Health and Safety in Construction

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
D/505/1363
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
30 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of Evidence

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

1 — Know about accidents in construction.

Common causes of accidents

  • missing guardrails and handrails
  • debris causing slips, trips and falls
  • struck by a moving construction vehicle
  • struck by a falling object
  • poor manual handling techniques

Consequences of accidents

  • prosecution from the Health and Safety Executive
  • fines
  • prison sentences for managers
  • loss of work due to reputation
  • increased insurance costs
  • claims from employees

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1
    Outline common causes of accidents in construction.
  • 1.2
    State the possible consequences of accidents in construction for individuals and organisations.
2 — Know about minimising hazards and risks in construction.

Signage

  • Shapes of signs, mandatory, prohibitive, informative, danger - meanings
  • Colours, red, blue, yellow, and green – meanings
  • common signs, PPE, fire, informative, no smoking

Reducing risk

  • wearing PPE
  • tool box talks
  • training
  • supervision
  • risk assessments
  • method statements

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1
    Identify key safety signs used in construction and state their meaning.
  • 2.2
    Outline effective practices for reducing hazards and minimising risks in construction.
3 — Know about safety equipment in construction.

Safety equipment

  • use of fire extinguishers
  • fire extinguishers for different applications
  • first aid kits

Routine equipment

  • use of dust masks
  • wearing gloves
  • using safety boots
  • use of 110volt electrical supply

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1
    Outline correct usage of key safety equipment in construction, including that for
    a) use in emergencies
    b) routine use.
4 — Know about health and safety legislation.

Construction safety legislation

  • Health and Safety at Work Act
  • Construction Design and Management Regulations (CDM)
  • Control of Substances Hazardous to health (COSHH)

Safety responsibilities

  • responsibilities of employees with regard to safety – to colleagues and yourself
  • Safety managers/officers/supervisors – audits and inspections
  • responsibilities of employers
  • production of a health and safety policy

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1
    Identify current health and safety legislation, relevant to the construction industry.
  • 4.2
    Outline key health and safety responsibilities of organisations and individuals set out in legislation.