osha 30-hour construction week 1 workbook

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Division of Workers’ Compensation

[email protected] | tdi.texas.gov/wc/safety | 800-687-7080

OSHA 30-Hour Construction Week 1 Workbook

Length of topics and break schedule may vary.

TIME Length of Topic TOPIC Pages

Da

y O

ne

3

H 4

5 M

8:00 am – 9:30 am 1 Hour 30 Min Introduction to OSHA 2-10

9:30 am – 10:00 am 30 Minutes Managing Safety and Health 11-18

10:00 am – 10:15 am Break - 15 minutes

10:15 am – 12:00 pm 1 Hour 45 Min Managing Safety and Health 11-18

12:00 pm – 12:30 pm Testing / Administrative

Da

y T

wo

3

H 4

5 M

8:00 am – 10:00 am 2 Hours Health Hazards in Construction 19-27


10:15 am – 11:00 pm 45 Minutes Fire Protection and Prevention 28

11:00 am – 12:00 pm 1 Hour Construction Safety Inspections 29-32


Da

y T

hre

e

3 H

45

M

8:00 am – 10:00 am 2 Hours Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment

33-34


10:15 am – 12:00 pm 1 Hour 45 Min Focus Four Hazards: Electrocution 35-39


Da

y F

ou

r 3

H 4

5 M

8:00 am – 8:45 am 45 Minutes Tools – Hand and Power 40-41

8:45 am – 10:00 am 1 Hour 15 Min Focus Four Hazards: Struck-By 42-44

10:00 am – 10:15 am Break – 15 minutes

10:15 am – 12:00 pm 1 Hour 45 Min Materials Handling, Storage,

Use and Disposal 45-48


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Introduction to OSHA

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Employers Must Provide and Pay for PPE

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers protect you from workplace hazards that can cause serious injury or illness. Controlling a hazard at its source is the best way to protect workers. However, when engineering, work practice and administrative controls are not feasible or do not provide sufficient protection, employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to you and ensure its use. PPE is equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples include items such as gloves, foot and eye protection, protective hearing protection (earplugs, muffs), hard hats and respirators.

Employer Obligations: Workers Should:

✓ Performing a “hazard assessment” of the workplace to identify and control physical and health hazards.

✓ Identifying and providing appropriate PPE for employees.

✓ Training employees in the use and care of the PPE.

✓ Maintaining PPE, including replacing worn or damaged PPE.

✓ Periodically reviewing, updating and evaluating the effectiveness of the PPE program.

✓ Properly wear PPE.

✓ Attend training sessions on PPE.

✓ Care for, clean and maintain PPE.

✓ Inform a supervisor of the need to repair or replace PPE.

Employers Must Pay for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

On May 15, 2008, a new OSHA rule about employer payment for PPE went into effect. With few exceptions, OSHA now requires employers to pay for personal protective equipment used to comply with OSHA standards. The final rule does not create new requirements regarding what PPE employers must provide. The standard makes clear that employers cannot require workers to provide their own PPE and the worker’s use of PPE they already own must be completely voluntary. Even when a worker provides his or her own PPE, the employer must ensure that the equipment is adequate to protect the worker from hazards at the workplace.

Examples of PPE that Employers Must Pay for Include:

• Metatarsal foot protection

• Rubber boots with steel toes

• Non-prescription eye protection

• Prescription eyewear inserts/lenses for full face respirators

• Goggles and face shields

• Firefighting PPE (helmet, gloves, boots proximity suits, full gear)

• Hard hats

• Hearing protection

• Welding PPE

April 2017 A-4

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Employers Must Provide and Pay for PPE

Payment Exceptions under the OSHA Rule

Employers are not required to pay for some PPE in certain circumstances:

• Non-specialty safety-toe protective footwear (including steel-toe shoes and boots) and non- specialty prescription safety eyewear provided that the employer permits such items to be worn off the job site. (OSHA based this decision on the fact that this type of equipment is very personal, is often used outside the workplace, and that it is taken by workers from jobsite to jobsite and employer to employer.)

• Everyday clothing, such as long-sleeve shirts, long pants, street shoes, and normal work boots.

• Ordinary clothing, skin creams, or other items, used solely for protection from weather, such as winter coats, jackets, gloves, parkas, rubber boots, hats, raincoats, ordinary sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Items such as hair nets and gloves worn by food workers for consumer safety. • Lifting belts because their value in protecting the back is questionable.

• When the employee has lost or intentionally damaged the PPE and it must be replaced.

OSHA Standards that Apply

OSHA General Industry PPE Standards

• 1910.132: General Requirements and payment

• 1910.133: Eye and face protection

• 1910.134: Respiratory protection

• 1910.135: Head protection

• 1910.136: Foot protection

• 1910.137: Electrical protective devices

• 1910.138: Hand protection

OSHA Construction PPE Standards

• 1926.28: Personal protective equipment

• 1926.95: Criteria for personal protective equipment

• 1926.96: Occupational foot protection

• 1926.100: Head protection

• 1926.101: Hearing protection

• 1926.102: Eye and face protection

• 1926.103: Respiratory protection There are also PPE requirements in shipyards and marine terminals and many standards on specific hazards, such as 1910.1030: Bloodborne pathogens and 1910.146: Permit-required confined spaces. OSHA standards are online at www.osha.gov. Sources:

• Employers Must Provide and Pay for PPE, New Jersey Work Environment Council (WEC) Fact Sheet

• OSHA Standards, 1910.132(h) and 1926.95(d) • Employer Payment for Personal Protective Equipment Final Rule, Federal Register:

November 15, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 220)

April 2017 A-4

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Managing Safety and Health

Health and Safety Policy Statement

PEC will strive to provide a safe work environment for all of its employees, subcontractors, and clients. Safe working conditions are achieved through efficient communication, thorough hazards analysis and continuous training. In addition, PEC will adhere to all regulatory requirements (state, federal, and local), and where these regulations are insufficient, will work to maintain best-industry practices. PEC believes that all injuries are preventable; therefore, we will continually strive to prevent injuries from occurring. Management also recognizes that every employee shares in the responsibility for safety on the job; consequently, safe work practices and timely reporting of incidents and potential accidents (i.e., near misses and unsafe conditions) are a condition of employment. Everyone is encouraged to provide suggestions and establish high personal goals for eliminating accidents and injuries. Participation in the meetings to discuss the safety aspects of each assignment is mandatory. If the source of a hazard cannot be eliminated, the use of special procedures, safety devices, or protective equipment and clothing must be utilized to reduce the exposure potential; if these measures cannot sufficiently reduce the potential for harm, then the job will not be performed. PEC will take a proactive approach to conducting the safety and health program. Incidents and near misses will be investigated, and the pertinent information that is uncovered during the investigation will be distributed or discussed during the following safety meeting. Please refer to the Accident Investigation section for further detail.

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Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)

The purpose of the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) is to prevent accidents by identifying existing and potential hazards, and taking actions to eliminate, or reduce them to an acceptable level before a job begins.

The goal is to:

1. Identify the potential hazards 2. Identify appropriate methods to reduce or eliminate the hazards 3. Fulfill requirements of the Customer 4. PPE Hazard Assessment

JHAs must be completed before each job (routine or beyond routine) is begun. Furthermore, if the major work scope changes, another JHA will be completed. Every employee (PEC or client) will participate in the completion of the JHA. When the client does not provide a JHA form to complete, PEC will make theirs available and request that the client representative(s) participate. Work permits may accompany the JHA. Examples of these include Hot Work Permits, Confined Space Entry, and Lockout/Tagout. Who should fill out a JHA?

1. Job Foreman should lead JHA team 2. Truck Pusher 3. Possible team members 4. Employees experienced in performance of the job

5. Technical experts (mechanics, engineers, etc.) 6. Customer representatives 7. Personnel with no experience in performing the job (often bring unique insight)

Blank JHA forms are available in the office. PEC employees will be trained on JHA procedures during New Hire Orientation.

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Table of Contents

Page

1. Safety and Health Policy Statement 1

2. Health and Safety Training 2

3. General Safety and Health Provision Rules 3

4. Subcontactor Guidelines and Procedures 7

5. Recordkeeping 11

6. Incident Procedures/Emergency Response 15

7. Emerency Action Plan 23

8. Accident/Incident Reporting and Investigation 24

9. Restricted Duty/Case Management 26

10. Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) 31

11. Environmental Responsibiliteis and Training 32

12. Short Term/Inexperienced Worker 34

13. Drug/Alcohol/Weapons (Substance Abuse Program) 36

14. Safety Standards

a. Aerial Lifts 39

b. Asbestos Program 44

c. Benzene Exposure 50

d. Bloodborne Pathogens 53

e. Confined Space 60

f. Disciplinary Program 71

g. Electrical Safety: Qualified/Non-Qualified 74

h. Fall Protection 78

i. Fire Protection/Extinguishers 86

j. First Aid/CPR 89

k. Forklift & Industrial Trucks 98

l. General Safety 102

m. Grounding Conductor Program (GFCI) 105

n. Hand & Power Tools 108

o. Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment 110

p. HAZCOM 112

q. Heavy Metals (Lead, Cadmium, Hexavalent Chromium) 115

r. Housekeeping & General Waste Management 121

s. Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) 123

t. Ladder Safety 127

u. Lifting/Mobile Equip. & Materials Handling 129

v. Lockout/Tagout 140

w. Motor Vehicle Safety 146

x. Noise Exposure 149

y. NORM 153

z. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy 156

aa. Process Safety Management (PSM) 161

bb. Respiratory Protection 164

cc. Scaffold Safety 181

dd. Stop Work Authority 186

ee. Trenching, Shoring and Excavations 189

ff. Welding, Cutting & Hot Work 197

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Health and Safety Training Statement

Training employees is a means for taking a proactive approach to safety in the workplace. The goal is to train

employees on issues that may prevent or eliminate incidents from occurring. When employees take this

knowledge and couple it with safety behaviors, the result is a safe work environment.

PEC-wide safety training will be held on a regular basis. While Job Hazard Analyses are considered jobsite

hazard assessments, they are also considered training. JHAs are conducted daily or as the tasks change. A

training schedule will be developed to comply with state and federal regulations. Listed below are some

examples of subjects that will be trained upon annually:

• Hazard Communication

• Personal Protective Equipment

• Incipient Fire Safety; Protection and Prevention

• Bloodborne Pathogens

• First Aid/CPR

• Proper Lifting Techniques/Manual Lifting

• Electrical Safety

• Office Safety

• Continuing Driving Safety Awareness Classes and Vehicle Safety

• Emergency Procedures to include Hazardous Materials

• Substance Abuse

• Lockout/Tagout

• Fall protection

• Hazardous Materials

• Respiratory Protection

• Hydrogen Sulfide

• Hearing Conservation

As the need arises, additional topics will be added to the list. In addition, job-specific training will be provided

whenever applicable.

If a property incident, injury or near-miss occurs on a company job site, then the root cause or determining

factor in the incident will be addressed at the next safety meeting, or sooner if necessary.

Training classes shall be long enough to ensure employee comprehension. In addition, short quizzes will be

given periodically to test employees’ retention of the material.

Safety Training Attendance Is Mandatory!

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General Safety & Health Provision Rules

Note: Many of the topics addressed briefly in this section are discussed in more depth within the manual.

These rules apply to all PEC employees, including managers, supervisors, visitors, subcontractors, and client

personnel.

1. Each employee is required to adhere to the safety rules listed in this manual in order to fulfill their

responsibility to the safety program. This means that no one is to work in an unsafe situation or

condition, and if an unsafe situation or condition exists, then this must be reported and corrected

immediately. If this includes shutting the job down, then shutting the job down is permissible.

2. All work-related injuries or illnesses must be reported immediately. This includes first aid (minor injury)

incidents. “Immediately” is defined as within 15 minutes of the incident.

3. Any vehicle- and/or equipment-related incident must be reported immediately.

4. Any injury that occurred off the job and could result in lost work time must be reported to a supervisor

as soon as possible, and no later than two hours prior to the next work shift.

5. All near-misses must be reported to the supervisor before the end of the shift in which they occurred;

near-misses will be documented on a Near Miss report. Near-misses will be discussed with all

employees during the next safety meeting.

6. Attempts shall always be made to eliminate possibilities of environmental damage. Releases and spills

shall be reported immediately and remediate according to the SDS recommendations. All wastes shall

be disposed of properly in approved waste disposal sites/reclamation centers.

7. PEC employees will follow all client rules and policy recommendations. When there is an absence of

these rules, PEC will set the high safety standard and inform management of this lack of safety

initiatives.

8. Horseplay or fighting is not permitted at any location.

9. All persons operating vehicles for PEC in any capacity will wear seat belts.

10. Never run on the job unless there is an emergency.

11. Equipment, materials, and work areas shall be maintained in such a fashion as to minimize hazards. In

other words, maintain clean work areas and equipment.

12. Avoid skin contact with all chemicals, beware of other means of bodily entry, and take the proper

precautions.

13. The proper personal protective equipment shall be worn at all times. PEC requires the use of PPE.

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14. The illegal use, possession, transportation, or sale of drugs, alcoholic beverages, firearms, deadly

weapons, or explosives while on company or client property is prohibited. The use of prescribed drugs

or any over-the-counter drug that might impair your ability to work safely must be reported to your

supervisor before work.

15. Only qualified employees are allowed to operate equipment. The employer shall permit only qualified

personnel by training or experience to operate company equipment and machinery.

16. Riding in the bed of trucks or in other non-approved areas is prohibited. “Non-approved areas” include

areas that are not protected by a seatbelt.

17. Use the three-point contact procedure when getting on or off of any equipment. Do not jump off

equipment unless following emergency evacuation procedures involved with power line strikes.

18. Do not walk on pipe or any other non-approved walking/working surface.

19. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. Smokers are not allowed to take smoking materials into

non-designated areas.

20. Whenever a safety device is removed from service and/or defeated, the appropriate supervisor shall be

notified, the device tagged, and the action properly documented. If equipment is still operating, restrict

entry and monitor continuously. Document all actions.

21. No work may be started in any area or on any equipment without the knowledge and consent of the

appropriate supervisor/client representative. Never operate equipment that you are not trained, certified

and authorized to operate.

22. Job Hazard Analyses are to be conducted before each day’s tasks begin or as major work scope

changes. All persons affected by the work will attend the JHA meetings. If workers show up after the

meeting has been conducted, then he must be briefed as to the JHA findings and the Supervisor is

responsible for this safety briefing.

23. Frequent inspections or analysis’ of the work environment involves a variety of work site examinations

by competent persons in order to identify existing hazards and conditions and operations in which

changes might occur to create new hazards.

24. Operation of equipment having a, “DANGER! DO NOT OPERATE.” tag is prohibited.

25. All energy will be controlled through appropriate Lockout/Tagout procedures.

26. Do not attempt to do a job alone that takes at least two people to do correctly. The Supervisor will

periodically check on persons working alone. All persons working in remote areas must have a form of

communication to summon emergency services if needed.

27. Finger rings, loose clothing, unsecured long hair, wristwatches, and other loose accessories should not

be worn when within arm’s reach of any unguarded operating machinery or electrical equipment

28. Use only proper tools and equipment maintained in good working condition.

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29. Gasoline must not be used for any purpose other than motor fuel. No employee will siphon gas by

mouth, pour into the fuel tank of an engine that is running, or use as a cleaning solvent. Gasoline will be

transported in approved, metal containers.

30. Use proper lifting techniques when lifting or carrying objects. Use legs to lift, keep load close to body,

keep feet shoulder-width apart, and ask for assistance to lift heavy objects are a few reminders in

proper lifting.

31. Erect barricades around hazardous work areas such as holes in decking, trenches, overhead

hazardous work, open unattended vessels, or hazardous storage.

32. Fall protection shall be worn when working at heights greater than 6 feet.

33. Pay close attention to slip, trip and fall hazards and eliminate those hazards immediately.

34. If a normal procedure must be changed to accommodate the work situation, contact client and PEC

management before this change is made.

35. All work areas will be equipped with properly working fire extinguishers.

36. Visitors must follow all applicable safety rules as well as be authorized to be in any area.

37. Do not introduce any flame, spark, or sufficient heat (to include non-intrinsically safe equipment) into

areas that have a potential for flammable materials/atmospheres. Follow Hot Work Procedures.

38. Follow Defensive Driving techniques when operating motor vehicles. Follow all applicable local, state

and federal transportation laws.

39. Do not enter confined spaces unless proper procedures have been followed.

40. All jobsites will have first aid and eye wash equipment readily available and these supplies shall be in

good condition.

41. Communication in all aspects is highly important. If you do not understand any directive or procedure,

say so. Relay all occurrences that have an effect on safety to supervisors whether you think the

occurrence is important or not. Always adhere to the highest safety standards.

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Health Hazards in Construction

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Fire Protection and Prevention General Requirements OSHA 1926.24 states that the employer shall be responsible for the development and maintenance of

effective fire prevention and fire protection programs.

OSHA 1926.25(a) states that in part that form and scrap lumber shall be kept cleared from work areas,

passageways and stairs, in and around buildings and other structures. OSHA 1926.25(b) states that

combustible scrap and debris shall be removed at regular intervals.

Storage of Flammable Liquids

• Flammable liquids shall not be stored in areas used for exits, stairways, or normally used for the safe

passage of people.

• Fuel cans need to be kept at least ten feet away from the building shell. Use cans that conform to a

national testing standard. Older cans with vents and open spouts should be removed.

Ignition Sources

• Smoking shall be prohibited at or in the vicinity of operations which constitute a fire hazard and shall

be conspicuously posted: “No Smoking or Open Flame.”

• Welding, cutting and burning have caused many construction fires. Have a hot work permit system in

place, require fire protection devices to be located at hot work sites, and require firewatch for at

least 30 minutes after hot work is complete.

• Monitor the use of portable heaters. Be sure they have guards and locate them at a distance from

combustible objects.

• Work lamps generate enough heat to start fires. Be sure they have guards and locate them at a

distance from combustible objects.

• Internal combustion engine powered equipment shall be so located that the exhausts are well away

from combustible materials.

• When the exhausts are piped to outside the building under construction, a clearance of at least 6

inches shall be maintained between such piping and combustible material.

Training Requirements

Employees should be able to:

• The four elements of fire:

o Fuel - something which will burn

o Heat - enough to make the fuel burn

o Oxygen - readily available in the air

o Uninhibited chain reaction - fire is a complex

chemical reaction.

• The five types of fires

• Four principal types of fire extinguishers

• How to use an ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher using the PASS system.

Education can consist of any combination of lectures, demonstrations or videos.

Training includes the above but also includes hands-on use of an extinguisher, with or without a live fire.

Fire extinguisher videos are readily available from multiple sources, including the Internet. If you need

assistance with training, try your fire equipment company, or your the local fire department.

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Construction Safety Inspections General Requirements Section 1926.20(b)(2) requires frequent and regular inspections of the job sites, materials, and equipment to be made by competent persons designated by the employers. The entire construction site is the responsibility of the general contractor unless there is contract language to the contrary. Subcontractors should inspect their own work areas. Workplace Posters

• OSHA • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) • Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) • Polygraph Protection Act

• Minimum Wage

• Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act (USERRA)

• Texas Payday Law

• Texas Workers’ Compensation Status Questions

1. How do we correct the problem as quickly as possible? 2. How do we document the problem? 3. Is the problem happening anywhere else on the construction site? 4. What steps need to be taken to keep the problem from happening again?

Helpful Publications

https://www.osha.gov/safeandsound/docs/S

HP_Safety-Walk-Arounds-for-Managers.pdf

https://www.osha.gov/safeandsound/docs/SH

P_Safety-Walk-Arounds-for-Safety-Officers.pdf

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Construction Inspection Checklist

Jobsite Address: __________________________ Superintendent: ______________________

Date/Time:______________________ Inspector(s) :____________________________________

Yes No N/A Subcontractor Involved General Safety Administration

1. Posters and safety signs/warnings up?

2. Safety meetings held periodically and documented?

3. Do all workers on site have all required training?

4. First aid kit available and adequately stocked?

5. Are one or more qualified first aiders available?

6. Accident reporting procedure established?

7. Are emergency telephone numbers posted?

8. Is a site emergency action plan in place?

Housekeeping and Sanitation

1. General neatness of work area(s)?

2. Sanitary facilities adequate and clean?

3. Adequate potable water supply? Adequate drinking cups?

4. Scrap lumber, other debris removed?

5. Are protruding nails hammered out or hammered flat?

6. Are floors, especially walkways, kept clear of trip hazards?

7. Are floor holes covered or otherwise guarded?

8. Are anchor bolts and protruding rebar guarded against

impalement?

Fire Prevention/Protection

1. Adequate number and type of fire extinguishers available?

(one per 3,000 square feet of building)

2. Are extinguisher inspections performed and recorded?

3. Are flammable liquids properly stored?

4. “No smoking” signs posted and enforced?

5. Are hot work procedures in place for cutting, welding and

burning?

6. Do these include firewatchers with extinguishers in place for

30 minutes after the hot work has been completed?

Chemical and Compressed Gas Management

1. Are chemicals in appropriate, labeled containers?

2. Are Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals readily available?

3. Does the site have one or more Master Chemical Lists?

4. Are stored compressed gas cylinders upright and secured?

5. Do stored cylinders have valve caps firmly in place?

6. Are stored fuel gases and oxygen separated by 20 feet or a

thirty-minute fire barrier?

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Electrical

1. Is temporary power run through GCFIs?

2. Are electrical tools grounded or double-insulated?

3. Are electrical boxes equipped with required covers?

4. Are unused openings in electrical boxes blanked off?

5. Are missing circuit breakers in energized electrical

boxes blanked off with hard blanks?

Personal Protective Equipment

1. Are employees issued PPE where needed?

2. Is PPE being inspected and used?

3. Employees trained in the use of PPE?

4. Adequate fall protection provided? Being used?

5. 100% safety glasses/goggles/face shields?

6. Are clear eye protectors in use for indoor work?

7. Hearing protection where needed?

8. Respirators and dust masks?

9. If respirators are required, have users gone through

medical surveillance?

10. Are hard hats in use below overhead work?

11. Is hand and foot protection adequate??

Hand and Power Tools

1. Are guards in place and used correctly?

2. Damaged or malfunctioning tools tagged out until

repaired or replaced?

3. Are cords and plugs included in electrical inspection?

Ladders

1. Ladders inspected and in good condition?

2. Do ladders have legible load limits posted?

3. Do side rails extend 36” above top of landing?

4. Are ladders being used properly?

Self-Propelled Equipment (forklifts, loaders, tractors, scissors lifts, boom lifts, sweepers, and ditchers)

1. Are operators all authorized by their employers?

(check licenses)

2. Has equipment been inspected in writing?

3. Where provided, are seat belts worn?

4. Is equipment operated correctly?

5. Are forklifts parked with the forks flat on the ground,

the engine turned off and the parking brake set?

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Scaffolding

1. Erected and inspected daily by competent person?

2. Base plates on all vertical posts? Mudsills in use on all

surfaces other than concrete?

3. Is decking complete? Do deck planks overlap end

rails by 6 to 12 inches?

4. Is fall protection in place (X-braces, rails, and chains)?

5. Do deck planks deflect more than two inches in ten

feet?

6. Is scaffolding in good condition, plumb and upright?

Trenching and Excavation

1. Are trenches more than five feet deep protected by

trench shields, trench shores, sloping or benching?

2. Are trenches more than four feet deep equipped with

ladders or other means of egress?

3. Is protection for trenches between 5 and 20 feet deep

installed under the supervision of a competent person?

4. Does the competent person inspect the trench at least

once a day?

5. Are excavated spoils kept at least two feet from the

trench?

6. Are trenches and excavations barricaded to keep

vehicles and people from falling into them? Comments:

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Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment

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Focus Four Hazards: Electrocution What is an electrocution hazard? Electrocution results when a person is exposed to a lethal amount of electrical energy. An electrical hazard can be defined as a serious workplace hazard that exposes workers to the following:

• Burns: A burn is the most common shock-related injury. Burns from electricity are one of three types: Electrical, Arc/Flash or Thermal Contact.

• Electrocution: Electrocution is fatal; it means to kill with electricity. Electrocution results when a human is exposed to a lethal amount of electrical energy

• Shock: Shock results when the body becomes part of the electrical circuit; current enters the body at one point and leaves at another. Electrical shock is defined as a reflex response to the passage of electric current through the body.

• Arc Flash/Arc Blast: An arc flash is the sudden release of electrical energy through the air when a high-voltage gap exists and there is a breakdown between conductors. An arc flash gives off thermal radiation (heat) and bright, intense light that can cause burns. Temperatures have been recorded as high as 35,000 °F. High-voltage arcs can also produce considerable pressure waves by rapidly heating the air and creating a blast.

• Fire: Most electrical distribution fires result from problems with "fixed wiring" such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring. Problems with cords (such as extension and appliance cords), plugs, receptacles, and switches also cause electrical fires.

• Explosions: An explosion can occur when electricity ignites an explosive mixture of material in the air. What are the major types of electrocution hazards in construction?

A. Contact with overhead power lines Overhead and buried power lines are especially hazardous because they carry extremely high voltage. Fatalities are possible as electrocution is the main risk; however, burns and falls from elevations are also hazards that workers are exposed to while working in the vicinity of high voltage power lines. Workers may not realize that cranes are not the only equipment that reaches overhead power lines. Working on a ladder or in a man-basket suspended under or near power lines also poses a risk of electrocution.

B. Contact with energized sources (e.g., live parts, damaged or bare wires, defective equipment or tools)

The major hazards regarding contact with energized sources are electrical shock and burns. Electrical shock occurs when the body becomes part of the electric circuit, either when an individual comes in contact with both wires of an electrical circuit, one wire of an energized circuit and the ground, or a metallic part that has become energized by contact with an electrical conductor. The severity and effects of an electrical shock depend on a number of factors, such as the pathway through the body, the amount of current, the length of time of the exposure, and whether the skin is wet or dry.

C. Improper use of extension and flexible cords The normal wear and tear on extension and flexible cords can loosen or expose wires, creating a hazardous condition. Cords that are not 3-wire type, not designed for hard-usage, or that have been modified, increase the risk of contacting electrical current.

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What is my employer required to do to protect workers from electrocutions? A. Ensure overhead power line safety

There are three major ways employers should control power line hazards: 1. Maintaining a safe distance from lines; 2. Having the power company de-energize and ground the power line(s). Have a power company

representative at the site; and 3. Having the power company install insulated sleeves (also known as “eels”) over power lines.

Voltage (nominal, kV, alternating current) Minimum clearance distance (feet)

Up to 50 10

Over 50 to 200 15

Over 200 to 350 20

Over 350 to 500 25

Over 500 to 750 35

Over 750 to 1000 45

Over 1000 (As established by the power line owner/operator or registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to

electrical power transmission and distribution)

B. Isolate electrical parts

Electrical parts, conductors entering boxes, cabinets, or fittings shall be protected from abrasion, and openings through which conductors enter and shall be effectively closed. Unused openings in cabinets, boxes, and fittings shall also be effectively closed.

C. Supply ground-fault circuit Interrupters (GFCI) OSHA ground-fault protection rules and regulations have been determined necessary and appropriate for worker safety and health. Therefore, it is the employer's responsibility to provide either:

• ground-fault circuit interrupters on construction sites for receptacle outlets in use and not part of the permanent wiring of the building or structure; or

• a scheduled and recorded assured equipment grounding conductor program on construction sites, covering all cord sets, receptacles which are not part of the permanent wiring of the building or structure, and equipment connected by cord and plug which are available for use or used by workers.

D. Ensure proper grounding The assured equipment grounding conductor program covers all cord sets, receptacles which are not a part of the permanent wiring of the building or structure, and equipment connected by cord and plug which are available for use or used by employees. OSHA requires that a written description of the employer's assured equipment grounding conductor program, including the specific procedures adopted, be kept at the jobsite. This program should outline the employer's specific procedures for the required equipment inspections, tests, and test schedule.

E. Ensure power tools are maintained in a safe condition

The employer needs to ensure that all power tools and equipment are maintained in a safe condition to:

• Ground power supply systems, electrical circuits, and electrical equipment

• Frequently inspect electrical systems to ensure path to ground is continuous

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• Ensure workers understand to inspect electrical equipment prior to use

• Ensure ground prongs are not removed from tools or extension cords

• Ground exposed metal parts of equipment

F. Ensure proper guarding

• Guarding involves locating or enclosing electrical equipment to ensure workers do not accidentally come into contact with its live parts

• Effective guarding requires equipment with exposed parts operating at 50 volts or more to be placed where they are accessible only to authorized people qualified to work with/on the equipment

• Recommended locations are a room, vault, or similar enclosure; a balcony, gallery, or elevated platform; or a site elevated 8 feet or more above the floor. Sturdy, permanent screens can also serve as effective guards

G. Provide training

Workers need be trained in and familiar with the safety-related work practices that pertain to their respective job assignments.

H. Enforce a LOTO safety-related work practices

• Controls that are to be deactivated during the course of work on energized or de-energized equipment or circuits shall be locked out, tagged or both

• Equipment or circuits that are deenergized shall be rendered inoperative and post tags attached at all points where such equipment or circuits can be energized

• Tags shall be placed to plainly identify the equipment or circuits being worked on

• While any worker is exposed to contact with parts of fixed electric equipment or circuits which have been de-energized, the circuits energizing the parts shall be locked out, tagged out or both

Ensure Proper Use of Flexible Cords

The OSHA construction standard requires flexible

cords to be rated for hard or extra-hard usage. These

ratings are derived from the National Electrical Code

and are required to be indelibly marked

approximately every foot along the length of the cord.

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Tools – Hand and Power General Requirements The employer is responsible for the safe condition of tools and equipment used by employees. Employers

shall not issue or permit the use of unsafe hand tools. Employees should be trained in the proper use and

handling of tools and equipment.

Employees who use hand and power tools and are exposed to the hazards of falling, flying, abrasive, and

splashing objects, or to harmful dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, or gases must be provided with the appropriate

personal protective equipment. All electrical connections for these tools must be suitable for the type of

tool and the working conditions (wet, dusty, flammable vapors). When a temporary power source is used for

construction a ground-fault circuit interrupter should be used.

Employees should be trained in the proper use of all tools. Workers should be able to recognize the

hazards associated with the different types of tools and the safety precautions necessary.

Five basic safety rules can help prevent hazards associated with the use of hand and power tools:

• Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.

• Use the right tool for the job.

• Examine each tool for damage before use and do not use damaged tools.

• Operate tools according to the manufacturers’ instructions.

• Provide and use properly the right personal protective equipment.

Employees and employers should work together to establish safe working procedures. If a hazardous

situation is encountered, it should be brought immediately to the attention of the proper individual for

hazard abatement.

Guarding Techniques

• Guard exposed moving parts of power tools.

• Guard belts, gears, shafts, pulleys, sprockets, spindles, flywheels, chains, or other moving parts.

• Never remove a guard when a tool is in use.

• Guard the point of operation, in-running nip points, and rotating parts.

• Guard the operator and others from flying chips and sparks.

• Appropriate guards must be in place to prevent operator from coming in contact with saw blades.

• Guard an abrasive wheel so that the minimal amount of the wheel is exposed, and ensure the guard

is properly aligned with the wheel.

The Dangers of Power Tools

Appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety goggles and gloves must be worn to protect

against hazards that may be encountered while using hand tools.

Workplace floors shall be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent accidental slips with or around

dangerous hand tools.

To protect the user from shock and burns, electric tools must have a three-wire cord with a ground and be

plugged into a grounded receptacle, be double insulated, or be powered by a low-voltage isolation

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transformer. Three-wire cords contain two current-carrying conductors and a grounding conductor. Any

time an adapter is used to accommodate a two-hole receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a

known ground. The third prong must never be removed from the plug.

Power tools must be fitted with guards and safety switches; they are extremely hazardous when used

improperly. The types of power tools are determined by their power source: electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel,

hydraulic, and powder-actuated.

To prevent hazards associated with the use of power tools, workers should observe the following general

precautions:

• Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.

• Never yank the cord or the hose to disconnect it from the receptacle.

• Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.

• Disconnect tools when not using them, before servicing and cleaning them, and when changing

accessories such as blades, bits, and cutters.

• Keep all people not involved with the work at a safe distance from the work area.

• Secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.

• Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in tool.

• Maintain tools with care; keep them sharp and clean for best performance.

• Follow instructions in the user’s manual for lubricating and changing accessories.

• Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance when operating power tools.

• Wear proper apparel for the task. Loose clothing, ties, or jewelry can become caught in moving

parts.

• Remove all damaged portable electric tools from use and tag them: “Do Not Use.”

Powder-Actuated Tool Precautions

• Do not load tools until just prior to use.

• Never point the tool (loaded or empty) at any employee.

• Keep hands clear of the open barrel end.

• Never leave loaded tools unattended.

• Do not drive fasteners into very hard or brittle materials; and avoid driving into easily penetrated

materials unless they are backed by an impenetrable backing.

• Do not drive fastener into a spalled area.

• Do not use tools in an explosive or flammable atmosphere.

• Use manufacturer-recommended correct shield, guard, or attachment on tools.

• Store tool unloaded and in a locked box.

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Focus Four Hazards: Struck-By What is a struck-by hazard? Struck-by injuries are produced by forcible contact or impact between the injured person and an object or piece of equipment. Having said that, it is important to point out that in construction, struck-by hazards can resemble caught–in or –between hazards. There is a distinction which is best explained by looking at the key factor in making a determination between a Caught event and a Struck event, ask: Was it the impact of the object alone that caused the injury? When the impact alone creates the injury, the event is considered as Struck. On the other hand, when the injury is created more as a result of crushing injuries between objects, the event is considered as Caught. What are the major types of struck-by hazards in construction?

A. Struck-by flying object • Flying object hazard exists when something has been thrown, hurled, or is being propelled

across space. It can include instances when a piece of material separates from a tool, machine or other equipment, striking a worker, resulting in injuries or fatality.

B. Struck-by falling object

• When the source of injury is falling from an elevation to a lower level, including instances where the injured person is crushed, pinned, or caught under a falling object, other than collapsing material or structures, resulting from being struck by a falling object or equipment.

C. Struck-by swinging object

• When materials are mechanically lifted, they have the potential to swing and strike workers. As the load is lifted, the materials may swing, twist or turn. This movement can catch workers by surprise and they could be hit by the swinging load. Windy conditions are especially hazardous because the load will swing more. Depending on where the worker is standing and the force behind the load, the worker may fall to another level after being struck and sustain even greater injuries. In addition to

43

swinging, loads can slip from their riggings and strike workers. Loads must be rigged properly to prevent slippage.

D. Stuck-by rolling object

• Struck-by rolling object is when an object which is rolling, moving, or sliding on the same level at which the worker is located. Includes instances in which the worker is struck or run over by a moving vehicle without being caught under it or instances in which the worker is struck-by a sliding object or equipment on the same level.

What are employers required to do to protect workers from struck-by hazards?

A. General requirements for protecting workers Employers must ensure:

• All hand tools are maintained in good condition

• The use of unsafe hand tools is not permitted (i.e., no sprung jaws on wrenches, no mushroomed heads, no splinters or cracks in wooden handles, no loose parts / heads of tools)

• Saws are equipped with guards and have a constant pressure switch that will shut off the power when the pressure is released

• Safety guards are on all abrasive wheel bench and stand grinders

• Only trained workers are allowed to operate powder-actuated tools

• All powder-actuated tools are tested daily before use and all defects discovered before or during use are corrected

• Powder-actuated tools are not loaded until immediately before use and loaded tools are not left unattended

• Compressed air used for cleaning purposes is reduced to less than 30 pounds per square inch (psi) and provide effective chip guarding and PPE

• All materials stored in tiers are secured to prevent sliding, falling, or collapsing

• Toeboards are erected along the edge of overhead walking/working surfaces

B. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) Employers must: • Pay for PPE as required by OSHA

• Provide and require the use of appropriate PPE in all operations where there is an exposure to hazardous conditions

• Ensure adequacy of PPE including proper maintenance and sanitation

• Provide head protection (e.g., hard hats, helmets) whenever there is possible danger of head injuries from impact, flying or falling objects

• Provide eye and face protection when machines or operations present eye or face injury • Provide workers involved in welding operations with filter lenses or plates of proper shade

number • Ensure eye, face and head protective equipment meets ANSI requirements

C. Training

• Train workers in the work zone to recognize hazards associated with the use of the equipment and any related duties that they are assigned to perform

• Ensure crane operators are qualified or certified according to OSHA standards

• Ensure signal person meets qualification requirement according to OSHA standards

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• Instruct workers in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his/her work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury

• Ensure that qualified operators and riggers have been trained on rigging safety

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Materials Handling, Storage, Use and Disposal General Requirements In addition to training and education, applying general safety principles—such as proper work practices, equipment, and controls—can help reduce workplace accidents involving the moving, handling, and storing of materials. Whether moving materials manually or mechanically, employees should know and understand the potential hazards associated with the task at hand and how to control their workplaces to minimize the danger. Because numerous injuries can result from improperly handling and storing materials, workers should also be aware of accidents that may result from the unsafe or improper handling of equipment as well as from improper work practices. In addition, workers should be able to recognize the methods for eliminating—or at least minimizing—the occurrence of such accidents. Employers and employees should examine their workplaces to detect any unsafe or unhealthful conditions, practices, or equipment and take corrective action.

Factors Contributing to Injuries

• Weight and bulkiness of objects

• Bending, twisting, turning movements

• Improper operation of equipment

• Accumulated materials or clutter

• Unsafe conditions of materials or containers

• Flammability or toxicity of some materials

• Weight of materials

• Binding ties or other devices that secure bundles or bound materials

• Falling objects

• Lifting, pushing, pulling, or otherwise manually moving large, heavy items

• Improperly stacked materials

• Struck-by or caught-in/-between hazards

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