- Understand the environmental regulations and invest in appropriate training for workers to reduce the impact of construction sites on local ecosystems.
- Equip staff with protective gear, such as hard hats and goggles, while handling hazardous materials safely and properly disposing of them when necessary.
- Invest in CITB tests to educate workers on the principles of sustainable construction practices.
- Know applicable safety standards and guidelines, such as OSHA regulations, to protect workers from on-site hazards.
Concerns about the environment and its preservation have become more pressing today. It is no longer enough to comply with business regulations. As construction professionals, the industry significantly impacts the environment, whether using materials, energy consumption, or site management.
This makes it essential for construction businesses to adapt and incorporate environmental safety measures to ensure the sustainability of the planet. This guide offers actionable steps business owners, and construction operators can take to create an environmentally-friendly construction company while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements.
Understand the Environmental Regulations in Your Area
The first step in making your construction business compliant with environmental safety standards is understanding the environmental regulations of your area. You must adhere to different states' and countries' environmental laws and regulations. Familiarize yourself with the relevant policies, and ensure all team members and stakeholders know these regulations. Invest in the following training and education for your workers:
Waste Management Procedures and Protocols
Construction sites and projects generate a lot of waste which can, therefore, create environmental pollution. Waste management is paramount on-site and off-site to reduce your construction project's impact on local ecosystems. Invest in an effective waste management system for your company and educate workers about disposal techniques for various waste materials.
Provide Proper Equipment and Protective Gear
Equipping your employees with protective gear is another essential step for being environmentally compliant. Safety measures such as hard hats, goggles, and other PPE help protect workers from on-site hazards while reducing the potential for contamination and/or pollution. Additionally, providing the correct equipment ensures that hazardous materials are handled safely and properly disposed of when necessary.
Invest in CITB Tests and Training
CITB tests are essential to any construction business, as they ensure that workers understand the environmental regulations and how to properly use resources while adhering to them. There are CITB tests available for different levels of expertise and understanding, which can be used to educate your entire staff on the principles of sustainable construction practices. Schedule a CITB test for all workers and supervisors to ensure a safe and sustainable construction project.
Know the Necessary Safety Standards
Since construction sites are hazardous, safety should be a top priority. Ensure that all workers are familiar with the applicable safety regulations and standards and have access to proper safety gear such as gloves, masks, and other protective equipment. It is also important to know industry-specific guidelines, such as OSHA standards or local government policies related to construction sites.
Implement an Environmental Management System (EMS)
An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a strategic method that allows your construction company to identify, monitor, and manage environmental aspects and their potential impacts. An EMS can help streamline compliance with the following:
- Pollution prevention
- Natural resource conservation
- Waste reduction
- Energy efficiency
Creating an environmental management system is also beneficial in helping you gain visibility into your projects and identify areas of improvement. An EMS can help you better understand how much energy, water, and materials are used to complete a project and make necessary adjustments. The widely accepted framework for an EMS is ISO 14001, which provides guidelines for implementing, maintaining, and improving an environmental management system.
Sustainable Construction Materials and Practices
One of the biggest areas of impact in the construction industry is the use of materials. Adapting your procurement and sourcing processes to accommodate more sustainable materials and practices can significantly decrease your environmental footprint. Some ways to achieve this include:
Utilize Locally Sourced and Manufactured Materials
This reduces the carbon footprint of transporting materials from remote areas and generates local economic activity. It also reduces the potential of contamination due to material transportation and gives your business access to better-quality materials.
Choose Materials with High Recycled Content
Materials made with recycled content help reduce your project's environmental impact by using fewer resources and energy. Look for materials that are certified sustainable or meet certain environmental guidelines, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Eco-Label certifications.
Reuse Materials and Recycling Wastes
Materials such as steel, plastic pipes, and rubble can be reused in construction projects. Additionally, waste materials that cannot be reused should be recycled instead of disposed of. This reduces the volume of materials sent to landfills and conserves energy and resources.
The environment is a shared responsibility, and as construction professionals, you have to be mindful of the impact of our projects on the environment. By following these ABCs of environmental compliance, you can help protect the planet while running a successful and profitable construction business.
