Keeping a clean work site is the same as keeping a safe worksite - be diligent about tidying up before, during and after work.

A safe job site must be clean and clear of debris and dust. Keep work areas free of tripping hazards and garbage.

LABOUR DUTIES

A construction labourer is going to be the person who does most of the site and shop clean up up, but every worker will have responsibility for their tools and work areas.

In a shop setting, there may be designated areas for materials storage, racks for lumber cut-offs and dust collection equipment for getting rid of sawdust and small scraps. There should be plenty of push brooms, dust pans, wide shovels and garbage cans to get rid of waste.

On a construction site, labourers may be responsible for setting up work areas - running out extension cords, setting up work stations with tools and providing for waste collection bins.

In all cases, construction labourers and skilled trades people work together to keep their areas clean and clear of hazards.

CLEAN SURFACES

Dust can negatively affect the adhesive properties of sealants and self-adhering membranes, which could translate to poor performance for air tightness or moisture management.

Before installing materials that rely on a sticky adhesive layer for application, make sure to sweep or vacuum the area thoroughly. If there is a lot of airborne dust, run a dust-collection machine or set up a door fan pointed to the outdoors.

Pay particular attention to intersections and direction changes - dust can collect in corners and cracks which may turn into weak spots for control layers if sealants aren't properly adhering.

END OF DAY RITUAL

At the end of every work day, all workers should tidy up their work spaces, put tools away securely and create a clean work site for the next day. Make this mandatory for all workers on site and in the shop.

It's very important that your clients and the general contractor see a clean work site whenever they visit, even when you're not there. They will appreciate your attention to tidiness, and it will help to build trust - keeping your work clean is a sure sign that you care about the job and about the impression you're making.