Ladders.  Where would we be without them?  On the ground.  We use them nearly every day and all day long.  It would be tuff if not impossible to do our job with out them.  If you've been roofing for a while, climbing a ladder is like walking.  You don't have to think about it.  But you should.  You might carry tools or materials up with you and you shouldn't.  If you can't sling what you need over your shoulders, use a pail or bag fastened to a rope which goes up the ladder.  Then hoist the tools/materials up. When setting up a ladder, take a look around.  Are there power lines near the area, is the soil compact and stable, will it be near vehicles or equipment traffic, or in the kettle area. When ready to climb tak... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:11:36 AM

Plan the kettle location to keep it away from windows, exit doors, building air intakes, and ladders/stairs.  If air intakes need to be covered, contact the building maintenance department.  Locate the kettle in a low pedestrian traffic area and barricade the area if needed.  The surface for the kettle should be firm and level.  Avoid loose dirt, sand, or sloping surfaces.  Be sure to chock the wheels of the kettle and position it where the lid opens away from the building. Always use Personal Protective Equipment when operating the kettle.  Remember work boots with over the ankle leather uppers and heavy soles, long pant legs that come over the tops of your work boots and are cuffless, and long sleeves shirt that covers the cuffs of you glovers; cotton gloves are OK but leather is better and never rubber.  Protect y... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:11:21 AM

Job-built ladders provide an excellent way to reach unusual locations. They also accommodate high-traffic ladder use. Although the basic construction of a job-built ladder is fundamental, specific guidelines must be followed to ensure its safety and strength. Don't Skimp on Material Quality. All the lumber used must be finished on four sides (s4s), and free of sharp edges or splinters. All nails must be driven full length and flush. Depending on your location, various selections of wood species and associated grades can be used. As a rule-of-thumb, the lumber must be equal to, or better than, #1 Hem-Fir. Don't skimp on the ladder's quality. Your work is hazardous enough. There's no need to add a poorly built ladder to the list of hazards. Limitations. A singl... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:10:48 AM

PRACTICAL JOKERS AREN'T WELCOME ON THIS JOB Nor is anyone who encourages them. It’s not that we don't have a sense of humor. But we also have a sense of responsibility toward keeping our employees safe.   MOST PRACTICAL JOKES AREN'T FUNNY Take the guy who thought it would be hilarious to sneak up on a friend, give him a quick blast on the neck with an air hose, and watch his reaction. The reaction was quicker than expected. When the air hit the man, he jerked around instantly. The blast entered his ear, broke the drum and ruined his hearing.  NOT INNOCENT FUN... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:10:27 AM

Heat rash is mild discomfort and can be treated by changing clothes and using powder or medicated cream. Heat cramps are in muscle groups such as legs, back and in the abdomen.  Treat cramps by putting electrolytes back into your body with sports drinks or even eating snacks like pretzels or potato chips. Heat exhaustion is serious with signs like profuse sweating, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, nausea, intense headaches, and even ringing in the ears.  Treatment should be immediate and includes drinking plenty of water and resting in shade or air conditioning.  Heat stroke is severe and could result in death.  Signs and sy... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:10:14 AM