Ensuring Safety and Compliance in Residential Construction

For all of the innovation in the construction industry, it just takes one accident on the job site or in a newly constructed home to set everything back to square one. With this in mind, modern building codes are in place to guarantee that safety advances are just as swift as improvements in other aspects of the building process. Keep reading as we explore some of the best practices for ensuring safety and compliance in residential construction.

Ensure Adequate Waste Removal

To the layperson, construction may seem to be all about building. However, the waste generation is just as real. According to the EPA, a whopping 600 million tons of construction and demolition waste is created each year in the United States.

Therefore, it is critical to have an adequate waste removal infrastructure in place to handle the sheer volume that is likely to arise during construction. Failure to do so can bog down the work environment, presenting fire, pest, and accident hazards. In addition to rolloff dumpsters, look into recycling and compost receptacles for the most mindful disposal possible. It is also a great idea to look into hydrovac applications to clean up any liquid or toxic spills for safe, code-compliant disposal.

Pay Attention to the Small Details

Even when building with compliance in mind, it is still entirely possible to miss the mark. A great example lies with ADA grab bar placement. Railings in bathrooms/shower stalls must be between 33 and 36 inches high to ensure satisfactory use for people with disabilities. Any grab bars outside of these parameters may look like they are doing their job but will not pass inspection. Therefore, pay attention to the fine print in each and every building code to guarantee that small details do not turn into large-scale problems.

Secure the Premises

There are multiple threats to a building site. Material and equipment theft has turned into a billion-dollar industry in the United States. Inclement weather can set projects back for months. Wildlife and loiterers wandering onto the site pose a threat to the structure and themselves.

Reduce these risks and ensure safety by securing the premises. Keep valuable tools and materials locked in weather-resistant storage containers at the end of each day. Erect temporary fence panels around the perimeter of the project, hanging clear signage so that authorized workers can identify safe access routes. Invest in tarps and building wrap to help keep finished work insulated from the elements.

Make No Assumptions

Everyone has seen the billboard: “Call before you dig.”

It is such a pervasive message because even seasoned contractors have a tendency to assume they know best. If a project doesn’t involve any structural alterations, electrical wiring, or plumbing reconfiguration, then it’s okay to do the work, right?

Wrong.

There are countless examples of “small” projects that require pre-approval. In most areas, there is no permit required to paint the exterior of your house or perform other such work that is deemed “cosmetic” in nature. However, some municipalities may limit the colors, techniques, or materials used for such projects. In general, deck code requirements are put in place to guarantee the structural integrity of outdoor living spaces. But there may be further restrictions if the deck will inhibit views for others in the community.

Therefore, no matter your experience, it is best to never make assumptions and always “call before you dig.”

Lean on Professional Guidance as Necessary

One can never be too meticulous when it comes to safety. Unfortunately, safety protocols are often the easiest to brush off. Like forgetting to put your seatbelt on for a drive around the block, even the most innocent safety breaches can have dire consequences.

As such, don’t be hesitant to lean on professional expertise to ensure that the safety infrastructure is top-notch on your project. A first-rate construction inspection company will provide trained eyes and the most-cutting edge technology to guarantee safety at every step in the construction process. From identifying design issues in the models to pinpointing wood planks operating below their strength rating, an inspection service can help guarantee safety that instills confidence about the quality of the structure.

Guarantee Safety and Satisfaction of All Stakeholders During a Residential Construction Project

Safety considerations are and will continue to be the top priority in residential construction. From staying ahead of evolving codes to leaning on professional guidance, use the best practices listed above for safety and compliance during residential projects. For more of the latest trends in contemporary construction, explore the resources at Wisconsin Builders Association for the leading insights in the industry!

Author Bio

Brian Jeffries is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials. He lives in Winter Park, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and working on projects in his spare time. Brian’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.