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

We use can use a warning line system for fall prevention if the roof has a slope of 4/12 or less, is wider than fifty feet and has parapet walls less than 39" high. The warning lines can be made of wire, rope, or chain and flagged every six feet.  The warning lines must be supported by stanchion posts that can withstand a tipping force of at least 16 pounds.  The height of the warning line from the roof surface must be between 34 and 39 inches.  And the tensile breaking strength of the warning line should be at least 500 lbs. The open edges around the roof work site should be guarded by warning lines.  These have to be set six feet from all edges when no mechanical equipment is being used.  When mechanical equipment is being operated, the warnin... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:21:47 AM

The proper treatment of a burn is determined by the seriousness or degree of the burn.  A first degree burn produces redness and swelling which you might get from a sunburn.  A second degree burn will cause blistering of the skin.   Third degree burns are the most severe and result in dark and charred skin. Medical attention should be sought immediately for a 2nd degree burn over a large area of the body or any 3rd degree burn.  It's important to keep the person calm and comfortable until the ambulance arrives.  Dilated pupils, pale completion, shallow breathing, clammy skin and a rapid or weak pulse could be signs of shock and the persons feet should be elevated.... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:21:28 AM

We can't discuss torch applied systems without first talking about propane safety.  Propane or LPG (liquefied Petroleum Gas) is a fuel gas that is compressed and stored in pressurized tanks.  The tanks or cylinders come in different sizes with the most common for our industry ranging  between 20 and 100 pound cylinders.  A small tank being used in cooler weather may frost.  Let it thaw naturally and never torch the cylinder to defrost it.  Propane cylinders should be kept upright and chained/secured in that position .  They should be positioned in areas away from equipment or vehicle traffic.  They should be located away from any heat activity so they don't over heat. Use care when lighting a torch and when handling a lit torch.  Check all connections and hoses for leaks before you start.  Never use a... » Read more

Roofing

Posted 03/24/15 10:21:13 AM