Orlando, Fla.—It’s the holiday season, and everybody is happy, but your project timeline does not provide for a few days of break in order to meet your deadline. It seems that this year you are gonna have to find ways to spread the joy of the season throughout the construction site. Builders and contractors are always on the run with clients wanting projects complete before holiday shutdown. A project rush however can lead to oversights in work, health and safety. Builders and contractors cannot afford to compromise on work quality just to meet a deadline.
However, you will find many sites that are closed from December until the beginning of January, as the longest period of closure. If this is your case, there are a few things you must keep in mind to prevent unwanted visitors that could cause damage and ruin your schedule. Remember, an adequate preparation should mean you can return to the project after the holidays without finding a crisis upon your return. Before shutting down, have an outside supervisor evaluate the site to get a fresh perspective on potential hazards and any last items that should be addressed.
First things first. Safety!
Display prominently emergency contact numbers around the site as well as on fencing, in case anything urgent occurs over the closure period. Project supervisors should have a predetermined process in place for site shutdown and maintenance, providing ample time to safely secure the site and address any local regulations.
Make a checklist √ (and check it twice)
- Check gates are locked and fencing is secure
- Block access to scaffolding, ladders and elevated floors
- Store away dangerous chemicals and goods
- Clear area of any trip hazards
- Check security lighting and cameras are working
- Store plant and equipment tools
- Turn electrical power off
- Make sure the site is free of flammable objects
- Drain drums and cover areas that could fill with water
- Revise your insurance policy and make sure it is all in good standing
Preventing Property Crimes
Make sure you remove any highly valuable items from the site or at least remove from view. Lock vehicles, doors, and windows and lock up tools and equipment within a secure storage area. Ensure that you have exterior lighting that comes on at nightfall to deter thieves. Also, consider lighting surrounding the project for the public driving at nighttime or pedestrians. It’s important they are able to clearly see necessary signs, traffic signals and walking surface conditions.
Work zones in high-traffic areas can be dangerous to both construction workers and the general public if not properly secured. Distracted driving incidents increase as the holidays approach, so it’s important to keep a safe distance from traffic during site shutdown procedures.
Road construction teams should create a plan of action and take the necessary steps to safely secure and maintain their sites. Being prepared for the unexpected will reduce safety risks for the millions of people traveling through work zones during the holidays, especially here in Orlando, and Central Florida in general.
If you have questions about insurance coverage or need a free quote, please contact us at Garzor Insurance (321) 206-8035.
Yaralyn Diaz, CSR
Commercial Lines CSR
