Safety Precautions to Take While Visiting a Construction Site
Recently Updated on April 11, 2025
Encorus Group staff often visits the job sites where concepts are brought to reality. These visits are part of the materials testing and inspection services that Encorus offers. Our Civil Testing and NDE groups are also constantly visiting construction sites to perform testing and inspections. Members of our design group sometimes visit jobsites as well, to obtain measurements, observe construction, or answer questions. While visiting a construction site, it is important to remember to take safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent any work disruptions. Here are some things to keep in mind if you ever find yourself on an active construction site:
1. Wear a hardhat
Protecting your head is a must. On an active construction site, workers could be transporting materials above your head, with a crane, for example, or materials may not be secured. Hardhats will protect your head from any potential injury.
Tip: Hard hats have a shelf life—typically 4 to 5 years from the date of manufacture, which is printed inside the hat. Exposure to extreme temperatures (like being stored in your car) can also shorten their effectiveness. When in doubt, check with OSHA, ANSI, or the manufacturer for specific guidance.
2. Wear a high visibility vest
You need to be seen—by operators, drivers, and other workers. High-vis vests make you stand out against the often chaotic background of a jobsite. Reflective strips are essential for low-light areas or evening visits.
3. Wear appropriate footwear
Appropriate footwear includes boots or shoes with hard soles and preferably steel toes. Construction sites are often unlevel, and appropriate footwear will decrease the chance of slipping or tripping.
Tip: Avoid open-toed shoes, heels, or soft-soled footwear—they’re not just inappropriate, they’re unsafe.
4. Wear safety glasses
Any active construction site is a hazard for your eyes. Dirt, dust, rocks, and construction materials are constantly moving around, including through the air. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying objects.
5. Wear long pants to cover your legs
Sharp object may be sticking up, and your legs may be subject to scratches and cuts. Skirts, shorts, and dresses are discouraged on the construction site. Wearing long pants will protect your legs from any harm
6. If you have a guide, be sure to stay close to them as you move around the site
It is easy to get lost on construction sites, so if you do not know where you are going, it is best to stick with your guide on the visit. They are probably more familiar with the site than you are as a visitor, and will be able to guide you on a safe route and avoid hazards
7. Be aware of your surroundings
It is common sense to have a general awareness of the construction site you are visiting. If there is a place where the materials appear to be unstable or if workers are vigorously working, do not approach that area. Wandering into an active work zone could disrupt operations or put you at risk. Make eye contact with machinery operators when crossing the machine’s path. Safety is the first priority, and if you approach an area where people are working, they make have to stop and disrupt progress until you leave.
8. Do not touch anything
It is advised not to touch any materials on the construction site, especially any loose wires. Those wires may be live, and the materials could be sharp or recently painted. In general, follow all instructions that your guide or the site supervisor may give you. They will know the best way for you to safely navigate the site. You not only want to be safe, you want to be welcomed back in the future!
Final Thoughts
Construction sites are exciting places—but they’re also complex, dynamic environments. Always follow the instructions of your site guide or supervisor. Their job is to keep everyone safe, including you. By taking the proper precautions, you help protect yourself and others, and you’re far more likely to be welcomed back in the future. Safety is a team effort—do your part!
Originally Published on February 1, 2019
