It is a known fact that surveyors encounter different kinds of sites daily. Some of these sites are located on dangerous terrains with unfriendly neighborhoods that put the safety of surveyors in danger. In our previous post, we talked about some of the possible risks surveyors may encounter during a bathymetric survey. Experience has also shown that most of the risks surveyors encounter on site are often linked to the local terrain, the weather, the degree of remoteness of the area, and the type of site. These sites could also be bare land, land with building(s), construction sites, swampy areas, and quarries, and even sites with quicksand.

When working on sites like this, surveyors are exposed to life-threatening dangers like road accidents, drowning, slips, animal bites, hyperthermia, heatstroke, etc. That is why it is important for surveyors to observe some safety measures to safeguard their lives and equipment. Surveyors in Lagos know how swampy some areas are especially on the island. Some places in Ibeju-Lekki have very thick bush. Surveyors working in Lagos almost always go to site with machetes.

In our previous post, we highlighted some safety measures to observe during a bathymetric survey. In this article, we are going to highlight some safety measures to take during cadastral surveys

Use Safety Signs: Surveyors are advised to always put out safety signs and cones in the appropriate places when working on busy roads. This will help alert vehicles and motorists that work is going on on that road in order to avoid accidents and collisions.

Use Safety Boots and Clothing: When working in bushy sites, it is advised for surveyors to wear snake-proof safety boots and clothing that cover the body very well as there is a high chance of coming in contact with snakes, termites and other dangerous insects and animals.

Seek and Adhere to Safety Measures On Construction Sites: Surveyors are vulnerable to countless risks whenever they are working on construction sites. It is advised that before they embark on such sites, they are to enquire about the type of construction site and the safety measures in place. While working on the construction sites, it is advised that they wear the appropriate safety gear like work boots, work helmets, visibility vests, hearing, and eye protection gear.

Dress Appropriately: when working outdoors in a hot climate, there is always the risk of getting hyperthermia. Surveyors are advised to wear hats, heat-reflective clothing, and drink lots of water. You can also take regular breaks under a shade.

Wear Protective Hand Gloves: During a survey, especially during beacon establishment, there is always the chance of exposing your hands to soils with disease-causing organisms thereby making you vulnerable to some soil-borne diseases like hookworm, whipworm, tetanus, and other fungal infection. Also, make sure that you are up to date with your tetanus immunization.

When working in bushy areas be sure not to place your hands where you might be bitten by poisonous insects and animals, and always wear bright clothing rather than dark clothing to avoid being mistaken for animal prey.

When working in a swampy site, or a site with a possible trace of quicksand, be sure to seek the advice of knowledgeable local sources, they know the terrain better than you.

As we advised in our previous post, never work alone even if it’s a site that you can do alone. Always go with a phone or walkie-talkie to communicate with your colleagues about any possible danger.

Always have a first aid kit handy.

SAFETY TIPS FOR SURVEYORS WHEN ON SITE

SAFETY TIPS FOR SURVEYORS WHEN ON SITE