IS 108 SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SBTET AP IS

November 03, 2025

Safety in Construction Industry

8.1 MEASURING AND SCOPE OF SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION

Basic Philosophy of Construction Safety

Construction work is temporary, dynamic, and multi-activity, involving numerous trades, equipment, and workers. Safety aims to eliminate or control hazards, protect people, and ensure smooth project progress.
Key Objectives:

  • Prevent injury, property loss, and environmental damage

  • Promote safe behaviour and safety culture

  • Comply with legal and client requirements

Peculiarities of Construction Industry

  • Worksites change daily (moving hazards)

  • Multiple contractors working simultaneously

  • Use of heavy plant and machinery

  • Outdoor exposure to weather, height, confined spaces, and chemicals

Parameters Governing Construction Safety

  1. Site Planning and Layout

    • Proper fencing, sign boards, traffic control, drainage, lighting

    • Segregation of pedestrian and vehicle routes

    • Proper location for stores, offices, toilets, and first-aid centre

  2. Safe Access and Egress

    • Stable approaches, guard rails on edges, proper ladders and stairways

    • Clear exit routes for emergency evacuation

  3. Good Housekeeping

    • Keep walkways clear of debris

    • Proper waste bins, no protruding nails, tools stored safely

    • Reduces tripping and fire hazards

  4. Safety in Use of Construction Machinery

    • Machines operated by trained personnel only

    • Daily inspection of brakes, hydraulic systems, wire ropes, guards

    • No overloading or standing under suspended loads

  5. Signs and Indications

    • Mandatory, cautionary, and information signs as per IS 9457 standards

    • Glow or reflective signs for night visibility

  6. Liaison with Local Authorities

    • Obtain necessary permits (excavation, lifting, blasting, road blocking)

    • Coordinate for fire services, utilities, and emergency response

  7. Structural Soundness

    • Temporary structures, formwork, and scaffolds checked by competent engineer before use

  8. Accidents and Hazards

    • Causes: Unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, poor supervision, lack of PPE, and fatigue

    • Effects: Injury, project delay, financial loss, and poor morale

8.2 SAFETIES IN CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONS

Underground Works

  1. Excavation Safety

    • Identify underground utilities before digging

    • Provide proper slope or shoring to prevent cave-in

    • Keep excavated earth at least 1 m away from edge

    • Provide barricades, access ladders, and watchmen at night

  2. Drilling and Blasting

    • Controlled blasting by licensed blaster

    • Use approved detonators and maintain blasting shelter

    • Clear danger zone before firing and display warning signals

  3. Trenching and Shoring

    • Timber or steel supports as per soil condition

    • Never allow workers below unsupported trenches

  4. Tunnelling

    • Adequate ventilation, lighting, and gas monitoring

    • Regular inspection of roof supports

  5. Piling Works

    • Check stability of rig, proper wire rope condition, safe exclusion zone

Above Ground Works

  1. Scaffolding Safety

    • Designed and inspected by competent person

    • Base plates, guard rails, mid-rails, and toe-boards mandatory

    • Safe access ladder; never overload

  2. Centering and Formwork

    • Use sound material and ensure proper bracing

    • Remove only after concrete attains required strength

  3. Ladders

    • Set on firm level ground; extend 1 m above landing; maintain 4:1 angle

  4. Concreting and Reinforcement Work

    • Ensure safe working platform, PPE (gloves, gumboots)

    • Caution while handling vibrators and mixers

  5. Openings and Staircases

    • Cover or guard all floor openings

    • Provide handrails and anti-slip treads on stairs

  6. Special Operations (Irrigation & Water Works)

    • Safety from drowning, electrical shock, and confined spaces

    • Use of life jackets and gas testing before entry

Movement of Materials and Personnel

  • Heavy Items: Use cranes, slings, and tag lines; check lifting gears periodically.

  • Rail Wagons and Trucks: Proper wheel chocking, trained drivers, traffic control.

  • Hazardous Materials: Store separately with identification labels, follow MSDS, use spill kits.

Special Works

  1. High-Rise Buildings:

    • Safety nets, full body harness, working platform with guard rails.

  2. Bridges and Roads:

    • Barricades, signage, reflective jackets, night lighting.

  3. Asphalting:

    • Avoid direct contact with hot bitumen; use heat-resistant gloves.

  4. Pneumatic Caissons:

    • Control decompression to prevent “bends”.

  5. Electrical Installations and Lifts:

    • Proper earthing, isolation before maintenance, competent supervision.

Fire Prevention and Protection at Work Site

  • No smoking near combustible stores.

  • Provide fire extinguishers for each area (CO₂, foam, DCP type).

  • Maintain emergency exit routes and assembly points.

  • Conduct mock fire drills and maintain liaison with fire services.

8.3 SAFETIES IN DEMOLITION OPERATIONS

Planning and Permit

  • Prepare detailed demolition plan, obtain local authority approval.

  • Identify hazardous materials (asbestos, chemicals, gas lines).

  • Ensure stability of adjoining structures.

Precautions Prior to Demolition

  • Disconnect electricity, gas, and water lines.

  • Provide fencing and signage to restrict public entry.

  • Arrange temporary supports for weak structures.

Protection of the Public

  • Cover walkways with protective scaffolds or screens.

  • Demolition area fenced and guarded; dust control by water spraying.

Precautions During Demolition

  • Competent supervision mandatory.

  • No overloading of floors with debris.

  • Safe disposal of materials—avoid dropping from height.

  • Use mechanical equipment where possible to reduce manual risk.

Sequence of Demolition (From Safety Angle)

  1. Remove loose objects and glazing first.

  2. Disconnect utilities and plant.

  3. Start from top to bottom and outer to inner portions.

  4. Remove one structural member at a time.

  5. Maintain stability of remaining sections.

Safety During Repairs, Additions and Alterations

  • Obtain hot-work and height-work permits.

  • Secure working area below with warning barricades.

  • Verify load-bearing capacity before adding new sections.

✅ Summary

  • Construction safety depends on planning, supervision, and discipline.

  • Each activity—excavation to demolition—requires hazard identification and control.

  • Good housekeeping, PPE use, and permit systems are essential for accident-free sites.

  • Fire prevention, public protection, and competent supervision complete a safe construction environment.

8.4 SAFETIES WITH REGARD TO STORAGE, STOCKING AND HANDLING OF MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION

Common Hazards

Improper handling and storage of construction materials can cause:

  • Physical Hazards: Falling objects, slips, trips, and collapse of stacks

  • Health Hazards: Dust inhalation, skin irritation, chemical burns, toxic fume exposure

  • Fire and Explosion Hazards: Improper storage of paints, solvents, LPG, and fuels

General Safety Measures

  1. Proper Storage Area

    • Level ground, adequate drainage, proper signage

    • Segregate flammable, corrosive, and reactive materials

    • Firefighting equipment and ventilation must be available

  2. Safe Stacking

    • Stacks not higher than safe limit (as per IS 4082)

    • Use pallets, tie ropes, and maintain clear access ways

    • Heavy materials stored at bottom, light materials at top

  3. Handling Practices

    • Use mechanical aids (cranes, trolleys) instead of manual lifting

    • Maintain correct posture while lifting loads (bend knees, not back)

    • Provide gloves, helmets, and safety shoes

Safety Measures for Specific Materials

Material Hazards Safety Measures
Cement Dust causes skin irritation, respiratory issues Use masks, gloves; store in dry shed; handle with closed bags
Lime Corrosive, causes burns Avoid contact with skin; store in airtight containers
Aggregates Sharp edges, dust Wear gloves and dust mask; proper stacking
Fly Ash Fine dust, lung irritation Closed storage silos; masks; avoid spillage
Timber Splinters, fire hazard Stack neatly, away from fire sources; inspect for nails
Steel Cuts, falling hazard, rust Stack on wooden blocks; tie bundles; use gloves
Glass Breakage, cuts Store vertically on racks; use padded separators
Paints & Varnishes Flammable, toxic fumes Store in ventilated area; no smoking; use respirators
Petroleum Products Fire, explosion Store in approved metal containers; keep away from flames
Chemicals Corrosive, toxic Label properly; wear chemical-resistant PPE
Plastic & PVC Fire hazard, fumes Avoid direct sunlight; store flat; proper ventilation

8.5 ACCIDENT PREVENTION

Occupational Hazards in Construction

  1. Physical Hazards: Noise, vibration, heat, height, poor illumination

  2. Chemical Hazards: Cement, paints, welding fumes, solvents

  3. Mechanical Hazards: Moving machinery, tools, lifting gears

  4. Biological Hazards: Mosquitoes, stagnant water, infections

Occupational Diseases in Construction

Disease Cause Prevention
Silicosis Inhalation of silica dust Use respirators, water sprinkling
Dermatitis Cement, chemicals Gloves, barrier creams
Noise-induced hearing loss Continuous noise exposure Ear plugs or muffs
Heat stress Hot environments Hydration, rest breaks
Asbestosis Asbestos handling Avoid dry cutting, use PPE

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Specific to Construction

PPE Type Purpose
Safety Helmet Protects against falling objects
Safety Shoes Prevents foot injury from nails, heavy items
Gloves Prevents cuts, burns, chemical contact
Safety Harness Fall protection during height work
Reflective Jackets Visibility during night or traffic work
Goggles/Face Shield Protects from dust, chemical splashes
Ear Plugs Prevents hearing loss in noisy areas
Respirator Mask Protects against cement and chemical dust

Health and Welfare Measures

  • Safe drinking water and clean sanitation facilities

  • Rest shelters, canteens, and first-aid rooms

  • Periodic medical check-ups and health records

  • Education on hygiene and nutrition

Emergency Medical Measures at Construction Sites

  • First Aid Boxes as per Factories Rules Schedule III

  • Trained first aiders present at all times

  • Arrangements with nearby hospitals

  • Quick access for ambulance and rescue vehicles

Treatment of Injuries and Rehabilitation

  • Immediate first aid for bleeding, burns, fractures, and shock

  • Record and report all injuries for compensation and analysis

  • Physiotherapy and gradual return to work for injured workers

  • Counseling and support for psychological recovery

8.6 STATUTORY OBLIGATIONS

Construction Safety Laws and Obligations

  1. The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996

    • Ensures safety, health, and welfare of construction workers

    • Employer responsible for providing safe work environment, PPE, and training

  2. BOCW Welfare Cess Act, 1996

    • Cess collected for welfare activities of construction workers

  3. Factories Act, 1948 (for construction inside factory premises)

    • Ensures safe working conditions, accident reporting, medical facilities

  4. Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923

    • Provides compensation for injury or death during work

IS Codes and NB Codes Related to Construction Safety

Some important IS codes:

  • IS 3764 – Safety code for excavation work

  • IS 3696 (Part 1 & 2) – Scaffolds and ladders safety

  • IS 4082 – Stacking and storage of materials

  • IS 7205 – Safety code for erection of structural steelwork

  • IS 7969 – Safety code for handling and storage of building materials

  • IS 1179 – Safety code for housekeeping at construction site

  • National Building Code (NBC) – Fire safety, exit routes, ventilation, lighting standards

Local Building and Development By-laws

  • Municipality or development authority rules for:

    • Site fencing, traffic management, and waste disposal

    • Height restrictions, safe scaffold erection, and fire exits

    • Environmental and pollution control

Accident Investigation and Reporting

  • Purpose: Identify root cause, prevent recurrence

  • Steps:

    1. Immediate rescue and medical help

    2. Preserve evidence

    3. Interview witnesses

    4. Analyze unsafe acts and conditions

    5. Recommend corrective actions

  • Reporting: Mandatory to report to local labor authorities and ESI (as applicable)

Monitoring Safety Performance

  • Leading Indicators: Safety training hours, safety audits, near-miss reports

  • Lagging Indicators: Accident frequency rate, severity rate, lost time injury rate

  • Regular safety meetings, toolbox talks, and inspections help in continual improvement.

✅ Summary of Unit 8.4 to 8.6

  • Safe material handling prevents physical and health hazards.

  • PPE, welfare, and emergency care are essential for worker protection.

  • Legal compliance with IS codes, BOCW Act, and NBC ensures structured safety management.

  • Accident investigation and performance monitoring are crucial for continual improvement.

8.7 SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR WORKS OF ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION

Engineering construction works such as distilling/fractionating columns, towers, chimneys, silos, gas installations, transmission and communication lines, cable car installations, and airfields involve complex, high-risk activities.
Hence, strict safety measures and planning are essential to prevent accidents, equipment damage, and environmental hazards.

8.7.1 GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

  1. Planning and Risk Assessment

    • Conduct Job Safety Analysis (JSA) before starting work.

    • Prepare Method Statement and Permit-to-Work (PTW) for critical activities.

    • Identify hazards like height, confined space, gas leaks, or fire.

    • Ensure safety equipment, PPE, and emergency plans are ready.

  2. Site Preparation

    • Level and compact the ground.

    • Install proper barricading, warning signage, and restricted zones.

    • Verify load-bearing capacity for cranes and heavy machinery.

  3. Personnel Safety

    • Workers must be trained, medically fit, and certified for height and confined space work.

    • Use appropriate PPE: helmet, safety harness, gloves, safety shoes, and full-body harness with lifeline.

  4. Supervision and Communication

    • Continuous supervision by competent engineers/safety officers.

    • Use of two-way radios or signaling methods for coordination.

    • Clear communication during lifting, lowering, or welding operations.

8.7.2 DISTILLING / FRACTIONATING COLUMNS AND TOWERS

Hazards

  • Working at extreme heights

  • Falling of tools/materials

  • Wind loads causing instability

  • Electrical hazards from welding or lighting

  • Fire/explosion risk in chemical areas

Precautions

  • Use approved scaffolds and platforms with guard rails and toe boards.

  • Secure lifelines, safety nets, and harnesses for all height workers.

  • Ensure safe lifting and rigging practices during column erection.

  • Use tag lines for guiding suspended loads.

  • Conduct wind speed monitoring—stop work above safe limit (normally > 35 km/h).

  • Verify gas-free condition if working near process lines or chemical units.

  • Emergency rescue plan must be available for tower or column workers.

8.7.3 CHIMNEYS

Hazards

  • Collapse due to weak foundation or poor masonry.

  • Fall of materials or men.

  • Exposure to toxic gases during cleaning or repair.

  • Lightning strikes.

Precautions

  • Check structural stability before starting construction.

  • Provide permanent ladders and working platforms with railings.

  • Avoid working during high winds, rain, or thunderstorms.

  • Use hoists or winches for lifting materials instead of manual handling.

  • Install lightning protection system.

  • Maintain safe distance from overhead power lines.

8.7.4 SILOS AND GAS INSTALLATIONS

Hazards

  • Asphyxiation and toxic gas exposure inside silos.

  • Dust explosion (especially in grain silos).

  • Fire and explosion at gas installations.

  • Fall hazard from top openings.

Precautions

  • Obtain Confined Space Entry Permit before entering silos.

  • Ensure forced ventilation and continuous gas monitoring.

  • Workers must use full-body harness and lifeline.

  • Keep fire extinguishers and gas detectors nearby.

  • All electrical fittings must be flameproof and intrinsically safe.

  • Provide pressure relief valves and emergency shutdown systems.

  • Use non-sparking tools in gas installation areas.

8.7.5 TRANSMISSION / COMMUNICATION LINES

Hazards

  • Electric shock or electrocution.

  • Falling from towers or poles.

  • Contact with live wires.

  • Falling objects during stringing or dismantling.

Precautions

  • Ensure power line shutdown and obtain work permit from electricity board.

  • Use insulated tools and PPE (rubber gloves, boots, helmets).

  • Provide earth bonding before starting line work.

  • Maintain safe clearance from live circuits.

  • Use approved climbing devices and harnesses.

  • Ensure proper supervision and ground watchman for coordination.

  • Avoid work during lightning, rain, or strong wind.

8.7.6 CABLE CAR INSTALLATIONS

Hazards

  • Height and fall hazard.

  • Rope breakage or pulley failure.

  • Mechanical and electrical hazards.

  • Overloading and vibration.

Precautions

  • Conduct non-destructive testing (NDT) of wire ropes and pulleys.

  • Follow manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

  • Inspect anchors, towers, and braking systems before operation.

  • Provide limit switches and emergency stop systems.

  • Operators must be trained and authorized.

  • Ensure wind speed monitoring and shutdown procedure.

  • Regular lubrication and maintenance schedule.

8.7.7 AIRFIELDS

Hazards

  • Aircraft movement (collision, jet blast).

  • High noise levels.

  • Flammable fuel and chemical hazards.

  • Working near high-speed equipment and moving vehicles.

Precautions

  • Strict coordination with Air Traffic Control (ATC) for work scheduling.

  • Workers must wear high-visibility clothing and hearing protection.

  • Maintain safe distance from aircraft engines and taxi paths.

  • Store fuels, lubricants, and paints in designated, ventilated areas.

  • Ensure fire safety arrangements—hydrants, extinguishers, and alarms.

  • Proper marking and lighting of all work zones at night.

8.7.8 EMERGENCY AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT

  • Develop Emergency Response Plan (ERP) for each engineering construction activity.

  • Conduct toolbox talks and mock drills regularly.

  • Keep rescue kits, stretchers, and first aid facilities ready.

  • Maintain communication with local fire, ambulance, and safety authorities.

✅ Summary of Unit 8.7

  • Each engineering construction project has unique hazards (height, gas, confined space, electricity, fire).

  • Follow permit-to-work, isolation, PPE, and supervision principles.

  • Ensure structural stability, fire protection, and emergency preparedness.

  • Regular inspection, maintenance, and worker training are key for safe operation.

Basil

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