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The Publication of New Technical Standards for Safety on Construction Sites Promises to Transform the Construction Industry in Brazil. Understand How These Changes Directly Impact Professionals in the Sector.
Safety in the workplace of the construction industry has recently been enhanced with the publication of new Brazilian technical standards (NBRs). These standards, released on July 3, 2024, define strict criteria for the manufacture, installation, and use of fall protection nets and guardrails, essential for ensuring the safety of professionals on construction sites.
New Standards for Safety in the Construction Industry
The Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) has published three standards aimed at improving safety on construction sites. The new standards address the prevention of accidents related to falls, one of the biggest risks for workers.
The standards include NBR 17152-1:2024, which deals with the requirements and testing methods for fall protection nets, NBR 17152-2:2024, which establishes guidelines for the installation of these nets, and NBR 17164:2024, which standardizes guardrails, an essential protection system in constructions.
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Safety Techniques to Ensure Collective Protection
Among the main innovations, the new standards stand out for their specific approaches to the manufacture and installation of collective protection systems, such as fall protection nets and guardrails.
NBR 17152-1, for example, details the necessary requirements for the manufacture of the nets, including rigorous testing to ensure product effectiveness. NBR 17152-2 provides clear guidance on the installation of the nets, taking into account manufacturer specifications and safety standards.
On the other hand, NBR 17164 addresses guardrails, a fundamental safety item in virtually all constructions. The standard establishes technical criteria for the production and installation of these devices, which are essential for the protection of the edges of slabs and other elevated points on construction sites.
The Importance of Distributing the New Standards in the Construction Industry
Although the new standards are a significant achievement for safety in the construction industry, their practical application still faces challenges. Many construction professionals and safety equipment manufacturers are not fully aware of the requirements of these new standards, which can undermine the effectiveness of safety measures. Broad dissemination and correct application of these documents are crucial for ensuring safer work environments.
A fourth standard, focused on the manufacture, installation, and use of scaffolding, will soon be launched, which may bring even further advancements in safety techniques for the sector. The new standards, combined with the forthcoming NBR on scaffolding, have the potential to transform safety in the construction industry, making it safer and more efficient.
These innovations reflect the ongoing effort to improve working conditions and reduce accidents on construction sites, thus promoting a safer environment for all professionals involved.
