Introduction to the Construction Industry and Safety Concerns
The construction sector is a vital and active part of the Mexican economy, but it also poses significant risks to workers. It is estimated that over 60 accidents occur daily in this industry, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen safety protocols on construction sites.
According to data from the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), in 2024, there were 22,034 labor incidents recorded in the construction industry, with 409 cases of permanent disability and 51 fatalities.
Safety from Planning
To address these risks comprehensively, ESCALA APP employs a methodology centered on documentation, control, and continuous monitoring. This strategy aims to create safe and efficient working environments by focusing on several key documents:
- General Safety Manual: Based on official Mexican standards (NOM) and Protección Civil protocols.
- Project Safety Regulation: Customized for each construction site.
- Protección Civil Instruction: Issued by the local authority when granting a construction permit.
- Sanctions Catalog: Outlining penalties for safety violations.
Beyond documentation, daily measures must be implemented by construction companies to bolster on-site operational safety. These measures include controlled access, continuous on-site supervision, weekly training sessions, incident reporting, and periodic evaluations of contractors.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current state of safety in Mexico’s construction industry? The construction sector experiences more than 60 daily accidents, with 22,034 labor incidents reported in 2024 by the IMSS, including 409 permanent disability cases and 51 fatalities.
- Why is there a need to improve safety in the construction industry? The high number of accidents violates basic safety norms for construction workers and increases the risk of severe incidents.
- What measures can be taken to enhance safety in construction sites? Implementing a methodology based on documentation, control, and continuous monitoring. Key documents include a General Safety Manual, Project Safety Regulation, Protección Civil Instruction, and Sanctions Catalog. Additionally, daily measures such as controlled access, continuous supervision, weekly training, incident reporting, and periodic contractor evaluations should be enforced.
