Monsoon Preparedness at Construction Sites

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen , let me start with the quote ...

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain". ― Vivian Greene

Monsoon is one the oldest weather observations, and economically important weather pattern and the must anticipated weather event and unique phenomenon weather phenomenon. Yet it is only  partially understood and notoriously difficult to predict.

Monsoon rains are usually   worrisome for construction sites . This year  it's going to harden the life more than the past years . 

Generally, June 13 and October 2 are taken as the monsoon onset and exit dates in Nepal. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has predicted more than average rainfall in monsoon this year. Meteorologists say that since the world is facing the impacts of climate change, extreme weather events cannot be ruled out in Nepal as well. They say there is a risk of such incidents in Nepal as abnormal rainfall, floods, and inundation occurred this year in places like Dubai and Afghanistan. The minimum precipitation in most parts of the county is likely to be more than average by 35-65 percent. There is also a high risk of floods and landslides this year due to massive wildfires during the dry season. Since the water consumption capacity of the land decreases because of wildfires, the chances of floods and landslides are high, they added. Source : Annapurna Express(15 May 2024)

 Monsoon weather can be a threat to  construction personnel, equipment as well as project success.  This year , we need to be alert and proactive more than previous years . But how !?

Don't worry here are  the few ways by which  we can ensure that monsoon does not affect the  construction sites:

 

1. Monsoon preparation

• Make sure personnel and electrical equipment are prepared.
• Monsoon can damage scaffolding and make things slippery.

In the monsoon season, there is a lot of rain also increases the chance that we will get hurt when moving things around. 

2. Monsoon safety rules

Monsoons call for increased awareness of safety measures and precautions. Monsoon rains can cause damage to our site and hinder the construction process, making it important for us to follow safety protocols like:

•  Protecting scaffolding by covering them with waterproof sheets and removing loose items around the construction site
• If you have a warehouse, make sure to store equipment and material inside
• Monsoons can rip off roofs and cause flooding. You should tie down structures and stack materials in shelves high enough to avoid water damage.

3. Monsoon activities

 Monsoons will keep employees away from the construction site, which means additional time for inspections and safety procedures like fire drills. Monsoons can also reduce visibility on the site, which is why we need to prepare early by mounting floodlights around the area. Monsoon rains can damage our equipment too, hence it is best to limit construction activities until the rainfall stops.

4. Monsoon emergency plan

 Monsoon season can cause a lot of problems for people. This is why we need to make a plan for emergencies before the monsoon hits the site.

 Monsoon rains can make it hard to talk with personnel on the ground. If there is an emergency, we will need a plan to talk with them.

Monsoon brings along its own set of dangers and we need to be prepared for it. Monsoons pose great risks to your construction site, so we must keep all personnel/equipment safe during this time. Monsoon rains can cause injuries and stop the  construction process. Putting measures in place before the season starts is a must to do job.

 Usage of technology in construction work

Monsoon season begins in June and lasts until September. Monsoon rains can cause delays, erosion, flooding, and other negative effects on construction projects.

 Monsoon weather is known for causing mudslides and accidents as well as increasing infections such as malaria and diarrhoea. Monsoon weather can also cause bad visibility and restrict travel.

 Monsoon weather can damage construction equipment, too. Monsoon storms typically get stronger all the time during the season, so it is important to prepare for them ahead of time.

For instance, construction workers and technology experts in India work together to solve the problem of monsoon weather on job sites. Technology experts in India have installed sensors on construction sites so that workers can stay up to date with the rainy season project.

 Monsoon technology also includes sensors for materials used on job sites. The technology will alert workers when it is time to move materials out of the rain, for example. Monsoon technology is often installed at corresponding technology centres where workers can also get information about weather conditions. In order to combat the negative effects of monsoon weather, technology experts have developed technology to monitor worker safety precautions in construction sites and reduce accidents. Technology includes sensors in helmets that record workers for their protection in case they are injured on the job. Technology also includes video monitoring devices that can be installed inside construction machines. Monsoon technology also includes technology to monitor soil erosion and other weather patterns.

 However , in our country Nepal , I don't think these sort of things are still in practice. We usually rely on weather forecast from DHM and Google. 

Monsoon technology is a way to keep construction workers safe. But nepali technocrats  need to do a lot  in this area.

 

Safety equipment during monsoon

 Safety equipment suppliers are offering new materials to help site workers cope with wet, windy and hot conditions during the season.

 The rainfall during the monsoon can pose difficult conditions for construction sites. The materials used in the manufacturing of the equipment need to be able to withstand wet weather, impact and high temperatures.

 Gloves materials have been improved to be non-slip and materials for rainwear are also being offered. Electrical safety precautions during the rainy season are very important.

 High visibility materials are being supplied, including high vis jackets with a new strip. This is better for people who have to work in bright conditions. Materials suppliers say that the quality of their materials has been improved.

There should be a separate category for the rainy season project and it should include rainy season precautions like electrical safety tips.

In addition materials for gloves have been improved so they offer better grip in wet conditions and protect against oils, chemicals and corrosive.

Some materials also offer protection against ultraviolet rays and can protect up to six hours in sunlight.

The materials for ladders and stairs are made to not shrink or swell. This is important because they usually stay in the same place for a long time.

Today, there are materials that do not build up static. If someone drops a cigarette near these materials, they can catch on fire more easily.

 Many materials suppliers are also focusing on materials that offer better grip in wet conditions, including materials for boots and footwear.

 Clothes for protection have been made to have a special material that can stop bacteria, fungi or other organisms from growing.

The electrical hazards are very prone to rains, health and safety of the worker are very important. So in order to prevent electricity accidents protective equipment should be provided to each employee to avoid electric shocks.

 Contact with water, stagnant water, wet hands is also major problems in electrical hazards. Electrical wiring should be properly done with correct electric poles, this will minimize electrical accidents.

Choosing the right materials

Construction materials and tools should be of good quality and reliable. When it comes to materials, they should be able to withstand weathering; especially materials used during the commencement of a construction project.

A good example would be roof materials which must last long even if exposed for months or years under wet conditions. Tools like shovels and pickaxes need to be sharp enough to cut through hard material like rocks or concrete. Hammers need the right weight for efficient pounding.

When materials are chosen according to quality standards, they can resist all types of weathering (snow, rain). Contractors will not only make smart choices in materials but also in tools that play a significant role in the construction process.

Tools play an important role when coping with wet materials, especially during the rains. Contractors should be equipped with materials that are waterproof or water-resistant. Every material used in construction must be of good quality.

The materials should be easy to touch. The tools need to be the right weight for pounding.

5. Clearing  Stockpile  construction materials of site:

Usually, the construction materials like rebars, shutters, boulders, cement, etc. are stockpiled at sites for easiness. So before the start of the monsoon , they need to be managed in safe place  . Otherwise , the flood can wash away resulting in the loss of materials

Now, i would like to highlight on construction site safety  for monsoon.

In fact ,construction site safety during the monsoon season is crucial to protect workers, prevent accidents, and ensure the progress of the project. Here are some key considerations and safety measures that should be taken:

 

1. Drainage and site preparation: Proper drainage systems should be in place to handle increased water flow during heavy rainfall. Ensure that trenches, ditches, and stormwater drains are clean and functional. Adequate site preparation and grading can help prevent water accumulation.

2. Stabilize slopes and embankments: Monitor slopes and embankments for potential erosion or landslides. Implement measures such as retaining walls, geotextiles, or erosion control mats to stabilize the soil.

3. Scaffolding and formwork safety: Strong winds and heavy rains can affect the stability of scaffolding and formwork structures. Regular inspection, maintenance, and reinforcement of these structures are essential. Secure loose materials and cover them with tarpaulins to prevent water damage.

4. Electrical safety: Ensure that all electrical installations and equipment are properly insulated and protected from water. Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and residual current devices (RCDs) to minimize the risk of electric shock. Keep all electrical panels, outlets, and switches covered and away from water sources.

5. Personal protective equipment (PPE): Workers should wear appropriate PPE, including non-slip boots, rain gear, and reflective clothing. Provide them with waterproof gloves and safety glasses to maintain visibility and protect against potential hazards.

6. Training and awareness: Conduct regular safety training sessions, focusing on monsoon-related risks, emergency procedures, and the proper use of safety equipment. Promote awareness among workers about the dangers of working in adverse weather conditions and encourage reporting of any unsafe conditions.

7. Temporary structures and barricades: Ensure that temporary structures, such as temporary sheds or storage areas, are securely constructed and adequately anchored. Use proper barricades and warning signs to mark hazardous areas, especially those prone to water accumulation or weakened ground.

8. Equipment maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain construction equipment to ensure their safe operation during the monsoon. Check for any signs of wear and tear, faulty brakes, or malfunctioning components. Store equipment in covered areas when not in use.

9. Emergency response plan: Develop and communicate an emergency response plan specific to monsoon-related incidents. Include evacuation routes, assembly points, emergency contacts, and procedures for dealing with floods, lightning, or other severe weather events.

10. Regular site inspections: Conduct frequent inspections to identify potential hazards, water accumulation areas, and signs of erosion. Promptly address any identified issues and implement corrective measures.

No doubt, safety should always be a top priority at construction sites, and extra precautions must be taken during this monsoon season. The South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF) has projected above-normal rainfall for Nepal this monsoon as i already mentioned above.  And with less than a month before the onset of the rains, we need to be prepared for it by consulting local safety regulations, involvement of  experienced professionals, and adapting the guidelines that suit our construction sites.

“There's no harm in hoping for the best as long as you're prepared for the worst.”
― Stephen King

References

1. https://nepalitimes.com/news/soon-monsoon

2. https://theannapurnaexpress.com/story/48863/#google_vignette

3. https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/preparedness

4. https://www.propertypistol.com/blog/construction-site-safety-to-follow-during-the-rainy-season/

                 -THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE-