What Precautions Should You Take with Structural Steel Projects?

Steel is approximately 1,000 times stronger than iron and can be recycled without losing strength.

It’s no wonder that it is one of the most common types of steel used today. From light posts to the Empire State Building, this material is everywhere! 

Yet, working with steel can be dangerous. 

So what precautions should you take when it comes to working with structural steel? That’s what we’re going to look at today.

What Can Go Wrong if Precautions Are Not Taken

Structural steel projects come with risks. There are various injuries and risks that you should be aware of. 

Here are some of the common ways things can go wrong when working with structural steel supply.

Injuries

Improper handling is a common cause of injury in a workshop. Injuries range from sprains to intervertebral disc injuries. Generally, these injuries result from improper lifting practices or ignoring safety protocols.

Another cause of injuries can happen due to hand tools. In many metal fabrication projects, hand tools are used in the final steps. Injuries from hand tools include cuts, burns, musculoskeletal issues, and even exposure to toxic substances. 

 Poor barrier protection is another reason for injuries. For instance, various guarding mechanisms should be in place to protect a worker’s finger from getting entrapped in the machine. Improper barriers use can result in losing a finger or limb.

Building Corrosion

There are various types of building corrosion that can occur with structural steel supply. Corrosion weakens the structure and eventually can cause collapse.

Basic corrosion happens when moisture and air meet near structural steel causing rust. Bimetal corrosion occurs when different metals come into contact with one another. 

Environmental factors like pollution and other compounds can make already-existing corrosion even worse.

Now that we’ve covered what can go wrong, let’s talk about how to mitigate these scenarios from happening. 

Precautions for Structural Steel Projects

There are many precautions workers and companies can take to reduce the risk of injuries and corrosion. 

First and foremost is proper training. All personnel should have thorough training regarding equipment, occupational hazards, and working conditions.

Workers should regularly review safety protocols and procedures.

Protective gear is another important precaution. Safety gear for working with steel includes hard hats, goggles, gloves, and safety shoes.

Regularly inspecting tools and the site for any issues is vital. If you don’t yet have a regular procedure in place to inspect tools, implement one now. Regularly checking that all tools and machinery are in working condition can prevent injuries and malfunctions. 

The final precaution is to know the machinery and its safety features. Hand tools and presses and other large machinery should have guards and other safety features to keep users safe.

Make sure that you know what these safety features are and do not bypass them.

If necessary, contact the manufacturer for training or other resources. 

Ensure That Your Structural Steel Project Is Safe

There you go! We hope you now have a good sense of the precautions to take with structural steel projects. Remember, that adhering to safety best practices keep workers safe and protects your bottom line.

Now, check out the other articles we have for more great content.