Tag Archives: construction workers

General Safety Issues

Most Important OSHA Safety Guidelines on a Construction Site

Written by Michael Tobias

 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes and enforces standards to ensure safety and health in the workplace. OSHA has existed since 1970, and it is part of the US Department of Labor. The organization also conducts training and public outreach, to implement workplace safety standards more effectively.

 

The construction industry involves work at height, direct exposure to weather conditions, and heavy equipment. Considering these conditions, it should come as no surprise that construction is among the business sectors with the most accidents.

 

When risk management is given high priority in construction administration, the chance of workplace accidents is reduced. According to OSHA, most workplace accidents in the construction industry involve the risk factors listed below.
  • Falls
  • Excavation collapses
  • Electrical accidents, such as electric shock or arc flash
  • Lack of personal protection equipment, or incorrect use
  • Accidents caused by machinery, especially cranes and forklifts
This article provides an overview of several construction hazards, along with OSHA recommendations to manage them. The content is informative, and not intended to be used instead of the corresponding OSHA standards.

 

Fall Prevention

 

Falls can be considered the main workplace risk in construction, accounting for the largest share of injuries and fatalities reported each year by OSHA. Having reliable work platforms is critical to prevent falls, combined with additional safety measures such as body harnesses.

 

Many falls in construction sites are related with improper use of scaffolding and ladders, and OSHA provides the following recommendations when working with them:
  • Scaffolds must be capable of bearing their own weight plus four times the intended load, without displacement or deformation. They must also be assembled on a stable surface, avoiding unreliable supports like bricks or barrels.
  • Scaffolds must not be used if any of their safety accessories are missing, and damaged parts should be replaced immediately. If synthetic or natural ropes are used, they must be kept away from heat sources.
  • In general, scaffolds should only be handled under the supervision of a qualified person, and they should never be used less than 10 feet away from power lines.
  • Ladders must have an adequate length for the task and should not be used under any circumstances if they are damaged or unstable.
  • The load bearing capacity of ladders must never be exceeded, and the use of metallic ladders should be avoided close to live conductors or power lines.
Partially built stairways can also be dangerous for construction personnel. The risk of falls is increased when stairs are wet or covered with debris, and also if their handrails have not been installed yet.

 

Trench Collapse Prevention

 

Material collapse is the main risk when working in excavations or trenches, since it can bury construction workers and equipment. OSHA provides several safety guidelines to prevents accidents of this type:
  • Trenches at least 5 feet deep must have a protective system, unless the excavation work is being performed on stable rock.
    If the trench depth is at least 20 feet, the protective system must follow be designed by a registered professional engineer.
  • Construction workers should never enter an unprotected trench.
    Personnel inside the trench must always have an exit available less than 25 feet away.
  • OSHA specifies a minimum slope angle for each soil material.

Materials and equipment should never be placed at the edge of an excavation, since they can cause an accident by falling into the trench.

Preventing Electric Shock and Arc Flashes

When working with electricity at a construction site, there are two main hazards. Energized conductors represent a risk of electric shock by themselves, and arc flashes can also cause injuries due to the force of the explosion. To prevent these types of accidents, OSHA provides the following recommendations:

  • Using Lockout/Tagout properly and avoiding any work that involves live conductors or energized equipment parts.
  • Technical personnel should never use electrical cords that are damaged, or without a grounding prong. Tools and equipment that show electrical faults should be removed from service and repaired or replaced.
  • Temporary power supplies should be clearly indicated, and multiple plug adapters should be avoided.
As previously mentioned, construction equipment and materials should never be placed or used less than 10 feet away from power lines. Note that OSHA specifies even greater clearances as the rated voltage of power lines increases.

 

Adequate Use of Personal Protection Equipment

 

Many accidents in construction sites can be prevented with personal protection equipment. Hard hats should be used at all times, since the risk of falling objects or bumping into fixed objects is present in all project sites. Hard hats should be checked at regular intervals, and replaced if they can no longer offer protection due to damage.

 

Hard hats should be complemented with safety footwear, and personnel should also wear adequate gloves and face protection when required for a specific task. High-visibility clothing should also be worn, so that construction workers can be easily distinguished from the background.

 

Operating Heavy Equipment Safely

 

Heavy equipment can easily injure construction workers due to its sheer weight, and most equipment accidents are associated with cranes and forklifts, according to OSHA.

 

Cranes should only be operated by qualified personnel, staying away from power lines at all times. A crane should never exceed its rated load capacity, and a load chart should be displayed where it can be easily seen by the operator. Crane operation should adhere to strict guidelines, and construction workers must stay outside of the swing radius when the crane is operating.

 

Forklifts may seem less threatening than cranes due to their compact size, but they also cause many accidents. Forklifts should only be used by qualified operators and for project activities, never for stunts or playing. The load should never exceed the rated capacity, and the vehicle should not be modified in ways that are not approved by the manufacturer. Forklifts should always use adequate battery chargers, avoiding improvised connections.

 

The Importance of Effective Communication

 

Construction risks are present even when prevention measures are in place, and communication is very important to ensure safe practices. Project managers can mitigate risks drastically when construction workers are well informed and trained.

 

The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) dedicates a whole chapter to risk management, considering its importance for project success. Risk prevention has a much lower cost than repairing the damage caused by construction accidents, and it protects the life and health of construction personnel.

 

Michael Tobias is the founder and principal of Chicago Engineers. He is a graduate of Georgia Tech class of 2004, with a Bachelors of Mechanical Engineering with honors. His innovative approach to MEP engineering comes from graduating GE’s Engineering Leadership Program, where he designed wind turbines and biofuel power plant engines. Michael’s passion within design is energy efficiency and green technology.
to
Michael Tobias PE, LEED AP, CEM
Principal
New York Engineers
135 W 41st Street, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10036
212.575.5300
General Safety Issues

How Technology Developments Are Keeping Construction Workers Safer

How Technological Developments Are Keeping Construction Workers Safer Than Ever Before

The modern technological advancement has brought about changes in various industries. The construction industry has not been left behind. Technology has been used to improve the safety of workers at the construction sites. It is correct to say that site safety is something that most people do not love talking about. However, this is a critical topic that should not be ignored.
According to research, one person dies while the other hundred and fifty-three others are injured due to workplace accidents that take place every fifteen seconds. To avoid these deaths and injuries, technology has introduced various construction trends that can help to keep workers at construction sites safe. The following are some of them:
Construction Wearables
These are tools that are designed to track the location of the worker at the construction site. They are equipped with sensors, vital tracking, GPS, and real-time locating. Apart from monitoring the location, construction wearables are also used to prevent you from falling, electrocution, struck-bys and being caught in severe accidents. These accidents are also referred to as the “fatal four.” Construction wearables could either be a watch, a vest or a hat. All the construction workers need to do is to move around in the sun to charge these wearables.
Drones
A construction manager can also use drones at the construction sites to ensure that safety of the workers. These technological gadgets are used to inspect the construction sites, monitor the employees and also identify any hazards at the site. With drones, there is no need for company employees to conduct high-risk researches and inspections on the construction sites that are located on elevated surfaces. In addition, drones can also be used in the construction sites to track the progress of the projects. This is done by using aerial images, videos, and mapping.
Virtual Reality
The construction industry is improving day by day due to the use of virtual reality in construction safety training. Various construction companies are now launching virtual reality training programs, which imitate a construction site. The program is being used to teach workers how they can interact with the environment without having to bring them to the construction site. Apart from assisting in safety training, virtual training can also be used to go through the design and identify any potential problems before the construction kicks off.
Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMA)
In case you are a paving contractor, you should consider investing your money in truck-mounted attenuators. These TMAs, also called crash trucks are devices that absorb energy. Typically, they are attached to the rear of trailers or vans to act as a barrier between the construction driver and the workers. In case the driver loses track while entering the construction site, he or she will first hit the TMA which will absorb the impact and protect the driver from being injured. With the modern autonomous TMA, the safety of the construction site is maintained. The driver’s life is also safe from any high-risk and dangerous situation.
Site Sensors
According to statistics, 1.3 million construction workers are exposed to asbestos on the job. Asbestos is dangerous since it causes a tumor that affects sensitive body organs such as the lungs, the heart, and lungs. Construction workers can stay safe from this fatal infection by using site sensors to read toxins that could be found on the floor tiles, plasters shingles and other construction materials.
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Association (OSHA), twenty-one percent of deaths take place in the construction field. It is possible to reduce this percentage to zero if only construction managers and supervisors can put the above smart technologies to use. They ensure that workers are safe on the job and can resume their normal lives even after work.
Author Bio:
Tom Moverman established the Lipsig Lawyers Firm with Harry Lipsig and his partners in 1989. The personal injury law firm focuses on products liability, personal injury, construction accidents, car accidents and medical malpractice.
General Safety Issues, Protective Clothing

5 Basic Safety Tips for Construction Workers

Construction work is considered to be one of the most dangerous occupations so ensuring worker safety is vital. Heights, heavy and mobile equipment, heavy lifting, edges, deep holes and wobbling stairs are a reality in many construction and construction clean up sites regardless of how careful the contractors claim to be. Here at Results Staffing, we are vigilant about ensuring the safety and security of our day laborers and skilled laborers. Here are a few tips for you to keep in mind to protect your own safety when working in hazardous conditions:

  1. Wear Protective Apparel and Use Personal Protective Equipment

Temp agencies should provide the proper protective equipment (PPE). At Results Staffing, we make sure that our workers have the right equipment. We will usually provide all necessary PPE unless otherwise noted and we are careful to let you know if any additional equipment is needed. If you do not have the necessary equipment, resolve it with your employer and be sure that you are prepared.  Well-fitted helmets and protective eyewear are a necessity. Ear plugs or muffs should be used when working in noisy areas and protective gloves should be worn when you are around toxic chemicals or lumber. Anti-slip footwear or protective boots should always be worn especially in dusty, wet or toxic environments. Fall harnesses are very important for every construction worker. If you have been approved to work at heights through our Skilled or Final Clean Divisions, ensure your harness is sturdy and secured to a strong anchorage point. Since workers work in all types of weather, make sure to dress appropriately for bad weather with climate protective gear and clothing. Heavy machine operators should wear highly visible clothing so they can be located and seen with ease when working with heavy.

  1. Inspect Your Areas

Scaffolds are commonly used on construction sites and are linked to a high number of injuries, which is why Results Staffing does not allow employees to work on them. If you are asked to work on them, contact your branch immediately. We want to ensure your safety first. For those that become permanent employees of a construction company keep in mind that you should never work on a fragile scaffold that does not have a strong platform or base. Ladders are another essential construction site tool that carry a high potential for danger. Inspect the ladder carefully before use and make sure you are in compliance with Results Staffing’s policies on ladders for your particular division. If you find any part of it wobbly, do not use it. All of the steps of slabs of the ladder should be secured properly.  A ladder should be of proper strength and of a height that always keeps it at least one meter above the landing. The upper and lower end of the ladder should preferably be fastened or secured properly. If not, ensure someone is manually securing the ladder to prevent a fall. Heavy machine operators need to be extra careful to double check their work areas and equipment.

  1. Be Cautious with Electricity and Equipment

Construction sites typically need a lot of electrical installations. Lifting equipment mostly involves electricity and weights. When working with such equipment, heavy machine operators need to ensure there is no wear and tear in the machine and be sure to follow the listed safety precautions. If you do not know them, seek help from a site supervisor or a coworker who has experience using the equipment. If you are using plugged-in portable devices, such as grinders or drills, you should always check that the cables are protected, the metal casing is grounded and the power supply is supplied with an earth leakage circuit breaker. Never allow the electrical tools anywhere near water. Never stand or work directly below a heavy suspended load and always be sure to not exceed the permissible levels of load. You’ll need proper training before operating some equipment, especially a material hoist and crane.

  1. Keep a First Aid Kit Handy

While it is always a good idea to keep your own personal first aid kit handy while doing day labor and skilled labor, it is not always possible. Both the site supervisor and contractor should ensure that first aid is always accessible to workers. If you are missing a necessary first aid supply on the site, inform your supervisor immediately and contact your branch. Basic first aid for minor burns, cuts and falls should be available on site so that medical attention can be provided immediately. This is beneficial for the employer as well because it allows the worker to be treated and return to work as quickly as possible. Some injuries are immediately treatable which helps limit the damage and prevents the infections from spreading.

  1. Maintain Fencing and Prevent Fires

Many falls and fatal injuries happen in areas with no fencing protection. Dangerous areas that you see without fencing or with broken and damaged fencing should be avoided until they are completely repaired or a proper fencing is provided. If this is not happening in time, talk with your supervisor and branch immediately. With the machinery involved in construction along with the combustible chemicals and welding operations, there is the possibility of fire on a construction site. Remain alert and take preventative measures. Construction sites have flammable materials present so do your best to prevent open flames. All workers should also know the escape and exit routes and the location of the fire extinguisher and how to use one.

Modern society was built by construction workers. A construction worker must exercise caution at all times. Day labor and skilled labor require workers to be extra vigilant. While temp agencies can do all they can on their end, workers on the ground have to follow their own best practices to maximize their own safety.  These are some basic tips for ensuring your safety on a construction site, but is by no means meant to be an exhaustive list. Always use your best judgment and err on the side of caution. Always follow instructions during an emergency and alert your supervisor and coworkers to any unsafe conditions. Using these tips will help to prevent from accidents and injury.

General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety

SAFETY VESTS AREN’T JUST FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKERS (GUEST POST)

Safety vests are familiar sights in construction zones. A variety of reflective models, including lightweight, mesh and multi-colored versions, help workers increase their visibility and maintain on-the-job safety every day. While construction workers may first come to mind when thoughts turn to safety vests, this critical protective gear is also used in a number of other industries and activities.

On the Road
Between the ongoing need for highway infrastructure improvements and increased traffic construction due to population growth, night work is becoming increasingly prevalent on the roadways. While contact with construction vehicles, objects and equipment is the leading cause of death for workers in highway construction zones, these fatalities are preventable through the implementation of best safety practices, including safety vests.

Safety Vests Arent Just For Construction Workers 1

Whatever their shape and size, safety gear cannot be underestimated.

According to the National Safety Council’s 2011 Injury Facts report, there were just under 700 deaths and 29,000 work zone crashes in a single year period. Safety vests reduce traffic fatalities by helping drivers more easily see workers during the evening hours, when visibility is significantly impaired.

But it’s not just construction workers who are injured or killed on the highway. Traffic flaggers, as well as first responders, such as police officers, EMTs and firefighters, rely on safety vests for road safety. Additionally, federal regulations now require media personnel to don safety vests when working on federal rights-of-way because of struck-by accidents. Airline and traffic controllers don safety vests for the same important reason.

Emergency Situations
Police officers, security guards and other public officers face many hazards every day. Personal safety is a critical imperative, and safety vests are a critical component. Reflective safety vests help law enforcement personnel, as well as security and patrol officers, identify their presence during emergency situations, which can help protect them and prevent catastrophic accidents.

Safety Vests Arent Just For Construction Workers 2

You can’t see very well. The driver can’t either.

For the Sport of It
Safety vests aren’t just for members of the workforce. In fact, they are a valuable precautionary method for a number of different sports enthusiasts, including cyclists and joggers, who may otherwise be unseen by passing cars. Motorists aren’t the sole threat to humans, however: the majority of states require game hunters to don safety vests for increased visibility to other hunters. In fact, wearing a blaze orange reflective vest during game season has the potential to save lives, and areas which enforce blaze orange safety requirements have seen reductions in hunting accidents.

While a safety vest is just a safety vest to some people, it’s an invaluable safety precaution for others at work and at play. Many construction industry insurance policies prioritize their use, as does OSHA for flaggers and other workers in construction zones. In short, safety vests are a critical partner in increasing safety, reducing accidents and enhancing peace of mind for many members of society.

Joanna Hughes writes on all subjects, ranging from lifestyle to workplace safety.

General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety

HOW MANY CONSTRUCTION WORKERS ARE INJURED BY SPEEDING DRIVERS (GUEST POST)

Tall buildings and scaffolding often come to mind when people think of construction dangers, but there are other construction workers who face just as many hazards without actually having to be around either of the aforementioned dangers. Road workers are definitely part of the construction industry, and their lives are put in danger every day by daily commuters who travel through their work zones. Everyone should understand the dangers that these workers face, and it’s imperative for the workers themselves to know what their employer should be doing to keep them safe. 



Construction Zone Injury Statistics

It would seem common sense that working in an area that speeding cars travel through would be dangerous. Between 2008 and 2010, highway construction zones saw the deaths of over 100 workers annually. Statistics also show that there were well over 600 deaths in these construction zones between the years of 2003 and 2007. 

Between the same years (2003 to 2007), the construction industry as a whole saw a little over 8,100 deaths. This means that the deaths related to road construction represented 7.9 percent of all deaths related to the construction industry. Considering the fact that highway construction only makes up a small percentage of the total construction work in the nation, this statistic is sobering. 



Types of Injuries Sustained in Highway Work Zones

Injuries sustained in highway construction work zones literally run the gamut of personal injuries. These mishaps can be anything from a broken foot caused by a dump truck rolling over it to an injury sustained by a speeding driver. Many construction sites are so busy that there are times when a driver receives a ticket and he was not the car that was speeding. Whether you receive a Florida speeding ticket or a speeding ticket in Ohio, it is possible to get help to fight the charges if this was the case.

Some construction sites are so congested that the workers don’t have much room to work and they are often working in a dangerous area. This is where they can receive some of the worst types of injuries. These accidents often cause injuries related to traumatic brain damage, serious spinal cord injuries or other types of internal bleeding, hemorrhaging and damage. These injuries are usually detrimental, so besides staying safe on the jobsite, workers should know their legal rights or seek out someone who does if they’re seriously injured on the job.

How Highway Construction Workers can Stay Safe

There are several ways that highway construction workers can stay safe while making their living. Many of these safety procedures are under the control of the construction company or the state itself. It’s absolutely vital that temporary traffic control (TTC) be set up for the duration of construction. This will ensure that commuters know that work is being performed and are prevented from driving too close to where workers are doing their jobs. 



It’s also important for workers to wear high visibility clothing while on the job. This includes reflective clothing like vests, trousers, overalls, jackets and anything else that can help visibility. One of the most important ways for workers to remain safe, however, is to receive proper safety training. This is because, most of the accidents on road construction sites are caused by on-site work vehicles or equipment. The Federal Highway Administration provides training materials, which should be taught to all construction workers, which include information on how to avoid being injured by construction vehicles or equipment. 



Highway work zones ensure that thousands of people across the country have jobs at any given time, but there is definitely an inherent danger to this work. This danger becomes inflated when the worker, drivers or construction employers don’t heed safety warnings related to the area and job itself. The types of injuries that road workers can sustain are nearly limitless, and this makes it imperative for them to observe proper safety measures. In a world where many drivers act in negligent ways, it’s sometimes necessary for road workers to handle their own safety.

Kelly Kovacic is a paralegal who wants to bring awareness to the safety hazards of construction work. However, not everyone who receives a Florida speeding ticket is in the wrong. For those who were falsely accused of speeding, you need to get professional help to fight for your rights. The Ticket Team Inc. has lawyers who can defend you and protect your driving record.

Thanks, Kelly, for this informative article.  As you mentioned, there should be proper safety training, and the correct personal safety equipment provided for each worker.  Drivers are warned that they are entering a work zone, and they should obey the law and respect the rights of others to be able to perform their jobs safely. pb