The level of safety surrounding the construction industry has been a hot topic in recent years. In 2023/24, the sector once again reported the greatest number of fatal workplace injuries. 

To address concerns around safety, many businesses have turned to modular construction. This method benefits not only the workers but also members of the local community and the building’s occupants. 

Let’s take a look at the ways modular construction is upholding safety standards from factory to finished building.  

  

Reducing workplace accidents 

One of the main benefits of modular construction is the reduction of dangerous on-site work. 

With traditional construction, most of the building process occurs on an outdoor site. This environment can often be unpredictable and rife with environmental hazards, making it difficult to manage. 

Modular construction moves the majority of the potentially dangerous work to a controlled, indoor factory setting. Doing this keeps workers safe in a variety of ways, including:  

  • Minimising slips, trips and falls: The most common type of fatal accident for workers is falling from a height. Modular building manufacturers use equipment like warehouse ladders, rigs, and stationary platforms to reduce this risk. These measures are rarely used during traditional on-site work due to the logistical challenges of an outdoor environment. 
  • Fewer vehicles: Being struck by a moving vehicle is the second biggest culprit in fatal workplace accidents. With modular construction, the need for multiple vehicles moving around on-site is greatly reduced. Modules are transported to the site in large, pre-assembled sections, so fewer trips are required to deliver materials.  
  • Less dust and dirt: Regularly breathing in dust and dirt can cause a myriad of health issues for workers. However, in a factory setting, it is much easier to implement on-tool extraction devices and enforce the use of PPE.  
  • Easier management: For large projects, the traditional job site can host upwards of 100 workers at once. In contrast, fewer workers are needed to put a modular building together on-site. This means there are fewer people in need of supervision and more opportunities to catch any potential safety hazards.  

  

Keeping the community safe  

Construction work doesn’t just pose a danger to workers; it often has a negative impact on the public, local community and environment. 

Excavations, groundworks, rerouted access, hazardous waste and heavy vehicles can all put members of the public in harm’s way. In the last year, 87 members of the public were killed in work-related accidents. 

Modular construction is paving the way in terms of public safety whilst minimising the impact on the surrounding environment and community. It does this through:  

  • Reduced exposure: The reduced time on-site decreases the potential for accidents and safety risks to workers and nearby residents. Pedestrians are at a lower risk of passing by any dangerous active construction work.  
  • Minimised site disturbance: Less on-site work means less noise, dust, traffic congestion, and disturbance for the local community.  
  • Less hazardous waste: Factory settings allow for better management and reduction of construction waste through precise planning and recycling.  
  • Lower carbon footprint: The streamlined process and efficient transportation reduce emissions associated with construction activities. 

 

Safety for the occupants  

Once a modular building is installed and ready to go, measures are in place to ensure the occupants can safely use the space. 

Modular buildings are used in a range of sectors, including healthcare, education, and residential. This means manufacturers are familiar with the most up-to-date building regulations and can include any unique safety features you might need: 

  • Quality control: Building modules in a factory ensures consistent quality and strict adherence to safety standards, resulting in safer and more reliable finished structures. This controlled environment allows for detailed inspections and quality assurance every step of the way.  
  • Enhanced structural integrity: Modules are built to withstand the stress of transportation and assembly. This results in a structure that is just as strong – if not stronger than – those built through traditional construction.  
  • Fire safety: Manufacturers will integrate fire-resistant materials and systems into the new building. This includes features like fire-rated walls, doors, ceilings, and floors, as well as built-in detectors and sprinkler systems.  

  

To sum it up  

Modular construction stands out as a safer and less disruptive alternative in a sector notorious for its high rates of workplace injuries. 

Modular methods significantly reduce workers’ exposure to hazards by moving a large portion of the construction process to a secure factory.  

Furthermore, the increased safety extends beyond the workers on the project. It benefits local communities by decreasing site disturbances and the potential for accidents involving the public. 

For the occupants, modular buildings offer rigorous quality control, structural integrity, and comprehensive fire safety measures.  

  

Choose Excel Modular for a safe construction process  

Excel Modular is a modular building manufacturer based in Hull that works nationwide. We have over 40 years of experience in supplying modular and portable buildings to a wide range of sectors. 

Our team consistently upholds the highest standards in health and safety, and we’re dedicated to creating an excellent environment for construction workers, the public and occupants alike. 

To find out more about our modular buildings, contact our friendly team today.