A common belief among employers. Even I have heard some OSHA inspectors from state programs, intimate that the fines pad their budgets, there is no truth to the rumor. State and Federal OSHA programs alike, pass the citations on to either the U.S. Treasury or the respective State Treasury coffers. That’s not to say that fines are not on the increase. Recently, Dr. David Michaels, the head of OSHA, circulated a memo, which basically is asking OSHA area office to triple or quadruple their average fine structure. (more…)
Overhead powerlines are an electrocution risk for anyone who works with or nearby cranes. Before beginning work on a site that has any powerlines, the electrical utility or site owner (if the lines are privately owned) should be known. In addition, if the work is within the safe approach distance (usually 20ft. to 10ft.) the utility/ owner should be notified of the date, time, and type of work involved. If any work is required within the 10ft. minimum approach distance, their permission should be requested to either de-energize and visibly ground the powerlines or to provide insulated barriers between the powerlines and the work. (more…)
OSHA requires that workers wear steel toe shoes when working on certain jobsites. Steel toe shoes have become a common piece of safety equipment in the workplace. These durable shoes help to protect the feet from injury on the jobsite. Many that wear steel toe shoes at work know how important it is to protect ones feet from injury. (more…)
Scaffolds can be some of the most complex, time-consuming, and ultimately dangerous tools to use on the job. Proper setup and use of scaffolds can be some of the most technical challenges for the worker since there are multitude of regulations, manufacturer’s and/or engineer’s requirements, and common sense that have to be utilized when erecting, altering, using, and dismantling scaffolds. This article will address selection of the best type of scaffold for your project. (more…)
When installing a roof there are many safety guidelines that should be followed by all workers involved. Installing a new roof on a house or building is a dangerous task, but with proper safety equipment and following proper safety procedures can lessen the chances of accidents. (more…)
Safety goggles are an important piece of safety equipment that helps to protect the eyes. This type of safety equipment is an essential part of equipment that should be worn on the job site and even during some recreational activities. Many of us even doing home improvement projects neglect to protect out eyes and forget how important safety goggles are until there is an accident. (more…)
Before beginning any type of construction project, one should be knowledgeable on basic construction safety. Not only does this help prevent minor accidents it can also save lives on the job site. Construction safety is one basic tool that all workers need to be equipped with on any job. (more…)
Workplace safety is an important part of any construction job. By following basic safety does not only help to prevent minor accidents, it can also save lives. Construction accidents can be avoided when employees are taught basic safety rules and the jobsite is kept safe. (more…)
Scaffolds can be some of the most complex, time-consuming, and ultimately dangerous tools to use on the job. Proper setup and use of scaffolds can be some of the most technical challenges for the worker since there are multitude of regulations, manufacturer’s and/or engineer’s requirements, and common sense that have to be utilized when erecting, altering, using, and dismantling scaffolds. This article will address some sectional/ frame scaffold issues. (more…)
There can be many hazards when working on a job site. Many builders realize the injuries that can occur when corners are cut trying to save money on a job site. There are many costs that can be reduced, but costs should never be cut when dealing with employee safety and safety equipment.
Hard hats are an essential piece of equipment that should always be worn on a building site. The hard hat helps to protect ones head from falling debris to bumping the head on objects on the job site. Without wearing one of these hats, can lead to many head injuries and even death for a person.
When back braces are not worn when lifting, can cause major spinal injuries. By wearing a back brace when bending or lifting helps keep the back from being strained. This piece of equipment when worn properly can help prevent many common back-related injuries that can occur when lifting and bending.
Protective eyewear can help reduce of injury or loss of and eye when worn properly. There are many hazards that can injure the eye on a job site. This can include flying debris to working with hazardous chemicals. Safety goggles or safety glasses are a great way to help protect eyes from injury when doing any type of construction work.
Costs on purchasing safety signs should never be cut. “Danger” and “Caution’ signs should always be placed where applicable on a job site. This will keep workers informed on where some of the most dangerous areas are and where certain precautions should be taken in these designated areas. By not using these signs on a construction site could result in many different types of injuries or even death.
A first aide kit is a must on a construction site. Without having this basic piece of equipment can have devastating effects when one has an injury. By having a first aide kit that is fully stocked at all times can sometimes be the difference between life and death for someone that is hurt on the job site. This allows one to apply first aide until the person receives medical attention.
Following certain rules for safety and using proper safety equipment on a job site, not only saves money in the long run, but can also save lives. By not cutting corners on safety will greatly reduce hazards on the job site.
