5 Reasons IOSH Managing Safely is Popular for Construction

The IOSH Managing Safely course is well-known for its widely applicable information that line management and supervisors can utilise in any industry, anywhere in the world. However, the IOSH Managing Safely course has been revered and adopted on a mass scale by the construction industry since its creation by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). There is also a strong drive from the industry to improve health and safety standards, as construction had the highest number of fatal accidents of any main industry and was more than double the amount of the next highest industry.

The course has a number of very specific applications and benefits to the construction industry that will ensure those on and off-site stay safe while conducting their daily work, so it stands to reason why it’s so popular.

Why Is IOSH Managing Safely Popular for Construction?

In the dynamic and hazardous world of construction, safety isn't just a priority; it's a fundamental requirement bound by strict legislation. This requires definitive commitment from all layers of management and thorough training to meet the required standards. The IOSH Managing Safely covers this in spades and has surprising added benefits:

Tailored Curriculum for Construction

The course delivers essential risk management and health and safety standards that are directly applicable to the construction industry. Not only that, but it also provides practical advice on conducting risk assessments that you would learn how to put into practice on the job. This naturally makes it more effective in preparing construction professionals for the risks they may encounter during their day-to-day work.

Common Construction Hazards

A construction site has a high number of potential hazards, and a lot of them can have disastrous consequences if they aren’t addressed or spotted. The IOSH Managing Safely provides good health and safety practices for any workplace. However, it also addresses common hazards in construction and how to prevent them:

• Falls from height: Understanding the dangers of working at heights, scaffolding, ladders, and rooftops. The course educates managers on implementing guardrails, harnesses and other preventative measures.
• Slips, trips and falls: Developing strategies for creating clear walkways as well as proper housekeeping processes and signage. These accidents are also very common in the transport industry.
• Manual handling: Assessing manual handling tasks and implementing mechanical aids or team lifting.
• Electrical hazards: Understanding the importance of electrical safety measures, such as proper installation, inspection etc.
• Workplace transportation: Implementing traffic management plans, designated traffic routes, and visibility measures to prevent collisions and protect workers on site.
• Hazardous substances (e.g., asbestos, chemicals): Putting together risk assessment procedures, proper handling and storage of hazardous substances, and the use of appropriate PPE and control measures to minimise exposure.

Construction Legislative Compliance

Construction is well known for having strict, non-negotiable regulations that are strongly enforced. Failure to comply with legal requirements not only jeopardises the well-being of workers but also invites heavy penalties and devastating legal repercussions. IOSH Managing Safely covers relevant legislation to the construction industry, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations. This makes it absolutely essential for anyone in a line management position in construction.

Credibility and Recognition

IOSH is recognised across the globe, in multiple languages, as a market-leading course. The Managing Safely course enjoys widespread credibility and completion of the course demonstrates a commitment to safety excellence and professional development. When working to secure tenders, contracts and work opportunities, the IOSH Managing Safely is a proud badge of honour that indicates an organisation's dedication to all aspects of their craft.

Risk Reduction and Cost Savings

The construction industry is inherently risky. However, by investing in the IOSH Managing Safely course, organisations empower their workforce to identify, assess and mitigate these risks effectively and self-sufficiently. This proactive approach not only minimises the likelihood of accidents and injuries but also reduces downtime and associated costs. Fewer accidents mean fewer workers' compensation claims, insurance premiums, and legal expenses.

Further cost savings can be achieved when choosing the Online learning method for the IOSH Managing Safely. Our online version of the course is more cost-effective, and we also offer varying discounts based on the number of people that are enrolled. Employers also don’t have to worry about the hidden costs of classroom training, such as travel costs, paying for food and accommodation or loss of productivity by taking employees away from their daily work.

What is the Best IOSH Managing Safely Training Method for Construction?

We recommend that construction companies consider the online training method for their employees for its number of specific benefits to the industry centred around time and money savings:

• Flexibility: Online training allows participants to learn at their own pace and according to their own work schedules. The pick-up and learn nature of online is particularly beneficial to construction workers to capitalise on potential quiet periods and prioritise other work during busy points.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Employers can access various discount rates when purchasing the IOSH Managing Safely in bulk. They also avoid any of the associated hidden costs, such as food, accommodation and travel that come with face-to-face classroom training.
• Time Savings: Online learning prevents any loss of productivity or time spent away from projects. We understand how important time is in a deadline-dependent industry like construction, which is why we have continually optimised the course to make the most of the learner’s time and ensure they come away with the best chance of achieving their certification in a time-efficient manner.

By leveraging the benefits of online training for the IOSH Managing Safely course below, employers can not only fulfil their legal obligations regarding workplace safety but also enhance operational efficiency, employee performance, and overall organisational success.