Nairobi News

A construction worker has tragically lost his life after falling from the fifteenth floor of a building site in Nairobi’s California area.

Shadrack Oyier, 30, slipped while laying tiles and suffered fatal injuries.

Eyewitnesses said Oyier slipped from an unsecured opening and suffered multiple fractures.

Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he died from his injuries.

These incidents have raised concerns about workplace safety standards.

Recent statistics show a worrying trend, with police reporting up to two fatal falls in the workplace every week.

“The frequency of these incidents is alarming and action must be taken to prevent further tragedies,” said Nairobi Police Commissioner Adamson Bungei.

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As investigations into both incidents continue, the community is grieving and calling for improved safety regulations.

Preventing accidents on construction sites requires a comprehensive and proactive approach, which should include the following steps

Safety training:

All workers should receive regular safety training, which should be frequently updated and reinforced. This training should include the correct use of equipment, what to do in the event of an accident and how to identify potential hazards.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Workers should always wear appropriate PPE, including helmets, goggles, high-visibility vests, gloves and steel-toed boots. This equipment should be provided by the employer and its use should be strictly enforced.

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Regular inspections:

Sites should be inspected regularly to identify potential hazards. These could include unsecured openings, unstable structures and improperly stored equipment or materials.

Proper use of equipment:

Workers should be trained in the correct and safe use of all equipment. This includes not only power tools and machinery, but also ladders, scaffolding and harnesses.

Clear communication:

Good communication is essential to safety. Workers should know who to report potential hazards to and there should be a clear procedure for doing so. In addition, safety signs should be posted throughout the site to warn workers of potential hazards.

Emergency preparedness:

Each site should have a detailed emergency plan. This should include procedures for evacuating the site, providing first aid and contacting the emergency services.

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Fall protection:

Falls are a common cause of injury on construction sites. To prevent them, guardrails and safety nets should be used when working at height. In addition, workers should be provided with safety harnesses and trained in their use.

Safe working practices:

Implementing safe working practices, such as using the right tools for the job, taking regular breaks to prevent fatigue and maintaining a tidy workplace, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Health and Safety Management System:

Implement a robust health and safety management system, including risk assessments, safety policies and procedures, safety meetings, and ongoing monitoring and review.

By following these steps, construction companies can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on their sites, keeping their workers safe and preventing costly delays and lawsuits.

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