Public works covers a wide range of facilities and infrastructure that help provide vital services to a municipality’s people. Although there is overlap with the private sector—for example, public and private schools—public works is a guarantee that basic needs are met.

Education is a fundamental requirement, as is healthcare, power supply, and water and wastewater treatment. The public sector is also responsible for extensive transportation infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, airports, railways, utility pipelines, canals, and shipping ports. 

And because “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” public spaces, notably parks, playgrounds, and beaches also fall under public works.

Such vast interaction of public facilities and spaces with the populace, private employers, and visitors requires that municipal officials ensure the safety of their buildings, transportation base, and recreational venues. This huge, multi-faceted responsibility can be addressed partly by addressing access, barriers, and fall protection.

What are the needs and risks of accessing a facility? What areas need to be cordoned off from unauthorized personnel? Is proper signage and lighting in place? Are there uneven or slippery surfaces that need to be addressed? Are there loose safety railings in stairwells, balconies, and other areas?

Where will employers be working at height, and what fall protection systems will they need to perform their tasks safely? Will workers be near other fall hazards, such as machinery, railroad tracks, and bodies of water?

A proactive approach to hazard assessment allows for the implementation of specific mitigation practices. 

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