Security: necessity and challenge

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Within facade construction, where craftsmanship and precision are paramount, safety is not only a priority, but an absolute necessity. Recent events, such as the tragic disasters in London, Valencia and the Lochem incident, remind us of the crucial role of safety in our daily work. As members and operators in the metal facade construction industry, we have a shared responsibility to promote and embed a culture of safety in everything we do.

Our involvement begins at the design stage. This is where we lay the foundations for safe buildings. Choosing the right materials, implementing fire-safe structures and designing evacuation routes are just a few aspects that contribute to safe building design. Being aware of potential risks and proactively addressing them during the design process is critical.

In addition, our factories play a key role in the production of safe façade elements. Here, meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship is required to ensure that each component meets the highest safety standards. Regular quality checks and inspections are crucial to identify and correct defects before they cause problems on site. Attention by and to our employees during production also increases safety awareness, resulting in fewer accidents and higher quality.

However, the most risky phase remains on-site assembly. Here, all components are assembled, and workers are exposed to heights, heavy materials and lifting equipment. It is here that strict safety protocols are paramount. We must do everything possible to ensure that our employees can work safely.

As entrepreneurs in metal facade construction, we have the power to effect change. More and more of our members are actively involved in the Dutch Safety Ladder, a standardized measurement tool that helps organizations evaluate and improve their safety performance. By participating in this initiative, we demonstrate our commitment to achieving the highest safety standards and creating a safer work environment for all.

Let's embrace and embed our efforts to ensure safety at the core of our construction projects. Only by working together and strengthening our commitment to safety can we create a safer and healthier future for all of us.

We must use the lessons of the past. Let's strive to improve every day so that everyone can go home safe and sound at the end of the day.