Construction Safety Week

By Dave DerzabToolbox Talk

Construction Safety Week

National Construction Safety Week this year is May 2-6. This nationwide safety push for those who work in construction provides many good opportunities for learning and training. Ask your GC’s about participating in Safety Week.

Our job sites change every day and because of that, we need to work together in order to create a safe workplace. Every person is responsible for making sure that they and those they work with are safe and are able to make it home in one piece each day.

As part of this effort, many GC’s are hosting  training events. Some of them are in person, but many can be attended online. For example, Berg is running a training on fall protection in conjunction with Kitchell and Werner. In addition, T-shirts and hardhat stickers promoting Safety Week will be available.

 

This year, the focus is being placed on fall protection. Falls make up over one third of all construction deaths. Those with Berg frequently work at heights and should remember these important points:

  1. Fall protection is needed if the working surface is 6 feet or higher.
  2. Guardrails must remain intact and in place. If they need to be removed, barricades must be placed at least 6 feet from the leading edge. While in this area, all workers must be tied off with a harness and a yo-yo.
  3. Ladders need to be inspected before use and must be used in the manner that they were designed for. (Not leaning A-frames against walls) While using a ladder, it is important to always maintain 3 points of contact. Do not stand on top step or top of ladder. Do not straddle a ladder. Use extension ladders only at a 1-to-4 ratio.
  4. In order to use a scaffold, a worker must be trained in its appropriate use. Contact your union hall about this training. Scaffolding must be inspected before use. Wheeled Baker-Perry scaffolding may only be used with written permission from the safety director. Do not use ladders, steps, or blocks on top of scaffolding. Do not use incomplete scaffolding
  5. Stairways should be kept clear of material, tools, and trash. Use railings and do not run on stairs. If stairs are damaged or incomplete, notify your foreman.
  6. Floor holes (2” or greater) need to be covered and marked, or protected by guardrails.

Finally, OSHA has provided daily training materials that you may find useful at the following link: https://www.osha.gov/stop-falls-stand-down