the workplace, as stern reminders to employees. 

Impaired judgement

A construction site requires full attention and absolute focus; any shift in the mental sphere can result in wrong calculations and decisions that impact work. For instance, when dealing with machines, you cannot afford to be high on drugs. This will interfere with the way you operate machinery and any other equipment. 

Injuries

They can either be on your body or on someone else’s body. There are numerous cigarette-related injuries on a worksite, and you can avoid them by staying clear of cigarettes during work. 

Now that you are aware of the harm that cigarettes can bring, it is crucial to implement safety measures to prevent any fatalities. One significant way is to create cigarette smoking zones for workers. You may not succeed in making everyone stop smoking completely. However, you can have them smoke under safety conditions, such as establishing cigarette smoking zones. This will be a secluded area in your premises that is set aside for smokers. It will help them avoid smoking inside the site.