Construction Safety: The Power of Subcontractor Training

Construction safety is a topic that comes up frequently, mainly when speaking about company personnel. However, the construction industry thrives on collaboration. General contractors rely on a network of skilled subcontractors to bring their projects to life. But ensuring a smooth and successful project goes beyond simply hiring qualified subcontractors. Comprehensive training for subcontractors is an essential investment that benefits everyone involved.

Why Train Subcontractors?

Although there are numerous reasons to train subcontractors, three key areas are worth mentioning:

• Company Culture and Best Practices. Every company has its own way of doing things. Training introduces subcontractors to your specific safety protocols, quality control standards, and communication channels. This reduces confusion, fosters a sense of teamwork, and ensures everyone is aligned with project goals.
• Site-Specific Training. Construction sites are inherently risky environments. Site-specific training equips subcontractors with the knowledge they need to identify and avoid hazards unique to that project. This could include anything from understanding the layout of fall protection systems to familiarizing themselves with emergency procedures on the site.
• The Alarming Rate of Construction Accidents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction is one of the most hazardous industries in the United States. In 2021, construction accounted for 21% of all workplace fatalities and had a fatality rate of 9.4 per 100,000 workers – significantly higher than the national average across all industries. In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies four types of incidents that contribute to a large share of construction fatalities: falls, electrocutions, struck-by objects, and caught-in/between incidents. 65.5% of all construction deaths result from one of these Focus Four hazards, highlighting the need for targeted training in these areas.

Falls are a leading cause of injuries in the construction industry. The National Safety Council reports that falls from height are the leading cause of death in construction, representing roughly one-third of all construction fatalities. Although there isn’t specific study information available concerning subcontractors, data does suggest that subcontractor workers may be disproportionately impacted by construction accidents. In addition, studies have shown that smaller companies, which are more likely to be subcontractors, often have fewer resources dedicated to safety compared to larger general contractors. This highlights the importance of comprehensive construction safety training programs specifically designed for subcontractor crews.

The Benefits of Construction Safety Training for Subcontractors

We don’t provide these statistics to alarm of scare anyone. Our goal is always to highlight the importance of safety training and the benefits it brings to the workplace. When it comes to construction safety, there are some incredible benefits to providing training to subcontractors:

• Reduced Accidents: Proper training empowers workers to recognize and mitigate safety risks. This translates to fewer accidents, keeping everyone safe and healthy.
• Improved Efficiency: When everyone understands expectations and procedures, projects run smoother. Trained subcontractors know what’s expected of them and can complete tasks efficiently.
• Enhanced Quality: Clear communication and adherence to best practices lead to consistently high-quality work across the project.
• Reduced Legal Issues: Documented training programs demonstrate your commitment to safety and compliance with regulations. This can minimize legal liabilities in case of incidents.

A Trained Workforce is a Great Investment

While the importance of subcontractor training is clear, developing and implementing effective programs can be a challenge. This is where partnering with a company like Paradise Business Solutions can be invaluable.

Paradise specializes in creating customized training solutions, including subcontractor safety training for the construction industry. We can develop programs that address your company’s specific needs and comply with industry regulations. We can also handle the logistics of training delivery, ensuring all your subcontractors receive the information they need. We currently have construction companies with a custom training portal, built specifically for their subcontractors.

Investing in construction safety is the best way to build a culture of success. By ensuring a well-trained workforce, you’re fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and quality. Contact us today for a free consultation on how we can help you create custom training programs for your construction sites.