Osha 30 HR Outreach Study Guide [PDF]

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Table of Contents

Lesson 1

Introduction to OSHA 

09

Worker Rights Under OSHA 

11

Employer Responsibilities Under OSHA 

12

OSHA Inspections 

13

Worker Resources 

14

Lesson 2

Construction Focus Four: Fall Hazards 

16

Types of Fall Hazards 

18

Unprotected Edges 

19

Scaffolds 

20

Portable Ladders 

21

Protecting Yourself from Fall Hazards 

22

Guardrails 

23

Personal Fall Arrest System 

24

Employer Responsibilities 

25

Preventing Fall Hazards 

26

Worksite Maintenance 

27

Lesson 3

Construction Focus Four: Electrocution Hazards 

30

Types of Electrocution Hazards 

33

Real Examples of Electrocution Hazards 

34

Power Lines 

35

A Real-Life Power Line Hazard  

36

Energized Sources 

37

Power Cords 

38

A Real-Life Power Cord Hazard 

39

Power Tools 

40

GFCI  

41

Lockout/Tagout  

42

Employer Responsibilities 

43

Lesson 4

Construction Focus Four: Struck-By Hazards 

46

Protecting Yourself  

48

A Real-Life Struck-By Hazard 

49

Types of Struck-By Hazards 

50

Flying Objects 

51

Falling Objects 

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Table of Contents

Swinging Objects 

53

Rolling Objects 

54

Heavy Equipment 

55

Motor Vehicles 

56

Examples of Motor Vehicle Struck-By Hazards 

57

Flaggers 

58

Road Signs and Barricades 

59

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

60

High-Visibility Clothing 

61

Head Protection 

62

Eye and Face Protection 

63

Power Tools 

64

Employer Responsibilities 

65

Lesson 5

Construction Focus Four: Caught-In or -Between Hazards  

69

Caught-In Hazards in Construction 

71

Machinery with Unguarded Moving Parts 

72

Buried-In or -By Hazards 

73

Pinned-Between Hazards 

74

Protecting Yourself 

75

Safeguarding Machines 

76

Excavation Sites 

77

Employer Responsibilities 

78

Lesson 6

Health Hazards in Construction 

81

Types of Health Hazards 

83

Air Contaminants 

84

Chemical Hazards 

85

Biological Hazards 

86

Physical Hazards 

87

Noise 

88

Ergonomic Hazards 

89

Controlling Ergonomic Hazards 

90

Specific Construction Hazards 

91

Asbestos 

92

Lead 

93

Silica Dust 

94

Wood Preservative Chemicals 

95

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Table of Contents

Heat 

96

Hazard Communication 

97

Hazard Classification 

98

Health Hazards 

99

Written Hazard Communication Program 

102

3 Steps to Hazard Communication Programs 

103

Hazard Communication Program: Planning 

104

Hazard Communication Program: Checklist 

105

Labels and Other Forms of Warning 

107

Label Elements 

108

Safety Data Sheets 

110

Employer Responsibilities 

111

Employee Training 

112

Lesson 7

Materials Handling 

115

General Requirements for Material Storage 

117

Storing Special Materials 

118

Manual Materials Handling 

119

Disposal of Waste Materials 

120

Rigging Equipment 

121

Materials Handling Equipment 

124

Employer Responsibilities 

125

Employer-Provided Training 

126

Ergonomics 

127

Lesson 8

Tools – Hand & Power 

130

Tool Safety 

132

Guarding 

133

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

134

Hand Tools & Power Operated Tools 

135

Hand Tools 

136

Pneumatic Tools 

137

Hydraulic Tools 

138

Abrasive Wheels 

139

Use of Abrasive Wheels 

140

Woodworking Tools 

141

Use of Woodworking Tools 

142

Jacks 

143

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Table of Contents

Lesson 9

Safety Programs & Subpart C 

146

Rules of Construction 

148

Contractor Responsibilities 

149

Multi-Employer Policy 

150

General Safety and Health Provisions 

151

Safety Training and Education 

152

Employer Responsibilities 

153

Specific Categories 

154

Creating Safety and Health Programs 

155

Training and Education 

156

First Aid and Medical Attention 

157

Housekeeping 

158

Recordkeeping 

159

Employee Involvement 

160

State Regulations 

161

Lesson 10

Stairways and Ladders 

164

General Requirements 

166

Stairways 

167

Types of Stairways and Components 

168

Midrails and Handrails 

169

Ladders 

170

Ladder Requirements 

171

Portable Ladders 

172

Fixed Ladders 

173

Employer Responsibilities 

174

Lesson 11

Fire Protection & Prevention 

177

Fire Tetrahedron 

179

Fire Protection 

180

Fire Extinguishers 

181

Fire Alarms and Fire Cutoffs 

182

Fire Prevention 

183

Storage 

184

Safe Product Use and Hazard Avoidance 

185

Common Fire Hazards 

187

Preventing Fire Hazards 

188

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Table of Contents

Lesson 12

Welding and Cutting 

191

Welding Equipment 

193

Fuel Gas and Oxygen Manifolds 

194

Transportation and Storage 

195

Arc Welding and Cutting 

196

Ground Returns and Machine Grounding 

197

Fire Prevention 

198

Ventilation and Protection 

199

Metals of Toxic Significance 

200

Preservative Coatings 

201

Common Welding Hazards 

202

Physical Hazards 

203

Chemical Hazards 

204

Lesson 13

Scaffolds 

209

Scaffolding Types 

211

Supported Scaffolds 

212

Responsible Persons 

215

Fall Protection 

216

Aerial Lift Requirements 

217

Training 

218

Lesson 14

Cranes, Derrick, Hoists, Elevators, and Conveyors 

221

Cranes and Derricks 

223

Regulations for Specific Types of Cranes 

224

Personnel Platforms 

225

Safety Requirements 

226

Helicopter Cranes 

227

Hoists, Elevators, and Conveyors 

228

Hoists 

229

Hand Signals 

230

Lesson 15

Excavations 

233

Excavation and Trenching Operations 

235

Specific Requirements 

236

Soil Classification 

237

Soil Types 

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Table of Contents

Protective Systems 

239

Sloping and Benching 

240

Shoring & Shielding 

241

Excavation Hazards 

243

Hazard Protection 

244

OSHA’s Top 5 Most Violated Excavation Regulations 

245

Lesson 16

Concrete and Masonry Construction 

248

Definitions 

250

Subpart Q - Concrete & Masonry Construction 

251

General Requirements 

252

Equipment and Tools 

253

Concrete 

254

Masonry Construction 

255

Common Hazards of Concrete Placement 

256

Protecting Yourself 

257

Lesson 17

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

260

Types of PPE and How to Protect Yourself 

262

Eye and Face Protection 

263

Head Protection 

264

Leg and Foot Protection 

265

Hand and Arm Protection 

266

Hearing Protection  

267

Body Protection 

268

Respirators 

269

Employer Responsibilities 

270

Lesson 18

Confined Space Entry 

273

Types of Confined Spaces 

275

Hazardous Atmospheres 

276

Hazardous Atmosphere Precautions 

277

Other Hazards 

278

Inherent and Induced Hazards 

279

Entry and Exit 

280

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Table of Contents

Lesson 19

Signs, Signals and Barricades 

282

Types of Accident Prevention Signs 

284

Temporary Traffic Control Signs 

285

Types of Temporary Traffic Control Signs 

286

Traffic Signaling & Flaggers 

287

Barricades 

288

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8

Introduction to OSHA

Introduction to OSHA Lesson 1 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Explain the importance of OSHA to workers. Explain worker rights under OSHA. Discuss employer responsibilities under OSHA. Discuss the use and importance of OSHA standards. Explain how OSHA inspections are conducted. Explain the worker safety and health resources available.

9 Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Introduction to OSHA

OSHA works to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect the health of America's workers.

About OSHA

OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

OSHA's mission is to protect the safety and health of America's workers. OSHA accomplishes this by doing the following: yy Setting and enforcing standards. yy Providing training, outreach, and education. yy Establishing partnerships. yy Encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health.

Hazard Prevention

Hazard prevention is OSHA's priority. Lives are saved when workers know their rights and employers meet their responsibilities.

Training

Training is an essential part of preventing hazards. One of the main responsibilities employers have under OSHA is to provide training on the basics of occupational safety and health issues. This training must meet OSHA standards.

Employers

OSHA holds employers responsible for safety and health conditions in the workplace.

Employees

The OSH Act points out that employees shall comply with occupational safety and health standards that are applicable to their actions and conduct.

The OSHA standards for Construction and General Industry are also known as Part 1926 and Part 1910.

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Introduction to OSHA

Worker Rights Under OSHA Workers should know their rights under OSHA.

OSHA requires employers to take certain actions to keep workers safe. Workers should also be aware of their rights under OSHA.

The United States Congress created OSHA under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, known as the OSH Act.

yy yy

OSHA’s creation provided workers with the right to a safe and healthful workplace.

yy yy

Worker Rights

yy

It’s important to know your rights as a worker. Worker rights are spelled out under Section 11(c) of the OSH Act. They include the following: yy Right to seek safety and health on the job without fear of punishment. yy Right to a safe and healthful workplace. yy Right to know about hazardous chemicals through access to training,

yy

labeling, and an MSDS.* Right to complain or request hazard correction from your employer. Right to refuse work due to dangerous conditions. Right to file a complaint with OSHA. Right to be free from retaliation for exercising safety and health rights. Right to participate in an OSHA inspection.** Right to information about workplace injuries and illnesses.***

* A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) gives information about hazardous chemicals. ** During an OSHA inspection, you have the right to talk to the inspector privately. *** This includes the right to access and review the OSHA 300 Log and the OSHA 300A Summary.

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Introduction to OSHA

Employer Responsibilities Under OSHA Employers must comply with OSHA standards and provide a workplace that is free from recognized hazards. OSHA requires employers to do the following: yy Adopt practices and maintain conditions to protect workers on the job. yy Be familiar with and comply with the standards that apply to their workplaces. yy Ensure that workers are provided with (and use) PPE when needed.

Worker Training

Employers must provide training to employees. yy Train workers in the specific safety and health aspects of their workplace. yy Certain job assignments should be limited to specialized personnel.

yy K eep records of injuries and illnesses on the worksite.

PPE

Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to employees. yy Train workers in the use of PPE. yy Pay for most required PPE, including hard hats.

Recordkeeping

Giving access to records is an important part of maintaining OSHA compliance.

Employers are required to provide workers with training, PPE, and worksite records.

yy K eep and maintain an OSHA 300 Log, OSHA 301 Form, and OSHA Form 300A Summary. yy M ake these records available to employees for review.

REMEMBER Where no specific standard applies, employers must comply with the “General Duty Clause.”

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Introduction to OSHA

OSHA Inspections OSHA enforces job safety and health standards through worksite inspections. OSHA compliance safety and health officers (CSHOs) are authorized to conduct workplace inspections at reasonable times.

Priorities

OSHA has a system of inspection priorities.

Employers are required to provide workers with training, PPE, and worksite records.

Stages

The four major stages of an OSHA inspection are: 1. Presenting Credentials 2. The Opening Conference 3. The Walkaround

REMEMBER If an employer receives an OSHA citation, it must be posted for three days or until the violation is fixed.

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Introduction to OSHA

Worker Resources Part of knowing your rights means knowing where to go for help. Workers and employers should work together to reduce hazards. If possible, communicate and discuss safety and health problems with your employer. However, if you feel that an OSHA inspection is needed to get hazards corrected at your workplace, submit a written, signed complaint with specific hazard information. There are several ways to file a complaint: yy Download a complaint form from the OSHA website. Complete it and mail or fax it to OSHA. yy Contact the local area office and file a complaint.

The OSHA website has safety and health information and links to resources that can help workers.

For more safety and health information, as well as links to resources for workers, visit the OSHA website at www.osha.gov.

yy File a complaint online.

REMEMBER Be specific and accurate when completing an OSHA complaint form. The CSHO will use this information to research, plan, and begin the investigation.

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Introduction to OSHA

NOTES:

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Fall Hazards

Construction Focus Four: Fall Hazards Lesson 2 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify fall hazards. Describe construction hazards that require a fall protection system. List the different types of fall protection systems and their requirements. Explain the training requirements and common hazards associated with fall protection.

16 Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Fall Hazards

Learn how to recognize and eliminate major fall hazards on construction worksites.

“

Fall Hazards Defined

Fall Hazard Examples

OSHA defines fall hazards:

The following are examples of fall hazards:

A fall hazard is anything at your worksite that could cause you to lose your balance or lose bodily support and result in a fall. Any walking or working surfaces can be a potential fall hazard.

When to Use PPE

”

Use personal protective equipment when engineering, work practice, and administrative controls are not possible or do not provide workers with sufficient protection.

yy Falling down from one floor to another. yy Falling through a hole in the floor or roof. yy Dropping through the floor or roof when the surface collapses. yy Falling off a ladder or other apparatus. yy Jumping from structures and equipment on the worksite, such as from one scaffolding to another.

REMEMBER Fall protection must be provided regardless of distance when employees are working over dangerous equipment and machinery.

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Fall Hazards

Types of Fall Hazards You’ll face a variety of fall hazards while working on construction sites. OSHA states that employees must be provided with fall protection at certain elevations and in certain circumstances: yy When working 6 feet above a lower level in construction. yy When working 10 feet above a lower level on a scaffold. yy When working 15 feet above a lower level steel erection.

Types of Hazards Be aware of the major types of fall hazards in construction. yy Unprotected edges.

Unprotected sides and edges are one of the most frequently cited serious OSHA violations.

yy Roof and floor openings. yy Scaffolds. yy Portable ladders. Certain working conditions can contribute to fall hazards. Be aware of the following: yy Unprotected roof edges (roof edges without guards or barriers). yy Roof and floor openings (skylights, floor holes, or other openings to the level below). yy Structural steel and leading edges (edges of steel structures). yy Improper scaffold construction (badly-erected scaffolds).

Falls to lower levels are a major cause of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. Falls, struck-by object, caught-in or -between, and electrocution are referred to by OSHA as “Focus Four” Hazards.

To protect employees in the workplace, all sides, edges, and openings must be protected. This reduces the exposure to fall hazards.

yy Unsafe portable ladders (unstable ladder placement). OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Fall Hazards

Unprotected Edges Unprotected edges are a type of fall hazard commonly found on construction sites. Unprotected roof edges are sides or building edges that are unprotected by either a personal fall arrest system or guardrail. Examples of unprotected edges include the following:

yy

Roof edges

yy

Floor openings

yy

Structural steel

yy

Leading edges

Roof and Floor Openings Exposed holes in the floor or roof of a working surface is a potential fall hazard to all workers in the area. Openings in the floor or roof of a building should be labeled. They should also be covered with a sturdy material.

Unprotected edges are a major type of fall hazard on construction sites.

REMEMBER The material used to cover a floor or roof opening should be able to support twice the weight of any employees, equipment, and materials that might be on the cover at any given time.

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19

Fall Hazards

Scaffolds Scaffolds are a major type of fall hazard on construction sites. Working on scaffolds can be dangerous. It’s made even more difficult when heavy equipment and building materials are located on a limited space.

Scaffold accidents are usually attributed to planking or support giving way, and lack of guardrails or fall protection. Make sure to protect yourself from these and other hazards. To ensure your protection for scaffold and fall hazards, remember the following: Scaffolding is used while building or repairing a structure.

yy The planking or support must be solid and sturdy. yy Only use aerial lifts with body belts and lanyards. yy You must be able to access the scaffold safely.

Employers must ensure that all scaffolds are constructed per manufacturer instructions. A competent person must be authorized to supervise and inspect the erection, movement, or changing of a scaffold.

REMEMBER When you’re working on platforms of 10 feet or higher, guardrails or personal fall arrest systems for fall prevention and protection are required.

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20

Fall Hazards

Portable Ladders Protect yourself from fall hazards that result from the use of portable ladders. On construction sites, portable ladders are a common source of fall hazards.

A portable ladder can move, slip, and cause a worker to lose balance. Factors that contribute to ladder fall hazards include: yy

Slipping downward on the rungs or steps.

yy

Overreaching.

yy

yy

Defective equipment. Using the wrong type of ladder for the job.

Protect yourself from fall hazards by practicing the following: yy Properly position ladders before use. yy Properly secure ladders before use. yy Remove defective or damaged equipment from service.

Portable ladders pose a serious risk due to lack of stability.

REMEMBER To prevent a fall when using a portable ladder: •

Choose the right ladder for the job.

•

Secure the ladder and confirm it’s in good working condition.

•

Make sure the top of the ladder extends at least three feet above the surface you’re climbing onto.

•

Be trained in the proper use of the ladder.

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21

Fall Hazards

Protecting Yourself from Fall Hazards You’ll face a variety of fall hazards while working in construction. More ironworkers are killed from falls than in any other construction application. There are many ways for workers to protect themselves from injury.

When fall hazards are present, use one of three main methods of fall protection. The three main methods of fall protection include guardrails, safety net systems, and personal fall arrest systems.

Guardrails

These are considered a fall prevention system. They’re designed to prevent workers from falling in the first place.

Safety Net Systems

These are designed to catch and break a worker’s descent in the event of a fall. Never place safety nets more than 30 feet below the working surface.

Personal Fall Arrest Systems

These are designed to break a worker’s descent in the event of a fall. The systems consist of an anchorage, lanyard and connectors, and a full-body harness worn by individual workers.

Protect yourself from anything at your worksite that might cause you to lose your balance or lose bodily support, which can result in a fall.

Employers are required to provide personal fall arrest systems to employees working near potential fall hazards.

REMEMBER Always make sure fall protection equipment is in good condition. Also, it must be appropriate for the type of work involved.

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Fall Hazards

Guardrails Use guardrails to protect yourself from fall hazards While some fall protection methods are designed to protect workers who have fallen, guardrails are designed to prevent falls from happening in the first place.

Guardrails are considered a fall prevention system. Guardrails that are put in place for fall protection must adhere to the following requirements: yy There are no openings more than 19 inches. yy Toprails are able to withstand at least 200 pounds of force, and are 42 inches (plus or minus 3 inches) above the working surface. yy Midrails are able to withstand 150 pounds of force.

Safety Net Systems Safety nets are designed to catch and break a worker’s descent in the event of a fall.

Never place safety nets more than 30 feet below the working surface. The following requirements apply when employers use safety nets for protection. yy Safety nets must be as close as practically able under the working surface. yy They must never be more than 30 feet below the working surface. yy Inspect safety nets for damage on a weekly basis. yy Each safety net must have a border rope with a minimum strength of 5,000 pounds.

yy Guardrail systems must be smooth. This prevents cuts and clothing snags.

yy Safety nets must extend outward a sufficient distance per OSHA requirements. This varies depending on how far the net is from the working surface.

yy When guardrails are used around holes that include a point of access (such as a ladderway), use a gate.

yy Safety nets must absorb the force of a 400-pound bag of sand dropping onto the net.

Guardrails are required when workers perform work on a scaffold platform of 10 feet or higher.

yy Any dangerous items in a safety net must be removed as quickly as possible.

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Fall Hazards

Personal Fall Arrest System Use a personal fall arrest system to protect yourself from fall hazards. Personal fall arrest systems are an important part of reducing injury and death that can result from a fall.

In the event of a fall, a personal fall arrest system breaks a worker’s descent. Workers are required to use a full-body harness in the following scenarios: yy When working on a suspending scaffold more than 10 feet above the working surface. yy When working at 10 feet or more when in a bucket truck or aerial lift.

To keep yourself and others safe, remember the following requirements regarding personal fall arrest systems:

Each personal fall arrest system consists of an anchorage, connectors, and a full-body harness.

yy The anchorage must be able to support 5,000 pounds per worker.

yy Inspect them for damage before each use.

yy Webbing used for lifeline, lanyard, and harness ropes and straps must be made of synthetic fibers.

yy The anchorage must be independent from any anchorage used to support or suspend the platform.

yy Safety nets must absorb the force of a 400-pound bag of sand dropping onto the net. This is referred to as a “drop test.”

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Fall Hazards

Employer Responsibilities Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace. Employers and employees must cooperate in order to establish and maintain a safe working environment. Employers must provide appropriate fall protection to employees. Employers must also provide for the prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall.

Employer Responsibilities Employers must take certain steps to keep workers safe from potential fall hazards. In general, employers are responsible for the following: yy Providing appropriate fall protection to employees. yy Making sure scaffolds are properly constructed. yy Making sure ladders are safe and in good condition. yy Ensuring the worksite is cleared and maintained. yy Providing appropriate training, including a written fall protection plan.

Make sure your workplace is compliant with OSHA standards.

REMEMBER OSHA requires employers to keep all walking and working surfaces free of fall or trip hazards.

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Fall Hazards

Preventing Fall Hazards There are many ways to prevent fall hazards on construction sites. Employers must work to protect employees from fall hazards. The following list provides general requirements employers need to meet:

Develop a written 1 fall protection plan.

Rescue Procedures Having rescue procedures in place is an important part of keeping workers safe in construction.

OSHA requires employers to have rescue procedures in place in the event of a fall.

Identify fall 2 hazards before each project. Attempt to 3 eliminate the need for fall protection.

Per this requirement, employers must be able to provide prompt rescue of any employees involved, or they must ensure that the employees involved can rescue themselves.

Make sure safety equipment is in good condition before use.

Part of this responsibility involves addressing the risk of suspension trauma or orthostatic intolerance.

4

Conduct fall protection training on a regular basis.

5

Train workers on 6 specific fall hazards on the worksite.

7

Conduct regular inspections.

Symptoms of suspension trauma include the following: yy Lightheadedness. yy Palpitations. yy Tremulousness. yy Poor concentration. yy Fatigue.

8

Emphasize fall hazards.

yy Nausea. yy Dizziness.

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26

Fall Hazards

Worksite Maintenance Worksite maintenance helps prevent fall hazards on the worksite.

Training OSHA requires employers to instruct their employees on the recognition and avoidance of unsafe working conditions. As part of training, employers should do the following: yy Describe applicable regulations to workers. yy Control or eliminate any hazards or other exposures to illness or injury. Employers have a responsibility to prevent potential fall hazards. An important way to do this is through worksite maintenance.

Failure to maintain a worksite can cause clutter and debris, which creates fall hazards.

yy Describe required personal protective equipment (PPE). yy Encourage employees to contact supervisors if there are any questions about fall prevention.

REMEMBER Employers are required to keep worksites free from waste, trash, form and scrap lumber with protruding nails, and combustible debris.

Workers should not operate on a worksite until unsafe conditions have been corrected. If an unsafe condition is not corrected, employees may file a complaint with OSHA.

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27

Fall Hazards

NOTES:

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28

Fall Hazards

NOTES:

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29

Electrocution Hazards

Construction Focus Four: Electrocution Hazards Lesson 3 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify major types of electrocution hazards on construction sites. Describe types of electrocution hazards on construction sites. List ways to protect yourself from electrocution hazards. Explain employer requirements for protecting workers from electrocution hazards.

30 Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Electrocution Hazards

Learn how to recognize and eliminate electrocution hazards on construction sites.

Electrical hazards are serious workplace hazards that expose workers to the following:

Electrocution Hazards Defined OSHA defines electrocution:

“

Electrocution occurs when a person is exposed to a lethal amount of electrical energy.

yy

”

yy yy yy yy yy

B URNS E LECTROCUTION S HOCK A RC FLASH/ARC BLAST F IRE E XPLOSIONS

Note the first letter of these hazards. Together, they spell “Be Safe.” Workers can “Be Safe” on the worksite by recognizing, avoiding, and protecting against electrical hazards.

Always remember to B.E. S.A.F.E. on the worksite. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

31

Electrocution Hazards Burns. Burns are the most common shock-related injury. Three types of burns

can occur: yy Electrical burns can result when a worker touches electrical wiring. yy Arc/flash burns result from electric arcs or explosions. These are hightemperature burns. yy Thermal contact burns can result when a worker touches overheated electric equipment.

Electrocution. Electrocution is fatal. It results when a person is exposed to a

lethal amount of electrical energy. Workers face a variety of electrocution hazards on the worksite. It’s up to employers and employees to work together to reduce the risk of injury and death.

MEDICAL ALERT Electrocution was cited as being the second leading cause of death in construction in 2011, after falls.

Shock. Electrical shock is defined as a “reflex response to the passage of elec-

tric current through the body.” This means that shock occurs when a human body becomes part of an electrical circuit. When this happens, electrical current enters the body at one point and leaves at another.

Arc Flash/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. This can happen when a worker drops a tool, or when dust or corrosion build up on tools. An arc flash gives off thermal radiation (heat) and bright, intense light that can cause burns.

Fire. Most electrical fires result from “fixed wiring” problems such as faulty elec-

trical outlets and old wiring. Another source of electrical fires includes problems with cords (such as extension and appliance cords), plugs, receptacles, and switches.

Explosions. An explosion can occur when electricity ignites an explosive mix-

ture of material in the air. In an atmosphere that contains explosive gases, vapors, or combustible dust, even low levels of electricity can lead to violent explosions on the worksite. Although electricity is the source of all these hazards, and all are of equal importance, this lesson will focus on electrocution hazards.

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Electrocution Hazards

Types of Electrocution Hazards Learn how to protect yourself from many types of electrocution hazards you’ll face on the worksite. When working in construction, you’ll be exposed to a variety of electrocution hazards.

Power Lines

To keep yourself and others safe from hazards, remember the following: yy Overhead and buried power lines carry extremely high voltage. yy Keep a safe distance from overhead power lines. yy De-energize power lines around workers.

Energized Sources

To keep yourself and others safe from hazards, remember the following: yy The body becomes part of the electric circuit. yy Water is a great conductor of electricity. yy Hazards include electrical shocks and burns.

Power Cords

To keep yourself and others safe from hazards, remember the following: yy Wear and tear can cause loose or exposed wires. yy Cords are more susceptible to damage than fixed wiring due to exposure and flexibility.

Electrocution is fatal. Protect yourself by using nonconductive equipment and keeping a safe distance from overhead power lines.

Power Tools

To keep yourself and others safe from hazards, remember the following: yy Only use power tools and equipment for their intended purpose. yy Make sure power tools are kept in safe conditions. yy Make sure power tools are safely maintained and grounded.

GFCI

To keep yourself and others safe from hazards, remember the following:

yy Inspect all cords before use.

yy A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protects from severe and fatal shocks.

yy Do not use cords with worn insulation.

yy GFCIs interrupt current. yy Types include receptacle GFCIs, temporary GFCIs, and circuit breaker GFCIs.

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Electrocution Hazards

Real Examples of Electrocution Hazards Learn from these real-life examples of electrocution hazards on construction sites. Two workers were moving an aluminum ladder. When the ladder came in contact with overhead power lines, one of the workers was electrocuted.

Keep a safe distance from overhead power lines.

A worker was raising a water well drilling truck mast when it came into contact with high-voltage overhead lines. The worker was electrocuted.

Overhead and buried power lines carry extremely high voltage.

A worker was on an eight-foot fiberglass step ladder while changing an energized ballast on a two-bulb fluorescent light fixture, which was located twelve feet off the ground. The worker was fatally injured when he was electrocuted and fell to the concrete floor.

Electric shock occurs when the human body becomes part of an electrical circuit.

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Electrocution Hazards

Power Lines Learn how to protect yourself from the serious risk posed by power lines on or near the worksite.

Contact with power lines is dangerous because they carry extremely high voltage.

Always be aware of the location of power lines on your worksite.

Fatalities due to electrocution are the most severe risk involving power lines. Burns and falls from elevation are also hazards that exist while working near high voltage power lines. To keep yourself and others safe from hazards, remember the following: yy It is always best to keep a safe distance away from overhead power lines.

yy When working with or near power lines, de-energize and visibly ground them, or make sure the power lines have installed insulated sleeves in place.

Employers must ensure overhead power line safety by doing the following: yy Keeping employees at a safe distance. yy Making sure power lines are de-energized and grounded. yy Providing the proper PPE such as rubber insulating gloves, hoods, and sleeves, which prevent electrocution.

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Electrocution Hazards

A Real-Life Power Line Hazard Learn from this real-life example of an electrocution hazard on the worksite.

Consider this example of a power line hazard on a worksite. Think about how you can better protect yourself and others in similar situations.

Two workers were installing aluminum siding on a farmhouse. During the course of work, it became necessary to remove a 36-foot-high antenna. One worker stood on a metal pick board between two ladders and unfastened the antenna at the top of the house.

The other worker, who was standing on the ground, took the antenna to lay it down in the yard. The antenna made electrical contact with a transmission line over 30 feet away from the house. The worker handling the antenna received a fatal shock. The other worker received a minor shock.

To prevent the accident from occurring, the workers should have been aware of overhead power lines. In addition, the workers should have received proper safety training from their employer.

In this real-life example, the antenna made electrical contact with a 7200-volt power transmission line 30 feet away from the house and 23 feet above the ground.

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Electrocution Hazards

Energized Sources Learn how to protect yourself from the risks posed by energized sources on the worksite. You’ll encounter a variety of hazards associated with energized sources on a construction site.

Energized sources create hazards including electrical shocks and burns. Electrical shock takes place when the human body becomes part of the electrical circuit. This can occur when a worker comes into contact with both wires of an electrical circuit, with one wire of an energized circuit and the ground, or with a metallic part that has become energized by contact with an electrical conductor. Contact with energized sources can include incidents with the following: yy Live parts. yy Damaged or bare wires. yy Defective equipment. yy Tools. The severity of electrical shocks and burns depends on a variety of factors, including the following: yy The pathway through the body.

Protect yourself from live parts, damaged or bare wires, and defective equipment.

REMEMBER Wet or damp conditions make all hazards even worse. Water is a great conductor of electricity; current flows more easily in wet conditions and through wet skin.

Employers are responsible for the following:

yy The amount of current.

yy Isolating electrical parts.

yy The length of time of exposure.

yy Placing covers on all pull boxes, junction boxes, and fittings.

yy Whether the skin is wet or dry.

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Electrocution Hazards

Power Cords Learn how to protect yourself from the risks posed by power cords on the worksite. You’ll often use power cords, including extension cords and flexible cords, with power tools. This makes power cords a frequent necessity on construction sites.

Normal wear and tear on cords can loosen or expose wires, causing potential danger.

Extension and flexible cords are more susceptible to damage than fixed wiring because of their exposure, flexibility, and lack of security. They can be damaged by any of the following, which are commonly found on construction sites: yy Door or window edges. yy Staples and fastenings. yy Abrasion from adjacent materials.

They can also be damaged by simple aging and normal wear and tear.

There are two types of power cords often found in construction: extension cords and flexible cords.

Protecting Yourself Before putting extension cords to use, inspect them for cuts and abrasions.

Employers are responsible for ensuring that flexible cords are used properly.

Power Cord Hazards Any time an electrical conductor becomes exposed, there is a danger of shocks, burns, or fire.

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Electrocution Hazards

A Real-Life Power Cord Hazard Learn from this real-life example of an electrocution hazard on the worksite.

Don’t underestimate the hazards caused by power cords.

A worker needed ventilation in his work area, so he used an extension cord to connect a fan to a 120-volt electrical system. At the time, the worker was performing a chipping operation from an aluminum stepladder.

Several factors contributed to the electrocution of the worker. These factors include the following:

The insulation on the extension cord was worn through, exposing the bare, energized conductor, which made contact with the ladder. The ground wire was not attached on the male end of the cord’s plug. When the energized conductor made contact with the ladder, the path to the ground included the worker’s body, resulting in the worker’s death.

yy The fact that there was a short in the receptacle.

yy The use of known faulty equipment. yy The lack of grounding.

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Electrocution Hazards

Power Tools Learn how to protect yourself from the risks posed by power tools on the worksite. The use of power tools is a common occurrence on construction sites.

Protect yourself from electrocution hazards by using power tools and equipment as intended. To protect yourself and others, always adhere to the following safe practices: yy Never carry a tool by the cord. yy Never yank the cord to disconnect it. yy Keep cords away from heat, oil, and sharp edges. yy Disconnect tools when not in use and when changing accessories such as blades and bits. yy Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold fingers on the switch button while carrying a tool that’s plugged in. yy Use gloves and appropriate footwear when using power tools. yy Before using a tool, inspect it for faulty or exposed wiring. yy Store tools in a dry place when they’re not in use. yy Don’t use tools in wet or damp environments. yy Keep working areas well-lit. yy Make sure cords don’t present a tripping hazard. yy Remove damaged tools from use. yy Use double-insulated tools.

Practice proper safety procedures when using power tools on the worksite.

Examples of Misused Equipment These are examples of incorrect (and unsafe) ways to use equipment: yy Using multi-receptacle boxes that are designed to be mounted by fitting them with a power cord and placing them on the floor. yy Fabricating extension cords with ROMEX wire. yy Taking equipment that’s labeled for use only in dry, indoor locations and using it outdoors. yy Attaching ungrounded, two-prong adapter plugs to three-prong cords and tools. yy Using modified cords or tools. yy Using cords or tools with worn insulation or exposed wires.

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Electrocution Hazards

GFCI A GFCI detects ground faults and interrupts the flow of electric current.

GFCI stands for “ground fault circuit interrupter.”

Types of GFCIs

GFCIs protect people from severe and even fatal electrical shocks.

Receptacle GFCI – These are typically found on construction worksites, outdoor areas, and other locations where damp environments may exist.

This protects the worker by limiting the duration of an electric shock.

Real-Life Example In this scenario, a worker is using an old drill that has a loose base wire inside it that touches the drill’s outer metal housing. When the worker plugs in the drill, the housing becomes charged with electricity. If the worker uses the tool outside in the rain and is standing on the ground, there is a path from the hot wire inside the drill, through the worker, all the way to the ground. If electricity flows from the hot wire, through the worker, to the ground, it could be fatal. A GFCI can sense the current flowing through you because not all of the current is flowing from hot to neutral as it expects.

Employers are responsible for: yy Providing GFCIs on construction sites.

yy Fits into the standard outlet box. yy Protects users against ground faults when an electrical product is connected to a GFCI-protected outlet. yy Must be tested after installation and at least once a month. Temporary/Portable GFCI – This is a combination of an extension cord and a GFCI. yy Has flexibility in using receptacles that aren’t GFCI-protected. yy Use when a permanent solution is unavailable. yy Must be tested before each use. Circuit Breaker GFCI – This controls an entire circuit and is installed as a replacement for a circuit breaker on the main circuit board. yy One circuit breaker GFCI can protect the entire circuit. yy Might be installed in a panel box to protect selected circuits. yy Must be tested monthly. (This test will disconnect power to everything on the circuit.)

yy Providing a scheduled and recorded equipment grounding conductor program. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Electrocution Hazards

Lockout/Tagout Learn how to use lockout/tagout procedures to protect yourself and others. Properly follow lockout/tagout procedures when working on or near electrical circuits and equipment.

Lockout/tagout procedures prevent the release of hazardous gases, fluids, or solid matter into areas where employees are located.

This equipment has been locked/tagged out.

yy Deplete stored energy. By following these procedures, you’re helping to prevent accidental contact with operating equipment parts including blades, gears, and shafts. Follow these lockout/tagout procedures to protect yourself from electrocution hazards: yy Identify sources of electrical energy for the equipment or circuits. yy Disable backup energy sources such as generators and batteries. yy Identify all shut-offs for each energy source. yy Shut off energy sources and lock switchgears in the “OFF” position. yy Each worker should apply his or her individual lock and keys. yy A qualified individual must test and de-energize equipment and circuitry.

yy Apply a lock or tag to alert other workers of locked/tagged out equipment. yy Make sure all workers are safe before unlocking and turning equipment back on.

REMEMBER yy Notify all personnel that equipment and circuitry must be shut off, locked out, and tagged out. Simply turning a switch off is not enough. yy Only a qualified person may determine when it is safe to re-energize circuits.

Employers are responsible for training workers in proper lockout/tagout practices. They’re also responsible for enforcing these practices.

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Employer Responsibilities Employers must take certain steps to ensure the safety of workers.

AEGCP One of the ways employers must protect their employees on the job site is by establishing and enacting an assured equipment ground conductor program (AEGCP).

The AEGCP details procedures for required equipment tests and inspections. It also includes a test schedule.

Employers and employees must cooperate in order to maintain a safe working environment.

Training The following are requirements regarding AEGCPs: yy A written description is available on the job site. yy The employer must assign at least one person to implement the program. yy The program covers all necessary cord sets, receptacles, and equipment. yy Tests are recorded. yy Test records are available to OSHA and any employees who request them.

Employers must provide training so that workers are familiar with safety practices on their job sites. Employers must make sure workers always know what work practices relate to the work they’ll do. When workers will use electrical equipment, these are important topics in employer-provided training: yy De-energize equipment before inspections or repairs are made. yy Use cords, cables, and tools that are in good repair. yy Ensure that lockout/tagout procedures are followed. yy Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

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NOTES:

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Electrocution Hazards

NOTES:

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Struck-By Hazards

Construction Focus Four: Struck-By Hazards Lesson 4 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify common struck-by hazards. Describe types of struck-by hazards. List different types of protection against struck-by hazards and their requirements. Explain the training requirements and common hazards associated with fall protection.

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Struck-By Hazards

Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from struck-by hazards on construction sites.

Struck-By Hazards Defined OSHA defines struck-by hazards:

“

A struck-by hazard and the resulting injuries are produced by forcible contact and/or impact between a person and an object or piece of equipment.

REMEMBER

”

Don’t confuse struck-by hazards with caught-in hazards. yy In struck-by events, the impact alone causes injury. yy In caught-in events, a worker is crushed between objects.

In other words, a struck-by hazard is when a worker is hit by a falling, swinging, flying, or rolling object.

Examples of Hazards Common struck-by hazards in construction include the following: yy Pieces of material separating from a tool and striking a worker. yy Trees falling on equipment. yy Tools falling from elevated work stations. yy Being struck by a swinging object.

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Struck-By Hazards

Protecting Yourself Protect yourself and others from struck-by hazards on the worksite.

There are two key ways to minimize struckby hazards: yy Maintain high visibility. yy Pay attention to all types of traffic within the construction environment.

Struck-by hazards must be taken seriously. Awareness is a key aspect of minimizing risks.

When to Use PPE Different types of personal protective equipment (PPE) can protect workers from struck-by hazards. PPE includes the following: yy High-visibility clothing. yy Head protection. yy Eye and face protection. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect yourself from struck-by hazards.

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Struck-By Hazards

A Real-Life Struck-By Hazard Learn how to protect yourself from the risk posed by struck-by hazards in construction. Two workers were removing a tree on a residential lot. Worker #1 was cutting the tree trunk into sections from an aerial bucket truck. The worker then dropped the log so it could be moved to the area near the chipper. The chipper was about 20 feet away.

Worker #2 was operating the chipper. Worker #1 dropped the log, which struck Worker #2, who had not evacuated the area. Worker #2 sustained a concussion and died from the accident.

The employer and employees could have worked together to prevent this accident. These are the steps that should be taken to prevent an accident like the one described above: yy Employers should create duties to remove or minimize struck-by hazards. yy Workers should be attentive to potential struck-by hazards. yy Workers should be trained on struckby hazards. yy Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Think about how you would protect yourself and others if you were in this scenario.

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Struck-By Hazards

Types of Struck-By Hazards You’ll face many struck-by hazards while working in construction. Be aware of the different types of struck-by hazards in construction.

Flying Objects yy Something is propelled, hurled, or thrown. yy Hazards are created when using compressed air to clean surfaces and power tools.

Struck-by hazards can lead to severe injury or even death.

Falling Objects yy Something falls from an elevation to a lower level. yy Check for employees under where you are working. yy Wear hard hats when overhead work is performed.

Rolling Objects yy An object is moving, sliding, or rolling at worker level. yy Workers are struck or run over by moving vehicles without being caught. yy Workers are struck by sliding pieces of equipment on same level.

Swinging Objects Heavy Equipment

yy Materials being lifted can swing and strike workers. yy Loads swing, turn, or twist, which catches workers by surprise. yy Mechanically lifted loads can slip from riggings and strike workers.

yy It creates deadly struckby hazards to an unsuspecting worker. yy Stay away from heavy equipment while it is in use. yy Be aware of the swinging radius of equipment like cranes and backhoes.

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Struck-By Hazards

Flying Objects You’ll face a variety of struck-by flying object hazards while working in construction.

Be aware of struck-by flying object hazards on the worksite.

Struck-by flying object hazards exist when something is being propelled, hurled, or thrown. Grinding or striking materials can create flying object hazards. Use of tools is a common source of flying object hazards.

Examples of Hazards Examples of struck-by flying hazards include the following: yy An object is ejected using a power tool or equipment designed for that purpose (such as a nail from a nail gun). yy A nail is discharged from a nail gun by force and hits the user. These are real-world examples of struck-by flying object hazards: yy Flying Bolt – A bolt had frozen in the track of a caterpillar front end loader. As the worker was removing the bolt, the worker was struck by the bolt in his forehead.

yy Pump Impalement – While freeing a pump component under pressure, a worker was impaled by the pump component. yy Clearing Pipeline – A blast of compressed air from a gas pipeline struck and killed a worker.

REMEMBER Never point a nail gun at anyone. Always check for people behind the surface you are nailing to ensure it is safe to fire.

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Struck-By Hazards

Falling Objects You’ll face a variety of struck-by falling object hazards while working in construction.

Be aware of struck-by falling object hazards on the worksite.

Struck-by falling object hazards exist when something falls from an elevation to a lower level. This includes when an injured person is crushed, pinned, or caught under a falling object.

Examples of Hazards

Hazards exist when objects are dropped to a lower level.

REMEMBER

yy N o Head Protection – Signs, barricades, and the use of hard hats can prevent injury or fatality if a worker accidentally drops something.

yy When working at heights, reduce falling object hazards and wear the required safety equipment.

yy H eavy Equipment – It can tip over or fall onto workers.

yy Always check for employees under where you are working. yy Implement falling object protection.

MEDICAL ALERT You’re at risk of being injured by falling objects when you are beneath cranes, scaffolds, or an area where overhead work is being performed.

yy Barricade the area to stop workers from entering the area. yy Always wear hard hats when working beneath places where overhead work is being performed.

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Swinging Objects You’ll face a variety of struck-by swinging object hazards while working in construction.

Be aware of struck-by swinging object hazards on the worksite. Materials are often lifted using cranes, hoists, or other mechanical devices.

When materials are lifted, they can swing, turn, or twist.

Do not overload rigging equipment.

Protecting Yourself This creates a potential hazard, because these movements can catch workers by surprise and result in a struck-by injury or fatality. Loads being mechanically lifted can also slip from their riggings.

Examples of Hazards Examples of swinging object hazards include the following: yy Wrecking Ball – It is attached to an arm, which can come loose and strike the operator’s cab. yy Swinging Objects – They may be held by a worker or attached to a structure and include a swinging motion. This can create a hinge-like action, which can swing or slam into a worker.

Minimize hazards by doing the following: yy Make sure rigging equipment is not overloaded. yy Follow manufacturers’ load recommendations. yy Inspect rigging equipment prior to each lift.

REMEMBER yy A worker may be struck and fall to a lower level or the ground from varying heights. yy Weather conditions such as wind can also make a swinging object especially hazardous.

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Struck-By Hazards

Rolling Objects You’ll face a variety of struck-by rolling object hazards while working in construction.

Be aware of struck-by rolling object hazards on the worksite.

Objects can move, slide, or roll at the same level as a worker. This creates a potential hazard to strike a worker.

Examples of Hazards

Objects and equipment can roll and strike a worker.

The following are real examples of rolling object hazards on construction sites: yy Tractor Trailer - A security guard was struck by a tractor trailer and dragged. yy Unloading Freight – While loading and unloading freight, a worker suffered fatal injuries after being struck by a moving semi-truck. yy Truck – A worker was performing repair operations on an impact attenuator, and was struck by a truck. yy Moving Vehicle – A worker was struck and run over by a moving vehicle without being caught underneath it.

yy Sliding Objects – A worker was struck by a sliding piece of equipment that was on the same level as he was.

REMEMBER yy Workers can be struck by objects, vehicles, and pieces of equipment. yy Protect yourself and others by maintaining awareness of your surroundings.

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Struck-By Hazards

Heavy Equipment You’ll face a variety of struck-by hazards involving heavy equipment while working in construction.

Be aware of the risks posed by heavy equipment on the worksite.

Heavy equipment such as cranes and excavators can create deadly struck-by hazards. To reduce hazards, be aware of the location of heavy equipment on the worksite, as well as the danger they may pose to workers.

Protecting Yourself The following are real examples of rolling object hazards on construction sites: yy When near heavy equipment, stay away from it and be alert. yy Know the location of all heavy equipment, whether it is in use or not.

Struck-by hazards include heavy equipment that can tip over.

yy As loads are being lifted, stay clear of and never work under them. yy All workers should be cleared from the area when dumping or lifting devices are used. yy Be aware of loads that are unbalanced.

Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats and safety glasses.

yy When working around heavy equipment, confirm and receive acknowledgement from the operator that he or she can see you.

REMEMBER

yy Be aware of the swing radius of equipment like cranes and backhoes. Do not enter that radius.

Hoisting equipment has the potential to tip over and become a struck-by hazard.

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Struck-By Hazards

Motor Vehicles Struck-by motor vehicle hazards is the number one cause of highway worker fatalities. Be aware of the struck-by hazards posed by motor vehicles on the worksite.

The most common cause of operator fatality is equipment roll-over. When working with motor vehicles, be aware of the following: yy Falling or overturning vehicles. yy Being struck by trucks or cars. yy Avoiding swinging backhoes. Take precautions when working near public roads.

Protecting Yourself Avoid motor vehicle struck-by hazards in the following ways: yy Sit in a proper seat while riding in a vehicle.

yy Chock the wheels if the vehicle is parked on an incline. yy Make sure your vehicle has safety devices and sufficient braking systems.

yy Warn oncoming drivers of workers. yy Use flaggers, traffic signs, and barricades as warnings.

Minimizing Hazards Reduce hazards in the following ways: yy Make sure your vehicle has an audible reverse alarm. yy When reversing, make sure there is adequate clearance to the rear. yy Set parking brakes when the vehicle is parked.

REMEMBER yy Most workers are killed by equipment backing up. Some are killed by equipment tipover or failure. yy Non-construction vehicles entering work areas happens due to driver error or improperly erected work zones.

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Examples of Motor Vehicle Struck-By Hazards Learn how to protect yourself from the risk of struck-by hazards posed by motor vehicles. The following scenario shows examples of the hazards posed by motor vehicles on construction sites.

Work Environment Four workers were on a bridge section of a highway, installing signs.

Struck-By Hazard – Suddenly, a vehicle on the road changed several lanes. The vehicle entered the area where the workers were located.

Incident – The truck hit one of the workers. The strike knocked the worker off the road and over the side of the bridge. He fell approximately 18 feet and died.

Protecting Yourself Protect yourself and others in the following ways: yy When working near public roadways and around moving construction equipment, all workers must be highly visible regardless of the time of day. yy High-visibility clothing is red or orange and contains reflective material.

Take precautions when working near public roads.

yy At night or in low light, always wear high-visibility clothing.

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Flaggers Flaggers control the flow of traffic at a construction zone. Flaggers play a vital role in keeping workers, as well as motorists, safe on and around the worksite.

Do not direct traffic unless you are a flagger. Flaggers do the following: yy Recognize dangerous traffic situations. yy Warn workers of errant vehicles in sufficient time to avoid danger.

Protecting Yourself Flaggers and other workers who are on foot are at risk of being struck. yy M ake sure you’re visible to equipment operators. yy M ake sure you’re visible to passing vehicles.

This worker is wearing bright, reflective clothing for safety.

REMEMBER When working on or near construction zones with motor vehicles, always wear high-visibility reflective clothing.

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Road Signs and Barricades Use road signs and barricades to keep yourself and others safe when working near public roads. Place warning signs along the roadway, and on the worksite as applicable to the work being done.

Post traffic signs at hazard points around construction areas. Examples of warning signs that can be used include the following: yy SHOULDER WORK

Road signs and barricades alert other motorists of worker activity.

yy ROAD WORK AHEAD yy FLAGGER AHEAD

REMEMBER

All necessary signs must be posted in accordance with OSHA requirements to direct traffic safely through or around the construction zone.

In the absence of other warning devices, use a WORKERS symbol sign to alert road users of workers on or near the roadway.

Flagger Signs

Barricades

Place a FLAGGER symbol sign ahead of any point where a flagger is stationed. Remove, cover, or turn the sign away from road users when flaggers are not operating.

Barricades must conform to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). For more information on the MUTCD, visit the OSHA website at www.osha.gov.

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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use PPE to protect yourself from struck-by hazards on the worksite. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to protect you from workplace hazards that cause injuries and illnesses.

If you’re wearing multiple types of PPE, make sure they’re compatible. If PPE doesn’t fit properly, it can make the difference between being safely covered or dangerously exposed.

Several types of PPE protect you from struck-by hazards.

Eye and Face Protection

Types of PPE There are several types of PPE that protect workers from stuck-by hazards. High Visibility Clothing yy Wear high visibility clothing when working on or near the roadway.

yy PPE must be worn when working with concrete or when exposed to flying particles. yy PPE should provide unrestricted vision and movement. Power Tools yy Inspect the tool before each use. yy Make sure all guards are in place.

Head Protection yy Hard hats protect your head from falling hazards and bumps to the head.

yy You must be trained in the tool’s operation.

yy Hard hats must be routinely inspected for cracks and dents.

REMEMBER

yy Protective helmets absorb shocks and blows and are water resistant.

If a hard hat sustains a heavy blow from a falling or flying object, replace it immediately.

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High-Visibility Clothing Wear high-visibility clothing to protect yourself on the worksite.

These workers are easily visible on a construction site.

yy Retro reflective material is orange, yellow, white, silver, yellow-green, or a fluorescent version of these colors. yy Retro reflective material must be visible at a minimum distance of 1,000 feet. High-visibility reflective clothing is a great way workers can protect themselves when working on or near any construction zone.

High-visibility clothing protects workers from struck-by hazards on the construction site.

High-visibility clothing has the following characteristics:

Working at Night Always wear high-visibility clothing when working at night or in low light. Garments for nighttime work must be retro reflective. Other than that, nighttime garments should be similar to daylight garments.

Employers must provide employees with high-visibility traffic vests when employees will work on or near roadways.

yy It’s red or orange in color. yy It’s made with reflective material.

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Head Protection Use head protection to protect yourself from struck-by hazards on the job.

Head protection is a crucial type of PPE. Use it when there is a potential for certain types of struck-by hazards.

Hard hats protect you from falling or flying struck-by hazards and bumps to the head from fixed objects. Fixed objects commonly found on construction sites include exposed beams and sharp edges from pipes.

About Hard Hats Protective helmets or hard hats must be able to do the following: yy Resist penetration. yy Absorb the shock of a blow. They should also be water-resistant and slow-burning.

Hard hats are a type of PPE.

Finally, hard hats should have clear instructions explaining the proper usage and replacement of the suspension and headband.

Maintaining Hard Hats Protect yourself by doing the following: yy Make sure hard hats are maintained and in good condition. yy Routinely inspect hard hats for cracks, dents, or deterioration. yy Immediately replace any hard hat that has sustained a heavy blow.

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Eye and Face Protection Use eye and face protection to protect yourself from struck-by hazards on the job.

Eye and face protection is a crucial type of PPE. Use it when there is a potential for certain types of struck-by hazards.

Use eye and face protection when you might be exposed to flying objects. You’ll face a variety of hazards on the construction site, so make sure you use PPE to protect yourself.

Eye and face protection minimizes struck-by hazards.

Flying Object Hazards

Impact Hazards

The following activities can create potential flying object hazards:

If you’ll work in a hazardous area, you may be exposed to impact hazards including the following:

yy Grinding.

yy Flying particles.

yy Cutting.

yy Fragments.

yy Welding.

yy Large chips.

yy Nailing. yy Working with concrete. yy Being exposed to flying particles. In the above situations, you must wear safety glasses or goggles.

yy Other flying objects. When the above hazards exist, you must wear safety spectacles with side shields or goggles in conjunction with face shields.

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Power Tools Use of power tools can create struck-by hazards on construction sites.

Types of Power Tools Types of power tools commonly found on construction sites include the following: yy Grinders. yy Table saws. yy Drills. When using these tools, you must be trained on the safe operation of the specific tool. Use of power tools like this one can create struck-by hazards.

REMEMBER Always operate power tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Protecting Yourself Protect yourself and others from hazards by doing the following: yy Always inspect a tool before you use it. yy Wear PPE such as safety goggles. yy Make sure that all guards are in place and in good condition.

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Employer Responsibilities Employers must take certain steps to ensure the safety of workers. These are general requirements employers must follow to protect workers from struckby hazards. yy Provide PPE. yy Ensure the safe use of hand tools.

PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a crucial part of keeping workers safe on the worksite. When workers use PPE properly, the risk of injury caused by a variety of hazards is reduced. Employers have requirements in regards to PPE. yy Pay for PPE, such as hard hats and safety glasses, as required by OSHA.

Employers and employees must cooperate in order to maintain a safe working environment.

yy Ensure that PPE is properly maintained and sanitized.

REMEMBER Tools

Workers will use a wide variety of tools on the construction site. When workers use tools properly, the risk of injury caused by hazards is reduced. Employers have requirements in regards to employees’ use of hand tools on construction sites. yy E nsure that all hand tools are in good working condition. yy D o not permit the use of unsafe hand tools.

yy Saws must have guards equipped. yy Saws must have constant pressure switches. yy Abrasive wheel bench and stand grinders must have safety guards. yy Providing proper training is a crucial part of keeping employees safe on the worksite.

yy R emove unsafe hand tools from service. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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NOTES:

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NOTES:

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Caught-In Hazard

Construction Focus Four: Caught-In or -Between Hazards Lesson 5 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify caught-in or -between hazards. Describe types of caught-in or -between hazards. List different types of protection against specific caught-in or -between hazards and their requirements. Explain employer requirements to protect workers from caught-in or -between hazards.

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Caught-In Hazard

Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from caught-in hazards on construction sites.

REMEMBER

Caught-In Hazards Defined

Don’t confuse struck-by hazards with caught-in hazards.

OSHA defines caught-in and caught-between hazards:

“

Crushing injuries can occur when caught-in or -between objects. A caught-in or -between hazard can result in serious crushing injuries. This happens when a person is :

”

yy In caught-in events, a worker is crushed between objects. yy In struck-by events, the impact alone causes injury.

Types of Hazards

Caught-in hazards include the following: yy Squeezed,

yy Being crushed in equipment.

yy Caught,

yy B eing crushed between mashing objects.

yy Crushed, yy Pinched, or yy Compressed between two or more objects.

yy B eing crushed between a moving and a stationary object. yy B eing crushed between two or more moving objects.

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Caught-In Hazards in Construction You’ll be exposed to a variety of caught-in hazards on the construction site. Be aware of caught-in hazards, and take steps to protect yourself and others.

Examples of Hazards Examples of caught-in or -between hazards on construction worksites include: yy Cave-ins during trenching or excavations (this is considered to be the greatest risk). yy Clothing becoming caught in running equipment and pulling the operator into machinery or equipment. yy Being struck and then compressed by heavy equipment such as a lift. yy Being crushed between a truck and a wall. yy Being crushed between a truck and a forklift.

Working Conditions Examples of caught-in or -between hazards on construction worksites include: yy Machinery with unguarded moving parts can snag clothes or body parts. yy Unprotected excavations and trenches can cave in and bury workers.

Caught-in hazards can pose a serious risk of injury or even death.

yy Heavy equipment can tip over and crush or pin workers. yy Unstable or collapsing walls can bury or pin workers. yy Workers can become pinned between moving objects and stationary structures.

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Machinery with Unguarded Moving Parts Be aware of the hazards posed by machinery with unguarded moving parts.

Machinery with Unguarded Moving Parts

Buried-In or -By Hazards

Protect yourself and others from caught-in hazards caused by machinery with unguarded moving parts.

Machinery with unguarded moving parts can cause your clothing or body to become caught in the machine. This can also happen with machinery that is not properly locked out. Avoid using machinery or equipment that hasn’t been locked out.

Protecting Yourself

Pinned-Between Hazards

yy If a moving part can physically contact workers, it must be guarded. yy When using power tools, guards are required. yy L ockout/tagout procedures ensure equipment doesn’t become reenergized when it’s being repaired or worked on.

Employer Responsibilities: yy Ensure that hand-held power tools are equipped with guards and safety switches. yy Guards and safety switches must be appropriate to the tool’s power source. yy Equipment that may cause hazards must be made safe.

Keep the following in mind: yy During maintenance, guard or de-energize machines.

yy Provide lockout/tagout procedures.

yy Improperly de-energized machines may start up and cause either injury or death.

yy Require that blades be lowered or blocked before repairs.

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Buried-In or -By Hazards Be aware of the potential for buried-in or buried-by hazards on the worksite.

Machinery with Unguarded Moving Parts

Buried-In or -By Hazards

Buried-in or -by hazards are types of caughtin or -between hazards.

Buried-in hazards generally occur in trench and excavation cave-ins. Be aware of buried-in hazards and learn how to protect yourself and others on the worksite. Examples of buried-in or -by hazards include the following: yy Cave-ins of trenches or excavation areas can suffocate and/or crush workers. yy Hazardous atmospheres (such as sewage, water, chemicals, or underwater utilities) in a trench or exca-

Pinned-Between Hazards

vation area can drown, electrocute, or burn workers. yy Unstable scaffolding can collapse and bury those working underneath. yy Walls that collapse during demolition can crush or bury workers.

REMEMBER If a worksite contains any of the above hazards, workers should immediately leave the worksite.

If the above buried-in or buried-by hazards exist in the workplace, employers should immediately work to eliminate these hazards.

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Pinned-Between Hazards Be aware of the potential for pinned-between hazards on the worksite.

Machinery with Unguarded Moving Parts

Buried-In or -By Hazards

Pinned-between hazards are types of caught-in or -between hazards.

Pinned-between hazards happen when a worker becomes pinned between two solid objects. Solid objects that often contribute to pinned-between hazards on construction sites include: yy Equipment.

Pinned-Between Hazards

yy A wall and a piece of mechanical equipment. yy Materials being stacked or stored and a solid object. yy Shoring and construction materials in a trench. yy A collapsing wall and the floor.

MEDICAL ALERT Pinned-between hazards can lead to the following:

yy Walls.

Examples of Hazards

• Broken bones.

Common examples of hazards on the construction site include becoming pinned between:

• Asphyxiation. • Death.

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Protecting Yourself You’ll face a variety of hazards on the construction site. Learn how to protect yourself and others.

REMEMBER There are several ways to protect yourself from caught-in or -between hazards.

Examples of Hazards To keep yourself and others safe, practice the following:

yy Avoid placing yourself between moving vehicles and an immovable structure, vehicle, or stacked material. yy Equipment must have safety belts and rollover structures as required.

yy Use properly guarded machinery. yy Use methods to support, secure, and make every machine safe. yy Before work, make sure workers are protected from becoming pinned between equipment, materials, and other objects. yy Be aware of surrounding materials. yy Make sure materials are properly stacked to avoid deadly crushing injuries.

Employers must take steps to ensure the safety of workers. Employer responsibilities include the following: yy Protect workers from being crushed by heavy equipment. yy Make sure the work area is stable.

yy Be aware of dangers when on excavation sites.

yy Make sure equipment isn’t loaded beyond capacity.

yy Know how to identify hazardous situations and prevent injuries on the job site.

yy Conduct proper inspections of operations.

yy Complete training and retraining as needed.

yy Provide worker training on the safe use of the equipment being operated.

yy Don’t wear loose clothes or jewelry near moving equipment or machinery.

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Safeguarding Machines Minimize caught-in hazards by making sure workplace machinery is safe to use.

There are several practices that should be used to make workplace machinery safe. This includes the following: yy Disconnect and de-energize tools that are not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories such as blades and bits. yy Turn vehicles off before working on them. yy Perform lockout procedures before repairs or when machines are not in use. Train employers in using worksite machinery and in the knowledge of worksite hazards. yy Make sure all hand-held power tools and equipment with moving parts have guards and safety switches. yy Points of operation and in-running nip points must be guarded.

Safeguard machinery to minimize caught-in hazards.

Protecting Yourself Workers can prevent themselves from becoming pinned between equipment and objects. Always practice the following: yy Maintain awareness of surrounding equipment. yy Never place yourself between moving equipment and unmoving material. yy Make sure loads are stable and secured. yy Stay out of reach of the swinging radius of equipment. yy Always wear a seatbelt if required.

REMEMBER Wearing seatbelts in vehicles prevents you from being thrown or crushed in the event of a tipover.

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Excavation Sites Take extra precautions to minimize hazards on excavation sites. Employer Responsibilities: yy Provide appropriate training for equipment. yy Provide a competent person to inspect the area. Workers can protect themselves on excavation sites by using the following practices:

yy Protect excavations 5 feet to 20 feet with sloping or benching.

yy Do not work in unprotected sites 5 feet or deeper.

yy Use a protective system designed by a professional engineer in excavations 20 feet or deeper.

yy Make sure trenches are protected with sloping/benching, a trench box or shield, or shoring. yy Only enter or exit trenches by properly placed ladders, ramps, and stairways. yy Always work within the confines of a protection system. yy Use barricades, signals, and stop logs as warning systems when mobile equipment is operating near excavations. yy Do not work underneath earthmoving equipment.

Protecting Yourself All workers should be properly trained in using equipment and in the knowledge of job hazards. Employers also have responsibilities in protecting workers during trenching and excavation work.

yy Require engineer-designed protective systems for deep excavations and trenches. yy Provide protection from equipment/materials that could fall into excavations.

Job Safety Training Job safety training must be provided to all employees. Training programs must empower workers to: yy Identify unsafe conditions. yy Know regulations that help them control hazards, injuries, and illnesses. yy Operate equipment safely. yy Know OSHA standards and regulations for the specific construction environment and activities.

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Employer Responsibilities Employers and employees must cooperate in order to reduce hazards on the worksite.

Preventing Pinned-Between Hazards Take measures to prevent workers from being pinned between a solid object and equipment. yy Only allow necessary workers in job areas. yy Provide proper bracing for shoring trenches. yy Keep travel paths clear of caught-in or -between hazards.

Avoiding Collapsing Structures Structures with unstable or improper support have the potential to collapse and bury workers underneath them. Employers must protect workers from being buried by collapsing scaffolds or walls using the following methods: yy Provide means to avoid the collapse of scaffolds, including proper training and the assignment of a competent person to inspect and supervise. yy Avoid the collapse of walls through lateral bracing for standalone walls that aren't self-supporting, as well as blocking or cribbing jacks.

REMEMBER yy Certain construction activities, such as training in scaffold erection, conducting excavation inspections, performing engineering surveys before demolition, and conducting ongoing inspections during a job must be performed by a competent person. yy A competent person is one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

Providing Worker Training Per OSHA’s general training requirement, the employer must instruct each employee in how to recognize and avoid unsafe working conditions on a construction worksite. Employers must also instruct their employees about the specific safety regulations that apply to their work environment, including floor openings, equipment operation, and hazard control.

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NOTES:

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Health Hazards

Health Hazards in Construction Lesson 6 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify new requirements for the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. Describe different types of job hazards. List the different types of job hazards that may require engineering, workplace, and administrative controls. Explain employer requirements for health and environmental hazard control.

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Health Hazards

Learn how to protect yourself and others from health hazards on construction sites. Health Hazards Defined

Protecting Yourself

Health hazards can be defined as follows:

“

Health hazards are anything at your worksite that may cause measurable changes in the body.

”

This may include a range of changes.

MEDICAL ALERT Health hazards that cause body changes may include: • Carpal tunnel syndrome. • Decreased pulmonary function. • Disease. • Death.

On construction sites, an industrial hygienist must identify and evaluate hazards by performing a worksite analysis. An OSHA industrial hygienist has the following responsibilities: yy Analyze, identify, and measure workplace hazards or stressors that can cause sickness. yy Analyze, identify, and measure impaired health or significant discomfort in workers through chemical, physical, ergonomic, or biological exposures. yy Determine the extent of employee exposure to hazards. yy Decide what is needed to control work hazards. yy Provide technical assistance and support to the agency’s national and regional offices.

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Types of Health Hazards While working in construction, you’ll be exposed to a variety of health hazards. Be aware of different types of health hazards you may encounter.

Employer Responsibilities:

There are five categories of health hazards that workers can expect to face on a construction worksite.

yy Train employees in the identification and control of health hazards. yy The best way to control or prevent hazards in the event of an emergency is through emergency preparation.

Types of Health Hazards

Air Contaminants

Biological Hazards

Chemical Hazards

Physical Hazards

Ergonomic Hazards

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Air Contaminants While working in construction, you may be exposed to a variety of air contaminants. Air contaminants are a type of health hazard.

Gas and Vapor Contaminants – Gases are formless fluids that expand to occupy the space or enclosure in which they are confined.

These commonly fall into one of two classifications.

yy Welding gases such as acetylene, nitrogen, helium, argon, and carbon monoxide.

Particulate (Particles) – This is physical solid or liquid matter that is small and fine enough to be suspended in the air.

yy Vapors result from liquid mixing with the surrounding atmosphere through evaporation. yy Gas and vapor contaminants can result from welding, cleaning, or painting.

Types of Particle Hazards

Dusts

Fumes

Aerosols

Mists

Fibers

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Chemical Hazards While working in construction, you may be exposed to variety of chemical hazards. Chemical hazards are a type of health hazard. Examples may include harmful substances in several forms.

MEDICAL ALERT The toxic effects of chemical hazards occur through: • Direct inhalation of a substance.

yy Solid. yy Liquid.

• Irritation on direct skin contact with a substance.

yy Gas.

• Absorption of a substance through the skin.

yy Mist. yy Dust.

• Ingestion of a substance.

yy Fumes. yy Vapors. Chemical hazards can exert a toxic effect, and can include airborne chemicals that exist as concentrations of mists, vapors, gases, fumes, or solids.

How Hazards Occur The risk of exposure to chemical hazards depends on the nature and potency of a toxic effect. It also depends on the magnitude and duration of exposure.

• Corrosion through contact between a substance and living tissue.

REMEMBER OSHA'S updated Hazard Communication Standard requires information on chemical risks to be made available to workers through a Safety Data Sheet. The SDS is a summary of the important health, safety, and toxicological information on the chemical or the mixture's ingredients.

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Biological Hazards While working in construction, you may be exposed to variety of biological hazards. Biological hazards are a type of health hazard. There are several biological hazards to be aware of on the worksite.

Types of Biological Hazards

MEDICAL ALERT • Biological hazards cause acute and chronic infections. • They enter the body directly or through breaks in the skin. • These hazards are not always noticeable, and can cause illness or injury to exposed workers.

Viruses

Bacteria

Protecting Yourself Be aware of occupations or tasks that may put you or other workers at risk of exposure to biological hazards. Such activities include: yy Working with plants or animals. yy Working with food or food processing. yy Working in healthcare.

Other Living Organisms

Fungi

yy Any occupation with potential exposure to bodily fluids.

When applicable, use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect yourself from biological and other health hazards on the worksite.

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Physical Hazards While working in construction, you’ll be exposed to variety of physical hazards. Lesson 2 discusses Fall Hazards, which comprise many common physical construction safety hazards. However, subtler physical hazards discussed in this lesson are also harmful to employees on a worksite. Examples of such physical hazards include: yy Ionizing and nonionizing radiation. yy Noise. yy Temperature. Noise is one example of a physical hazard.

Ionizing and Nonionizing Radiation Note the following on worksites exposed to ionizing radiation: yy Time. yy Distance. yy Shielding. These are important considerations for worker safety.

Reducing Hazards An industrial hygienist performs a worksite analysis to help identify hazards. The basic worksite analysis includes the following:

Time – The danger from radiation increases with the amount of time exposed to it. Limiting exposure time lessens the danger from radiation. Distance – Radiation levels from some sources can be estimated by comparing the squares of the distances between the worker and the source. Shielding – The greater the protective mass between the source and the worker, the lower the radiation exposure.

yy Inspection of all jobs, operations, and work activities. yy Research on how physical hazards at the worksite affect worker health. yy Recommendations for any necessary, appropriate corrective actions.

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Noise Noise is one example of a physical hazard commonly found on construction sites.

Temperature Temperature is another physical hazard on construction sites. Physical hazards relating to temperature include radiant heat exposure in factories like steel mills. Employers can control these hazards by taking the following steps: Use PPE to protect yourself from loud noises.

Noise is a significant physical hazard that can be controlled by various workplace measures.

yy Install reflective shields. yy Providing protective clothing.

OSHA requires that workers in noisy surroundings be periodically tested to protect against hearing loss. Reduce noise by doing the following: yy Install equipment and systems that have been engineered, designed, and built to operate quietly. yy Enclose or shield noisy equipment. yy Make certain that equipment is in good repair. yy Properly maintain equipment.

You may be exposed to physical hazards related to temperatures on your worksite

yy Replace all worn or unbalanced parts. yy Reduce vibration by mounting noisy equipment on special mounts. yy Install silencers, mufflers, or baffles.

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Ergonomic Hazards While working in construction, you’ll be exposed to a variety of ergonomic hazards. The topic of ergonomics covers a full range of activities.

Ergonomics studies is the science of lifting, holding, pushing, walking, and reaching. A wide range of conditions can cause ergonomic hazards.

Types of Hazards There are many types of ergonomic hazards, including the following: yy Vibration yy Noise yy Eye Strain yy Repetitive Motion Injuries yy Heavy Lifting Problems Heavy lifting is an example of an ergonomic hazard.

MEDICAL ALERT yy Carpal tunnel syndrome is irritation and inflammation of the tendon sheath of the hands and arms. yy This condition can develop through repetitive motion or repeated shocks over prolonged periods of time.

Many ergonomic hazards result from technological changes including the following: yy Increased assembly line speeds. yy Adding specialized tasks. yy Increased repetition.

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Controlling Ergonomic Hazards There are many ways to reduce ergonomic hazards in the workplace. A well-designed work environment reduces ergonomic hazards. An ergonomic environment achieves the following: yy Increased efficiency. yy Fewer accidents. yy Lower operating costs. yy More effective use of personnel.

Employer Responsibilities Employers can set up procedures to correct or control ergonomic hazards.

Employer policies should control ergonomic hazards.

Administrative Controls yy This means any other measures that reduce employee exposure to hazards.

Engineering Controls yy This is the first and best strategy for controlling hazards at their source. yy Focus on the work environment and the job itself. yy The job and environment are designed to eliminate or reduce exposure to hazards.

yy This includes additional relief workers, exercise breaks, and worker rotations.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) if these measure don’t provide enough protection.

Work Practice Controls yy These include the company’s general workplace rules.

REMEMBER

yy They include other operation-specific rules.

Even in an ergonomic environment, correctional programs such as medical programs, preventative maintenance systems, and emergency preparation may still be necessary.

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Specific Construction Hazards Learn how to protect yourself from specific health hazards you may encounter on construction sites. There are several common health hazards found on construction sites. Asbestos – You may encounter asbestos in certain construction environments. Inhalation of asbestos can lead to serious illness. Lead – Exposure to lead can have toxic effects on the human body. You may encounter lead during certain construction activities. Silica Dust – Silica dust is found in sand and rock particles. Lung disease can develop over years of exposure.

Wood Preservative Chemicals – These are widely-used chemicals that are added to lumber to prevent it from rotting.

Certain hazards can have a take-home effect, which means they may cause illness in those who come into contact with you.

MEDICAL ALERT yy The presence of asbestos, lead, silica dust, and wood preservative chemicals can have a take-home effect. yy This means it may cause illness in family members and friends who come into contact with workers.

Heat – Heat stress is a serious health hazard. It can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

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Asbestos Follow safe practices when removing or working with asbestos. Asbestos was once a common building material. Now, its use is heavy regulated by OSHA due to health hazards.

MEDICAL ALERT Inhalation of asbestos can lead to serious illness. yy Malignant Lung Cancer. yy Mesothelioma. yy Asbestosis.

Use PPE to protect yourself.

Asbestos Removal Use these work practices when working with or removing Asbestos-Containing Construction Materials (ACCM):

Common Locations Be aware of these common locations of asbestos: yy Excavations where asbestos bearing rocks are present. yy Fireproofing for steel-frame high-rise buildings. yy Pipe and boiler insulation. yy Insulators of electrical conductors, plaster, cement, drywall, and taping compounds. yy Floor tile and tile adhesives.

yy Prompt cleanup and disposal in leaktight containers. yy The wet method (wetting and containing asbestos during removal). yy Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters (this is required for any ACCM cleanup). The following practices are prohibited: yy Spraying of any substance containing any amount of asbestos. yy Disc saw cutting of ACCM without exhaust or ventilation.

yy Acoustical ceilings.

yy Using compressed air to remove asbestos or ACCM.

yy Asbestos cement piping, shingles, and panels.

yy Dry sweeping, shoveling, or other dry cleaning of ACCM dust or debris.

yy Roofing felt and sealing compounds.

yy Rotating employee duties as a means of reducing exposure.

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Lead Lead exposure has toxic effects on the human body. Exposure to lead can occur during construction activities including the following: yy Plumbing system retrofits. yy Spraying, removal, or heating of paint with lead. yy Welding, cutting, and grinding construction materials that contain lead.

MEDICAL ALERT Lead exposure can cause the following: yy Kidney damage. yy Brain damage. yy Sterility. yy Decreased fertility. yy Birth defects and mental retardation in offspring.

Protecting Yourself “Lead Trigger Tasks” are highly hazardous tasks. These carry the presumption of airborne exposure to lead above Permissible Exposure Limits. When a Trigger Task is performed, minimum respirator requirements apply. Level 1: Trigger Tasksyy Spray painting. yy Manual demolition.

yy Manual scraping or sanding. yy Using a heat gun. yy Cleaning power tools w/ dust collection system. Minimum Respirator Requirementsyy Half-mask respirator with N-100, R-100, or P-100 filters. Level 2: Trigger Tasksyy Using lead containing mortar. yy Burning lead. yy Rivet busting. yy Cleaning power tolls without dust collection system. yy Using dry, expendable abrasives for clean-up procedures. yy Moving or removing an abrasive blasting enclosure. Minimum Respirator Requirements (Either)yy Full-face mask respirator with N-100, R-100, or P-100 filters. yy Supplied-air hood or helmet. yy Loose-fitting hood or helmet with a powered air purifying respirator with N-100, R-100, or P-100 filters. Level 3: Trigger Tasksyy Abrasive blasting, welding, cutting, or torch burning on structures. Minimum Respirator Requirementsyy Half-mask, supplied air respirator operated in a postive pressure mode.

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Silica Dust Take precautions when you may be exposed to silica dust. Silica dust is present in the airborne particles of sand and rock.

MEDICAL ALERT yy Exposure to silica dust can cause a lung disease called silicosis. yy This can develop over years of exposure. yy It can cause illness and death in just a few weeks after exposure to extremely high levels of dust. Limit your exposure to respirable silica.

Employer Responsibilities If workers have the potential to be exposed to silica dust, employers must do the following: yy Measure and control employee exposure to airborne contaminants. yy Train employees in the hazards of crystalline silica exposure. yy Train employees in the measures to control risk, including proper use of respirators. yy Employ a qualified industrial hygienist to evaluate employees who are repeatedly exposed to rock dust or sand.

Some activities can cause a visible and toxic cloud of silica dust. This includes the following: yy Abrasive blasting with sand. yy Loading, dumping, chipping, hammering, cutting, and drilling of rock, sand, or concrete.

REMEMBER The permissible exposure levels for silica dust can be exceeded even when there is no visible cloud.

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Wood Preservative Chemicals You may be exposed to hazardous wood preservative chemicals on construction sites. Chemicals are often added to lumber to prevent it from rotting. Widely-used chemicals that can be carcinogenic include: yy Creosote. yy Pentachlorophenol. yy Inorganic arsenic.

MEDICAL ALERT Carcinogenic wood preservative chemicals have the potential to harm the body through absorption and inhalation.

Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is an important way to protect yourself from carcinogenic chemicals.

Protecting Yourself Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect yourself. This may include: yy Coveralls.

Provide workers with the appropriate PPE when hazards are present.

yy Gloves. yy Shoes. yy Face Shields. yy Resistant Clothing. yy NIOSH Approved Respirators.

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Heat You may be exposed to heat hazards on construction sites.

Heat stress is a serious health hazard. It can cause heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Supervisors and foremen should constantly monitor workers who are exposed to heat hazards.

Don’t underestimate the seriousness of heat hazards.

MEDICAL ALERT

MEDICAL ALERT

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

Symptoms of heatstroke include:

yy yy yy yy yy

Weakness. Fatigue. Blurred vision. Dizziness. Headache.

Signs of heat exhaustion include: yy yy yy yy yy

High pulse rate. Extreme sweating. Pale face. Insecure gait. Slightly-elevated temperature.

yy Chills. yy Restlessness. yy Irritability. Signs of heatstroke include: yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

Red face. Hot, dry skin. Disorientation. High body temperature. Erratic behavior. Shivering. Collapse. Convulsions. Unconsciousness.

First Aid Heat Exhaustion – Lay the worker down flat in a cool environment. Loosen the worker’s clothing and give him or her plenty of water to drink. Heatstroke – Immediately begin aggressively cooling the worker and get him or her to a hospital.

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Hazard Communication Use hazard communication practices to protect yourself and others from health hazards on the worksite. Section 1910.1200 of the OSHA Regulations, Subpart Z - Hazard Communications, provides an overview for general hazard classification and communication for all employers.

Hazard Communication Standard Workers must understand and have access to information about the identities and hazards of chemicals. OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires the development and dissemination of this information.

Manufacturing and Importing Chemical manufacturers and importers must do the following: yy Evaluate the hazards of chemicals they produce or import. yy Prepare labels and safety data sheets.

Example The image below shows an example of a simple label.

The creation of labels and safety data sheets must convey hazard information to customers.

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Hazard Classification Hazard classification helps ensure chemical safety in the workplace. The term "hazard classification" indicates that only the intrinsic hazardous properties of chemicals are considered. Hazard classification incorporates three steps: 1. Identification of relevant data regarding a chemical’s hazard. 2. Subsequent review of those data to ascertain the hazards associated with the chemical. 3. Determination of whether the chemical will be classified as hazardous and the degree of hazard.

REMEMBER In many cases, only an expert may interpret the data for hazard classification purposes.

GHS The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) provides a set of criterial for identifying chemicals. yy Chemicals are identified per their physical and health hazards. yy There are specific hazard communication elements for both labelling and safety data sheets.

Use the GHS classification and labeling system for chemicals.

Employers are not required to classify chemicals unless they choose not to rely on the classification performed by the chemical manufacturer.

Chemical Hazard Classes Hazardous chemicals are classified by the effect they cause. Also, some chemicals are assigned a category number, which indicates the severity of the harmful effect. Familiarize yourself with the following: yy Health classification. yy Physical classification. yy Mixture classification.

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Health Hazards In construction, you may be exposed to chemicals that pose health hazards. Chemicals may be classified as posing hazardous effects relating to your health. The following are examples of hazardous effects: yy Acute toxicity.

MEDICAL ALERT Reactions to chemicals causing skin corrosion include the following:

yy Skin corrosion or irritation.

yy Ulcers.

yy Serious eye damage or eye irritation.

yy Bleeding.

yy Respiratory or skin sensitization.

yy Bloody Scabs. yy Discoloration. yy Areas of alopecia (no body hair).

Acute Toxicity Acute toxicity is an example of a hazard class. It is assigned to chemicals that cause adverse effects when the chemical is: yy Ingested. yy Transferred through the skin. yy Inhaled.

yy Scars. Reactions to chemicals causing skin irritation include the following: yy Lesions. yy Rashes.

Skin Corrosion/Irritation Skin corrosion/irritation is a hazard class assigned to chemicals that are hazardous to the skin. yy Skin Corrosion – This class identifies chemicals that cause irreversible damage to the skin. yy Skin Irritation – This class identifies chemicals that cause reversible damage to the skin.

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Health Hazards

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles or face shields when you may be exposed to chemicals that may cause serious eye damage/irritation.

Use PPE such as respirators or hand and arm protection when you may be exposed to chemicals that may cause respiratory or skin sensitization.

Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation

Respiratory or Skin Sensitization

Serious eye damage/eye irritation is a hazard class assigned to chemicals that are hazardous to the eyes.

Respiratory or skin sensitization is a hazard class assigned to chemicals that irritate the airways or skin.

yy Serious Eye Damage – This class identifies chemicals that damage eye tissue or cause serious physical decay of vision.

yy Respiratory Sensitization – This hazard class identifies chemicals that, when inhaled, lead to hypersensitivity of the airways.

yy Eye Irritation – This class identifies chemicals that cause reversible damage to the eyes, such as burning or temporary loss of sight.

yy Skin Sensitization – This hazard class identifies chemicals that lead to an allergic response after making contact with skin.

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Health Hazards

This container’s label alerts workers to the chemical’s potential hazards.

Physical Hazards In construction, you may be exposed to chemicals that pose physical hazards. If a chemical is assigned a physical hazard classification, it poses one of various hazardous effects. These include the following: yy yy yy yy yy yy

Explosive. Flammable. Self-reactive. Self-heating. Corrosive to metal. Gas under pressure.

Explosive – This is a class assigned to solid or liquid chemicals that are capable, by chemical reaction, of producing gas at such a temperature and pressure that they rapidly damage the surrounding environment.

SDS information must reflect the scientific evidence used in making the hazard classification.

Mixtures OSHA defines a mixture as “a combination or a solution composed of two or more substances in which they do not react.” When classifying mixtures, those who manufacture chemicals or import mixtures may rely on the information provided on the current safety data sheets of the individual ingredients, except when manufacturers and importers know or should know that the safety data sheet misstates or omits required information.

Pyrotechnic – The explosive class also includes pyrotechnic chemicals, which are designed to produce heat, light, sound, gas, or smoke. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Written Hazard Communication Program If employees will be exposed to hazardous chemicals, your workplace must have a written plan. Planning and communication helps reduce risks on the worksite.

An effective hazard communication program reduces the risks involved in working with hazardous materials. It achieves this by doing the following: yy Communicating vital information to employees. yy Educating employees on the real and potential hazards of substances in the workplace. yy Reducing the incidence and cost of illness and injury caused by hazardous substances.

REMEMBER Your workplace’s written plan must describe how OSHA’s hazard communication standard will be implemented.

Employer Responsibilities At each workplace, employers must develop, implement, and maintain a written hazard communication program.

Written hazard communication programs must be available to employees, their designated representatives, and OSHA.

The written communication program must describe how the criteria for specific labels and other forms of warning, safety data sheets, and employee information and training will be met. Employers should follow specific steps when implementing hazard programs: 1. Identify responsible staff. 2. Identify hazardous chemicals. 3. Prepare and implement the hazard program. 

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3 Steps to Hazard Communication Programs Employers should follow three key steps to successfully implement a hazard communication program. When putting a hazard communication program into place, employers should follow these three steps:

1. Identify responsible staff. Success depends on commitment at every level of the organization. Employers must understand the program, and they must be committed to its success.

REMEMBER Use a broad perspective when surveying the workplace for hazardous chemicals.

3. Prepare and implement the hazard program. After identifying responsible staff and hazardous chemicals, you’ll need to prepare and implement the program.

REMEMBER Employees are motivated by the people presenting the information.

2. Identify hazardous chemicals. Survey the worksite to prepare a comprehensive list of hazardous chemicals.

REMEMBER The program should include label requirements, SDS locations, and employee training.

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Hazard Communication Program: Planning Review the following items when preparing a hazard communication program. Check off each item as it is completed. Make notes of how it applies to your worksite. ‰‰ There is a list of hazardous substances in your workplace.

‰‰ There is a written hazard communication program dealing with safety data sheets, labeling, and employee training.

‰‰ Each container (such as vats, bottles, and tanks) for a hazardous substance is labeled with the product identity and a hazard warning.

‰‰ There is a safety data sheet readily available for each hazardous substance used.

‰‰ There is an employer training program for hazardous substances.

REMEMBER The hazard warning communicates the specific health hazards and physical hazards.

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Hazard Communication Program: Checklist Include the following items in your workplace’s hazard communication program. Check off each item as it is included into the program. Make note of how it applies to your worksite. ‰‰ An explanation of what a safety data sheet is and how to use and obtain one.

‰‰ Safety data sheet contents for each hazardous substance or class of substances.

‰‰ Identification of where an employee can see the employer's written hazard communication program and where hazardous substances are present in their work areas.

‰‰ The physical and health hazards of substances in the work area, and specific protective measures to be used.

‰‰ Details of the hazard communication program, including how to use the labeling system and safety data sheets.

‰‰ A list of the hazardous chemicals known to be present using a product identifier that is referenced on the appropriate safety data sheet (SDS).

‰‰ The methods the employer will use to inform employees of the hazards of non-routine tasks, and the hazards associated with chemicals contained in unlabeled pipes in their work areas.

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Employee Training: Checklist Make sure employers are trained in the following topics. Take notes on how these topics apply to your worksite. Check off each item as it becomes apart of employee training. ‰‰ How to recognize tasks that might result in occupational exposure.

‰‰ How to use work practice and engineering controls, and how to use personal protective equipment and to know their limitations.

‰‰ How to obtain information on the type selection, proper use, location, removal handling, decontamination, and disposal of personal protective equipment.

‰‰ Who to contact and what to do in an emergency.

Additional Notes:

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Labels and Other Forms of Warning Labels and other forms of warning must meet OSHA requirements. Containers of hazardous chemicals must be labeled, tagged, or marked with the following: yy Identity of the material. yy Appropriate hazard warnings.

Work Place Labeling Instead of a label, employers may use the following: yy Signs. yy Placards. yy Process sheets. yy Batch tickets. yy Operating procedures. yy Other written warning materials. This alternative warning method may be used if the written materials:

This container is marked with important information that communicates how a worker can protect him- or herself from hazards.

yy Identify the containers of hazardous chemicals.

OSHA Requirements

yy Provide information about the associated hazards.

Chemical manufacturers, importers, or distributors must ensure proper labeling of chemicals leaving the workplace. Labeling, tagging, or marking must include the following information:

yy Are readily accessible to the employees in their work area throughout each work shift.

REMEMBER A product identifier is the name or number used for a hazardous product on a label or in the safety data sheet (SDS).

A. Product identifier. B. Signal word. C. Hazard statement(s). D. Pictogram(s). E. Precautionary statement(s). F. Name, address, and phone number.

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Label Elements Review this sample label to better understand its required elements.

A. Product Identifier

D. Pictogram(s)

This is how the hazard is identified. Examples include the chemical name, batch number, or code number.

These graphic symbols communicate specific information about a chemical’s hazard.

B. Signal Word This indicates a hazard’s severity. The only two words used as signal warnings are “Danger” and “Warning.”

C. Hazard Statement(s) These describe the nature and degree of the hazard.

E. Precautionary Statement(s) These describe the measures you should take to prevent or minimize hazardous effects.

F. Name, Address, and Phone Number This is the chemical manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party’s information.

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Label Elements Labels must include pictograms that alert workers to the chemical hazards they may be exposed to.

Health Hazards yy Carcinogen yy Mutagenicity

Exclamation Mark yy Irritant (Skin and Eye)

Gas Cylinder yy Gas Under Pressure

Flame yy Flammables yy Pyrophoric

yy Reproductive Toxicity

yy Skin Sensitizer

yy Self-Heating

yy Acute Toxicity

yy Respiratory Sensitizer

yy Narcotic Effects

yy Emits Flammable Gas

yy Target Organ Toxicity yy Aspiration Toxicity

Corrosion yy Skin Corrosion or Burns

yy Self-Reactive

yy Respiratory Tract Irritant yy Hazardous to Ozone Layer (Non-Mandatory Warning)

Flame Over Circle yy Oxidizer

yy Organic Peroxides

Skull & Crossbones yy Acute Toxicity (Fatal or Toxic)

Environment yy Aquatic Toxicity

Exploding Bomb yy Explosive yy Self-Reactive

yy Eye Damage

yy Organic Peroxide

yy Corrosive to Metals

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Safety Data Sheets Safety data sheets (SDSs) communicate the hazards associated with chemicals. Safety data sheets must be made readily available when designated representatives, the Assistant Secretary, and the Director request them. Safety data sheets: yy May be kept in any form. yy May be designed to cover groups of hazardous chemicals in a work area. yy Must be readily accessible during each work shift to employees. yy Must contain 16 specific sections.* For complex mixtures that have similar hazards and contents, the chemical manufacturer, importer, or employer may prepare one safety data sheet to apply to similar mixtures.

Responsibilities Chemical Manufacturers or Importers – They must provide SDSs with the shipped containers. Or, they must send SDSs to the distributor or employer before or at the time of shipment. Employers – They must make sure the required information is provided for each hazardous chemical.

NOTICE SAFETY DATA SHEETS LOCATED HERE Safety data sheets must be readily available upon request.

If employers, chemical manufacturers, or importers have significant new information about a chemical’s hazards (or ways to protect against hazards), they must add this information to the SDS within three months.

REMEMBER “Safety data sheets” (SDSs) are formerly known as “material safety data sheets” (MSDSs). MSDSs may still be used during the transition period for compliance with updated Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requirements.

*Inclusion of the 16 sections ensures consistency in how information is presented. For more information on the 16 sections of safety data sheets, visit the OSHA website.

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Employer Responsibilities Employers and employees must work together to reduce health hazards on the worksite.

Preventing Heat Hazards Employers must prevent heat illness by doing the following: yy Provide cool, potable water. yy Provide frequent cool-down breaks. yy Schedule the heaviest work load during the coolest part of the day. yy Encourage workers to drink water and cool down. yy Look for signs and symptoms of heat stress. yy Provide training on heat stress including prevention, recognition, and first aid. yy Prohibit use of the common drinking cup.

Hazard Classification yy Train all employees in label elements. yy Train employees in the 16 sections of safety data sheets. yy Hazard classification under the GHS provides specific criteria to address health and physical hazards as well as classification of chemical mixtures. yy Chemical manufacturers and importers must provide a label that includes a signal word, pictogram, hazard statement, and precautionary statement for each hazard class and category.

Good recordkeeping is an important responsibility.

Employers must inform employees of the following: yy Employer requirements for chemical hazard training. yy Employer requirements for sharing of information with employees. yy Operations in employee work areas where hazardous chemicals are present. yy Locations and availability of the written hazard communication program.

REMEMBER The written hazard communication program should include the required lists of hazardous chemicals and safety data sheets.

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Employee Training Employers are responsible for providing proper training to employees. Employers must provide employees with effective information and training on hazardous chemicals in their work area. yy Provide training at the time of an employee’s initial assignment. yy Provide additional training when a new chemical hazard is introduced. yy Training must include a statement of conditions. Effective training programs are: yy Observable. yy Measurable.

Training of temporary workers is a joint responsibility of the employer and the temp agency.

REMEMBER Training is meant to inform employees prior to exposure. Do not delay training until after the work has begun.

Training Requirements Employer-provided training should cover the following: yy The measures employees can take to protect themselves from hazards.

yy Work practices, emergency procedures, and other procedures that protect employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals. yy Details of the hazard communication program developed by the employer. yy Explanations of labels received on shipped containers. yy Explanations on the employer’s workplace labeling system. yy Information of the safety data sheet, including the order of information. yy Information on how employees can obtain and use appropriate hazard information.

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NOTES:

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NOTES:

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Materials Handling Lesson 7 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify material handling and rigging hazards. Describe the basic types of slings and material handling equipment. List the requirements for material storage. Explain the process for developing a materials handling safety program.

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Materials Handling

Handle and store all materials properly and efficiently. Materials Handling

Protecting Yourself

Efficient handling and storing of materials is essential in maintaining a safe and productive worksite. Proper materials handling practices allow a continuous flow of parts and assemblies. It also ensures that materials are available when they’re needed.

Don’t underestimate the hazards posed by materials handling on the worksite. Make sure you’re taking steps to protect yourself and those around you.

REMEMBER When handling materials, keep the following in mind: • Handle and store all materials efficiently. • Improper handling and storage can lead to costly injuries. • Maintain awareness of handling operations and the continuous flow of parts and assemblies.

yy Follow general requirements for material storage. yy Maintain good housekeeping in storage areas. yy Store special materials properly. yy Take extra precautions when storing lumber. yy Follow proper procedures for waste disposal. yy Ensure proper use of rigging equipment. yy Properly use equipment such as forklifts. First-line supervisors are accountable for employee training. Employers must provide safety and health programs in addition to training programs.

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General Requirements for Material Storage Follow general requirements when storing materials in a designated storage area.

General Material Storage When storing materials inside, employers and employees must cooperate to ensure the following: yy Maximum safe loads on floors must not be exceeded. yy Materials stored in tiers must be stacked, racked, blocked, or interlocked. yy All aisles and passageways must be kept clear and in good repair.

Properly stacking prevents sliding, falling, or collapsing. Take extra steps to make sure items are securely stored, especially when stacking certain materials such as:

Proper stacking and good housekeeping are essential in minimizing hazards.

Housekeeping yy

Bagged material

yy

Bricks

yy

Lumber

yy

Steel

Keep storage areas free from accumulated materials. This prevents tripping, fires, and explosions. Good housekeeping also prevents problems with rats and other pests.

REMEMBER The floor’s maximum safe load limit must be posted within the building or structure.

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Storing Special Materials Storage requirements for certain materials may be different from general storage requirements. Pay special attention when storing certain materials. Remember the following special material storage standards: yy Noncompatible materials must be segregated in storage. yy To properly stack bagged materials, step the layers and cross-key the bags. yy Do not store materials on scaffolds or runways. yy Do not stack bricks more than seven feet high.

Lumber Material Storage Pay special attention when storing or stacking lumber. Remember the following standards: yy Before stacking used lumber, make sure all nails are removed. yy Stack lumber on level and solidly-supported sills. yy Lumber stacks must be stable and self-supporting. yy Lumber piles must not exceed 20 feet in height, provided that the lumber to be handled manually must not be stacked more than 16 feet high.

A stack of bricks must not exceed seven feet.

REMEMBER Structural steel, poles, pipe, bar stock, and other cylindrical materials (unless racked) must be stacked and blocked. This prevents spreading and tilting.

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Manual Materials Handling Use proper lifting procedures when handling materials without the aid of equipment.

These workers must take care to use safe lifting procedures.

Safe Lifting Procedures When handling materials manually, employees must ensure proper safe lifting procedures. Make sure to practice the following when lifting materials:

By providing formal training to employees, employers can help reduce materials handling hazards. Safe lift training should cover the following topics: yy General principles of ergonomics.

yy Break loads into parts.

yy Health risks related to improper lifting.

yy Ask for help when lifting heavy or bulky items.

yy Methods and procedures for reporting hazardous conditions.

yy Lift with your legs, keep your back straight, and do not twist while lifting. yy Use handling aids including steps, trestles, shoulder pads, handles, and wheels. yy Avoid lifting above shoulder level.

REMEMBER Manual materials handling is the principle source of compensable injuries in the American workforce. Take special precautions to help avoid injuries to the feet, hands, back, and other parts of the body.

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Disposal of Waste Materials Employers must require certain practices when employees are disposing of waste materials.

Dropping Materials When disposing of waste materials, keep in mind the following: yy Employees must use an enclosed chute when materials will be dropped more than 20 feet to any point lying outside the building’s exterior walls. yy The enclosed chute must be made of wood or equivalent material. yy When not using a chute, the material must be dropped into a completely enclosed and barricaded area.

This ensures the safe disposal of waste materials.

REMEMBER When disposing of waste materials, use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and steel-toed boots, to prevent potential hazards and protect yourself from injury.

Always comply with local fire regulations when burning materials.

Burning Materials Some waste materials are disposed of through burning. In these cases, employers and workers must comply with local fire regulations.

In order to safely dispose of waste material or debris by burning them, remember the following: yy All solvent waste, oily rags, and flammable liquids must be kept in fire-resistant covered containers until they’re removed from the worksite.

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Rigging Equipment Rigging equipment allows workers to lift, roll, and slide heavy objects. When installing and using rigging equipment, remember the following: yy Rigging equipment must not exceed its recommended safe working load. yy Prior to each shift, inspect rigging equipment to ensure safety. yy When rigging equipment is not in use, remove it from the immediate work area. yy Properly store unused rigging equipment in a designated area. This prevents rigging equipment from becoming a hazard on the worksite.

REMEMBER These general requirements also apply to slings that are used in conjunction with other materials handling equipment for the purpose of moving materials by hoisting.

Types of Rigging Equipment There are several types of rigging equipment that are commonly used on a construction site. Natural Rope and Synthetic Fiber yy Eye splices must contain at least four full tucks. yy Strand end tails must not be trimmed short.

Rigging equipment is often used with cranes.

Wire Rope yy The type and size of rope must be sufficient for the load it will carry. yy Ropes can fail when they develop cracks or make radius bends. yy Wire abuse can cause serious structural damage such as kinking or bird caging. yy Rope failure can happen after repeated use. Shackles and Hooks yy Employers must determine the safe working loads of shackles. yy Higher safe working loads are permissible when standards are met. yy Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe working loads. yy Test hooks before putting them to use.

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Rigging Equipment Rigging equipment allows workers to lift, roll, and slide heavy objects.

Wire Rope The wire’s size, grade, and construction must be able to accommodate the maximum load that will be applied to it. Use a multiplier to determine the maximum load limit. The multiplier is the number by which the ultimate strength of a wire rope is divided.

EXAMPLE A wire rope sling with a strength of 10,000 pounds and a total working load of 2,000 pounds has a design factor (multiplier) of 5. Wire rope must be able to withstand repeated bending. Failure results when small cracks develop after repeated application of bending loads. This happens when ropes make small radius bends. To prevent this, use blocking or padding to increase the radius of the bend. Abusing a wire rope sling can cause serious structural damage to a wire rope. Damage can include kinking or bird caging, which reduces the rope’s strength. Abuse will cause a wire rope sling to become unsafe long before any other factor. To prolong the life of the sling and protect the lives of employees, always adhere to the manufacturer’s suggestion for safe and proper use of wire rope slings.

Natural Rope and Synthetic Fiber In layered synthetic fiber rope, eye splices must contain at least four full tucks. Short splices must contain at least eight full tucks. That means four on each side of the center line of the splice.

REMEMBER When using synthetic webbing labels, include the following: •

The name and trademark of manufacturer.

•

Rated capacities for the type of hitch.

•

Types of materials.

Also, you must not trim strand end tails short. This applies to both eye and short splices, as well as all types of fiber rope. For fiber ropes under one inch in diameter, the tails must provide at least six rope diameters beyond the last full tuck.

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Rigging Equipment Rigging equipment allows workers to lift, roll, and slide heavy objects.

Shackles and Hooks Always adhere to the safe working loads of rigging equipment. Employers must use the following table to determine the safe working loads of various sizes of shackles.

REMEMBER Manufacturers sometimes recommended higher safe working loads for specific and identifiable products. In these cases, higher safe working loads are permissible provided you maintain a safety factor of not less than 5. Regardless, you must always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in determining the safe working loads of various sizes and types of specific and identifiable hooks. When the manufacturer’s recommendations are not available, hooks must be tested to twice the intended safe working load. Testing must be done before the hooks are initially put to use.

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Materials Handling Equipment Be aware of the hazards caused by materials handling equipment, such as forklifts. Forklifts are commonly used for handling materials on the worksite. Employees should be properly trained in the safe use of forklifts and other materials handling equipment.

Forklifts yy Add loads to the center of the forks and close to the mast. yy Never overload the forklift. yy The load must be at the lowest position when traveling.

MEDICAL ALERT Industrial trucks, such as forklifts, cause approximately 100 fatalities and 36,340 injuries per year. An estimated 20-25% of those are caused by inadequate training.

Forklift operators must be properly trained.

on the rear of a counterbalanced forklift. This offsets the load.

Stacking

Loading When loading a forklift, the load must be centered on the forks and as close to the mast as possible. This minimizes the risk of the forklift tipping or the load falling. Never overload the truck. Overloaded trucks are difficult to control, and they can easily tip over. When there is extra weight, place it

When stacking a load, materials must be correctly piled and cross-tiered where possible.

Travel When the forklift is travelling, keep the load at the lowest possible position for travel. Follow the truck manufacturer’s operational requirements.

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Employer Responsibilities Employers and employees must work together to reduce materials handling hazards on construction sites. Employees must be trained in the proper handling and storing of materials. This is an essential part of any safety and health training program. Employers are responsible for developing training programs for employees.

Training yy Formal training reduces material handling hazards. yy Training should emphasize factors that contribute to reducing workplace hazards.

Employers must provide training to employees.

Ergonomics Safety and Health Programs yy Managers must take an active role in developing safety and health programs. yy To ensure continued safety, plans should be ongoing.

yy The job should fit the person, rather than the person fitting the job. yy Changing workplace conditions makes the job easier and reduces stressors. yy Practices include reducing the size or weight of objects being lifted.

yy Follow the four main elements of safety and health programs.

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Employer-Provided Training Formal training is an essential part of reducing material handling hazards.

Training Programs OSHA recommends using a formal training program to reduce material handling hazards on construction sites. Instructors should be well-versed in a variety of topics that relate to safety engineering and materials handling and storing.

Training programs should emphasize ways to reduce workplace hazards. Employer-provided training should achieve the following: yy Alert employees to the dangers of lifting materials without proper training. yy Show employees how to avoid unnecessary physical stress and strain. yy Teach workers to recognize potential hazards. yy Teach workers how to prevent and correct hazards.

Safety and Health Programs Managers must take an active role in developing safety and health programs. This ensures effective materials

handling and storing on the worksite, while reducing the potential for hazards and injuries. The four main elements of an effective occupational safety and health program include the following: yy Commitment from management and employee involvement. yy Worksite analysis. yy Hazard prevention and control. yy Safety and health training. First-line supervisors must understand the importance of controlling potential hazards. Use ongoing safety and health programs to motivate employees to use protective gear and observe proper job procedures on an ongoing basis.

First-line supervisors must be held accountable for employee training. Supervisors should establish and communicate safety goals, conduct worksite examinations, design job sites effectively, and provide training that addresses safety and health responsibilities of both management and employees.

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Ergonomics Ergonomics is an important part of providing a safe working environment.

Definition Ergonomics is defined as the study of work, and it’s based on an important principle:

“

The job should be adapted to the person, rather than forcing the person to fit the job.

”

Ergonomics focuses on the work environment. It covers a variety of items, including the following: yy The design and function of workstations. yy Controls. yy Displays. yy Safety devices. yy Tools and lighting to fit employees’ physical requirements. yy Ensuring workers’ health and well-being.

Adapt the job to the worker—not the other way around.

REMEMBER In material handling and storing, ergonomic principles may require controls such as reducing the size or weight of the objects lifted, installing a mechanical lifting aid, or changing the height of a pallet or shelf.

MEDICAL ALERT Ergonomics includes restructuring or changing workplace conditions to make the job easier. It also involves reducing stressors that cause cumulative trauma disorders and repetitive motion injuries. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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NOTES:

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Tools

Tools – Hand & Power Lesson 8 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify basic tool hazards. Describe basic tool safety. List ways to protect yourself against hand and power tool hazards. Explain the proper uses and practices for electrical and woodworking tools and jacks.

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Tools

Learn how to recognize and protect yourself from hazards posed by hand and power tools on construction sites.

Hazards Defined

Workers using hand and power tools may be exposed to several hazards that can lead to injury or even death. OSHA explains the common causes of hand and power tool hazards:

“

Hazards are commonly caused by misuse and improper maintenance.

”

To remove and avoid hazards, workers must learn about different types of tools and the safety precautions needed for prevention.

Tools Defined

Jack – An appliance for lifting and lowering or moving a load horizontally by the application of a pushing force. Types of jacks include lever and ratchet, screw, and hydraulic. Abrasive Wheel – A cutting tool consisting of abrasive grains held together by organic or inorganic bonds. This includes diamond and reinforced wheels. Guard – A barrier that prevents entry of the operator’s hands or fingers into the point of operation.

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Tool Safety To protect yourself from hazards, make sure you’re using tools safely. OSHA requirements for tool safety will vary depending on the tool used. However, there are general requirements you can apply to most tools.

Tool Safety

Guarding yy All power tools must have guards. yy The point of operation on a machine must be guarded. Personal Protective Equipment yy All PPE must meet OSHA regulations. yy Employees must be provided with personal protective equipment (PPE). Switches yy Power tools have several types of switches. ßß Positive on-off. ßß Contact on-off. ßß Constant pressure switches.

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Guarding Machine guarding protects the operator and other employees from hazards. If a power-operated tool is designed to accommodate guards, it must be equipped with a guard when in use. Tools must be properly guarded when employees will be exposed to contact with reciprocating, rotating, or moving parts. Guards are also necessary when the tool may otherwise create a hazard. Examples of tools that often create these hazards include the following: yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

Belts. Gears. Shafts. Pulleys. Sprockets. Spindles. Drums. Fly wheels. Chains.

Proper machine guarding ensures the safety of the operator.

Point of Operation Guarding The point of operation is the area on a machine where work is performed. The point of operation must be guarded if it exposes an employee to injury. The operator must be able to easily place, remove, and handle materials without having to place a hand in the danger zone.

Use point of operation guards on tools such as: yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

Guillotine cutters. Shears. Alligator shears. Powered presses. Milling machines. Power saws. Jointers. Portable power tools. Forming rolls and calendars.

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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use PPE to protect yourself from a range of hazards on the worksite. Employees must be provided with necessary PPE. PPE protects you from the following: yy Hazards associated with using hand a power tools. yy Exposure to falling, flying, abrasive, and splashing objects. yy Exposure to harmful dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, and gases.

REMEMBER

Use the proper PPE when working with hand and power tools.

All PPE must meet OSHA regulations.

Switches Switches are another important aspect of basic tool safety. The following tools may be equipped with only a positive on/off control: yy Hand-held powered platen sanders. yy Grinders with wheels two inches in diameter or less. yy Routers. yy Planers. yy Laminate trimmers. yy Nibblers. yy Shears. yy Scroll saws.

Use different types of PPE to protect you from applicable hazards.

yy Jigsaw with blade shanks one-fourth of an inch wide or less.

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Hand Tools & Power Operated Tools Manual hand and power-operated tools have a wide variety of uses on construction sites. Hand and power tools are the most versatile instruments in construction. There are many different types of tools that can be used safely without extensive training.

Some types of tools pose a greater risk of injury, and require extra precautions and training. Tools may be power-operated or manually operated.

Make note of the following: Hand Tools

Liquid Fuel

yy Hazards are mostly caused by misuse and improper maintenance. yy Loose wooden handles on a hammer or axe may cause the head to fly off.

yy Some tools mostly run off gasoline. yy Gasoline can explode or burn. yy Gasoline use can lead up to a build-up of fumes. Hydraulic

Employer Regulations yy Do not issue or permit the use of unsafe hand tools. yy Keep wooden handles of tools free of splinters or cracks. yy Never use cheater bars.

yy You must use fire-resistant fluids. yy The fluid must retain its characteristics at extreme temperatures. yy Do not exceed the manufacturer’s safe operating pressures. Powder-Actuated Tools

Pneumatic Tools yy These are powered by an air compressor through a hose. yy Common hazards include workers getting hit by a tool attachment.

yy Powder-actuated tools drive nails with a powder load. yy Additional precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of workers.

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Hand Tools The use of hand tools can pose hazards on a construction site.

Hand tool hazards are most commonly caused by misuse and improper maintenance. Examples of misuse or improper maintenance of hand tools include the following: yy Using a screwdriver as a chisel may cause the tip of the screwdriver to break and fly, hitting the user or other employees. yy Impact tools such as chisels, wedges, or drift pins are unsafe if they have mushroomed heads. The heads might shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying.

REMEMBER yy Around flammable substances, sparks produced by iron and steel hand tools can be a dangerous ignition source. yy To stay safe around this hazard, use spark-resistant tools made from brass, plastic, aluminum, or wood.

Use, maintain, and store hand tools properly.

yy If a wooden handle on a tool such as a hammer or axe is loose, splintered, or cracked, the tool’s head may fly off and strike the user or another worker. yy Workers must not use a wrench if its jaws are sprung, because it might slip.

Employer Responsibilities: yy Do not issue or permit the use of unsafe hand tools. yy Keep tools in good condition. For example, make sure the wooden handles of tools are free of cracks and splinters, and that the handles are kept tight on the tool. yy Never use cheater bars.

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Pneumatic Tools Pneumatic tools can be a source of hazards on construction sites.

Pneumatic tools are powered by an air compressor that connects to the tool through a hose. Examples of pneumatic tools include: yy Nailers.

Different types of tools can pose different types of hazards.

yy Staplers. yy Chippers.

Liquid Fuel

yy Drills. yy Sanders. Workers can get hit by a pneumatic tool’s attachment, or by a fastener being used with the tool. This is the most common hazard associated with pneumatic tools. Noise is another hazard typically associated with tools such as jackhammers. When using such tools, protect yourself with PPE such as hearing protection.

REMEMBER Do not use compressed air for cleaning purposes, except when reduced to less than 30 psi. In that case, you must use effective chip guarding and PPE.

Most tools that run on liquid fuel are powered by gasoline. The main hazard associated with such tools comes from the fuel vapors that can burn or explode. They can also give off dangerous exhaust fumes. Follow these regulations to prevent hazards: yy Fuel-powered tools must be stopped while being maintained. yy Use only approved fuel containers. yy Be aware that carbon monoxide generated can displace or deplete oxygen. yy Mechanical ventilation and testing needs to be done to prevent hazards.

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Hydraulic Tools Hydraulic tools can be a source of hazards on construction sites.

Use of hydraulic tools comes with the following requirements: yy The fluid used in hydraulic powered tools must be fire-resistant fluids approved under Schedule 30 of the U.S. Bureau of Mines, Department of the Interior. yy It must also retain its operating characteristics at the most extreme temperatures to which it will be exposed. yy The manufacturer's safe operating pressures for hoses, valves, pipes, filters, and other fittings must not be exceeded.

Powder-Actuated Tools

Powder-actuated tools drive nails with a powder load. These tools can be very dangerous—even deadly. For this reason, take extra precautions to ensure the safety of workers using the tool, as well as the other workers in the area. Examples of powder-actuated tools include Hilti and Ramset guns.

REMEMBER Before pulling the trigger, place the tool against the work surface with a small amount of pressure. This practice prevents powderactuated tools from firing accidentally.

In the case of a misfire, do the following: 1. Hold the tool in the operating position for at least 30 seconds before trying to fire it again. 2. If it still will not fire, hold the tool in the same position for another 30 seconds, then carefully remove the loaded fasteners. 3. Place the removed cartridge in water immediately.

REMEMBER Never use powder-actuated tools to drive fasteners through brittle or easily-penetrated material without backing.

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Abrasive Wheels Abrasive wheels can be a source of hazards on construction sites. Abrasive wheels are used most frequently in grinding applications or for cutting metal or concrete.

Hazards The most common hazards associated with the use of abrasive wheels are struck-by hazards caused by flying objects. Another frequent struck-by hazard involves improper testing and/or maintenance of abrasive wheels.

Protecting Yourself There are several ways to protect yourself from hazards when using abrasive wheels. Protection Hoods – These must be provided for floor stand and bench mounted abrasive wheels used for external grinding. Guards – Safety guards protect the tool’s operator. Work Rests – These must be provided for floor and bench-mounted grinders.

Abrasive wheels can be dangerous when not used properly.

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Use of Abrasive Wheels Follow safe practices when using abrasive wheels. There are several other things to keep in mind regarding the use and guarding of abrasive wheels.

Use yy The maximum angular exposure of the grinding wheel periphery and sides must be not more than 90 degrees. yy All abrasive wheels must be closely inspected before mounting by using the ring test to ensure that they are free from cracks or defects.

Guards

Guards must maintain proper alignment with the wheel.

Work Rests yy These must be provided for floor stand and bench-mounted grinders.

yy Guards must cover the spindle end, nut, and flange projections. yy A guard must be mounted so that it maintains proper alignment with the wheel. yy A guard should not exceed the strength of the fastenings. yy Safety guards must be strong enough to withstand the effect of a bursting wheel. yy When the work entirely covers the side of the wheel, side covers of the guard may be omitted.

yy Work rests must be of rigid construction. They must be designed to be adjustable to compensate for wheel wear. yy Work rests must be kept adjusted closely to the wheel. The distance is not to exceed one-eighth of an inch from the surface of the wheel, and the adjustment may not be made with the wheel in motion. yy The work rest must be securely clamped after each adjustment. yy On offhand grinding machines, work rests must be used to support the work.

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Woodworking Tools The use of woodworking tools can pose hazards on a construction site. Woodworking tools come in many different varieties and sizes to help accommodate all types of woodworking projects.

Protecting Yourself Take steps to protect yourself when using woodworking tools. Switches, Speeds, and Guarding yy Disconnect switches that can either be locked or tagged in the off position. yy The operating speed must be etched or permanently marked on all circular saws. Self-Feed & Hand-Fed Saws

Workers must be aware of the hazards posed by woodworking tools.

Radial Saws

yy Automatic feeding devices must be installed on machines.

yy Cover guards must be located above and below the base plate or shoe.

yy Feeder attachments must have feed rolls or other moving parts.

yy The lower exposed portion of blade must be guarded to the full diameter.

yy Tools must be equipped with a hood guard.

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Use of Woodworking Tools Make sure to use woodworking tools safely. Switches, Speeds, and Guarding yy All fixed, power-driven woodworking tools must be provided with a disconnect switch that can either be locked or tagged in the off position. yy Momentary contact on/off switches are appropriate switches for belt sanders. yy The operating speed must be etched or otherwise permanently marked on all circular saws over 20 inches in diameter or operating at over 10,000 peripheral feet per minute. Self-Feed & Hand-Fed Saws yy Automatic feeding devices must be installed on machines whenever the nature of the work will permit it. yy Feeder attachments must have the feed rolls or other moving parts covered or guarded to protect the operator from hazardous points. yy A hood guard completely encloses the portion of the saw above the table. yy The hood and mounting must be arranged so that the hood will automatically adjust itself to the thickness of and remain in contact with the material being cut.

Use PPE when applicable.

Radial Saws yy The upper hood must completely enclose the upper portion of the blade down to a point that will include the end of the saw arbor. yy The upper hood must be constructed so that it will protect the operator from flying splinters, broken saw teeth, and similar hazards. yy The upper hood must be constructed so that it will deflect sawdust away from the operator.

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Jacks The use of jacks can pose hazards on a construction site. Jacks are used for the following purposes on construction sites: yy Lift and hold heavy loads. yy Allow heavy loads to travel. yy Improve load stability. yy Allow employees to work on raised objects. Keep yourself and other workers safe by using safe practices and maintaining awareness when working with jacks.

General Capacity

Improper use of jacks can be extremely dangerous.

yy The manufacturer’s capacity rating will be marked on all jacks. yy All jacks must have a positive stop to prevent overtravel. When blocking is required in jacking operations: yy Immediately block the load. yy Place a block under the base of the jack when a firm foundation is necessary. yy Place a wood block between the metal cap and the load when the possibility of slippage is present.

Operation & Maintenance yy Inspect jacks once every six months, when they’re sent and returned from repair, and before and after use when subjected to abnormal loads. yy When hydraulic jacks are exposed to freezing temperatures, use an adequate amount of antifreeze liquid. Follow these guidelines to set up a jack in compliance with OSHA regulations: yy Set the base on a firm, level surface. yy Make sure the base is centered.

REMEMBER If a jack is out of order, tag it accordingly and don’t use it until it’s repaired.

yy Place the jack head against a level surface. yy Apply the lift force evenly to raise the load.

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Safety Programs & Subpart C Lesson 9 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify specific categories of hazards on the worksite. Explain Part 1926, Rules of Construction and how it applies to contractors and subcontractors. List regulations concerning safety and health programs, as well as how to implement a program. Describe and apply OSHA General Safety and Health Provisions to avoid hazardous job sites.

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Managing Safety and Health

Effective safety and health programs help to reduce worker injuries and illness.

Once you understand OSHA inspection procedures, learn about OSHA Safety Programs and Subpart C requirements.

by another entity and make it an enforceable part of the agency's rule without reprinting the entire text in its rule.

Definitions

Focus on the following: yy 1926.16, Rules of Construction – These are legal principles applied to the interpretation of a contract or law. yy 1926.20, General Safety and Health Provisions – These standards discuss OSHA construction regulations for reducing hazards, preventing accidents, and maintaining safe job sites. yy 1926.21, Safety Training and Education – In this section, OSHA describes its safety training and education responsibilities. yy 1926.31, Incorporation by Reference – This is a legal tool that enables an agency to take a standard published

To understand safety programs and requirements, you must also recognize these terms: yy yy yy yy yy

Competent Person Construction Work Employee Employer Qualified Person

REMEMBER On construction sites, a competent person is defined as a person with authorization to take corrective action and who is able to recognize existing and predictable hazards.

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Rules of Construction Learn how Rules of Construction affect employers and contractors. Rules of Construction are legal principles that are applied to the interpretation or construction of the terms of a contract law. In other words:

It is the manner in which the legal meaning or intent of a contract or law is derived. The Rules of Construction are composed of the following four areas: yy Prime contractor and any subcontractors’ responsibilities. yy Prime contractor obligations. yy Multi-employer policy. yy Where joint responsibility exists.

Responsibilities Prime contractors and subcontractors have different responsibilities for completing work and complying with OSHA regulations. yy Prime contractor - Has overall responsibility for compliance with OSHA regulations yy Subcontractor - Assumes responsibility for his or her portion of work. yy Both prime contractor and subcontractor - Have responsibilities for complying with OSHA regulations. yy Either prime contractor or subcontractor - Can enter into an agreement to fulfill specific OSHA obligations on a job site basis.

Prime contractors and subcontractors have different responsibilities for completing work.

REMEMBER yy The prime contractor assumes entire responsibility for all work. yy Subcontractors are responsible for their portion(s) of subcontracted work. yy Under multi-employer policies, contractors and subcontractors assume mutual responsibility for contracted work.

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Contractor Responsibilities To better understand Rules of Construction, imagine a top-down view of two worksites.

In this scenario, the Prime Contractor has contracted work out to three entities. These are Subcontractor 1, Subcontractor 2, and Subcontractor 3. Subcontractors may be businesses or individuals. Subcontractor 1 is assigned to the work on Job Site 1. Subcontractor 2 is assigned to the work on Job Site 2. Subcontractor 3 is assigned to work on Job Site 1 and Job Site 2.

REMEMBER A prime contractor is responsible for “employer obligations” in 1926 Subpart B if a prime contractor subcontracts some of the work on a construction project to another firm, unless specified in the contract.

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Multi-Employer Policy The Multi-Employer Policy is an important part of the Rules of Construction. In situations where the prime contractor contracts with subcontractors, both the prime contractor and all subcontractors are subject to the enforcement provisions of the Standards Act.

In this scenario, the prime contractor has overall responsibility for both Job Site 1 and Job Site 2. Subcontractor 1 is only contracted to work on Job Site 1. His responsibility is limited only to his area within that job site.

REMEMBER The contractor will be held responsible for all employer obligations even if he or she subcontracts all portions of work involved.

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General Safety and Health Provisions The standards in Section 1926.20, General Safety and Health Provisions lay the groundwork for OSHA construction regulations. These standards are rooted in the principle of preventing hazards and accidents, as well as maintaining safe job sites. Note the following: yy No employer shall require any employee to work under conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to health or safety. yy Incompliant tools should be tagged, locked, or removed from job sites. yy Standards specific to a condition, practice, method, or process overrule general standards.

Accident Prevention yy Employers must start and maintain Safety Programs in compliance with Part 1926 requirements. yy Safety programs must provide for frequent and regular inspections of the job sites, materials, and equipment to be made by competent persons* designated by the employers. yy Employers are prohibited from using any machinery, tool, material, or equipment that is not in compliance with any applicable requirement. *A competent person is defined as a person who can identify existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

This worker is using PPE effectively.

Incompliant Tools Incompliant tools must be: yy Identified as unsafe by tagging the item. yy Rendered inoperable by locking the item’s controls. yy Physically removed from the item’s place of operation. Only allow qualified employees to operate equipment and machinery. Employees are qualified through training or experience.

REMEMBER General OSHA standards always take precedence over particular standards that apply specifically to a given condition, practice, mean, method, operation, or process.

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Safety Training and Education Employer-provided training is an important part of keeping workers safe. Section 1926.21, Safety Training and Education, states the following:

OSHA must create programs that apply to both employers and employees. Section 107(f) determines OSHA’s safety training and educational responsibilities, as well as employers’ responsibilities.

OSHA Responsibilities

The Secretary must establish and supervise employee training and education programs.

OSHA must do the following: yy Establish and supervise programs for education and training. yy Create programs that apply to both employers and employees. yy Create training and education.

Employer Training Employers are required to provide safety training and education. Employers must: yy Create safety and health programs. yy Create job site inspection procedures.

OSHA Training

yy Prepare safety expense allocations.

The training and education OSHA creates must cover the following: yy Recognition of unsafe conditions. yy Avoidance of unsafe conditions. yy Prevention of unsafe conditions.

Employers are required to provide safety training and education. Employers must: yy Create safety and health programs. yy Create job site inspection procedures. yy Prepare safety expense allocations.

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Employer Responsibilities Under OSHA, employers have responsibilities for providing training and education to employees. Section 107(f) determines employers’ responsibilities for safety training and education.

Training Employers must provide training to employees. This training must instruct employees in: yy How to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions. yy Regulations that apply to work environments. By training employees in the applicable regulations, employers and employees can work together to control or eliminate any hazard or other exposure to illness or injury.

Safety Programs OSHA requires employers to provide safety training and education. Employers must: yy Understand and fulfill OSHA’s required safety and health programs. yy Revise programs annually. yy Make sure safety rules and procedures are incorporated into site operations. yy Participate in safety meetings.

Train employees in the recognition, avoidance, and prevention of hazards

REMEMBER Safety and health programs must cover many different aspects of job site safety.

Additional Requirements Employers must also meet requirements for specific categories. yy Poisons yy Harmful Plants and Animals yy Flammable Liquids yy Confined/Enclosed Spaces

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Specific Categories Employers must understand and meet the requirements for specific categories.

Poisons Employees who are required to handle or use poisons, caustics, and other harmful substances must: yy Be instructed in safe handling and use. yy Be alerted to any potential hazards, personal hygiene, and/or necessary personal protective measures as required.

Harmful Plants and Animals Employees who may be exposed to harmful plants or animals in their job sites must: yy Be trained in potential hazards. yy Be instructed on how to avoid injury. yy Be taught the correct first aid procedures in case of emergency.

Flammable Liquids Employees who are required to handle or use flammable liquids, gases, or toxic materials must:

Gasoline is a flammable liquid, which has specific requirements for safe use.

yy Be taught the safe handling and use of materials. yy Be made aware of the specific requirements contained in Part 1926, including Subparts D and F.

Confined/Enclosed Spaces Confined or enclosed spaces are any space that has a limited means of egress, is subject to the accumulation of toxic or flammable contaminants, or has an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. Employees who are required to enter confined or enclosed spaces must: yy Be instructed on potential hazards. yy Be taught any necessary precautions. yy Be educated in the use of required protective and emergency equipment.

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Creating Safety and Health Programs Employers have several requirements regarding safety and health programs. Employers must create, maintain, and improve their safety and health programs. Programs should include: yy Comprehensive baseline worksite surveys for safety and health. yy Routine job hazard analyses. yy Assessment of ergonomics risk factors. yy Regular site safety and health inspections. yy Systems for employees to notify management about hazardous conditions. According to OSHA, an effective safety and health program depends on: yy Credible involvement from management. yy Employees being included in safety and health decisions. yy Worksite analysis that identifies hazards. yy Stringent prevention and control measures. yy Thorough training. Incorporate preventative controls into the job site. These include: yy Engineering techniques. yy Safe work practices. yy Personal protective equipment (PPE). yy Maintenance and administrative controls.

Regular site inspections are an important part of safety and health programs.

Evaluation Criteria Evaluate programs by the following criteria: yy Management Commitment and Leadership – Review management’s commitment to safety and health activities. Detail your commitment in a written policy statement. yy Assignment of Responsibility – Demonstrate responsibility of the employer, the management team, and employees. yy Identification and Control of Hazards – Conduct worksite analysis and periodic safety inspection programs that involve supervisors. yy Training and Education – Make sure all employees are aware of hazards and hazard avoidance.

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Training and Education When employees are properly trained, hazards on the worksite are reduced. Employers must provide training and education to employees. Training should cover the following: yy All hazards they may be exposed to in the workplace. yy Proper measures for avoiding those hazards.

REMEMBER Safety and health programs must apply to both employers and employees.

Ongoing improvement of safety and health programs ensures ongoing worker safety.

yy Emergency drill procedures and critiques. yy Health surveillance and monitoring records.

Avoiding Hazards

yy OSHA 300 logs.

Employee measures for avoiding hazards include: yy Maintaining physical protection in work areas. yy Understanding safety and health responsibilities.

Hazard Prevention and Control The Hazard Prevention and Control element of training should include: yy Preventive maintenance schedules. yy Disciplinary program and results. yy Site rules. yy OSHA mandated written programs. yy Maintenance records.

Emergency Action Plans Employers must create written emergency action plans that ensure employee safety from fire and other emergencies. Also, evacuation plans must include types of evacuation to be used in emergency circumstances. Before an emergency action plan can be implemented, employers must designate and train employees who can assist in the safe and orderly emergency evacuation of employees.

REMEMBER Employers are required to have an alarm system.

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First Aid and Medical Attention 1926 Subpart D details requirements for first aid and medical attention.

MEDICAL ALERT Employers must: yy Make medical personnel available for advice and consultation on occupational health issues. yy Prepare a plan before site work begins. This plan addresses how prompt medical attention is provided in case of serious injury.

Employers must maintain good medical recordkeeping.

Common construction hazards and OSHA safety standards are detailed in Part 1926. Note the following requirements for employers: yy Provide first aid provisions for medical attention and emergency facilities. yy Maintain a clean, safe work environment. yy Make employee exposure and medical records available to OSHA and to all employees.

Access to Medical Records OSHA regulations give employees and OSHA a right of access to relevant exposure and medical records. This enables employees and OSHA to improve how they detect, treat, and prevent occupational diseases.

yy Employ a person with a valid certificate in first aid training (if a medical facility is not reasonably accessible). yy Provide the proper equipment needed to promptly transfer injured employees, or provide a communication system for calling an ambulance. yy Post telephone numbers for medical and emergency services in areas where 911 is not available. yy Provide a means for the quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body on applicable job sites.

REMEMBER Make first aid supplies easily accessible and kept in a weatherproof, sealed container.

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Housekeeping Good housekeeping means maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Employer Responsibilities OSHA lists housekeeping regulations for employers: yy Keep work areas, passageways, and stairways free of debris. yy Safely remove combustible scrap and debris at regular intervals during construction (Subpart C). yy Provide containers for the collection and separation of waste, trash, oily and used rags, and other refuse. yy Provide covers for containers used for garbage or waste. yy Dispose of garbage and other waste at regular and frequent intervals. Use this checklist to create and maintain a tidy construction site. Make note of any improvements needed. ‰‰ The worksite is free of debris.

‰‰ Chutes are used to remove rubbish from various levels of the project(s).

‰‰ Nails that protruded from lumber have been removed or bent.

‰‰ All loose materials on roofs or open floors are secure.

‰‰ Stairways and passageways are free of materials and obstructions.

‰‰ Specific waste areas are designated to keep workspaces neat and in order.

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Recordkeeping Employers and employees should be aware of various recordkeeping requirements.

Annual Summary You have two goals for your Annual Summary report: completeness and correctness. Follow these steps for implementing the Annual Summary task. 1. Perform the annual review of OSHA 300* log entries. The Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses in also referred to as form number OSHA 300. Review these extensively. Make sure you don’t overlook information. Even a single missed detail leads to inaccuracy. 2. Complete the Annual Summary. Sum up the total columns on OSHA 300 Log. If there are no recordable cases, put zeroes in every column. 3. Include the penalty statements of employer and employee access in the OSHA 300-A summary form. As an alternative, penalty statements can go in any equivalent form that’s legally allowed under Section 1904.6(b)(4).

Certification Before posting the Annual Summary, the accuracy and completeness of its details should be certified. The OSHA Annual Summary must be posted between February 1 and April 30 of the next year. * 300 Log – Known as the Annual Summary OSHA 300 Log. 300-A Log – Known as the Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses. 301 Log – Known as the Incident Report. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Employee Involvement Familiarize yourself with the basic requirements for Section 1904.35, Subpart D – Other OSHA Injury and Illness Recordkeeping Requirements.

Reporting Employers must make sure there are ways to promptly report work-related injuries and illness.

All employees must know the process for reporting injury and illness cases. With some limitations, the following individuals have the right to access OSHA injury and illness records: yy All employees. yy Former employees. yy Personal representatives. yy Authorized employee representatives.*

Employees A successful safety and health program requires employee involvement. This is especially true in recordkeeping.

Free and frank reporting by employees is the cornerstone of the system.

Employers should involve employees and their representatives in the recordkeeping process.

Employers are required to let employees know how and when to report work-related injuries and illnesses. Do that by: yy Establishing a procedure for reporting of work-related injuries and illnesses. yy Training employees in how to use that procedure.

REMEMBER Under OSHA, employees are protected from discrimination when reporting a work-related injury, illness, or fatality.

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State Regulations State Plans provide programs of standards, regulations, and enforcement. Once State Plans are approved, they operate under authority of State law. They provide programs of: yy Standards. yy Regulations. yy Enforcement. These programs must be at least as effective as the Federal program.

Requirements State-Plan State requirements may be more stringent than the Federal requirements. However, because of the unique nature of the national recordkeeping program, States must consult with and obtain approval of any such requirement.

Records State Plans must have recording and reporting regulations that impose identical requirements for the recordability of occupational injuries and illnesses. These requirements must be the same for employers in all the States, whether under Federal or State Plan jurisdiction. This ensures that:

Work places located in a state that operates an OSHAapproved state plan should follow the regulations of the State.

Coverage State and local government employers are covered under the equivalent State Rule that operate under OSHA-approved State Plans. State Rules must cover these workplaces and require the recording and reporting of work-related injuries and illnesses.

A State Plan could also require employers to:

yy Occupational injury and illness data for the entire nation are uniform and consistent.

yy Keep additional supplementary injury and illness information.

yy Statistics that allow comparisons between the States and between employers located in different States are created.

yy Require employers to report fatality.

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NOTES:

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NOTES:

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Stairways and Ladders

Stairways and Ladders Lesson 10 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify hazards associated with stairway and ladder usage in construction. Describe elements of training requirements and common violations associated with stairways and ladders. List the different types of ladders used in construction and the specific standards that apply to them. Explain the common hazards associated with stairways and ladders.

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Stairways and Ladders

Learn how to protect yourself from hazards caused by stairways and ladders on construction sites. Common Hazards

OSHA estimates there are 24,822 injuries each year due to falls from stairways and ladders in construction.

To stay safe and minimize hazards, workers must use stairways and ladders correctly. Prevent major and minor injuries by complying with OSHA standards. These are the most commonly-violated standards regarding ladder and stairway usage in construction: yy Lack of a handrail or stair system on stairs with four or more steps. yy Lack of a safe means to gain access to a vertical rise in elevation of 19 inches or more. yy Not marking or tagging a defective ladder so that it won’t be used before it’s been repaired. yy Not securing a ladder or portable ladder at least three feet above the upper

landing before workers use it to reach an upper level.

MEDICAL ALERT OSHA estimates there are 36 annual fatalities caused by accidents or falls on stairways and ladders.

Protect Yourself

Follow OSHA regulations that apply to all stairways and ladders involved in construction. These include general requirements, as well as regulations for specific types of stairs.

REMEMBER Follow general safety requirements. These apply to all stairways and ladders involved in the construction, alteration, repair, painting, decorating, and demolition of worksites.

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General Requirements Follow general requirements for ladders and stairways used on construction sites. All stairways and ladders used in the construction, alteration, repair, painting, decorating, and demolition of worksites are regulated by OSHA's construction safety and health standards.

General requirements for safe use apply to both stairways and ladders. These general requirements include the following: yy A stairway or ladder is required at all access points to another work area where a break in elevation of 19 inches or more exists, and where no ramp, runway, embankment, or personnel hoist is provided. yy Any duties required by the stairway and ladder rules must be performed before employees begin work that requires them to use stairways or ladders and their respective fall protection systems. yy Where there are more than two access points between levels, a stairway or ladder must have at least one point of access kept clear. yy All stairway and ladder fall protection systems required by OSHA rules must be installed prior to operation.

General requirements for safe use apply to all types of ladders and stairways.

Exception The OSHA construction safety and health standards covering stairways and ladders do not apply to ladders designed for scaffold entry or exit. However, those standards do apply to jobmade or manufactured portable ladders that are intended for general use, but that are then used for scaffold entry and exit.

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Stairways Protect yourself and others from common hazards on construction sites. Always use stairways safely.

Stairway Requirements Follow specific requirements for how and when to use stairways.

Safe use also includes stairway components. These general requirements apply to all stairways: yy Stairways on a construction worksite intended to be a temporary part of a structure must have landings at least 30 inches deep and 22 inches wide at every 12 feet or less of vertical rise. yy Stairways must be installed along every unprotected side or edge. They must be at least 30 degrees (but no more than 50 degrees) from the horizontal. yy The unprotected sides and edges of stairway landings must have standard 42-inch guardrail systems. yy Stairways with four or more risers or that rise more than 30 inches high (whichever is less) must have at least one handrail.

Stairways may or may not be a permanent part of a structure. In either case, safety requirements apply.

Types of Stairways and Components Specific types of stairs found on construction sites—along with their various components— may have additional OSHA requirements. Types of stairways and their components include: yy Temporary stairs.

REMEMBER Stairrails installed after March 15, 1991 must be no less than 36 inches in height.

yy Midrails. yy Handrails.

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Types of Stairways and Components There are different types of stairways and stairway components found on construction sites. Learn how to use them safely. While general requirements apply to all staircases, there are specific types of stairs with additional requirements for safe use.

Temporary Stairs Temporary stairs help with worker mobility. When temporary stairs are implemented into a worksite, the following OSHA requirements apply: yy Using stairways with metal pan landings and treads is prohibited if the tread and/or landing is not filled with concrete or other materials. yy Treads and landings must be replaced when worn below the top edge of the pan. yy Unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings, the use of skeleton metal frame structures and steps is prohibited. yy Temporary treads must be made of wood or other solid material and installed in the full width and depth of the stair.

REMEMBER Any stairway of four steps or more requires the installation of a handrail.

Stairways may have midrails and handrails.

Midrails & Handrails Follow these requirements regarding installation of midrails and handrails: yy Midrails must be installed midway between the top rail and stairway steps of a stairrail system. yy Handrails should be installed on stairways being used by workers on a construction worksite.

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Midrails and Handrails Follow these OSHA requirements for midrails and handrails.

Any screen or mesh used in place of a midrail should extend from the top rail to the stairway step and along the opening between the top rail supports.

Handrails must provide sufficient handholds for workers to grab and prevent a fall, and must be surfaced to prevent injuries or snagging onto clothing.

A handrail should be capable of handling at least 200 pounds of weight applied within two inches of the top edge in any downward or outward direction.

200 Pounds

30-37 Inches

Handrails should be no more than 37 inches and no less than 30 inches away from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread.

The ends of both handrails and stairrail systems should be free of dangerous projections or protrusions.

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Ladders Protect yourself and others from common hazards on construction sites. Always use ladders safely.

Ladder Safety There are several topics you should learn about in order to protect yourself while using ladders on the worksite. They include: yy General requirements. yy Cages and wells. yy Safety devices. yy Structural defects on a ladder. Understanding these topics will help you minimize the risk of injury while using ladders.

Ladder Requirements General Requirements - General requirements apply when using ladders. All workers on a construction worksite should follow these rules. Portable Ladders – Portable ladders are designed to be moved around on a worksite. OSHA details specific requirements for the use of portable ladders. These can include self-supporting and non-self-supporting portable ladders. Fixed Ladders – Fixed ladders cannot be moved; they’re attached to buildings or structures. OSHA details specific requirements for the use of fixed ladders.

Types of ladders include portable ladders, like this one, and fixed ladders.

Cages, Wells, and Safety Devices – OSHA also details safe use of cages, wells, and safety devices, which are important components of ladder safety.

Assign a competent person to do the following: yy Regularly inspect ladders for visible defects. yy Thoroughly inspect ladders after any incident that could affect a ladder’s safe use.

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Ladder Requirements OSHA lists general requirements that apply to all ladders. All workers on a construction site should follow general requirements for safe use of ladders. - Ladder components must be surfaced to prevent punctures and lacerations, and to prevent the ladder from snagging clothing. - Do not coat wooden ladders with an opaque covering, except for identifying or warning labels. In this case, only place them on one face of a side rail. - When using multiple ladders to reach an elevated work area, offset the ladders with a platform or landing between them (except when using portable ladders to reach fixed ladders). - Ladder rungs, cleats, and steps must be parallel, level, and evenly spaced when the ladder is in use. - Ladders should never be tied or fastened together to create longer sections unless they were specifically designed to do so. - If a ladder is to be used where a worker has the potential to be exposed to energized electrical equipment, it is a requirement that the ladder be equipped with non-conductive siderails and placed in a position to avoid the possible electrical hazard. - Keep ladders free of oil, grease, and other slipping hazards. - Areas around the tops and bottoms of ladders must be kept clear. - Before it’s returned to use after repair, a ladder must be restored to a condition that meets its original design criteria.

REMEMBER Prevent accidental movement of ladders. yy Secure ladders that are placed in passageways, doorways, driveways, and areas where workplace activities or traffic might move them. yy Only use ladders on stable and level surfaces unless they’re secured. yy Do not use ladders on slippery surfaces unless they’re secure or they have slip-resistant feet. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Portable Ladders Follow OSHA requirements for safe use of portable ladders. Construction workers use portable ladders to reach different areas on a worksite.

Portable ladders are designed to be moved, carried, or repositioned on a worksite. Because of their portability, this type of ladder can lead to hazards on construction sites.

Protect Yourself

In addition to general requirements for safe use of ladders, take specific precautions when using portable ladders. These OSHA requirements apply to both self-supporting and non-self-supporting portable ladders: yy When using a portable ladder, the top end must extend above the upper landing level by three feet. Or, it must be tied off to a secure point at the top. This prevents the ladder from losing its position. yy The rungs and steps of portable metal ladders should be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material, or treated to minimize slipping. yy Tag defective portable ladders with a “Do Not Use” sign and withdraw them from use until repairs are done.

Employer Responsibility: yy If ladders are the only way to enter or exit a work area with more than 25 employees, or if the ladder will serve simultaneous two-way traffic, double-cleated ladders or multiple ladders must be provided on the worksite. yy For stepladders, a metal spreader or similar locking device must be provided. This holds the front and back sections in an open position when the ladder is in use.

Load Testing Before using self-supporting and non-self-supporting ladders, test their ability to handle a load. yy Place a load in a downward vertical direction on the ladder. yy For non-self-supporting ladders, the ladder should be at a horizontal angle of 75.5 degrees.

REMEMBER Both self-supporting and nonself-supporting portable ladders should be capable of supporting at least four times their maximum intended load.

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Fixed Ladders Follow OSHA requirements for safe use of fixed ladders. Unlike portable ladders, fixed ladders cannot be moved or carried.

Fixed ladders are attached to or part of a building or structure. For this reason, using fixed ladders can lead to hazards on construction sites.

Protect Yourself

In addition to general requirements for safe use of ladders, take specific precautions when using fixed ladders. OSHA requirements cover the general requirements of fixed ladders, as well as specific requirements regarding cages, wells, and safety devices. yy Each step or rung must be able to support at least two loads of 250 pounds. yy Fixed ladders must be able to support additional anticipated loads caused by ice build-up, winds, rigging, and impact loads from ladder safety devices. yy When building a cage into a fixed ladder, the inside of the cage must be clear of projections. yy The top of the cage must be a minimum of 42 inches above the top of the platform or the point of access at the top of the ladder. yy The bottom of the cage must be between seven and eight feet above the

This ladder is securely attached to a structure.

access point to the bottom of the ladder. yy When using a fixed ladder in conjunction with a well, the well should completely encircle the ladder and should be free of projections. yy When using a safety device on a ladder, the maximum clearance distance between side rail extensions must not exceed 36 inches. yy Fixed ladders without cages or wells must have at least a 15-inch clear width to the nearest permanent object on each side of the centerline of the ladder. yy If the total length of the climb on a fixed ladder equals or exceeds 24 inches, it must be equipped with ladder safety devices. yy Defective fixed ladders should be withdrawn from service, tagged with a “Do Not Use” sign, and blocked from use until repairs are done.

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Employer Responsibilities Employers and employees must cooperate in order to reduce hazards on the worksite. The use of stairways and ladders on a worksite comes with many fall hazards associated with misuse, improper installation, and overloading of a ladder or stairway. To minimize these hazards, employers must provide proper training to employees.

Training

Each employee must be trained on the use of stairways and ladders. Training must cover the following topics: yy Proper use of stairways and ladders. yy Fall protection.

Employers must provide proper training and fall protection to workers who will use ladders.

Fall Protection

Proper Use

Employees must be trained on the following topics: yy How to properly use stairways and ladders. yy How to properly construct stairways and ladders. yy How to properly place stairways and ladders. yy How to properly care for stairways and ladders. yy The maximum intended load-carrying capabilities of ladders used.

Employees must be trained on the following topics: yy The nature of all hazards in the work area near stairways and ladders. yy The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, and disassembling required fall protection.

MEDICAL ALERT Proper training in the correct procedures and fall protection can protect workers from injury or fatality.

REMEMBER Training must be provided by a competent person. This ensures that each employee can recognize and minimize hazards related to the use of stairways and ladders. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Fire Prevention

Fire Protection & Prevention Lesson 11 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify potential fire hazards on construction sites. Describe the potential for fire hazards on construction sites. List the necessary steps for fire protection. Explain the implementation of a fire safety program to avoid potential hazards.

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Fire Prevention

The Fire Protection and Prevention section of the OSHA regulations describes worksite practices for fire safety, protection, and prevention. Definition

A fire is a chemical reaction caused by the rapid oxidation of a flammable or combustible material, which is accompanied by intense heat and light.

Causes in Construction

A fire begins when a given material reaches its flash point and continues until all the material has been burnt or the fire has been extinguished.

Construction site fires are commonly caused by careless use of material or equipment. Common fire-causing sources of heat include: yy A spark. yy Another fire (such as an explosion,

a fire in the oven or fireplace, or a lit match, lighter, or cigarette). yy Sources of intense thermal radiation (such as sunlight, a flue, an incandescent light bulb, or a radiant heater).

REMEMBER When equipment is used improperly or safety regulations are not adhered to, the risk of a fire hazard greatly increases. Employers must implement a fire safety program within their workplace. Some employers choose to further reduce dangers by implementing non-mandatory safety procedures. These may include: yy Hot-work permits yy Fire watch.

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Fire Tetrahedron The fire tetrahedron is a four-sided geometric representation that illustrates the necessary elements of a fire. Fuel –Any substance that can undergo combustion. Heat –Heat energy sufficient to release vapor from the fuel and cause ignition. Oxidizing Agent - Air containing oxygen. Uninhibited Chemical Chain Reaction – Sufficient exothermic reaction energy to produce ignition. A fire can be extinguished when any of the elements of the fire tetrahedron—heat, oxygen, or fuel— are removed.

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Fire Protection OSHA describes requirements for fire protection on the worksite. In Part 1926.150, Fire protection, OSHA describes requirements for fire protection. This includes: yy Employer Responsibilities - Employers must ensure proper fire protection for all employees. yy Water Supply – To properly operate firefighting equipment, you need a temporary or permanent water supply with sufficient volume, duration, and pressure. yy Firefighting Equipment – Equipment is divided into two categories: portable firefighting equipment and fixed firefighting equipment. yy Fire Alarms and Fire Cutoffs – Employers must establish an alarm system that alerts employees and the fire department. yy Fire Protection Checklist – Following a fire protection checklist ensures that you are implemented proper fire protection practices.

Fire Protection Program Employers are responsible for the development of a fire protection program. Follow this program throughout all phases of construction and demolition work.

Employers must make PPE available to employees.

Employers are required to: yy Ensure proper fire protection for all employees. yy Provide adequate fire protection equipment and alert systems. yy Comply with any regulations specific to working in dangerous or potentially dangerous work areas.

REMEMBER All firefighting equipment must be provided by the employer, conspicuously located, and inspected on a regular basis.

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Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers are an important part of fire protection and prevention.

Classes Extinguishers are given a class (A-D) based on the type of fire they can put out. A - Wood, paper, trash.

B - Flammable liquids.

C - Electrical equipment.

D - Combustible metals.

Proper Use When using a fire extinguisher, always use the "PASS" system: yy PULL the pin. yy AIM the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

To keep yourself and others safe, know how to properly use and store fire extinguishers.

yy SQUEEZE the handle. yy SWEEP the extinguisher from side to side until the fire is out.

Placement On the construction site, place fire extinguishers no more than 100 feet from any given point. There should be at least one extinguisher present for every 3,000 square feet of floor space.

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Fire Alarms and Fire Cutoffs Fire alarms and fire cutoffs are important parts of fire protection and prevention.

Fire Alarms OSHA requirements state the following: yy Employers must establish an alarm system that alerts employees and the fire department.

Fire alarms should consist of multiple parts that work together to warn of danger.

yy Fire alarms can consist of telephones, sirens, radios, and air horns. yy Alarm code and reporting instructions must be posted at phones and job entrances.

Fire Cutoffs Standards for fire cutoffs are:

Sprinkler Systems Install permanent firefighting equipment, such as an overhead sprinkler system, as soon as reasonably necessary. yy Installation and use of sprinklers must be maintained while the building is erect. Do not remove a sprinkler system from a demolition site until it is no longer feasible.

yy Fire walls and exit stairways must be given construction priority. yy Fire doors must be hung on openings as soon as practical. yy Fire cutoffs must be retained in buildings undergoing alterations or demolition until operations require their removal.

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Fire Prevention Employers and employees must work together to prevent fires on the construction site.

Sources of Hazards To practice proper fire prevention, employers must be conscious of potential ignition hazards from: yy Electrical wiring. yy Exhaust on internal combustion engines. yy Smoking.

Protecting Yourself These standards decrease the hazard of fire and combustion: yy Driveways must be at least 15 feet wide around combustible storage piles. yy Do not store combustible material more than 20 feet high. yy Weeds and grass must be kept down. yy Keep the entire storage site free from unnecessary combustible materials.

Smoking is one of several potential ignition hazards on construction sites.

REMEMBER yy Electrical wiring and equipment for light, heat, or power must be properly installed and maintained. yy Exhausts on internal combustion engines must be kept away from combustible material. yy Smoking should be prohibited in areas of potential hazard and these areas should be properly marked with "No Smoking" signs. yy The nozzle of air hoses (or similar devices used in the cleaning of vessels or tanks containing hazardous material) must be bonded to that vessel or tank.

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Storage Proper storage of combustible materials reduces the risk of fire hazards. Approach the storage of potentially hazardous material with care and caution. Understand proper prevention and storage standards, including: yy Outdoor storage. yy Indoor storage. yy Open yard storage.

Outdoor Storage When storing such material outside, the area must be equipped with proper firefighting equipment. Keep the area clear and free of debris.

Indoor Storage When storing material inside a building, incompatible material must be kept separate. Allow proper clearance for ceilings, doors, and pathways.

REMEMBER The indoor storage of flammable material requires: yy At least 36 inches of clearance between material and fire sprinklers. yy Separation of incompatible materials. yy Clearance around lights and heating elements.

Follow requirements for safe storage of combustible materials.

Open Yard Storage Driveways The following requirements apply: yy No combustible material may be stored more than 20 feet high. yy Combustible material must not be stored on land that may pose a danger of underground fire. yy Materials stored outside must not be within 10 feet of any building or structure.

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Safe Product Use and Hazard Avoidance Maintain awareness of common materials that pose fire hazards on the worksite. Products and materials that are commonly used in the workplace may pose fire hazards. These products are divided into three categories: yy Flammable and Combustible Liquids yy Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) yy Temporary Heating Devices The three categories of potential hazardous material and equipment have specific requirements in terms of: yy Handling. yy Usage. yy Storage.

Flammable and Combustible Liquids Only approved containers and portable tanks can be used for the storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids. yy Do not store flammable or combustible liquids in areas used for exits, stairways, or other areas normally used for the safe passage of people. yy Transfer of flammable liquids from one container to another must be done only when containers are electrically interconnected.

Understand the requirements for proper storage of flammable liquids in cabinets.

The proper methods for storing flammable and combustible liquids inside are: yy No more than 25 gallons can be stored outside of an approved storage cabinet. yy No more than 60 gallons of flammable or 120 gallons of combustible liquid may be stored in a cabinet. yy No more than 3 storage cabinets may be kept in each storage area.

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Safe Product Use and Hazard Avoidance Maintain awareness of common materials that pose fire hazards on the worksite.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) To prevent hazards, LP-Gas containers must be used inside with excess flow valves, regulators, and portable heaters. Connections to LP-Gas containers must: yy Have shutoff valves located as close to the container as practicable. yy Be provided with at least one safety relief valve. yy Include shutoff valves that must not be installed between the safety relief valve and the container. When LP-Gas and one or more other gases are stored or used in the same area, the containers must be marked to identify their content. Marking must be compliant with American National Standard Z48.1-1954, "Method of Marking Portable Compressed Gas Containers to Identify the Material Contained."

Temporary Heating Devices When using temporary heating devices, sufficient quantities of fresh air or mechanical ventilation must be provided for the health and safety of workers.

LP-Gas and other common materials require special safety measures to prevent hazards.

yy When heaters are used near tarps, canvas, or similar coverings, they must be located at least 10 feet from the coverings. yy When flammable liquid-fired heaters are used, they must be equipped with a primary safety control to stop the flow of fuel in the event of flame failure. yy Heaters that are specifically designed and approved for use with separate supply tanks may be directly connected for gravity feed or an automatic pump from a supply tank.

REMEMBER Transferring by means of air pressure on the container of portable tanks is prohibited.

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Common Fire Hazards Learn about fire hazards on construction sites to protect yourself and others. Non-compliance with OSHA regulations can mean a citation. More importantly, it can mean a potential disaster.

Workplace fires and explosions kill 200 workers and injure more than 5,000 each year. Awareness of common fire hazards and complying with OSHA regulations can save lives.

Frequently Cited Violations

The following are the most frequently cited fire hazard violations: yy Transporting or handling flammable liquids in non-approved containers. yy Failure to have an appropriate class fire extinguisher within 100 feet of a hazard. yy Not having at least one fire extinguisher on each floor of a multistory building located near the stairway. yy Failure of the employer to develop and implement a fire protection program.

There are an estimated 4,800 construction site fires per year, causing more than $35 million in property loss.

yy Failure to inspect and maintain portable fire extinguishers. yy Lack of posting of "no smoking" signs where operations that constitute a fire hazard are conducted.

Prevention

REMEMBER The distance from any point of a fire protected area to the nearest fire extinguisher must not exceed 100 feet.

The following are ways employers and employees can prevent fire hazards. yy Maintain awareness of ignition sources. yy Implement hot-work permits. yy Make use of a fire watch.

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Preventing Fire Hazards Learn how to prevent common fire hazards on construction sites.

Ignition Sources

Controlling fires on the construction site starts by controlling the source of a fire. The top sources of heat ignition include: yy Matches. yy Cutting torch. yy Open fire. yy Cigarette. The top factors influencing fire ignition include: yy Cutting/welding too close to combustibles. yy Abandoned/discarded material. yy Inadequate control of open fire.

REMEMBER Some employers choose to implement non-mandatory precautions including fire watch and hot-work permits to help further decrease the likelihood of a fire hazard.

Hot work involves burning, welding, or using tools that produce a source of ignition.

yy Permits require management authorization before hot-work begins.

Fire Watch

A fire watch is the use of a standby employee equipped with a fire extinguisher. yy His or her sole job is to monitor for sparks or flames.

Hot-Work

Though it’s not an OSHA standard, many companies require a hot-work permit. yy Hot-work permits are for any operations that use flames or produce sparks.

yy Fire watch employees should remain in the area for at least 30 minutes after hot-work is complete to continue monitoring.

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NOTES:

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Welding and Cutting

Welding and Cutting Lesson 12 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: List common hazards associated with welding and how to avoid them. Describe examples of proper fire protection during welding and cutting tasks. List the necessary provisions for special case welding and cutting applications. Explain the proper procedures for arc and gas welding.

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Welding and Cutting

Learn how to protect yourself from welding and cutting hazards in construction. Constructions workers need to be aware of the hazards posed by: yy Welding. yy Cutting. yy Brazing. These activities pose a unique combination of hazards. Learn to recognize and reduce the most common hazards associated with these activities.

MEDICAL ALERT Health hazards associated with welding can often be attributed to the chemical and physical agents.

Definitions

To minimize hazards on the worksite, start by understanding the following terms: yy Welding - An act that unites metallic parts by heating and allowing the metals to flow together. Metals can also be hammered or compressed together with/without previous heating.

yy Cutting - An act that divides into parts. yy Brazing - An act that solders metals. yy Soldering - An act that joins metals together. yy Fuel Gas - This produces the heat needed to melt metal in gas welding and cutting. yy Fume - A smoke or gas produced by welding or cutting. yy Manifold - This describes combined cylinders used in welding. yy Check Valve - A valve that permits flow in only one direction. yy Flashback Arrester - Protects cylinders from flashbacks and backfires. The following pertain to welding, cutting, and brazing: yy yy yy yy yy yy

Gas Welding & Cutting Arc Welding & Cutting Fire Prevention Ventilation & Protection Preservative Coatings Common Welding Health Hazards

To prevent injury or death, follow OSHA regulations for tools, practices, and procedures of these tasks.

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Welding Equipment Follow OSHA regulations for the safe use of welding equipment. All workers involved in welding, cutting, and brazing operations must know how to properly use the following: yy Hoses. yy Torches. yy Regulators. Proper practices when using these types of welding equipment include the following: yy Hoses must be inspected at the beginning of every work shift and removed from service if found to be defective. yy Fuel gas and oxygen hoses must be readily distinguishable from each other, and not interchangeable. yy Clogged torch tip openings must be cleaned with suitable devices and inspected at the beginning of every work shift. yy Only light a torch with a friction lighter or other approved device, and not by matches or other unapproved hot surfaces. yy Oxygen and fuel gas regulators should all be in proper working order while in use.

Gas Welding and Cutting

When using fuel gas during welding and cutting operations, follow OSHA regulations that are specific to these operations. Follow regulations for:

Welding equipment can create a fire hazard, so make sure to use it safely.

yy Safe use. yy Safe transportation. yy Safe storage. Construction workers must understand the similarities and differences between fuel gas and oxygen manifolds.

REMEMBER yy Fuel gas produces the heat needed to melt metal. yy A manifold describes combined cylinders used in welding.

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Fuel Gas and Oxygen Manifolds Follow OSHA requirements for fuel gas and oxygen manifolds.

Fuel Gas When welding and cutting, follow OSHA regulations for the active use of fuel gas. yy An appropriate regulator must be used to reduce pressure when using cylinders for devices with shutoff valves. yy “Cracking” (opening a valve slightly and closing immediately) must be done on the valve to clear any dust or dirt that might enter the regulator. yy For quickly closing, the valves of a fuel gas cylinder should not be open for more than 1 1/2 turns. yy If there is a leak around the valve stem when the valve on a fuel gas cylinder is opened, the valve must be closed, and the gland nut tightened.

Oxygen Manifolds

Welding equipment can create a fire hazard, so make sure to use it safely.

The name’s lettering must be at least one inch high.

Equipment for fuel gas and oxygen manifolds are similar in appearance and use. OSHA requirements for their handling and maintenance are also similar. However, their parts are not interchangeable. They should be marked and differentiated to avoid confusion.

OSHA Requirements These requirements apply to fuel gas and oxygen manifolds: yy Manifolds must be labelled with the name of the substance contained.

yy Manifolds must be placed in safe, well ventilated, and accessible locations. yy Manifolds cannot be located within enclosed spaces. yy Manifold and header hose connections must be capped when not in use. yy Manifolds must not have items placed upon them when in use. yy Fuel gas and oxygen manifold hoses must be easily distinguishable via color or touch. yy Fuel gas and oxygen manifold hose connections must be kept free of grease and oil.

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Transportation and Storage Follow OSHA regulations for transporting and storage of gas cylinders.

Transporting Gas Cylinders Take proper care when transporting and storing compressed gas cylinders. This includes transportation to and from gas welding operations. OSHA requires the following procedures: yy Valve protection caps must be in place and secured prior to transportation. yy Valve protection must always be in place during transportation. yy When hoisted, cylinders must be secured on cradles, slingboards, or pallets. yy Cylinders should be secured in an upright and vertical position when transported by powered vehicles. yy Cylinders cannot be hoisted or transported by magnets or choker slings. yy Cylinders must be moved by hand by tilting and rolling them on their bottom edges. yy Cylinders cannot be intentionally dropped, struck, or permitted to strike each other violently. yy Unless secured on a special transport carrier, all regulators must be removed.

Storing Gas Cylinders OSHA requirements for storing compressed gas cylinders include the following:

Always position cylinders vertically.

from incompatible oxygen cylinders. yy Gas cylinders kept in buildings should be stored in a well-protected, well-ventilated, dry locations, and away from combustible materials. yy During actual operations, gas cylinders should be kept out of reach of sparks, hot slag, and flames. yy Store gas cylinders where they cannot become part of an electrical circuit. yy Never use either full or empty gas cylinders as rollers or supports.

REMEMBER Cylinders must never be stored, kept, or otherwise positioned in any manner other than vertically.

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Arc Welding and Cutting Follow OSHA regulations for arc welding and cutting. OSHA regulations include safe practices for: yy Manual electrode holders. yy Welding cables and connectors. yy Ground returns. yy Machine grounding.

Manual Electrode Holders Only use manual electrode holders that: yy Are specifically designed for arc welding. yy Have a capacity that can safely handle the maximum rated current required by the electrodes. The current-carrying parts passing through the outer surfaces of a manual electrode holder’s jaws must: yy Be fully insulated against the maximum voltage encountered to ground. yy Be specifically designed for arc welding and cutting. yy Safely handle the maximum rated current required by the electrodes. yy Protect employees from electrical hazards.

Part 1926.351, Arc Welding and Cutting discusses OSHA standards for safe arc welding and cutting.

Welding Cables and Connectors Only use cable that is free from repair needs or splices for a minimum distance of 10 feet from the cable end that the electrode is connected to. yy Cables and connectors must be completely insulated and flexible. yy All cables and connectors should be capable of handling the maximum current requirements. yy Any cables in need of repair should not be used. yy Worn cables with exposed bare conductors should be protected by rubber and friction tape.

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Ground Returns and Machine Grounding Follow OSHA guidelines that apply to manual ground return cables and machine grounding under the context of welding and cutting operations.

Ground Return Cables Ground return cables must have safe current-carrying capacities equal to or exceeding the specified maximum output capacity of the arc welding or cutting unit it services. When a single ground return cable services more than one unit, its safe current-carrying capacity must exceed the total specified maximum output capacities of all the units it services.

OSHA Regulations These OSHA guidelines apply: yy The safe current-carrying capacity of a single ground return cable servicing multiple units must exceed the total maximum output capacities of all the units it services.

Part 1926.351 discusses safe practices for ground returns, machine grounding, and more.

Pipelines Pipelines containing gases or flammable liquids, or conduits containing electrical circuits, must not be used as a ground return.

yy All ground connections must be inspected to ensure that they are mechanically strong and electrically adequate for the required current.

yy When a structure or pipeline is employed as a ground return circuit, the required electrical contact must exist at all joints.

yy Machine frames must be grounded through a third wire in the cable or through a separate wire grounded at the current’s source.

yy The generation of an arc, sparks, or heat at any point must cause rejection of the structures as a ground circuit.

REMEMBER Ground return cables must have safe current-carrying capacities that are equal to or exceed the specified maximum output capacity of the arc welding or cutting unit it services. OSHA 30-Hour Online Training for Construction Copyright 2017, American Safety Council, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Fire Prevention When performing welding and cutting operations, follow OSHA requirements for fire prevention.

OSHA Regulations Fire hazards are a serious issue to consider when performing any welding or cutting operation. OSHA regulations for fire prevention include the following: yy When welding or cutting is being performed, it must be done in a safe location. yy If the object cannot be moved, all potential fire hazards within the area must be removed or otherwise protected. yy Fire extinguishing equipment must be provided and readily available within the area. yy No welding, cutting, or heating can be done where there are flammable compounds or other heavy dust concentrations that can create a hazard.

Employer Responsibilities: yy Employers are required to implement a fire safety program within the workplace. yy When fire prevention precautions are insufficient for welding, cutting, or heating operations, assign fire watchers to guard against fire hazards.

Perform all welding operations away from flammable compounds that can create hazards.

Fire Watchers Fire watchers are additional personnel assigned to a work area when normal fire prevention precautions are not sufficient. Fire watchers have the following responsibilities: yy Guard the operation area throughout the work period. yy Guard the operation area for a period after the operation is completed. Fire watchers must also be properly trained in the following areas: yy Recognize and anticipate fire hazards. yy Know how to use the provided firefighting equipment.

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Ventilation and Protection Use ventilation strategies to remove air contaminants in welding, cutting, and heating operations. Air contaminants and fumes can be a serious hazard on the construction worksite.

Workers may need to use several different ventilation strategies to remove hazards. Ventilation strategies depend on the: yy Location. yy Circumstances. yy Tools. yy Types of welding in place.

Mechanical Ventilation This is a strategy used to remove air contaminants during a welding or cutting operation. The following OSHA requirements apply: yy Mechanical ventilation must consist of either general mechanical ventilation systems or local exhaust systems. yy Contaminated air exhausted from a working space must be discharged clear of the source of intake air. yy Mechanical ventilation is adequate if it removes fumes and smoke at the source, and all air that replaces the withdrawn air is clean and breathable.

Use different ventilation strategies depending on the type of welding in place.

Confined Spaces Welding, cutting, or heating operations performed in a confined space must have adequate mechanical ventilation. The following specific requirements also apply: yy An employee on the outside of the confined space must be assigned to communicate with workers and to provide aid in the event of an emergency. yy When welders must enter a confined space, means must be provided for quickly removing them in the event of an emergency. yy When ventilation in a confined space is unattainable, employees must be protected by airline respirators.

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Metals of Toxic Significance Ensure adequate ventilation when welding, cutting, or heating metals of toxic significance. Adequate mechanical ventilation must be provided when an operation involves any of the following metals: yy Zinc-bearing base, filler metals, or metals coated with zinc-bearing materials. yy Lead base metals. yy Cadmium-bearing filler materials. yy Chromium-bearing metals or metals coated with chromium-bearing materials. In some cases, either adequate local exhaust ventilation must be provided or air line respirators must be equipped on all operators. This applies when working on any of the following metals in an enclosed space: yy Metals containing lead (other than as an impurity) or metals coated with lead-bearing materials. yy Cadmium-bearing or cadmium-coated base metals. yy Metal coated with mercury-bearing metals. yy Beryllium-containing base or filler metals.

Take special precautions when working with certain metals.

MEDICAL ALERT Beryllium is highly toxic. Work involving beryllium must be done with both local exhaust ventilation and air line respirators.

REMEMBER Other employees exposed to the same atmosphere as the welders or burners must be protected in the same manner as the welder or burner.

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Preservative Coatings Follow OSHA regulations for welding, cutting, and heating of objects with preservative coatings. Preservative coatings help prevent corrosion and water damage.

However, new hazards may arise when welding, cutting, or heating a coated surface. Take the necessary precautions as discussed in Part 1926.354, welding, cutting, and heating in way of preservative coatings.

Flammability Prior to any operation, a competent person must test the surface and determine its flammability. yy Coatings are considered to be highly flammable when scrapings burn with extreme rapidity. yy When coatings are determined to be highly flammable, strip them of the area to be heated. If fire prevention precautions are insufficient for welding, cutting, or heating operations, then additional workers known as fire watchers must be assigned to the operation to guard against fire hazards.

Welders must understand OSHA requirements for welding objects with preservative coatings.

Toxic Coatings Protect yourself and others against toxic preservative coatings. yy In open air, employees must be protected by a respirator. yy In enclosed spaces, all surfaces covered with toxic preservatives must be stripped of all toxic coatings for a distance of at least four inches from the area of heat application. yy Alternately, employees must be protected by air line respirators.

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Common Welding Hazards To protect yourself and others, be aware of the common hazards associated with welding. There are several common hazards associated with welding, including the following: yy Physical agents. yy Chemical agents. yy Additional hazards.

Physical Agents

Common hazard-causing physical agents associated with welding include: yy Ultraviolet radiation (UV). yy Infrared radiation (IR). yy Intense visible light.

Chemical Agents

Exposure to chemicals is a common hazard associated with welding. Common hazard-causing chemical agents associated with welding include: yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

Zinc. Cadmium. Beryllium. Iron oxide. Mercury. Lead. Fluorides. Chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents. Phosgene. Carbon monoxide. Ozone. Nitrogen oxides.

Additional Hazards

In addition to chemical and physical agents,

Follow safety standards to prevent common hazards and maintain a safe jobsite.

hazards commonly found in welding and cutting operations include: yy Improperly storing gas cylinders. yy Moving gas cylinders in an unsafe manner. yy Failing to maintain welding and cutting equipment. yy Improperly training employees. yy Poorly training supervisors. yy Failure to properly implement safety programs.

MEDICAL ALERT Side effects of chemical exposure range in severity, and can include: yy Mild irritation. yy Sort throat. yy Pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs). yy Death.

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Physical Hazards Physical agents associated with welding are a common source of health hazards. Welding produces light and heat, which can create physical hazards that damage the eyes and skin. Common physical hazards include: yy Ultraviolet radiation (UV). yy Infrared radiation (IR). yy Intense visible light.

Ultraviolet Radiation (UV)

This is generated by the electric arc in the welding process. Exposure can result in severe burns to the skin, and damage to the eyes.

MEDICAL ALERT Many arc welders are aware of a condition known as “arceye,” which gives a sensation of sand in the eye. This is caused by excessive eye exposure to UV.

Infrared Radiation (IR)

This is produced by the electric arc and other flame cutting equipment. It can heat the skin’s surface, as well as tissues immediately below the surface. This can lead to thermal burns.

Welding operations produce light and heat, which can be hazardous.

REMEMBER Protect yourself from IR (and UV) with personal protective equipment (PPE) including a welder’s helmet and protective clothing.

Intense Visible Light

Eye exposure to intense visible light can produce adaptation, pupillary reflex, and shading of the eyes. These are protective mechanisms that prevent excessive light from being focused on the retina. For the most part, use of a welder’s helmet prevents eye exposure to intense visible light.

MEDICAL ALERT Some welders have sustained retinal damage due to careless “viewing” of the arc. Never observe the arc without eye protection.

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Chemical Hazards Be aware of potential chemical hazards during construction work.

Zinc

Zinc is used in large quantities in the manufacture of brass, galvanized metals, and other alloys.

Cadmium

Cadmium is used frequently as a rust-preventative coating on steel.

MEDICAL ALERT

MEDICAL ALERT

Cadmium is a potential carcinogen. Depending on the duration and concentration, exposure can result in emphysema, kidney damage, severe lung irritation, pulmonary edema, and death.

Inhalation of zinc oxide fumes is known to cause metal fume fever. Symptoms are similar to those of the flu, and usually last less than a day.

Lead

Lead oxide fumes are generated when welding and cutting lead-bearing alloys or metals whose surfaces are painted with lead-based paint.

MEDICAL ALERT Lead adversely affects the brain, central nervous system, circulatory system, reproductive system, kidneys, and muscles. Symptoms of lead poisoning include metallic taste in the mouth, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal cramps, and insomnia.

Mercury

Mercury compounds are used to coat metals to prevent rust or inhibit foliage growth (marine paints). Mercury vapors are produced under the intense heat of the arc or gas flame.

MEDICAL ALERT Exposure to mercury vapors may produce stomach pain, diarrhea, kidney damage, or respiratory failure. Long-term exposure may produce tremors, emotional instability, and hearing damage.

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Chemical Hazards Be aware of potential chemical hazards during construction work.

Beryllium

Beryllium is sometimes used as an alloying element with copper and other base metals.

Fluorides

Fluoride compounds are found in the coatings of several types of fluxes used in welding.

MEDICAL ALERT

MEDICAL ALERT

Acute exposure to high concentrations of beryllium can result in chemical pneumonia. Long-term exposure can lead to shortness of breath, chronic cough, significant weight loss, and general fatigue and weakness.

Exposure to these fluxes may irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Repeated and longterm exposure to high concentrations of fluorides in the air may cause pulmonary edema and bone damage.

Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Solvents

Iron Oxide

Iron is the principal alloying element in steel manufacture. When welding, fumes arise from the base metal and the electrode.

MEDICAL ALERT Acute exposure can irritate the nasal passages, throat, and lungs.

Various chlorinated hydrocarbons are used in degreasing or other cleaning operations. Keep chlorinated solvents at least 200 feet away from any welding or cutting operation.

MEDICAL ALERT Heat and ultraviolet radiation from the arc will decompose the vapors and form highly toxic and irritating phosgene gas.

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Chemical Hazards Be aware of potential chemical hazards during construction work.

Phosgene

Ozone

Phosgene is formed by decomposition of chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents by ultraviolet radiation.

Ozone (O3) is produced by ultraviolet light from the welding arc. It’s a highly active form of oxygen.

MEDICAL ALERT

MEDICAL ALERT

Phosgene reacts with moisture in the lungs to produce hydrogen chloride, which destroys lung tissue.

Ozone can cause great irritation to all mucus membranes. Symptoms of exposure include headache, chest pain, and dryness of the upper respiratory tract. Excessive exposure can cause fluid in the lungs.

Carbon Monoxide

This gas usually forms by the incomplete combustion of various fuels. Welding and cutting may produce significant amounts of carbon monoxide.

MEDICAL ALERT Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Common symptoms of overexposure include pounding of the heart, a dull headache, flashes before the eyes, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and nausea.

Nitrogen Oxides

The arc’s UV light can produce nitrogen oxides from the nitrogen and oxygen in the air.

MEDICAL ALERT The gas is irritating to the eyes, nose, and throat. High concentrations can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and pulmonary edema.

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Scaffolds

Scaffolds Lesson 13 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify and recognize hazards as they apply to scaffolding use and construction. Describe the requirements for training employees on scaffold use and construction. List specific requirements associated with scaffold types. Explain the roles of the scaffold competent person, qualified person, and engineer in scaffold design and use.

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Scaffolds

Learn how to protect yourself from the hazards associated with scaffolding use in construction. An estimated 2.3 million construction workers frequently operate on scaffolds. This statistic makes up 65% of the construction industry.

About 50 deaths and 4,500 injuries occur every year because of scaffold use. Additionally, $90 million is spent every year paying for medical expenses or damages. For these reasons, OSHA requirements under Subpart L are designed to reduce the risk of accidents related to construction scaffolding.

OSHA Standards

OSHA standards for the proper use of scaffolds include: yy Before a scaffold is moved, each employee on the scaffold must be made aware of the move. yy When scaffolds are erected, dismantled, or moved, it must be supervised by a competent person. yy The use of repaired wire rope as suspension rope is prohibited.

yy Scaffolds cannot be loaded in excess of their maximum intended rated capacity.

General Requirements

Employees on a construction worksite should be adept at identifying and recognizing hazards related to scaffolding use. yy Each scaffold and its components must be capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied to it. yy Access to scaffolds must be provided for any platform that does not have existing access within two feet above or below the platform. yy Acceptable means of access include portable or attachable ladders, stairway ladders, stair towers, ramps, or walkways. yy Each platform must be fully planked and at least 18 inches wide. Employers should make every effort to train their workers on both the use and construction of different types of scaffolding.

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Scaffolds

Scaffolding Types To protect yourself and others from hazards, start by understanding the different types of scaffolding found on construction sites. There are two different types of scaffolds: yy Supported scaffolds. yy Suspended scaffolds.

Supported Scaffolds Supported scaffolds consist of one or more platforms supported by: yy Outrigger beams, yy Brackets, yy Poles, yy Legs, yy Uprights, yy Posts, yy Frames, or yy Similar rigid support. The following are examples of supported scaffolds: yy Fabricated frames.

Different types of scaffolding may pose different types of hazards.

yy Ladder jacks. yy Pump jacks. yy Mobile.

Examples include:

yy Tube and coupler.

yy Two-point adjustable.

Suspended Scaffolds

yy Single-point adjustable.

Suspended scaffolds are platforms suspended by ropes, or other non-rigid means, from an overhead structure.

yy Multi-point adjustable.

yy Catenary. yy Interior hung, needle beam, floating interior hung.

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Supported Scaffolds Learn how to properly and safely use supported scaffolds on the construction site.

OSHA Requirements The following are OSHA requirements that should be applied to all pole, leg, post, frame, or upright scaffolding in addition to any specific requirements for that scaffold type: yy Must be restrained from tipping with the use of guys, ties, or braces. yy Must be on base plates and mud sills or other firm foundation. yy Must be plumb and braced to prevent swaying and displacement.

Fabricated Frames These are the most common type of scaffolds. Fabricated frames are versatile, economical, and easy to use. yy Fabricated frames are often used in one or two tiers by residential contractors, painters, and others. yy Their modular frames can be stacked several stories high for use on largescale construction jobs. The following are OSHA requirements for fabricated frame scaffolding: yy Frames and panels must be connected by cross, horizontal, or diagonal braces that secure vertical members together.

Safe use of support scaffolds is crucial in protecting workers.

yy As frames are stacked, cross braces must be of such length that they will automatically keep the scaffold plumb, level, and square. yy All brace connections must be secured to prevent dislodging. yy Frames and panels must be joined together vertically by coupling, stacking pins, or equivalent means. yy Frames and panels must be locked together to prevent uplift (where uplift can occur).

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Supported Scaffolds Learn how to properly and safely use supported scaffolds on the construction site.

Ladder Jacks A ladder jack scaffold is a simple device consisting of a platform resting on brackets attached to a ladder. yy Ladder jacks are primarily used in light applications because of their portability and cost-effectiveness.

Pump Jacks These are uniquely-designed scaffolds consisting of a platform supported by moveable brackets on vertical poles. yy The brackets are designed to be raised and lowered in a manner like an automobile jack.

REMEMBER Pump jacks are appealing for certain applications because they are easily adjusted to variable heights and are relatively inexpensive.

Proper use of supported scaffolds is crucial in keeping workers safe.

Mobile

Tube and Coupler

This is a type of supported scaffold set on wheels or casters.

These are so-named because they are built from tubing connected by coupling devices.

yy They are designed to be easily moved and are commonly used for things like painting and plastering, where workers must frequently change position.

yy Due to their strength, they are frequently used where heavy loads need to be carried or where multiple platforms must reach several stories high.

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Suspended Scaffolds Learn how to properly and safely use supported scaffolds on the construction site.

Two-Point Adjustable

Multi-Point Adjustable

Known as swing-stage scaffolds, these are the most common type of suspended scaffold.

These consist of one or more platforms suspended by more than two ropes from overhead supports and equipped with means to raise and lower the platforms to desired work levels.

yy Hung by ropes or cables connected to stirrups at each end of the platform, they are typically used by window washers on skyscrapers. yy They also play a prominent role in high-rise construction.

Single-Point Adjustable This scaffold consists of a platform suspended by one rope from an overhead support and equipped with means to permit the movement of the platform to desired work levels. yy The most common among these is the scaffold used by window washers to clean the outside of a skyscraper.

Catenary

REMEMBER An example of this type of scaffold is a chimney hoist, which is used in chimney-cleansing operations.

Interior Hung, Needle Beam, Float Interior Hung An Interior Hung suspension scaffold consists of a platform suspended from the ceiling or roof structure by fixed-length supports. OSHA regulations for this type of scaffold are:

This is a scaffold consisting of a platform supported by two essentially horizontal and parallel ropes attached to structural members of a building or other structure. yy Platforms supported by wire rope must have hook-shaped stops on each of the platforms to prevent them from slipping off the wire ropes.

yy Scaffolds must be suspended from roof structures. yy Roof structures must be inspected for strength before scaffolds are erected. yy Suspension ropes or cables must be connected to overhead supports by shackles, clips, thimbles, or equivalent means.

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Responsible Persons Learn about the different responsibilities of the scaffold competent person, qualified person, and engineer. Proper design, erection, and use of scaffolding are overseen by the scaffold competent person, qualified person, and engineer.

Qualified Person The Scaffold Qualified Person does the following: yy Designs scaffolds. yy Loads scaffolds. yy Trains employees on scaffold hazards.

Competent Person

Make sure to use fall protection equipment effectively.

The Scaffold Competent Person does the following: yy Directs employees. yy Determines safe conditions. yy Inspects scaffolds.

Scaffold Engineer The Scaffold Engineer does the following:

REMEMBER It is important to inspect scaffolds and scaffold components for visible defects. Do this before each work shift and after any occurrence that could affect a scaffold’s integrity.

yy Designs mobile scaffolds. yy Designs other scaffolds that exceed usual dimensions.

All employees who work on a scaffold must be trained by a person qualified to recognize the hazards associated with the type of scaffold used and to understand the procedures to control and minimize those hazards.

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Fall Protection Use fall protection to protect yourself and others while working on or around scaffolding equipment. Use this chart to determine the required fall protection for a given scaffold type.

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Aerial Lift Requirements Learn how to properly and safely use aerial lifts. An aerial lift is any vehicle-mounted lift device that has an extensible boom used to position personnel.

OSHA Requirements OSHA requirements for aerial lifts include the following: yy Test lift controls daily. yy Allow only authorized personnel on the lift. yy Require the use of body belts during use.

Proper Use When using aerial lifts, the following OSHA requirements must be met: yy Aerial ladders must be secured in the lower traveling position by the locking device on top of the truck cab and the manually operated device at the base of the ladder before the truck is moved for highway travel. yy Lift controls must be tested each day prior to use to ensure that controls are in safe working conditions. yy Only authorized persons may operate aerial lifts.

OSHA requirements protect workers from hazards.

yy Belting off to an adjacent pole, structure, or equipment while working on an aerial lift is prohibited. yy Employees are not permitted to sit or climb on the edge of the basket or use planks, ladders, or other devices for a work position.

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Training Employer-provided training helps minimize hazards and prevent worker injury.

Requirements Proper training must be provided to all employees who will work from a scaffold or perform work on a scaffold during: yy Erection. yy Disassembly. yy Movement yy Operation. yy Repair. yy Inspection. yy Maintenance. Employees must receive the following training: yy Proper use of scaffold and handling of materials on the scaffold. yy Maximum intended load and load-carrying capacities of the scaffolds used. yy Any electrical hazards present. yy Other pertinent information regarding the type of scaffold used.

Retraining In the following circumstances, employees must be retrained:

Employees must be trained in the proper use of scaffolding equipment.

Employees who use scaffolds should be trained on:

yy Whenever changes occur with scaffolding use.

yy Electrical hazards.

yy If an employee is caught improperly working on a scaffold.

yy Falling object hazards.

yy Fall hazards.

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NOTES:

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Cranes

Cranes, Derrick, Hoists, Elevators, and Conveyors Lesson 14 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify a crane inspection plan. Describe OSHA regulations applying to crane safety. List the proper installation procedures for cranes, hoists, and similar equipment. Explain the use of signaling during crane operations.

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Cranes

Learn how to protect yourself from hazards caused by cranes on construction sites.

In construction, cranes and similar equipment are used during erection, to transport materials and personnel, and to allow for work in difficult-to-reach locations.

When used incorrectly, cranes pose significant hazards to both operators and nearby workers. To help prevent crane hazards, learn how to safely use the following: yy yy yy yy yy

Overloading hazards. Struck-by hazards. Inadequate inspections. Inadequate cribbing. Improper rigging. Electrical hazards.

Regulations

OSHA standards apply to power-operated equipment that can hoist, lower, and horizontally move a suspended load.

REMEMBER

Cranes. Derricks. Hoists. Elevators. Conveyors.

Common Hazards

yy yy yy yy yy yy

Hazards related to cranes may include:

If a city or state has its own licensing or certification programs for crane operations, OSHA mandates compliance with those requirements only if they meet the minimum criteria set forth by OSHA.

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Cranes and Derricks Follow equipment regulations for all cranes and derricks used on a construction worksite.

Equipment Regulations Crane operations must comply with manufacturer specifications and limitations. When manufacturer specs are not available, limitations must be determined by an engineer qualified in the field of cranes. Also, cranes cannot be modified without the written approval of the crane's manufacturer.

Inspection A crane or derrick inspection must be carried out prior to each use. Check for: yy yy yy yy yy yy

Air pressure. Clearance for tail swing. Rope wear. Lost or missing hardware. Fluid leaks. Any other physical damage to the crane.

Inspections must be done before equipment is used.

Rated Load Capacity The following must be posted on all equipment: yy yy yy yy

Rated load capacities. Recommended operating speeds. Special hazards or instructions. The operator must be able to view these warnings while at the control station.

REMEMBER The minimum clearance between a crane and any power line rated at 50 kV or below must be 10 feet.

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Regulations for Specific Types of Cranes Specific types of cranes have additional requirements. These regulations apply to specific types of cranes or derricks, which have additional requirements for safe operation. The following types of cranes and derricks have additional requirements: yy yy yy yy yy yy

Crawler. Locomotive. Truck. Hammerhead. Gantry. Floating.

Workers must meet additional requirements including those set forth by the American National Standards Institute. Crawler, Locomotive, and Truck Cranes - All jibs must have positive stops to prevent their movement of more than five degrees above the straight line of the jib and boom on conventional type crane booms. Hammerhead Tower Cranes - Adequate clearance must be maintained between the moving and rotating structures of the crane and fixed objects to allow the passage of employees without harm. Overhead and Gantry Cranes - The rated load of the crane must be plainly marked on each side of the crane. If the crane has more than one hoisting unit, each hoist should have its rated load marked on it or its load block. This marking should be clearly legible from the ground or floor.

Follow regulations for specific types of cranes.

Floating Cranes and Derricks - When a mobile crane is mounted on a barge, the rated load of the crane must not exceed the original capacity specified by the manufacturer. A load rating chart, with clearly legible letters and figures, must be provided with each crane and securely fixed at a location easily visible to the operator.

REMEMBER A gong or other effective audible warning signal must be provided for Gantry cranes.

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Personnel Platforms Crane or derrick personnel platforms help employees reach a work area. Follow all OSHA regulations for safe use. Use of equipment to hoist employees is prohibited except in certain circumstances. Using a crane or derrick to hoist workers on personnel platforms is allowed when the erection, use, and dismantling of conventional means of reaching the worksite is more hazardous or impossible. Conventional means can include: yy Personnel hoists. yy Ladders.

Crane and derrick inspections must be carried out prior to each use.

yy Stairways. yy Aerial lifts. yy Elevating work platforms. yy Scaffolding.

Trial Lift Before hoisting employees, crane or derrick operators must conduct a trial lift of an unoccupied personnel platform. Do this immediately before placing personnel on it.

REMEMBER When using a suspended personnel platform, the combined weight of the load, platform, and its rigging must not exceed 50% of the rated capacity of the crane or derrick for its radius and configuration.

Design Specifications Platforms used for lifting personnel should be designed by a qualified engineer or a person competent in structural design. Platforms must: yy Support the platform weight and at least five times the maximum intended load. yy Have an appropriate suspension system to minimize tipping caused by personnel movement. Keep tools, materials, and equipment from falling below by having a standard guardrail system that is enclosed from the toeboard to the mid-rail.

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Safety Requirements Take precautions when using personnel platforms. Using a crane to hoist employees on a platform is only permissible when conventional means are less desirable. When using a personnel platform, make sure to follow the requirements for safe use. Employees must: yy Use tag lines unless their use creates an unsafe condition. yy Keep all body parts inside the platform during raising, lowering, and positioning. yy Keep clear of the load. yy Wear a personal fall arrest system. In addition, make sure a platform is secured to the structure where work is to be performed. Do this before entering or exiting the platform, unless such securing would create an unsafe condition.

REMEMBER The loaded platform and its rigging must not exceed 50% of the rated capacity for the crane when using a crane to suspend workers on a personnel platform.

Personal protect equipment (PPE) such as hard hats can protect you from falling object hazards.

PPE Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). yy When exposed to falling objects, all personnel must wear hard hats and have overhead protection on the platform. yy The personal fall arrest system of a worker on a personnel platform must be attached to the lower load block, the overhaul ball, or a structural member within the platform.

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Helicopter Cranes With their lifting capacities, helicopter cranes can lift basically anything. Helicopter cranes are typically used to: yy Lift loads onto shopping centers. yy Work after natural disasters to assist in cleanup. yy Carry large buckets of water to help put out wildfires. Prior to each day's crane operation, a briefing must be conducted. The briefing sets forth the plan of operation for the pilot and ground personnel. Helicopter cranes are versatile in construction.

Special Precautions Take special precautions to protect yourself and others. yy All employees who are approaching or leaving a helicopter must remain in full view of the pilot and keep in a crouched position. yy When visibility is reduced by dust or other conditions, ground personnel must exercise special caution to keep clear of main and stabilizing rotors.

Every practical precaution must be taken to protect employees from flying objects in the rotor downwash.

yy Employees must not wear loose-fitting clothing likely to flap in the downwash. This clothing can be snagged on a hoist line. yy All loose gear within 100 feet of the place of lifting the load, depositing the load, and all other areas susceptible to rotor downwash must be secured or removed.

REMEMBER In addition to OSHA regulations, helicopter cranes must comply with regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration.

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Hoists, Elevators, and Conveyors When using these types of equipment, take precautions to avoid hazards.

Protecting Yourself Keep the following in mind: yy Wire rope must be removed from service when physical damage that could jeopardize the rope's integrity becomes apparent. yy The installation of live booms on hoists is prohibited and the use of endless belt-type man lifts on construction should be prohibited.

Electrical Hazards

Use precautions to protect yourself from electrical hazards.

To avoid common electrical hazards, employers must ensure that: yy Required distances are kept between cranes and power lines. yy ANSI requirements for working around power lines are met.

REMEMBER Employ the use of an observer when it is difficult for an operator to determine power line clearance by visual means.

yy Preventative measures for avoiding power line contacts are in place. yy Potential hazards are planned for and power line emergencies are dealt with immediately.

Types of Equipment Follow OSHA regulations for safe use of hoists. This includes the following: yy Material hoists. yy Personnel hoist cars. yy Overhead hoists.

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Hoists Learn how to safely use hoists and prevent hazards on the worksite.

Material Hoists yy Rules for material hoists include signal systems and allowable line speeds for various loads. yy Post rules and notices on the car frame or crosshead in a conspicuous location, and they should include the statement "No Riders Allowed." yy Inspect personnel hoists after installation but prior to use.

Hoist Towers

To prevent hazards, learn how to properly use and maintain equipment.

yy All material hoist towers must be designed by a licensed professional engineer. yy When a hoist tower is enclosed, it must be enclosed on all sides for its entire height. yy When a hoist tower is not enclosed, the hoist platforms or car must be totally enclosed (caged) on all sides for the full height.

Personnel Hoist Cars yy Doors and gates must be equipped with electric contact that does not allow movement when the door or gate is open.

Overhead Hoists yy The safe working load must be indicated on the hoist and it must not be exceeded. yy The supporting structure the hoist is attached to must have a safe working load equal to that of the hoist. yy The support must be arranged to allow the hoist to move freely and must not restrict the hoist from lining itself up with the load.

yy Safeties must be provided and capable of stopping and holding the car and rated load when travelling at governor tripping speed.

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Hand Signals Use of hand signals is essential on high-traffic worksites. Workers use hand signals to assist crane operators. Hand signals must be those prescribed for the given operation.

Hoist

Lower

Stop

With upper arm extended to the side, forearm and index finger pointing straight up, hand and finger make small circles.

With arm and index finger pointing down, hand and finger make small circles.

With arm extended horizontally to the side, palm down, arm is swung back and forth.

Swing

Raise Boom

Lower Boom

With arm extended horizontally, index finger points in direction that boom is to swing.

With arm extended horizontally to the side, thumb points up with other fingers closed.

With arm extended horizontally to the side, thumb points down with other fingers closed.

Travel/Tower Travel

Move Slowly

Emergency Stop

With all fingers pointing up, arm is extended horizontally out and back to make a pushing motion in the direction of travel.

A hand is placed in front of the hand that is giving the action signal.

With both arms extended horizontally to the side, palms down, arms are swung back and forth.

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Excavations

Excavations Lesson 15 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify factors that expose workers to excavation hazards. Describe the different types of soils and basic procedures on how to determine soil type. List the three main methods for protecting employees from cave-ins. Explain employer and worker responsibilities when performing excavation work.

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Excavations

Learn how to protect yourself from hazards caused by excavations on construction sites.

Excavations Defined

OSHA defines an excavation as:

“

Any man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth’s surface formed by earth removal.

”

Excavation operations expose construction workers to many potential dangers, including:

yy Safety precautions minimize hazards on the worksite, and require different techniques to protect workers. yy Safety precautions may need to be adapted to fit the unique geological properties of an excavation site. To further protect yourself and others, become familiar with the following: yy OSHA 1926 Subpart P. yy Specific excavation requirements.

yy Cave-ins.

yy Soil classification.

yy Suffocation.

yy Protective systems for workers.

yy Fall hazards.

yy Sloping and benching techniques.

Protecting Yourself

yy Shoring and shielding techniques.

OSHA regulations are designed to prevent the numerous potential dangers of excavation operations.

yy Excavation hazards.

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Excavation and Trenching Operations OSHA 1926 Subpart P – Excavations covers OSHA requirements for excavation and trenching operations. The fatality rate for excavation work is 112% higher than the rate for general construction.

For this reason, excavating is recognized as one of the most hazardous construction operations. Because of the continuing incidence of trench/excavation collapses and the accompanying loss of life, OSHA determined that an increased enforcement presence is warranted at excavation sites.

Subpart P

Excavation work involves removal of earth to create a cut, cavity, trench, or depression.

Sloping and Shoring

OSHA regulations for excavations cover trenches and all open excavations made in the earth's surface. They also include: yy A standardized method of soil classification. yy Sloping and benching requirements. yy Shoring and shielding devices. yy Timber tables. yy Hydraulic shoring tables. yy A graphic summary of the requirements contained in the standard. Subpart P does not apply to house foundation/basement excavations.

yy Sloping is a technique that employs a specific angle of incline on the sides of the excavation. yy Shoring is a technique that supports the sides of an excavation and protects against cave-ins.

REMEMBER A competent person is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in surroundings or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees. He or she has authorization to take prompt corrective measures.

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Specific Requirements Follow specific requirements and safety regulations for excavation and trenching operations.

Excavation Requirements yy Ladders, stairways, or ramps are required every 25 feet in trenches 4 feet or deeper. yy Underground utilities must be located before excavation work can begin. yy When excavation operations approach the estimated location of the underground installations, the exact location of the installations must be determined by safe and acceptable means. yy If the excavation is open, the employer must make sure the underground utilities are protected, supported, or removed to safeguard workers.

Barricades are an example of a warning system.

Warning Systems A warning system is required when mobile equipment is operated around excavations and the operator does not have a clear and direct view of the edge of the excavation. Acceptable warning systems include:

Employee Safety yy Take precautions to prevent employee exposure to hazardous atmospheres. yy Employees exposed to public vehicular traffic must wear high-visibility reflective vests or other suitable garments. yy Employees must not work under equipment used for moving loads or digging. yy Unless precautions are taken, employees must not work in excavations where water is present or accumulating.

yy Barricades. yy Hand or mechanical signals. yy Stop logs.

Spoils Spoils are excavated materials at excavation sites. They become hazardous when set too close to the edge of a trench or excavation. yy Protection must be provided to employees who work near spoils. yy Set spoils and equipment piles at least two feet back from the excavation.

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Soil Classification Protect yourself from hazards by learning about soil classification. An open excavation is an unnatural situation. The soil involved usually varies greatly in its consistency and stability.

Soil or dirt is a heavy material. Classifying soil type is important to excavation construction. It should be completed with appropriate tests performed by a competent person.

Soil Classification and Testing Soil classification describes the method of categorizing soil and rock deposits. yy Classifications are based on conditions of the site and environment. yy They’re also based on the structure and composition of the earth deposits. All rock and soil deposits must be classified by a competent person as one of the following: yy yy yy yy

Stable Rock Type A Type B Type C

Soil classification is an important part of preventing excavation hazards.

These classifications must be made based on at least one visual test and one manual test. yy Visual Test –Particle size, spalling and fissures, and water presence. yy Manual Test – Pocket penetrometer, roll test (cohesiveness), sedimentation test.

REMEMBER It is prohibited to enter an excavation to get a soil sample.

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Soil Types Protect yourself from hazards by learning about soil classification. Classifications for all rock and soil deposits must be listed as: yy Stable Rock yy Type A yy Type B yy Type C

Type A Soil

This is the most stable soil. Type A means cohesive soils (it sticks together) with an unconfined, compressive strength of 1.5 ton per square foot (tsf) (144 kPa) or greater.

Different types of soil can pose different hazards when performing excavation operations.

Examples include: yy Silt.

Examples include:

yy Silt loam.

yy Clay.

yy Sandy loam.

yy Clay loam.

yy Silty clay loam

yy Caliche.

yy Sandy clay loam.

yy Hardpan.

Type C Soil

REMEMBER Soil cannot be Type A if it is unstable dry rock, previously disturbed soil, and fissured.

This is the least stable soil. Type C has cohesive soil with an unconfined compressive strength of 0.5 tsf (48 kPa) or less. Examples include:

Type B Soil

This has medium stability.

yy Gravel.

Type B soil has cohesive soil with an unconfined compressive strength greater than 0.5 tsf (48 kPa) but less than 1.5 tsf (144 kPa).

yy Loamy sand.

yy Sand.

REMEMBER Type C soil cannot be benched.

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Protective Systems Protective systems are essential in protecting employees from cave-ins. Trenching and excavation work presents serious hazards to all workers involved, especially with the threat of cave-ins.

OSHA standards require protective systems in place around all excavation sites that pose the threat of cave-ins. Protective systems are selected and constructed by the employer, but the system must meet OSHA required performance criteria.

Design Factors

Because of the potential for serious hazards, protective systems must meet OSHA requirements.

Types of Protective Systems These are the four primary types of protective systems.

Factors to consider in the design of a protective system are: yy Soil classification. yy Depth of cut. yy Water content of soil. yy Changes due to weather. yy Climate or other operations in the vicinity.

REMEMBER All excavations over 20 feet in depth must be designed by a registered P.E.

yy Shielding - This can be permanent or portable, also known as trench box or trench shield. yy Shoring - This can include a metal hydraulic, mechanical, or timber shoring system that supports the sides. yy Sloping - This involves forming sides of an excavation that are inclined away from the excavation. yy Benching - This involves excavating the sides of an excavation to form one or a series of horizontal levels or steps, usually with vertical or near-vertical surfaces between levels. Protective systems are selected and constructed by the employer, but the system must meet the required performance criteria.

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Sloping and Benching OSHA regulations contain specifications for sloping and benching when used as methods of protecting employees working in excavations from cave-ins.

Sloping Sloping is a method of protecting employees from cave-ins by excavating to form sides of an excavation. yy The sides are inclined away from the excavation to prevent cave-ins. The angle of incline required to prevent a cave-in varies with differences in these factors: yy Soil type. yy Environmental conditions of exposure. yy Application of surcharge loads.

Sloping and benching help protect workers from cave-ins.

There are two basic types of benching: yy Single.

REMEMBER Maximum allowable slope means the steepest incline of an excavation face acceptable for the most favorable site conditions as protection against cave-ins.

yy Multiple.

Benching Benching protects employees from cave-ins by excavating the sides of an excavation to form one or a series of horizontal levels or steps.

REMEMBER Benching can be used in conjunction with sloping to protect employees.

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Shoring & Shielding Learn how shoring and shielding are used as a method of protecting employees working in excavations. Shoring or shielding is used when location or depth of the cut makes sloping back to the maximum allowable slope impractical. The two basic types of shoring are: yy Timber. yy Aluminum hydraulic. Due to the cost and effort of using lumber, aluminum hydraulic is the preferred method.

Hydraulic Shoring

Always take appropriate measures to prevent cave-ins during excavation operations.

yy Once in place, hydraulic pressure should be increased to keep the forms in position.

Workers do not have to enter the trench to install hydraulic shoring. This is a critical safety advantage over timber. In addition, hydraulic shoring is: yy Light enough to be installed by one worker. yy Gauge-related, ensuring even distribution of pressure along the trench line. yy Easily adapted to various trench depths and widths.

yy Trench pins must be installed in case of hydraulic failure.  

Shield Systems Keep the following in mind regarding shield systems: yy Shields may not be subjected to loads exceeding those which the system was designed to withstand. yy Shields may be used in combination with sloping and benching.

Hydraulic Jacks Keep the following in mind when using hydraulic jacks: yy When using hydraulic jacks, the operator should be able to easily drop the shoring system into the hole.

yy Shields must extend at least 18 inches above the surrounding area if there is sloping toward the excavation. This can be accomplished by providing a benched area adjacent to the shield. yy Shields may be used in combination with benching and shoring.

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Shoring & Shielding Learn how shoring and shielding are used as a method of protecting employees working in excavations.

Trench Boxes Keep the following in mind regarding trench boxes: yy Trench boxes (shields) are different from shoring in that instead of supporting the trench face, they mostly serve to protect workers from caveins. yy The excavated area between the outside of the trench box and the face of the trench should be as small as possible. yy The space between the trench box and the excavation side may be backfilled (or other means may be used) to prevent lateral movement of the box.

Removal of Protective Systems To properly remove protective systems, practice the following: yy After the excavation is cleared, the protective system must be removed from the bottom up with caution. yy As soon as work is completed, the excavation must be backfilled when the protective system is dismantled.

If equipment used for protective systems is damaged, a competent person must examine it to see if it is suitable for continued use.

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Excavation Hazards Excavating is one of the most hazardous construction operations. Learn how to protect yourself and others by maintaining awareness of these potentially deadly hazards.

Cave-Ins Cave-ins, considered the deadliest excavation hazard, pose the greatest risk of worker fatalities during excavation operations. A cave-in can occur when the sides of an excavation: yy Are not sloped or benched. yy Are not adequately supported. yy Do not have the proper shield or shoring system. Note the following regarding possible caveins during excavation operations: yy Excavating is one of the most hazardous construction operations, and most accidents occur in trenches 5 to 15 feet deep. yy There is usually no warning before a cave-in. yy When water is present in an excavation, it creates a serious cave-in hazard. yy When there is no safe means of egress, it creates a serious risk to workers within the excavation.

REMEMBER Cave -ins are the deadliest excavation hazards.

Employers and employees must work together to protect workers from potentially deadly excavation hazards.

Hazardous Atmospheres An excavation can form a confined or enclosed space. yy The build-up of toxic fumes or depletion of oxygen creates a serious hazard. yy Adequate precautions must be taken to prevent employee exposure to potentially hazardous atmospheres. Precautions include using personal protective equipment and respiratory protection. yy Adequate protection must include providing ventilation to prevent employees from exposure to flammable gas. Fire is also a significant hazard associated with excavation. The threat of fire from combustible gases and materials can also pose a danger to workers inside the excavation.

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Hazard Protection Learn about additional excavation hazards, as well as how to protect yourself.

Equipment Emergency rescue equipment must be readily available in the following scenarios: yy Where hazardous atmospheric conditions exist. yy Where hazardous atmospheric conditions may reasonably be expected to develop during work in an excavation. Examples of emergency rescue equipment include: yy Breathing apparatus. yy Safety harness and line. yy Basket stretcher.

Additional Hazards

Excavation operations can expose workers to a variety of hazards. Take precautions appropriate to the specific hazards.

The following conditions can contribute to these hazards:

In addition to cave-ins and hazardous atmospheres, workers involved in excavation work also are exposed to hazards involving:

yy Materials or equipment close to the edge of the excavation that might fall or roll into the excavation. yy Inadequate warning systems to alert operators to the edge of an excavation.

yy Falls. yy Falling loads. yy Underground utility lines. yy Mobile equipment.

yy No barricades, signals, or fence to protect vehicles from excavation. yy Loose rock or soil with no protective barricades.

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Excavations

OSHA’s Top 5 Most Violated Excavation Regulations To keep workers safe, employers must meet and exceed OSHA standards on the worksite.

Below are OSHA’s top five most violated excavation regulations. Evaluate your own worksite, and take the necessary steps to minimize hazards and comply with OSHA standards.

1. 652(a)(1 - Protection from cave-ins. Employers must protect employees from cave-ins. Provide employers with an adequate protective system. 2. 651(c)(2) - Means of egress provided. Provide a means of egress from trench excavations. This may include a stairway, ladder, ramp, or other safe means of getting out of a trench. 3. 651(k)(1) - Daily inspections by a competent person. Daily, a competent person must inspect excavations, areas adjacent to excavations, and protective systems. Look for evidence of a potential cave-in, indication of protective system failure, and hazardous conditions such as hazardous atmospheres.

4. 651(j)(2) - Protection from material or equipment falling into excavations. Protect employees from materials or equipment that could fall or roll into excavations. Keep materials or equipment at least two feet from the edge of the excavation, and/or use retaining devices. 5. 651(k)(2) - Competent person inspection – Employees removed from hazard. When the competent person finds evidence of a possible cave-in, protective system failure, or hazardous conditions, remove employees from the hazardous area. Take precautions to ensure worker safety.

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Concrete and Masonry

Concrete and Masonry Construction Lesson 16 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify different types of concrete construction methods. Describe OSHA regulations applying to concrete and masonry construction. List the common hazards of concrete placement. Explain the use of equipment and tools for concrete and masonry construction.

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Concrete and Masonry

Learn to safely navigate around the common hazards associated with concrete and masonry construction.

OSHA requirements for concrete and masonry construction define the general requirements, equipment, and tools needed for work operations.

Common Hazards

Common hazards you may face during concrete and masonry construction include: yy Impalement by unguarded rebar. yy Struck-by and caught-in hazards from materials or equipment. yy Silica dust exposure.

concrete and masonry construction and how they should then apply to employer and employee safety practices. yy Identify and avoid hazards associated with concrete and masonry construction equipment and tools, cast-in-place concrete, formwork, precast concrete, lift-slab operations, and masonry construction.

Definitions

Understand the following terms: yy Bull float.

Protecting Yourself

To protect yourself and others, know how to: yy Recognize and describe the common hazards of concrete and masonry construction, and know the appropriate safety measures to minimize these hazards. yy Explain OSHA standards pertaining to

yy Formwork. yy Lift slab. yy Limited access zone. yy Precast concrete. yy Reshoring. yy Shore. yy Vertical slip forms.

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Definitions To protect yourself from concrete and masonry hazards, familiarize yourself with these terms. Bull float - A tool used to spread out and smooth concrete. Formwork - The total system of support for freshly placed or partially cured concrete, including the mold or sheeting that is in contact with the concrete, as well as all supporting members including shores, reshores, hardware, braces, and related hardware. Lift slab - A method of concrete construction in which floor and roof slabs are cast on or at ground level and lifted into position using jacks. Limited access zone - An area alongside a masonry wall that is under construction and is clearly marked to limit access by employees.

Reshoring - The construction operation in which shoring equipment (also called reshores or reshoring equipment) is placed as the original forms and shores are removed in order. This practice supports partially cured concrete and construction loads. Shore - A supporting member that resists a compressive force imposed by a load. Vertical slip forms - Forms that are jacked vertically during the placement of concrete. Jacking operation - The task of lifting a slab (or a group of slabs) vertically from one location to another during the construction of a building or structure where the lift-slab process is being used.

Precast concrete - Concrete members, such as walls, panels, slabs, columns, and beams that have been formed, cast, and cured prior to final placement in a structure.

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Subpart Q - Concrete & Masonry Construction Subpart Q describes the requirements that protect construction workers from concrete and masonry construction hazards. OSHA specific regulations for concrete and masonry construction are covered under Part 1926 of Subpart Q.

They serve to define the regulations for both employers and employees. Subpart Q describes the requirements that help protect workers from concrete and masonry construction hazards. OSHA regulations address the following topics: yy Construction Loads.

Masonry and concrete construction work requires special safety measures.

yy Reinforcing Steel. yy Post-Tensioning Operations. yy Concrete Buckets. yy Working Under Loads. yy Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The regulations stated in Subpart Q are intended to help protect workers from accidents and injuries stemming from dangerous work practices such as: yy Premature removal of formwork. yy Failure to brace masonry walls. yy Failure to support precast panels. yy Inadvertent operation of equipment.

These regulations must apply to all work sites where concrete and masonry construction hazards may exist, and should be used in conjunction with other OSHA requirements.

REMEMBER According to Subpart Q, head and face personal protective equipment is required when an employee applies a cement/sand/water mixture through a hose.

yy Failure to guard reinforcing steel.

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General Requirements Follow OSHA regulations for concrete and masonry construction projects.

Construction Loads

Employers must not place construction loads on concrete structures or portions of concrete structures unless a qualified person determines that the structure or portion of the structure is capable of supporting the loads.

Reinforcing Steel

Reinforcing steel, which includes protruding rebar, must be guarded to prevent employees from falling onto the steel and becoming impaled.

Post-Tensioning Operations

To reduce hazards during post-tensioning operations, employees should not be permitted behind the jacks during tensioning operations. Employers should post signs and barriers to limit access during post tensioning operations.

Concrete Buckets and Working Under Loads

Cranes and hoists are often used to move and position concrete buckets on a construction site. These can pose dangerous hazards to workers if the following regulations are not followed: yy Buckets should be routed away from employees in case of a potential fall or drop. yy No employee should be riding a concrete bucket. yy No employee should stand in a bucket moving vertically up or down.

General requirements apply to concrete and masonry work on construction sites.

Equipment

OSHA regulations provide specific requirements for the following equipment and tools: yy Bulk cement storage. yy Concrete mixers. yy Concrete buggies and pumping systems. yy Concrete buckets. yy Tremies. yy Bull floats.

REMEMBER Before maintenance or repair is begun on any of the equipment listed above, all items should be locked and tagged at their starting points.

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Equipment and Tools Follow all OSHA requirements for equipment and tools.

Bulk Cement Storage Bulk storage bins, containers, or silos should have conical or tapered bottoms, and a mechanical or pneumatic method of starting the flow of materials. Employees should be prohibited from entering storage facilities unless the ejection system has been shut down, locked out, and tagged.

Concrete Mixers Concrete mixers with one cubic yard or larger loading skips must have a mechanical device to clear the skip of materials, and have guardrails placed on every side of the skip.

Concrete Buggies and Pumping Systems The handles of a concrete buggy should not extend past the wheels on either side of the buggy. Concrete pumping systems using discharge pipes should have pipe supports built to 100 percent overload, and compressed air hoses should include a positive fail-safe joint connector to avoid separation of sections when pressurized.

Concrete Buckets

Proper use of concrete and masonry equipment prevents hazards on construction sites.

Tremies Sections of tremies and similar concrete conveyance tools must be secured with wire rope or similar materials in addition to regular couplings or connections.

Bull Floats Bull float handles should be constructed from nonconductive materials where they run the risk of touching energized electrical conductors.

Concrete buckets with hydraulic or pneumatic gates require positive safety latches or similar safety devices.

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Concrete There are multiple methods of placing and erecting concrete for construction purposes.

Cast-in-Place Concrete Cast-in-place is the most common method of placing concrete during construction. This method of placing concrete requires a five-step process listed below: 1. Building and placing the forms complete with reinforcing steel. 2. Mixing the concrete. 3. Placing the concrete.

Use proper PPE while working with concrete.

4. Curing and finishing the concrete. 5. Stripping the forms. When placing concrete with the cast-inplace method, the listed requirements must be followed: yy The formwork must be designed and built to support all vertical and lateral loads without fail. yy Formwork may not be removed until the employer determines that the concrete has achieved sufficient strength to support its own weight and any superimposed loads. yy Drawings and plans, including all revisions for the jack layout, formwork (including shoring equipment),

REMEMBER Support for precast concrete can be removed when permanent connections are completed.

working decks, and scaffolds must be available at the jobsite. yy Shoring/reshoring equipment must be inspected to determine it meets the requirements specified in the formwork drawings, and if found damaged or weakened, it should be immediately reinforced.

Precast Concrete Precast concrete structures are another common form of concrete placement. They are more economical and structurally lighter than cast-in-place concrete structures. Precast structures are separated into two types of products: yy Standard - This constitutes structures that are shaped in one specific way to be placed multiple times and includes beams, decks, and railroad ties. yy Specialty - Unique precast designs for a specific building, bridge, or structure.

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Masonry Construction Learn how to distinguish and minimize hazards when working with masonry. Masonry typically consists of hollow or solid blocks of concrete or clay laid in mortar. It is a common form of concrete construction most commonly used in home building. It is also used in: yy Retaining walls. yy Chimneys. yy Fireplaces. yy Fire-safe enclosures of stairwells, elevator shafts, and storage vaults. Masonry construction systems can be divided into two different categories: mortared and mortarless. yy Mortared - Mortar is placed between concrete blocks to form a tight seal preventing air or moisture from getting through. yy Mortarless - Concrete blocks are stacked atop one another, and then bonded with materials either troweled onto or poured inside the wall.

REMEMBER yy Masonry saws must be guarded with a semicircular enclosure over the blade. yy Always properly use, inspect, and maintain masonry and concrete construction equipment.

Masonry involves building a structure from individual units.

Limited Access Zones Prior to masonry wall construction, employers must establish a limited access zone, which must have restricted access to only allow entry to employees actively engaged in the wall construction. Limited access zones must: yy Run the entire length of the wall. yy Be equal to the height of the wall to be constructed plus four feet. yy Be established on the side of the wall that will not be scaffolded. yy Be restricted to entry only by employees actively engaged in constructing the wall. yy Be kept in place until the wall is adequately supported to prevent overturning and collapse. yy Be braced if the wall is more than eight feet tall.

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Common Hazards of Concrete Placement Follow OSHA regulations to avoid common construction hazards arising from concrete and masonry projects. Common hazards that an employee might face during concrete and masonry construction include: yy Impalement by unguarded rebar. ßß Impalement can result in serious internal injuries or death. yy Struck-by and caught-in hazards from materials or equipment. ßß Struck-by hazards can cut, lacerate, amputate limbs, impale, or kill workers. yy Silica dust exposure. ßß Silica exposure in the form of dust particles is only harmful if the worker is exposed to it for long periods of time.

MEDICAL ALERT • Short-term exposure to silica dust can irritate the nose and throat, causing difficulty breathing and choking. • Prolonged or repeated exposure can disable workers and cause the lung disease silicosis.

REMEMBER

The use of power tools can generate hazardous levels of silica dust from concrete. Use PPE to protect yourself.

These hazards can be avoided by practicing the following OSHA regulations: yy Guard all protruding ends of steel rebar with caps or wooden troughs, or bend rebar so exposed ends are no longer upright. yy Control access and exposure to hazardous masonry conditions. yy Employ lockout/tagout procedures. yy Guard equipment and never remove them unless performing maintenance and following established lockout/ tagout procedures. yy Wear respirators and masks when in danger of heavy silica exposure.

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Protecting Yourself Learn how to protect yourself from concrete and masonry hazards on construction sites.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) The following list describes several PPE best practices that should be followed by construction workers working with concrete and masonry: yy Always wear a hard hat for protection. yy Protective clothing such as waterproof gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants should be worn when handling wet cement. yy Rubber boots should be worn when standing in fresh concrete. yy Waterproof pads should be worn to protect the knees, elbows, or hands. yy Wear full-cover goggles or safety glasses with side shields to protect the eyes. yy Wear protective head and face equipment while applying a cement, sand, and water mixture through a pneumatic hose.

Precast Structures OSHA requires the following practices when working with precast structures: yy Precast concrete wall units, structural framing, and tilt-up wall panels must be supported to prevent collapse. yy Lifting inserts embedded or attached to a tilt-up precast concrete member should support at least twice the maximum load applied to them. yy When lifting inserts are embedded to

Use PPE effectively to protect yourself from hazards.

precast concrete members, they must support at least four times the maximum load. yy Lifting hardware or equipment must support at least five times the maximum load transmitted to the lifting hardware.

Frequently Cited Concrete & Masonry Violations The following list highlights OSHA’s top four most frequently cited violations of the concrete and masonry construction standards: 1. Failure to protect employees from impalement (rebar not capped or covered). 2. Failure to brace an unsupported section of masonry wall over eight feet in height. 3. Failure of formwork capability in supporting loads. 4. Failure to establish a limited access zone to limit the number of workers in the danger zone where a masonry wall is under construction.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Lesson 17 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify types of PPE. Describe major types of PPE. List different ways to protect yourself using PPE. Explain employer requirements for providing PPE.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize your exposure to hazards.

“

PPE Defined

Types of PPE

OSHA defines personal protective equipment:

Examples of personal protective equipment generally fall into the following categories:

Personal Protective Equipment is equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards.

”

yy Eye and Face Protection. yy Head Protection. yy Leg and Foot Protection. yy Hand and Arm Protection. yy Hearing Protection.

When to Use PPE Use personal protective equipment when engineering, work practice, and administrative controls are not possible or do not provide workers with sufficient protection.

yy Body Protection. yy Respirators. PPE must be appropriate to your job site, tasks, and potential hazards.

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Types of PPE and How to Protect Yourself Hand and Arm Protection yy Protect yourself from harmful substances coming into contact with your skin. yy PPE must be specific to the hazards present. yy Inspect PPE prior to each use. yy Make sure PPE fits properly.

Hearing Protection yy Protect yourself against hearing loss. Remember the basics about different types of PPE.

Eye and Face Protection yy Protect yourself from eye and face injuries. yy PPE should be fitted by a trained professional.

yy Check the equipment’s Noise Reduction Rating. yy Protection is mandatory if you already suffer from hearing loss.

Body Protection yy Protect yourself from bodily injury. yy Select appropriate body protection based on the hazard assessment. yy Make sure the type of material is appropriate for the job.

Head Protection yy Protect yourself from serious or fatal head injuries. yy You must use head protection if there is danger of falling objects. yy PPE must meet ANSI standards.

Leg and Foot Protection

yy Ensure a proper fit and coverage to protect yourself from the specific hazard.

Respirators yy Protect yourself from insufficient oxygen environments. yy Use and clean respirators properly.

yy Protect yourself from foot and leg injuries.

yy Do not wear a respirator in an atmosphere it was not designed for.

yy Check PPE for wear and tear before using it.

yy If employees will use respirators, employers must have a written respiratory program.

yy PPE must meet ANSI standards.

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Eye and Face Protection Use PPE to protect your eyes and face from hazards such as chemical splashes and flying particles. When working on a construction site, you’ll be exposed to many different hazards that can damage your eyes and face.

Potential eye and face injury hazards include flying particles and chemical splashes. Use PPE to protect yourself from these and other hazards. Note that eye and face protection selected for employee use must clearly identify the manufacturer. Examples of PPE that protects your eyes and face include the following: Safety Spectacles – These are protective eyeglasses with impact-resistant lenses. They may also have side shields. Goggles – These provide protection that completely covers the eyes. They provide protection from impact, dust, and splashes. Goggles should fit over your eyeglasses. Face Shields – These are transparent sheets of plastic that cover you from chin to head. They protect against splashes or sprays from liquids.

A face shield and goggles help protect your eyes and face from hazards.

REMEMBER • Your goggles and safety spectacles should be fitted by someone skilled in the procedure. • Fit adjustable features on an individual basis. • If you wear corrective lenses such as eyeglasses, your PPE should fit over them, or otherwise incorporate your existing lenses as applicable. • Wear eye protection over contact lenses if required. • Replace scratched lenses and ineffective headbands when necessary. • Clean and disinfect your eye and face protection regularly and thoroughly. Do not share protective eyewear.

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Head Protection Use PPE to protect yourself from head injuries that can cause impairment or may be fatal. When working on a construction site, you’ll be exposed to many different hazards that can result in serious or fatal head injuries.

Potential head injury hazards include impact, penetration, electrical shock, and burns. Examples of PPE that provides head protection include safety helmets and hard hats. You might need to wear head protection in addition to other types of PPE, such as safety goggles or ear plugs.

REMEMBER • Hard hats must meet ANSI standards* and be appropriate for the job site. • Wear head protection when there is danger of falling objects from above. • Use the appropriate Class of hard hat for your job.** • Clean and inspect your headgear. • Replace hard hats that are compromised. • Always replace a hard hat that has sustained an impact, even if you don’t see any damage.

MEDICAL ALERT Examples of head injuries include: • Being struck on the head by falling objects. • Bumping the head against fixed objects such as exposed pipes or beams. • Suffering from contact with electrical hazards.

* * OSHA requires hard hats to meet standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Hard hats must be shown to provide protection that’s equivalent to or better than the standard. ** Class A, Class B, and Class C hard hats are ANSI approved. Bump hats are not ANSI approved, and they only protect against head bumps and lacerations.

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Leg and Foot Protection Use PPE to protect yourself against leg and foot injuries. When working on a construction site, you’ll be exposed to many different hazards that can injure your legs and feet.

Potential hazards include: falling or rolling objects; materials that can crush or penetrate the legs and feet; and exposure to hot substances and corrosive or poisonous materials. Safety footwear must meet ANSI minimum compression and impact performance standards.*

Examples of PPE that protects your legs and feet include the following: Leggings – These protect the lower legs and feet from heat hazards such as molten metal or welding sparks. Metatarsal Guards – These protect the instep area from impact and compression. Toe Guards – These fit over the toes of regular shoes, protecting the toes from impact and compression hazards. Combination Foot and Shin Guards – These protect the lower legs and feet. Safety Shoes – These protect the feet from hot work surfaces. By design, they may be electrically conductive or non-conductive.

REMEMBER • Protect your legs and feet from exposure to hot substances and corrosive or poisonous materials. • Wear non-conductive footwear if your feet will be exposed to electrical hazards. • Wear conductive footwear if you’ll be exposed to static electricity. • Safety footwear must meet ANSI minimum compression and impact performance standards.* • Inspect footwear prior to each use. • Make sure PPE fits properly. * Protective footwear must be compliant with standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). PPE must be shown to provide protection that is equal to or better than the standard.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Hand and Arm Protection Use PPE to protect your hands and arms from injury.

When working on a construction site, you’ll be exposed to many different hazards that can injure your hands and arms.

Potential hazards include absorption of harmful substances. Examples of PPE that protects your hands and arms include gloves, finger guards, arm coverings, and elbow-length gloves.

Selecting PPE

Consider the following factors when selecting gloves for hand and arm protection: yy Type of chemicals handled. yy Nature of contact (total immersion, splash, etc.). yy Duration of contact. yy Area requiring protection (hand, forearm, and/or arm). Note that neoprene gloves offer good pliability, and protect against harmful elements such as hydraulic fluids, gasoline, and alcohol. Employers should work to eliminate hazards using engineering and work practice controls. Use PPE for extra protection against hazards that cannot be eliminated.

Select the right kind of gloves for the job.

REMEMBER • Prior to each use, inspect PPE for rips, cracks, separation of materials, worn grip, or worn abrasion resistance. • Make sure gloves and guards fit properly. • Neoprene gloves offer good pliability, and protect against harmful elements such as hydraulic fluids, gasoline, and alcohol.

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Hearing Protection Use PPE to prevent hearing loss.

When working on a construction site, you’ll be exposed to many different hazards that can damage your hearing.

Potential hazards include exposure to loud noises.

Examples of PPE that protects your hearing include the following:

The protective value of earmuffs can be reduced by glasses, long hair, facial hair, and facial movements such as chewing.

Single-Use Earplugs – These are self-forming and are made of waxed cotton, foam, silicone rubber, or fiberglass wool. Pre-Formed or Molded Earplugs – These must be individually fitted by a professional. They may be disposable or reusable. Earmuffs – These require a perfect seal around the ear.

REMEMBER • Ensure a proper fit and form of earmuffs and earplugs, especially when PPE is being used over corrective lenses or with long hair or facial hair. • Inspect PPE prior to each use. • Check the Noise Reduction Rating, which is identified on the product package, and confirm that it provides adequate hearing protection for the nature and duration of the job.

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Body Protection Use PPE to protect yourself from bodily injury.

When working on a construction site, you’ll be exposed to many different hazards. Body protection is required when workers are exposed to the following hazards:

yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

Cuts. Radiation. Extreme Temperatures. Hot Splashes. Impacts from Tools. Machinery and Materials. Hazardous Chemicals.

Examples of PPE that provides body protection include the following: yy yy yy yy yy yy yy

Laboratory coats. Coveralls. Vests. Jackets. Aprons. Surgical gowns. Full body suits.

Protective Material

Select appropriate body protection based on the hazard assessment and tasks associated with the job. Protective clothing comes in a variety of materials, including the following: yy yy yy yy

Paper-like fiber. Treated wool and cotton. Duck. Leather.

yy yy yy yy

Rubber. Rubberized fabric. Neoprene. Plastic.

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Respirators Use PPE to protect yourself from hazardous environments. When working on a construction site, you may be exposed to a variety of atmospheres and environments.

Potential hazards include exposure to insufficient oxygen environments and harmful dust, fog, smoke, mist, gas, vapors, and sprays.

Types of respirators include the following: Particulate Respirators – These filter out airborne particles. Air-Purifying Respirators with Cartridges or Canisters – These remove contaminants from the air. Atmosphere Supplying Respirators – These supply clean air from another source to the user.

MEDICAL ALERT Health risks associated with respiratory hazards include: • Cancer. • Lung Impairment. • Disease. • Death.

All respiratory equipment must be National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certified and approved.

REMEMBER

• Use and clean respirators properly. • Chose a respirator that’s certified for use to protect against the specific contaminant(s) you’ll be exposed to. • Do not wear a respirator in an atmosphere that contains contaminants the respirator was not designed for.

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Personal Protective Equipment

Employer Responsibilities Employers and employees must cooperate in order to establish and maintain a safe and healthful working environment.

Employer Requirements for PPE

In general, employers are responsible for the following: yy Performing a hazard assessment of the workplace. yy Identifying and providing appropriate PPE for employees. yy Maintaining PPE, including replacing worn or damaged PPE. yy Periodically reviewing, updating, and evaluating the effectiveness of the PPE program. Performing a hazard assessment is the first step towards developing a comprehensive safety and health program.

During the hazard assessment, the employer determines the potential physical or health-related hazards on the job site. Physical hazards can include the following: yy Moving objects. yy Changing temperatures. yy High-intensity lighting. yy Rolling or pinching objects. yy Electrical hazards. yy Sharp edges. Health hazards can include overexposure to the following: yy Harmful dusts. yy Chemicals. yy Radiation.

Performing a hazard assessment is the first step towards developing a comprehensive safety and health program.

Training

Employers are required to provide effective training to employees who use PPE. The training must be comprehensive and understandable, and it must include the following information: yy yy yy yy

When and how to use and wear PPE. Which type of PPE to use. Proper fit and maintenance of PPE. PPE limitations.

Employers must provide PPE to employees, and employers are responsible for all protective equipment. Employer-provided PPE must protect employees from injuries and hazards.

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Confined Space Entry

Confined Space Entry Lesson 18 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify confined space hazards in construction. Describe the different types of hazardous atmospheres associated with confined spaces. List the different types of confined spaces, their hazards, and training and education requirements. Explain the general hazard classifications for confined space entry.

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Confined Space Entry

Learn how to protect yourself from hazards caused by confined spaces on construction sites.

REMEMBER

Common Hazards

Confined spaces have a limited means of egress, which leads to the accumulation of toxic, flammable contaminants and an oxygen deficient atmosphere.

If the area meets the criteria for a confined space, all ventilation and other requirements must be enforced. Construction sites will often require workers to enter and operate within a confined space, yet unfortunately, duties in these spaces create hazards for workers that may not be otherwise present.

For a safe workplace, it is important to understand when entry into a permit-required confined space is permitted and what the appropriate procedures for operating in such a space are.

Protect Yourself

Being knowledgeable about a potentially life-threatening situation on a construction site is vital to worker safety. Common confined spaces on a construction site include: yy Tunnels. yy Manholes. yy Vents. yy Sewers. yy Storage tanks.

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Confined Space Entry

Types of Confined Spaces Recognizing that confined spaces contain potential hazards is critical to construction site safety. Before a construction worker is permitted entry to a confined space, they should be fully instructed on the nature of hazards involved, safety precautions to mitigate these hazards, and the use of both required protective and emergency equipment.

Major Hazards Within Confined Spaces Major hazards include: yy Oxygen-deficient atmosphere from the enclosed space. yy Fall hazards from work materials, equipment, or elevation. yy Purging agents such as nitrogen and argon, which can displace oxygen and rapidly asphyxiate workers. yy Electrical shock hazards when operating power tools in a moist and enclosed environment.

Confined spaces exist throughout a construction site.

yy Sumps. yy Containment Cavities. yy Electrical Transformers. yy Heat Sinks. yy Storage tanks. yy Process vessels. yy Bins. yy Boilers.

yy Poor illumination.

yy Ventilation or exhaust ducts.

yy Heat exhaustion from poorly ventilated spaces.

yy Sewers. yy Underground utility vaults.

yy Toxic atmospheres created by equipment or dust.

yy Tunnels.

Examples Confined Spaces These are some examples of where confined spaces can exist on a construction site: yy Vaults. yy Condenser Pits. yy Manholes. yy Pipe Assemblies. yy Ventilation Ducts. yy Tanks.

yy Pipelines. yy Open top spaces more than 4 feet in depth.

REMEMBER Confined spaces exist in a multitude of different forms and examples, such as manholes leading into a deeper tunnel system or tanks used to store water or chemicals.

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Confined Space Entry

Hazardous Atmospheres While atmospheres can be inherently hazardous, some can be even more hazardous when encountered while working in a confined space.

Types of Hazardous Atmospheres OSHA recognizes the following as the main types of hazardous atmospheres that can pose a threat to construction site workers: yy Flammable Atmospheres arise when the ratio of oxygen to combustible material in the air is neither too rich nor too lean for combustion to occur. yy Toxic Atmospheres contain substances considered toxic, which includes the entire spectrum of gases, vapors, and finely-divided airborne dust. yy Irritant/Corrosive Atmospheres consist of irritants that exert no systemic toxic effects on the body or irritants that may produce toxic effects on the body, in addition to surface irritation. yy Asphyxiating Atmospheres involve the reduction of oxygen in a confined space, which may be the result of either consumption or displacement. Workers in confined spaces should be knowledgeable about the different types of hazardous atmospheres so they can protect themselves.

MEDICAL ALERT Hazardous atmospheres become much more dangerous within a confined space.

Hazardous atmospheres in a confined space are extremely dangerous to construction site workers.

Before a construction worker is permitted entry to a confined space, they should be fully instructed on the nature of hazards involved, safety precautions to mitigate these hazards, and the use of both required protective and emergency equipment.

MEDICAL ALERT Fatalities and injuries repeatedly occur among construction workers who are required to enter confined spaces during their jobs. Upon entry, anything from explosions, poisoning, and asphyxiation can be a threat to the worker.

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Hazardous Atmosphere Precautions Adequate precautions must be followed to prevent employee exposure to atmospheric hazards.

Oxygen Levels It is ideal to maintain the atmospheric oxygen level at around 21% by volume, though the body can tolerate some deviation. Oxygen deficient atmospheres are considered atmospheres containing less than 19.5% oxygen. Things to remember when working in a potentially oxygen deficient confined space include: yy If the atmosphere drops to below 19.5% oxygen, then adequate precautions such as respiratory equipment or ventilation in accordance to OSHA regulations should be provided. yy Precautions should be taken to prevent employee exposure to an atmosphere containing a concentration of a flammable gas. yy When controls are used to reduce the level of atmospheric contaminants, testing must be conducted as often as necessary to ensure that the atmosphere remains safe. yy If sufficient ventilation of a confined space cannot be achieved without blocking access, then all employees should be equipped with air line respirators. Employers must implement and communicate adequate protocol to protect employees from the dangers of hazardous atmospheres.

The internal atmosphere of a confined space should be tested prior to entry.

Emergency Rescue Equipment Adhere to these guidelines when handling emergency rescue equipment: yy Emergency rescue equipment should be readily available where hazardous atmospheres may exist. yy When a welder enters a confined space through a small opening, they should be provided a way for quickly removing them in case of emergency. yy Lifelines should be separate from any line used to handle materials and must be individually attended while the employee wearing the lifeline is in the excavation.

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Other Hazards Atmospheric contaminants are not the only hazard found in confined spaces.

Hazards Specific to Confined Space There are other forms of hazards other than atmospheric dangers that may crop up when operating within a confined space. Examples of dangers can include: yy Mechanical hazards from tools or equipment. yy Noise hazards from equipment or the environment, which can damage an employee’s hearing. yy Thermal effects, including both increased heat or cold. yy Physical hazards such as surface residues, which can cause slips or falls and lead to bodily injury. yy Structural hazards caused by the shape and design of a confined space.

Classifications of Hazardous Conditions Material stored or used in the confined space. For example, damp activated carbon in a filtration tank will absorb oxygen, and then create an oxygen deficient atmosphere.

The internal atmosphere of a confined space should be tested prior to entry.

Activity carried out within the space. For example, the fermentation of molasses that creates ethyl alcohol vapors and decreases the oxygen content of the atmosphere. External environment. For example, environments may be affected by high tides, heavier than air gases or flash floods.

REMEMBER Communication between the worker inside and the standby person outside of the confined space is of the highest importance.

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Inherent and Induced Hazards Atmospheric contaminants are not the only hazard found in confined spaces.

Inherent Hazards Inherent hazards are hazards that are associated with specific types of equipment and their interaction with other equipment. Examples of inherent hazards include: yy High-voltage shock. yy Equipment radiation. yy Defective design. yy No protective features. yy High or low temperatures. yy High noise levels.

Induced Hazards Induced hazards are hazards that arise from incorrect decisions or actions taken during the construction process. Examples of induced hazards include: yy Omission of protective features. yy Physical arrangements that may cause unintentional worker contact with electrical energy sources.

Atmospheric contaminants are one hazards found in confined spaces, but they’re not the only one.

yy Oxygen-deficient atmospheres created at the bottom of pits or shafts. yy Lack of safety factors in structural strength. yy Flammable atmospheres.

REMEMBER Inherent hazards cannot typically be removed without downgrading the system or equipment, and rely upon hazard control methods to minimize risks.

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Entry and Exit Entry and exit procedures must be well planned before initial entry is made.

Entry and exit times can be a significant physical limitation, and is also directly related to the potential hazard of a confined space. Consider the following when entering and exiting a confined space: yy Type of confined space to be entered. yy Access to the entrance. yy Number and size of openings. yy Barriers within the space. yy The occupancy load. yy The time requirement for exiting in the event of fire or vapor incursion. yy The time required.

REMEMBER The extent of precautions taken and the standby equipment needed to maintain a safe work area will be determined by the means of access and rescue.

Hazards must be thoroughly reviewed before worker entry is permitted.

Confined Space Within a Confined Space

Under these conditions, workers face potential hazards with the outer confined space and well as with the inner confined space. Make sure to properly evaluate both the outer and inner confined space.

One of the most hazardous confined spaces is a confined space within a confined space. Examples of this include tanks within pits, and pipe assemblies within pits.

Workers entering the pit and/or the vessel should do so only after both spaces have been evaluated and proper control measures have been established.

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NOTES:

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Signs, Signals and Barricades

Signs, Signals and Barricades Lesson 19 Study Guide

LESSON OBJECTIVES: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: Identify road sign types and when they should be used. Describe OSHA standards for signs, signals, and barricades that can help to prevent worksite injuries. List the duties and requirements of flaggers during temporary traffic control. Explain the distinguishing factors for barricade types and the use for each.

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Signs, Signals and Barricades

Learn about the OSHA regulations for signs, signals, and barricades used for accident prevention and temporary traffic control. To help prevent worksite injuries, OSHA has developed standards for signs, signals, and barricades that are used to warn workers of dangers present.

Signs and symbols must always be visible to prevent accidents.

Accident Prevention Tags

If a temporary hazard emerges, such as a defective piece of equipment, accident prevention tags must be used to warn employees of the danger. OSHA specifications for signage is illustrated in the table below.

Common Types of Accident Prevention Signs

Common accident prevention signs include Danger Signs, Caution Signs, Exit Signs, and Safety Instruction Signs.

REMEMBER Accident prevention tags are a temporary means of warning employees of an existing hazard and should never be used as a substitute for accident prevention signs.

Accident prevention signs and symbols must be removed or covered when the hazard no longer exists.

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Types of Accident Prevention Signs Learn how to identify the different types of signs needed to stay protected on a construction site.

Accident Prevention Sign Standards

Exit Signs are sometimes required to indicate the available exit points. Danger Signs must be used only where immediate hazards exist. yy Red as the predominating color for the upper panel. yy Black outline on the borders. yy White lower panel for additional sign wording.

yy Lettered in legible red letters, not less than 6 inches high. yy On a white field. yy Principal stroke of the letters must be at least ¾ inches wide. yy Black lettering used for additional wording.

Caution Signs must only be used to warn against potential hazards or unsafe practices. yy Yellow as the predominating color. yy Black upper panel and border. yy Yellow lettering of "caution" on the black panel and the lower yellow panel for additional sign wording. yy Black lettering used for additional wording.

Safety Instruction Signs, when used, convey important safety information to employees. yy White background. yy Green upper panel with white letters that convey principal message. yy Additional wording must be black against the white background.

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Temporary Traffic Control Signs Traffic signs help to keep the public and workers safe during temporary traffic control situations. The primary function of traffic control signs is to provide for the safe and efficient movement of vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians through or around temporary traffic control zones while reasonably protecting workers and equipment.

The three categories of traffic control signs are Regulatory, Warning, and Guide. Regulatory Signs Regulatory signs inform road users of traffic laws or regulations. They also indicate the applicability of legal requirements that would not otherwise be apparent.

REMEMBER When standard orange flags, or flashing warning lights, are used in conjunction with signs, they must not block the sign face.

It is critical to make drivers aware of potential dangers on the road.

Sign Maintenance Signs must be properly maintained for cleanliness, visibility, and correct positioning. They must be replaced promptly when significant legibility is lost.

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Types of Temporary Traffic Control Signs Learn about the specific types of signs used in temporary traffic control situations to prevent roadway incidents.

Functions of Sign Types

Road Closed Signs are used when roadways are closed to everyone, except contractors' equipment or authorized vehicles.

Road Work Signs give warning to roadway users of upcoming obstructions or restrictions on the road.

Detour Signs communicate different roadways or routes that should be taken by road users.

Local Traffic Only Signs are used where road user flow is detoured to avoid a closure beyond the sign, but the closed roads are still open to local road users.

Weight Limit Signs display the gross weight or axle permitted on a roadway or bridge.

Sidewalk Closed Signs are used when pedestrian flow is restricted or rerouted by work activities.

Flagger Signs indicate that a flagger is stationed on the roadway ahead to control road users.

Worker Signs alert road users of workers in or near the roadway.

End Road Work Signs are placed about 500 feet beyond the temporary traffic control zone to make road users aware that normal traffic can resume.

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Traffic Signaling & Flaggers Flaggers are responsible for public safety. Therefore, they must be trained in safe traffic control practices and public contact techniques.

Flaggers are responsible for providing temporary traffic controls and public safety. Flaggers must be able to perform the following tasks: yy Receive and communicate instructions clearly, firmly, and courteously. yy Maneuver quickly to avoid danger from errant vehicles. yy Control signaling devices that provide clear guidance to drivers approaching a temporary traffic control zone.

MEDICAL ALERT Workers must wear highvisibility clothing and use proper hand-signaling devices to stay protected while working in a temporary traffic control area.

To protect employees, flagger stations must be illuminated at night.

Flaggers must follow standard procedure to stop traffic, allow regular traffic flow, and alert and slow traffic when necessary.

Flagger Stations OSHA standards for flaggers and safe flagger stations include: yy Flaggers should stand on the shoulder adjacent to the road user being controlled or in the closed lane, prior to stopping road users. yy Flaggers should only stand in the lane being used by moving road users after road users have stopped. yy Flaggers should always be clearly visible to the first approaching road user.

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Barricades Barricades are used during road construction, and can be used along with appropriate signage to alert and direct traffic. Barricades are portable or fixed devices used to control road users by closing, restricting, or delineating the right of way. Type I: yy Can be used on conventional roads or urban streets. yy Intended for use where road user flow is maintained through the temporary traffic control zone. Type II: yy Can be used on expressways, freeways or other high-speed roadways. yy Intended for use where road user flow is maintained through the temporary traffic control zone. Type III: yy Can be used on expressways, freeways, or other high-speed roadways. yy Should be used to close or partially close a road.

REMEMBER Because of their proximity to the normal flow of traffic, barricades must be crashworthy.

These are examples of traffic control devices.

yy May be placed completely across a roadway or from curb to curb when used at a road closure.

Direction Indicator Barricades Direction indicator barricades tell road users where to pass. These barricades must include the following: yy A retroreflective horizontal arrow top panel. yy A stripped retroreflective bottom panel. yy Both panels mounted horizontally to the ground.

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