On construction sites large and small, electrical power is critical to ensuring business continuity. Without a steady supply of power, distributed to the locations, operations and tasks that need it most, lighting, safety equipment, machinery, and materials storage can all be negatively affected.
Understanding energy efficiency and providing proper distribution is important in terms of reducing costs too. ONS research has found that the higher the energy intensity of the business, the more at risk to higher prices they are. This is a big issue as energy prices continue to be much higher than their long-term average.
To work effectively and at a lower cost, construction companies must invest in the right tools and safety procedures. In this guide, discover these solutions.
What tools are essential for power efficiency?
There are several tools which construction companies can employ to boost the efficiency of their electrical use.
- Power tools – If your business’s power tools are old and worn, they can be less efficient than a new model of tool. Consider upgrading and going for efficient models.
- Hand tools – Do workers need to be using power tools when a hand tool could easily suffice? Cutting down on needless power tool usage could be beneficial in reducing power use.
- Extension leads – High-quality extension leads can be a reliable portable solution to powering equipment. Just be careful that you are not overloading the extension lead – always refer to the documentation to ensure safe operation.
- Electricity monitor – To gain a bird’s eye view of your site’s energy usage, invest in an electricity usage monitor and install it at the source of the electricity, whether that’s the mains or on-site generators. This will give you valuable insights to manage electricity usage.
How to ensure power safety in construction operations
You may have the right inventory of tools available, but without the correct safety processes in place, your on-site electricals could put both construction work and workers’ wellbeing in jeopardy.
The most important first step is to perform a robust risk assessment of the site, focusing on power systems and the risks associated with them. For example, wiring could pose a trip hazard, diesel generators could be at risk of setting fire, and lights could get extremely hot if left on over extended periods of time. Grounding and surge protection should also be considered.
It’s then important to understand your legal obligations. The Health and Safety Executive’s portal for construction businesses can be helpful here.
Once you’re armed with all the vital information, you can then set out making the site safe. Go down the risk assessment and list of obligations, safeguarding the site. Train staff on the correct usage of tools and behaviour on site. And assign a role to a staff member to assess and keep on top of safety so exacting standards are continually met.
