byggingaöryggis

byggingaöryggis, or construction safety, is the discipline of managing safety and health on construction sites to protect workers, the public, and the environment. It covers all phases of a project, from planning and design through construction and handover. The aim is to reduce injuries and illnesses by identifying hazards and applying appropriate controls before incidents occur.

Common hazards on construction sites include falls from height, being struck by objects, electrical shocks, moving machinery, exposure to hazardous substances, noise and dust, and the risk of structural collapse. Safe practices require early planning, on-site coordination, and supervision to minimize these risks, along with clear work procedures and proper training.

Regulatory framework: In Iceland, byggingaöryggis is governed by occupational safety and health laws and construction regulations. The Directorate of Labour Inspection (Vinnueftirlitið) enforces compliance and conducts inspections. Key duties lie with clients, designers, contractors, and subcontractors to carry out risk assessments (hættumat) and to prepare a site-specific safety plan.

Controls and measures: The hierarchy of controls is applied—elimination or substitution of hazards when possible, engineering controls such as guardrails and machine guards, administrative controls like permits to work and safe planning, and the use of personal protective equipment. Emergency arrangements, first aid, incident reporting, and regular reviews are required.

Roles and culture: Effective byggingaöryggis relies on collaboration among clients, designers, engineers, and contractors, with clearly assigned responsibilities for safety management and on-site coordination. Ongoing training, site audits, and continuous improvement help maintain a safe construction environment.