Saturday, January 25, 2014

Buried Utilities - On the Job Tool Box Talks

Download the full article - includes on the job poster.

There are often deadly hazards lurking underground on excavation sites. Let’s discuss how to avoid rupturing or breaking underground utilities such as electrical power cables and pipelines.

Before digging:
• Call electrical, gas and communications utilities at least 24 hours in advance.
• Look for gas lines. They should be marked with yellow paint or flags.
• Review marked out areas. They may not be exact.
• Dig by hand within 2 feet of mark-out.

When digging, look for:
• signs of previous digging
• changes in soil types
• asphalt patches or depressions
• concrete, plastic or gravel

If a line is hit, you must report it! If it’s a gas line, evacuate everyone, secure the area and call the fire department.

Topic provided by:
This information is provided by: The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR)


Saturday, January 18, 2014

Material Handling: Drywall

Download the full article - includes OTJ Safety Poster

Almost every construction project involves installation of drywall for interior walls. Workers who handle drywall sheets are at high risk of overexertion and fall injuries. The weight and bulkiness of drywall can worsen any bending, twisting, turning or lifting motions and cause serious injury.

Preventing Drywall Injuries
• For vertical hanging in commercial buildings, raise the sheet, shift grip to opposite sides of the sheet, rotate the sheet into a vertical position and secure to the wall.
• Use two workers to lift larger, thicker, and heavier sheets.
• Lift only one sheet at a time.
• Minimize the need to move the drywall sheets.
• Make sure that stored materials do not create any safety hazards.
• Use drywall lifting tools and devices to move sheets easier instead of carrying sheets by hand.
• Use a vertical drywall lift to make it easier to screw drywall sheets to the ceiling

Topic provided by:
This information is provided by: The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR)

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Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Electric Cord Safety - On the Job Tool Box Safety Talks

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Power tools are widely used on construction sites. Flexible extension cords are often necessary to provide electricity to the tool. Due to the very reasons they are used, (exposed, flexible, and unsecured) they are more susceptible to damage than fixed wiring.

Safe Handling and Inspection of Electrical Cords
• Inspect all extension cords daily for damage and missing grounding prongs.
• Protect extension cords from damage.
• Never use a metal outlet box as an extension cord.
• Never use Romex or non-metallic cable as extension cords.
• Avoid using staples and nails to hold extension cords in place.
• Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter(GFCI) to protect against any electrical fault.

Topic provided by:
This information is provided by: The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR)

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Sunday, January 5, 2014

Cold Weather - On the job Tool Box Talks

Download the full article and poster. 

This information is provided by: The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR)

Extended exposure to freezing or cold temperatures can result in health problems such as trench foot, frostbite and hypothermia. Danger signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue, and confused behavior.

Here is an Example
Ron works construction at a local site during the winter months. He was recently diagnosed as diabetic. One day he had left his work gloves at home, although he was wearing his winter boots. He also forgot to take his diabetes medication. Throughout the day he kept falling in the snow, and pretty soon his clothes were soaking wet. Shaking, wearing wet clothes, with no protection for his hands, he was forced to go home early.
1. What clothing should Ron have worn because he was working outside?
2. What should you do when working in cold weather in order to stay warm?

Preventing Injuries Caused by Cold Weather
• Encourage workers to wear proper clothing for cold, wet, and windy conditions. Layer clothing to adjust to changing temperatures. Wear a hat and gloves, in addition to underwear that will keep water away from the skin.
• Use the buddy system; work in pairs so that one worker can recognize danger signs.
• Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks) and avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas or hot chocolate) and alcohol.
• Remember, workers face increased risks when they take certain medications, are in poor physical condition, or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.