Project’s sites are not just a man’s world

Discussion Points: The study and roll out of international best practices to improve overall construction site safety in the region. Ensuring that project sites are set-up and run appropriately for women and men. Sites should have adequate-sized safety equipment and gender-neutral signage to push the fact that women as well as men are on site. Availability of an equal number of secure sanitary facilities in easy-to-access and well-lit areas of the construction site are critical to prevent a variety of issues. HS&E training should be routine and must cater to the specific needs of women and men. For pregnant women, the training should include major do’s and don’ts and best practices. Certain chemicals, such as lead, are frequently found at construction sites. They are a hazard for both women and men but are particularly hazardous to pregnant women – how can this be addressed? Companies should be open to and encourage a ‘see something, say something, do something’ mindset on project sites. Currently HS&E issues are left unchecked for a number of reasons including a ‘that’s just the way it is’ or an ‘I’ll deal with it’ mindset.