When should a safety assessment be conducted on a construction site?

Conducting a safety assessment before starting any major work task and periodically thereafter is essential to ensure that potential hazards are identified and addressed proactively. This approach allows for the implementation of safety measures before any work begins and establishes a routine that helps in constantly monitoring and mitigating risks throughout the duration of the project.

Regular safety assessments keep everyone's awareness of potential hazards high and promote a culture of safety on the construction site. It ensures that any new risks introduced by changing work conditions, personnel, or equipment are recognized and managed promptly.

Waiting until after an incident occurs does not allow for the prevention of accidents, as it reacts reactively rather than proactively. Similarly, while performing assessments monthly might seem methodical, it doesn’t adapt to the dynamic nature of construction tasks where the risk profile can change daily. Conducting a safety assessment only during the initial setup overlooks ongoing changes and risks that can arise throughout the project duration, making it inadequate for maintaining a safe working environment.