The nature of construction work is such that temporary workers may be exposed to a number of dangerous situations. However, the question may arise as to who is responsible for ensuring worker safety. Safety+Health magazine explains that in order to help make a worksite environment safer, both the employer and the supplying agency should continuously work together to provide proper training when and where necessary.
While a staffing company may be providing workers with the paycheck, it is typically the host company that is assigning and managing worker duties. Since the host is directing the workers, it should provide the same level of training and care that it would to permanent employees. In the same instance, the agency should understand the job tasks being requested of the temporary employee, be familiar with the employer’s training practices and provide its own general safety training.
So, what specific steps can a staffing agency and employer take to work towards an effective strategy for protecting temporary employees? The Occupational Safety & Health Administration provides recommendations that include the following:
By making a concerted effort to protect temporary workers through review, coordination and contracts, staffing companies and host employers may be able to reduce the number of accidents and injuries that occur on construction worksites.