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European Agency for Safety and Health at Work

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General safety measures


General safety measures


  • Ensure there is safe access — roads, walkways, ladders and scaffolds — to and from all places of work. Materials should be stored safely; holes fenced or covered and clearly marked; proper arrangements made for collecting and disposing of waste materials; and adequate lighting provided.
  • Minimise the movement and handling of materials. Ensure equipment is set up and operated by trained and experienced workers, and that a competent person inspects it regularly.
  • Personal protective equipment should only be used after all collective and technical measures have been exhausted. It should be comfortable, well maintained, and not lead to an increase in other risks. Training is needed in its use. Protective equipment includes: safety helmets; suitable footwear with toe and sole protection and anti-slip soles; protective clothing against bad weather or; highly visible clothing so workers can be seen more easily by vehicle operators.


Tackling major hazards and risks