Excavators, dump trucks, and other mobile equipment play key roles on many construction sites. However, mobile equipment can pose a risk to nearby workers, especially when the operator cannot see them. By following the safe work practices listed below, you can help reduce the risk of injury when working with mobile equipment. Safe work practices Operators Ensure that workers are clear of the equipment before operating it. When operating mobile equipment, carry the load no higher than necessary to avoid limiting your vision. Avoid using cell phones while operating mobile equipment. Nearby workers Before starting work, ensure that you are aware of all mobile equipment operating in and around the site. Wear high visibility apparel when working with or near mobile equipment. Do not take shortcuts across areas where mobile equipment is working. Keep in eye contact with the operator when working near moving machinery or equipmen... » Read more

Road Construction

Posted 03/14/16 05:06:48 PM

Before excavation begins, locate and identify utility services such as electrical, gas, steam, water, and sewer in the area. Any danger to workers from these utility services must be eliminated or controlled. Pointed tools cannot be used to probe for underground gas and electrical services. If possible, blunt shovels should be used to expose the facility. Take caution especially if newer, sharper spade shovels are used. Trees, utility poles, rocks, or similar objects near the edge of an excavation must be removed or secured to prevent workers from being injured. Excavation work must be carried out in accordance with the written instructions of a professional engineer or professional geoscientist when The excavation is more than 6 m (20 ft.) deep, OR Support structures other than those specified in the regulation are used in the excavation, OR An improvement or structure adjacent to the excavation could endanger workers, OR The excavation is subject to vibration or hydrostatic (water) pressure A professiona... » Read more

Road Construction

Posted 03/14/16 04:59:49 PM

EXPERIENCE CAN BE THE WORST TEACHER Experience teaches us a lot about working around cranes. But often the lessons are costly. For example: A laborer carrying a bag of cement walked between a crawler crane and a building column. The crane swung round and fatally crushed him between the counterweight and the column. On another job, a workman was leaning on the crane frame, talking with one of his buddies. The load came in contact with a live power line and he was electrocuted.  Today, we'll discuss things we should and should not do when working around this equipment.   STAY OUT FROM UNDER... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:22:52 AM

The wheelbarrow has come a long way in construction work from the manually propelled wheelbarrow to the engine propelled wheelbarrow for moving material on the construction site. The proper use and maintenance of wheelbarrows can prevent many accidents. 1. Always place the load well forward, balanced and confined in size for safety. The load should clear safely through openings, aisles and roadways. The user should be able to see over and around the load to guide it safely. The load should be secured, or held steady, against shifting or falling. 2. When picking up a wheelbarrow, spare your back by giving your legs their fair share of the lifting. Bend the legs for lifting instead of bending the back. Spare your back and the wheelb... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:22:37 AM

WHY TALK ABOUT THE WEATHER? Actually, we have no control over rain, snow,  sleet, wind, lightning or sunshine. But we can control what happens on our job as a result of the elements. Some of the biggest problems on construction jobs are caused by wind and lightning. Wind probably causes the most accidents; lightning can be deadly.   WATCH OUT FOR WIND Don't  let the wind catch you off guard. I'm not just thinking of tornadoes or hurricanes, but of everyday winds and unexpected gusts. Wind just  loves to pick up anything it can an... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:22:01 AM