The construction industry has the maximum impact on the environment and nature. Over the past few decades, the construction industry has grown and undergone many developments. The materials, projects, machinery and tools themselves have drastically changed. Yes, it is due to this new technology that the construction industry can now handle more complicated projects.

This complexity aspect makes the need for an extensive safety programme more crucial. Such programmes enable businesses to grow and stay competitive in an industry where more and more clients are becoming environmentally conscious. Unless contractors in construction companies show a significant positive impact from their vital Environment Health and Safety (EHS) programme, their growth will stagnate. This article will discuss how technology can help construction companies with the EHS management system.

What is EHS in construction?

EHS efforts begin from the initial concept stage of a project and last beyond the planned reviews, as the construction industry has to deal with many unsafe, volatile pieces of equipment that can negatively impact the environment. Examples of environmental impact can include stormwater management, remediation, erosion, etc. The endpoint in EMS efforts involves regular inspections and assessments by different safety teams, such as fire safety and building code inspection teams.

What is EHS in construction?

Now, the problem regarding the management of EHS in construction is that no specific template or framework can be followed, as each project in the construction industry can be different from the others. This is where EHS management system software and tools become handy.

An EHS management system can be a powerful instrument for increasing performance and deducting carbon footprint. Moreover, an appropriately implemented EHS management system mitigates the negative impact that construction can have on the livelihood of the general public, as many people are affected by construction projects, including local community members, employees, shareholders, suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Benefits of implementing an EHS management system

When an organisation prioritises excellence in their EHS management system, it creates a structured approach to identify, evaluate and manage work-related risks helping them achieve benefits like:
• Waste reduction: Construction projects generate an unsurmountable amount of waste, including plastic litter, wastewater and demolition debris. An appropriate EHS management system can assist organisations with waste management through accurate record-keeping of the waste generated, recycled, reused or discarded. It also helps organisations create a plan to refer back to and integrate real-time tracking so that task progress can be monitored and unnecessary waste can be reduced.

Benefits of implementing an EHS management system

• Appropriate utilisation of resources: An EHS management system makes it easier to maximise utilising all available resources by tracking potential recycling and reusing opportunities on-site. Additionally, such systems can guide contractors when ordering materials, helping them save time during the procurement process and preventing surplus purchases in the inventory.

• Minimise environmental risk: EHS management systems and software can help organisations determine the environmental impact of their construction projects, estimating the severity of potential risks and highlighting how these issues can be mitigated or prevented.

Using ICAM software you can Track All Types Of EHS Incidents.

Technological advancements in the construction industry

Construction technology has seen improvements mainly geared towards enhancing sustainability. There has been an incremental increase in the demand for construction projects, especially the larger ones, to reduce the environmental impact.

Technological advances are necessary to negate this considerable demand and promote minimum impacts. Advancements in EHS software have not only resulted in profound changes within the industry but it has also enhanced EHS management for companies.

In addition, companies are now employing technology for different EHS efforts as the laws and standards are also changing traction and focusing towards environmental preservation. So, in other words, if you want to avoid legal penalties, you need to employ EHS management software.

Business owners of construction companies now have access to numerous software applications which enable them to concisely manage record-keeping, incident reporting, employee safety monitoring, upkeep of compliance, conduct training programmes and manage regulatory changes in the industry.

These technological advancements are also beneficial for workers as they help business owners keep track of upcoming equipment maintenance or replacement. The evolving software now presents a fresher perspective on how EHS can be improved in the workplace.

Technological advancements in the construction industry

Additionally, the power of high-speed communication has made work sites safer. With the help of advanced reporting tools, the software can collect real-time data and immediately transfer the information to a centralised system so that managers can remain updated on the current status of the workplace. In this manner, safety is never compromised, and incidents can be mitigated immediately.

Furthermore, technology has also increased awareness and reduced human error. EHS software helps real-time store data within one system, allowing employers to collect data on repeated incidents and better focus on environmental and safety training so that problem areas can be targeted.

To learn more about the process and principles of construction in Australia, we suggest you also read the article “what is OHS in construction?” from Edara App’s blog.

Conclusion

The benefits of implementing an EHS management system are waste reduction, appropriate utilisation of resources and reduced environmental risks. The software allows for real-time data collection and storage in a centralised axis so that managers can better grip workplace safety.