30 May Children And Construction

Children And Construction

Most construction sites are like oil and water for children; they don’t mix. Conversely, like iron and a magnet, children are attracted to any type of construction. Children like to explore.

Guide for Discussion

Some general observations:

• Children don’t recognize hazards as well as those who work on site. Locked equipment may still be a hazard.
• All excavations are potential forts or swimming pools. Scaffolds become gym sets.

Discouraging children:

• Don’t allow children on site during the day. Erect a site fence.
• Mark excavations with signs or guard or both. (Remember: Fall protection rules.) Group and lock up equipment at night.
• Post “No Trespassing” signs.
• Ask for regular police patrols to check out your jobsite. If necessary, post a guard.

Additional Discussion Notes:

Remember:      Most children will respect the builder’s wishes and stay out. But some will not and these are the ones that can get hurt or hurt your project from a vandalism standpoint. Experience indicates that those who have had a child injured on their sites find it can be quite a burden on one’s conscience. We don’t want that to happen on our job sites.

NOTE: Always promote a discussion on any of the topics covered in the Tool Box Talks. Should any question arise that you cannot answer, don’t hesitate to contact your Employer.