Minimizing Environmental Risks at Construction Sites

Builders already have some daunting responsibilities when they step onto jobsites. They’re responsible for keeping their projects safe, efficient and cost effective. Juggling that many obligations on top of the day-to-day aspects of the labor they do can be a lot. It’s understandable that many contractors would be hesitant to add ecological concerns to their workload. Even so, ensuring their activities have as little impact on the environment as possible is a critical part of being a responsible company.

 

Fortunately, there are several steps builders can take to make sure they minimize the effect their work may have on surrounding ecosystems. From conscientious planning to proper equipment selection to active mitigation strategies, contractors have a lot of tools at their disposal to reduce their environmental risks as much as possible.

Keeping Projects Eco-friendly

Reducing the amount of air pollution generated on-site can be as simple as keeping materials covered or spraying debris with water before disposing it. Reducing the amount of soil erosion created by construction activity can be accomplished through using heavy timber access mats to prevent equipment from displacing earth. Crews also can prevent water pollution by excavating without removing all vegetation from the site or covering drains. Excessive soil compaction can be avoided simply through erecting fences or walls to prevent vehicles from crossing sensitive areas.

 

Builders may not be eager to add another responsibility to their plates. Protecting the environment, however, is an increasingly important part of being an effective and trustworthy contractor. Companies that take their obligations seriously not only do good for future generations, but also demonstrate their value to potential clients. For more information about minimizing environmental risks on the jobsite and strategies builders can use to accomplish that goal, take a look at the accompanying resource.

 
<
Courtesy of Yak Mat, a crane mat manufacturer

About the Author:

Yak Mat is the largest supplier of construction access mats in North America, providing access solutions for energy projects since 1976.


You may also be interested in