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

It is hard to believe that the hazard communication standard has been around for years and yet violations of this standard in our industry are in the 'top ten list' of citations issued by OSHA. As an employee you need to know what types of chemicals you are using and what hazards are associated with them. The purpose of the standard is to ensure that all chemicals are evaluated, and that all information concerning their hazards is transmitted to your employer and to you. This transmittal of information is to be accomplished by means of comprehensive hazard communication programs, which include labeling and other forms of warning, employee training, and material safety data sheets (MSDS). Employers must be sure that labels on incoming containers of hazardous chemicals are not removed or defaced. They are also required to maintain copies of all MSDS recei... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:09:58 AM

Haz Com is the short term for the HAZARD COMMUNICATION STANDARD. This standard was developed to ensure that the hazards of all chemicals produced or imported are evaluated, and that the information gathered about their hazards is transmitted to employers and employees. Neither workers nor employers are exempt from this standard. You may think that there are no hazardous chemicals on your job. What about gasoline, diesel fuel, oxygen, acetylene, curing compound, and even WD40? Any chemical container brought on site that has warning labels on it like hazardous, caution, danger, flammable, or corrosive is covered by the Standard. Think about the chemicals you use during your daily activities. Look in the tool trailer. Check your tool box. Check what's carried in the back of your job pick-up.... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:09:41 AM