What action is required if there's a risk of drowning on a job site?

Providing personal flotation devices (PFDs) is crucial in situations where there is a risk of drowning on a job site. PFDs are designed to keep a person afloat in water, significantly increasing their chances of survival if they fall into a body of water or are submerged. The use of PFDs is a mandated safety measure in environments such as construction sites near bodies of water, where employees may be exposed to drowning hazards.

The decision to prioritize PFDs aligns with safety regulations and best practices to mitigate specific risks associated with water activities. Ensuring that workers wear PFDs can not only provide immediate protection but also foster a culture of safety where employees are aware of the risks and the safety measures in place to protect them.

Other measures, while also important, do not specifically address the immediate risk of drowning as effectively as PFDs. Helmets, safety nets, and evacuation drills serve different safety purposes and may not be effective in preventing drowning incidents directly. Helmets protect against head injuries, safety nets can capture falling personnel or objects, and evacuation drills are essential for emergency preparedness but do not provide direct protection against drowning in water-related situations.