Construction is heavily regulated, but its dynamic nature means risks can escalate quickly without thorough planning, clear communication, and consistent supervision. The legal framework assigns specific duties to employers, contractors, and those in control of worksites, especially under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM). Understanding risks isn’t optional — it’s a legal and operational requirement.
Top health and safety risks in construction and how to prevent them
Below are the most common hazards on UK construction sites, along with effective methods to control them.
1. Working at height
Falls from height account for the majority of construction-related deaths annually in the UK. Contributing factors include poor scaffolding, missing guardrails, ladder misuse, fragile roofs, and inadequate fall prevention.
Prevention:
- Comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005
- Use properly erected scaffolding, inspected weekly
- Install guardrails and collective protection
- Use MEWPs instead of ladders where possible
- Assess weather and fragile surfaces
2. Moving vehicles and heavy machinery
Dumpers, telehandlers, excavators, forklifts, and other site vehicles present significant risks, particularly where routes are not clearly segregated.
Prevention:
- Create designated pedestrian and vehicle routes
- Use trained banksmen for high-risk movements
- Ensure operators are certified (CPCS, NPORS)
- Install mirrors, cameras, and proximity alarms
- Enforce speed limits and daily vehicle checks
3. Machinery, tools, and equipment hazards
Hand tools, power tools, and plant machinery are essential but can cause serious injuries if misused or improperly maintained.
Prevention:
- Inspect tools before use
- Provide task-specific PPE
- Maintain plant following PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998)
- Remove defective equipment immediately
4. Manual handling and ergonomic strain
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the top causes of lost working time in the UK construction industry. Risks arise from lifting awkward loads, repetitive movements, and poor technique.
Prevention:
- Use lifting aids, hoists, or cranes
- Break loads into smaller weights
- Rotate workers and design tasks ergonomically
- Train workers under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
5. Excavation and ground-related risks
Ground collapses, trench failures, water ingress, and buried utilities pose serious hazards.
Prevention:
- Support or improve excavations
- Provide trench boxes or shoring
- Conduct service scans before digging
- Keep spoil heaps back from the edges
- Supervise excavation works continuously
6. Electrical hazards
Temporary electrics, live cables, and power tools pose a significant risk if not properly managed.
Prevention:
- Comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
- Use 110V tools where possible
- Inspect leads and equipment daily
- Use RCD protection
- Restrict electrical alterations to competent electricians
7. Hazardous substances (dust, fumes, chemicals)
UK construction workers are frequently exposed to hazardous dusts, such as silica, wood dust, and asbestos.
Prevention:
- Follow COSHH Regulations 2002
- Use dust suppression and extraction systems
- Supply and fit-test RPE
- Provide asbestos awareness training where relevant
8. Noise and vibration
Construction workers risk hearing loss and Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) when exposed to excessive noise and vibrating tools.
Prevention:
- Assess exposure under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005
- Provide PPE and rotate workers
- Maintain and replace high-vibration tools
9. Psychosocial risks and fatigue
Long shifts, physical demands, tight schedules, and stress lead to reduced concentration and higher accident risk.
Prevention:
- Promote reasonable working hours and rest breaks
- Monitor fatigue in safety-critical roles
- Encourage open reporting of stress
- Support supervisor training in wellbeing awareness
From risk to resilience: fostering a proactive safety culture
Safety systems, PPE, and site rules are essential, but behaviour is what truly makes safety effective. A proactive safety culture highlights leadership visibility, effective communication, personal responsibility, and teamwork among trades and subcontractors.
Under CDM 2015, duty holders must ensure workers receive the correct information, training, and supervision. When people understand why safe behaviours matter — and feel supported rather than blamed — incident rates decrease, and performance improves.
Turning awareness into action
Construction always involves risk, but proactive planning and strong cultural foundations help prevent serious accidents. When teams clearly understand risks, feel empowered to voice concerns, and work within well-designed systems, safety becomes an inherent part of how work is carried out.
Prioritising people is not only a legal obligation — it’s a strategic advantage for every construction business.
How NFP can help
At NFP, we assist construction businesses across the UK in strengthening safety culture, improving compliance, and reducing risk. Our consultants provide practical support in:
- Cultural diagnostics
- Leadership development
- Behaviour-based safety programmes
- Training and upskilling
- Systems development and risk management
We collaborate with organisations to develop safer, stronger, and more resilient teams.