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September 12, 2014 By admin Leave a Comment

Under Construction

Filed Under: Uncategorized

August 6, 2014 By Julian Aston Leave a Comment

IN: Preventing Injuries & Fatalities On Stairways & Ladders

Dear Valued Customer,

In this issue of the “——————“ we focus on preventing injuries and fatalities on stairways and ladders.

Stairways and ladders are a major source of injuries and fatalities among construction workers. In fact, OSHA estimates that there are 24,882 injuries and as many as 36 fatalities per year due to falls from stairways and ladders used in construction. OSHA’s requirements for the safe use of ladders and stairways could have prevented many of these injuries, so please read the OSHA rules that follow.

We appreciate your continued business and look forward to serving you.

Kind regards,

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 110, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings

August 6, 2014 By admin Leave a Comment

Stairways & Ladders

Workers_ConstructionWorkerHurtLeg

Stairways and ladders are a major source of injuries and fatalities among construction workers.

OSHA estimates that there are 24,882 injuries and as many as 36 fatalities per year due to falls from stairways and ladders used in construction. Nearly half of these injuries are serious enough to require time off the job–11,570 lost workday injuries and 13,312 non-lost workday injuries occur annually due to falls from stairways and ladders used in construction. These data demonstrate that work on and around ladders and stairways is hazardous. More importantly, they show that compliance with OSHA’s requirements for the safe use of ladders and stairways could have prevented many of these injuries.

This discussion serves as a quick and easy reference for use on job sites. The requirements of OSHA safety regulations for the safe use of ladders and stairs (Subpart X, Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1926.1050 through 1926.1060) are explained in this discussion.

SCOPE AND APPLICATION

The OSHA rules apply to all stairways and ladders used in construction, alteration, repair (including painting and decorating), and demolition of work sites covered by OSHA’s construction safety and health standards. They also specify when stairways and ladders must be provided. They do not apply to ladders that are specifically manufactured for scaffold access and egress, but do apply to job-made and manufactured portable ladders intended for general purpose use and which are then used for scaffold access and egress.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

  • A stairway or ladder must be provided at all worker points of access where there is a break in elevation of 19 inches (48 cm) or more and no ramp, runway, embankment, or personnel hoist is provided.
  • When there is only one point of access between levels, it must be kept clear to permit free passage by workers. If free passage becomes restricted, a second point of access must be provided and used.
  • When there are more than two points of access between levels, at least one point of access must be kept clear.
  • All stairway and ladder fall protection systems required by these rules must be installed and all 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.

STAIRWAYS

The following general requirements apply to all stairways used during the process of construction, as indicated:

  • Stairways that will not be a permanent part of the structure on which construction work is performed must have landings at least 30 inches deep and 22 inches wide (76 x 56 cm) at every 12 feet (3.7 m) or less of vertical rise.
  • Stairways must be installed at least 30 degrees, and no more than 50 degrees, from the horizontal.
  • Variations in riser height or stair tread depth must not exceed 1/4 inch in any stairway system, including any foundation structure used as one or more treads of the stairs.
  • Where doors or gates open directly onto a stairway, a platform must be provided that is at least 20 inches (51 cm) in width beyond the swing of the door.
  • Metal pan landings and metal pan treads must be secured in place before filling.
  • All stairway parts must be free of dangerous projections such as protruding nails.
  • Slippery conditions on stairways must be corrected.
  • Spiral stairways that will not be a permanent part of the structure may not be used by workers.

The following requirements apply to stairs in temporary service during construction:

  • Except during construction of the actual stairway, stairways with metal pan landings and treads must not be used where the treads and/or landings have not been filled in with concrete or other material, unless the pans of the stairs and/or landings are temporarily filled in with wood or other material. All treads and landings must be replaced when worn below the top edge of the pan.
  • Except during construction of the actual stairway, skeleton metal frame structures and steps must not be used (where treads and/or landings are to be installed at a later date) unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings.
  • Temporary treads must be made of wood or other solid material and installed the full width and depth of the stair.

STAIRRAILS AND HANDRAILS

The following general requirements apply to all stairrails and handrails:

  • Stairways having four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches (76 cm) in height, whichever is less, must have at least one handrail. A stairrail also must be installed along each unprotected side or edge. When the top edge of a stairrail system also serves as a handrail, the height of the top edge must not be more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) from the upper surface of the stairrail to the surface of the tread.
  • Winding or spiral stairways must be equipped with a handrail to prevent using areas where the tread width is less than 6 inches (15 cm).
  • Stairrails installed after March 15, 1991, must not be less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) in height.
  • Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members must be provided between the top rail and stairway steps of the stairrail system.
  • Midrails, when used, must be located midway between the top of the stairrail system and the stairway steps.
  • Screens or mesh, when used, must extend from the top rail to the stairway step, and along the opening between top rail supports.
  • Intermediate vertical members, such as balusters, when used, must not be more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart.
  • Other intermediate structural members, when used, must be installed so that there are no openings of more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide.
  • Handrails and the top rails of the stairrail systems must be capable of withstanding, without failure, at least 200 pounds (890 n) of weight applied within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge in any downward or outward direction, at any point along the top edge.
  • The height of handrails must not be more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 30 inches (76 cm) from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread.
  • The height of the top edge of a stairrail system used as a handrail must not be more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91.5 cm)1 from the upper surface of the stairrail system to the surface of the tread.
  • Stairrail systems and handrails must be surfaced to prevent injuries such as punctures or lacerations and to keep clothing from snagging.
  • Handrails must provide an adequate handhold for employees to grasp to prevent falls.
  • The ends of stairrail systems and handrails must be constructed to prevent dangerous projections such as rails protruding beyond the end posts of the system.
  • Temporary handrails must have a minimum clearance of 3 inches (8 cm) between the handrail and walls, stairrails systems, and other objects.
  • Unprotected sides and edges of stairway landings must be provided with standard 42-inch (1.1 m) guardrail systems.

LADDERS

The following general requirements apply to all ladders, including job-made ladders:

  • A double-cleated ladder or two or more ladders must be provided when ladders are the only way to enter or exit a work area having 25 or more employees, or when a ladder serves simultaneous two-way traffic.
  • Ladder rungs, cleats, and steps must be parallel, level, and uniformly spaced when the ladder is in position for use.
  • Rungs, cleats, and steps of portable and fixed ladders (except as provided below) must not be spaced less than 10 inches (25 cm) apart, nor more than 14 inches (36 cm) apart, along the ladder’s side rails.
  • Rungs, cleats, and steps of step stools must not be less than 8 inches (20 cm) apart, nor more than 12 inches (31 cm) apart, between center lines of the rungs, cleats, and steps.
  • Rungs, cleats, and steps at the base section of extension trestle ladders must not be less than 8 inches (20 cm) nor more than 18 inches (46 cm) apart, between center lines of the rungs, cleats, and steps. The rung spacing on the extension section must not be less than 6 inches (15 cm) nor more than 12 inches (31 cm).
  • Ladders must not be tied or fastened together to create longer sections unless they are specifically designed for such use.
  • A metal spreader or locking device must be provided on each stepladder to hold the front and back sections in an open position when the ladder is being used.
  • When splicing side rails, the resulting side rail must be equivalent in strength to a one-piece side rail made of the same material.
  • Two or more separate ladders used to reach an elevated work area must be offset with a platform or landing between the ladders, except when portable ladders are used to gain access to fixed ladders.
  • Ladder components must be surfaced to prevent injury from punctures or lacerations, and prevent snagging of clothing.
  • Wood ladders must not be coated with any opaque covering, except for identification or warning labels which may be placed only on one face of a side rail.

Portable Ladders

  • Non-self-supporting and self-supporting portable ladders must support at least four times the maximum intended load; extra heavy-duty type 1A metal or plastic ladders must sustain 3.3 times the maximum intended load. The ability of a self-supporting ladder to sustain loads must be determined by applying the load to the ladder in a downward vertical direction. The ability of a non-self-supporting ladder to sustain loads must be determined by applying the load in a downward vertical direction when the ladder is placed at a horizontal angle of 75.5 degrees.
  • The minimum clear distance between side rails for all portable ladders must be 11.5 inches (29 cm).
  • The rungs and steps of portable metal ladders must be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material, or treated to minimize slipping.

Fixed Ladders

  • A fixed ladder must be capable of supporting at least two loads of 250 pounds (114 kg) each, concentrated between any two consecutive attachments. Fixed ladders also must support added anticipated loads caused by ice buildup, winds, rigging, and impact loads resulting from the use of ladder safety devices.
  • Individual rung/step ladders must extend at least 42 inches (1.1 m) above an access level or landing platform either by the continuation of the rung spacings as horizontal grab bars or by providing vertical grab bars that must have the same lateral spacing as the vertical legs of the ladder rails.
  • Each step or rung of a fixed ladder must be capable of supporting a load of at least 250 pounds (114 kg) applied in the middle of the step or rung.
  • The minimum clear distance between the sides of individual rung/step ladders and between the side rails of other fixed ladders must be 16 inches (41 cm).
  • The rungs of individual rung/step ladders must be shaped to prevent slipping off the end of the rungs.
  • The rungs and steps of fixed metal ladders manufactured after January 14, 1991, must be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material, or treated to minimize slipping.
  • The minimum perpendicular clearance between fixed ladder rungs, cleats, and steps, and any obstruction behind the ladder must be 7 inches (18 cm), except that the clearance for an elevator pit ladder must be 4.5 inches (11 cm).
  • The minimum perpendicular clearance between the centerline of fixed ladder rungs, cleats, and steps, and any obstruction on the climbing side of the ladder must be 30 inches (76 cm). If obstructions are unavoidable, clearance may be reduced to 24 inches (61 cm), provided a deflection device is installed to guide workers around the obstruction.
  • The step-across distance between the center of the steps or rungs of fixed ladders and the nearest edge of a landing area must be no less than 7 inches (18 cm) and no more than 12 inches (30 cm). A landing platform must be provided if the step-across distance exceeds 12 inches (30 cm).
  • Fixed ladders without cages or wells must have at least a 15-inch (38 cm) clear width to the nearest permanent object on each side of the centerline of the ladder.
  • Fixed ladders must be provided with cages, wells, ladder safety devices, or self-retracting lifelines where the length of climb is less than 24 feet (7.3 m) but the top of the ladder is at a distance greater than 24 feet (7.3 m) above lower levels.
  • If the total length of a climb on a fixed ladder equals or exceeds 24 feet (7.3 m), the following requirements must be met: fixed ladders must be equipped with either (a) ladder safety devices; (b) self-retracting lifelines, and rest platforms at intervals not to exceed 150 feet (45.7 m); or (c) a cage or well, and multiple ladder sections, each ladder section not to exceed 50 feet (15.2 m) in length. These ladder sections must be offset from adjacent sections, and landing platforms must be provided at maximum intervals of 50 feet (15.2 m).
  • The side rails of through or side-step fixed ladders must extend 42 inches (1.1 m) above the top level or landing platform served by the ladder. For a parapet ladder, the access level must be at the roof if the parapet is cut to permit passage through it; if the parapet is continuous, the access level is the top of the parapet.
  • Steps or rungs for through-fixed-ladder extensions must be omitted from the extension; and the extension of side rails must be flared to provide between 24 inches (61 cm) and 30 inches (76 cm) clearance between side rails.
  • When safety devices are provided, the maximum clearance between side rail extensions must not exceed 36 inches (91 cm).

Cages for Fixed Ladders

  • Horizontal bands must be fastened to the side rails of rail ladders, or directly to the structure, building, or equipment for individual-rung ladders.
  • Vertical bars must be on the inside of the horizontal bands and must be fastened to them.
  • Cages must not extend less than 27 inches (68 cm), or more than 30 inches (76 cm) from the centerline of the step or rung, and must not be less than 27 inches (68 cm) wide.
  • The inside of the cage must be clear of projections.
  • Horizontal bands must be spaced at intervals not more than 4 feet (1.2 m) apart measured from centerline to centerline.
  • Vertical bars must be spaced at intervals not more than 9.5 inches (24 cm) apart measured from centerline to centerline.
  • The bottom of the cage must be between 7 feet (2.1 m) and 8 feet (2.4 m) above the point of access to the bottom of the ladder. The bottom of the cage must be flared not less than 4 inches (10 cm) between the bottom horizontal band and the next higher band.
  • The top of the cage must be a minimum of 42 inches (1.1 m) above the top of the platform, or the point of access at the top of the ladder. Provisions must be made for access to the platform or other point of access.

Wells for Fixed Ladders

  • Wells must completely encircle the ladder.
  • Wells must be free of projections.
  • The inside face of the well on the climbing side of the ladder must extend between 27 inches (68 cm) and 30 inches (76 cm) from the centerline of the step or rung.
  • The inside width of the well must be at least 30 inches (76 cm).
  • The bottom of the well above the point of access to the bottom of the ladder must be between 7 feet (2.1 m) and 8 feet (2.4 m).

Ladder Safety Devices and Related Support Systems for Fixed Ladders

  • All safety devices must be capable of withstanding, without failure, a drop test consisting of a 500-pound weight (226 kg) dropping 18 inches (41 cm).
  • All safety devices must permit the worker to ascend or descend without continually having to hold, push, or pull any part of the device, leaving both hands free for climbing.
  • All safety devices must be activated within 2 feet (.61 m) after a fall occurs, and limit the descending velocity of an employee to 7 feet/second (2.1 m/sec) or less.
  • The connection between the carrier or lifeline and the point of attachment to the body belt or harness must not exceed 9 inches (23 cm) in length.

Mounting Ladder Safety Devices for Fixed Ladders

  • Mountings for rigid carriers must be attached at each end of the carrier, with intermediate mountings, spaced along the entire length of the carrier, to provide the necessary strength to stop workers’ falls.
  • Mountings for flexible carriers must be attached at each end of the carrier. Cable guides for flexible carriers must be installed with a spacing between 25 feet (76 m) and 40 feet (12.2 m) along the entire length of the carrier, to prevent wind damage to the system.
  • The design and installation of mountings and cable guides must not reduce the strength of the ladder.
  • Side rails, and steps or rungs for side-step fixed ladders must be continuous in extension.

USE OF ALL LADDERS (INCLUDING JOB-MADE LADDERS)

  • When portable ladders are used for access to an upper landing surface, the side rails must extend at least 3 feet (.9 m) above the upper landing surface. When such an extension is not possible, the ladder must be secured, and a grasping device such as a grab rail must be provided to assist workers in mounting and dismounting the ladder. A ladder extension must not deflect under a load that would cause the ladder to slip off its support.
  • Ladders must be maintained free of oil, grease, and other slipping hazards.
  • Ladders must not be loaded beyond the maximum intended load for which they were built nor beyond their manufacturer’s rated capacity.
  • Ladders must be used only for the purpose for which they were designed.
  • Non-self-supporting ladders must be used at an angle where the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is approximately one-quarter of the working length of the ladder. Wood job-made ladders with spliced side rails must be used at an angle where the horizontal distance is one-eighth the working length of the ladder.
  • Fixed ladders must be used at a pitch no greater than 90 degrees from the horizontal, measured from the back side of the ladder.
  • Ladders must be used only on stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental movement.
  • Ladders must not be used on slippery surfaces unless secured or provided with slip-resistant feet to prevent accidental movement. Slip-resistant feet must not be used as a substitute for the care in placing, lashing, or holding a ladder upon slippery surfaces.
  • Ladders placed in areas such as passage-ways, doorways, or driveways, or where they can be displaced by workplace activities or traffic must be secured to prevent accidental movement, or a barricade must be used to keep traffic or activities away from the ladder.
  • The area around the top and bottom of the ladders must be kept clear.
  • The top of a non-self-supporting ladder must be placed with two rails supported equally unless it is equipped with a single support attachment.
  • Ladders must not be moved, shifted, or extended while in use.
  • Ladders must have nonconductive siderails if they are used where the worker or the ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment.
  • The top or top step of a stepladder must not be used as a step.
  • Cross-bracing on the rear section of stepladders must not be used for climbing unless the ladders are designed and provided with steps for climbing on both front and rear sections.
  • Ladders must be inspected by a competent person for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any incident that could affect their safe use.
  • Single-rail ladders must not be used.
  • When ascending or descending a ladder, the worker must face the ladder.
  • Each worker must use at least one hand to grasp the ladder when moving up or down the ladder.
  • A worker on a ladder must not carry any object or load that could cause the worker to lose balance and fall.

STRUCTURAL DEFECTS

  • Portable ladders with structural defects-such as broken or missing rungs, cleats, or steps, broken or split rails, corroded components, or other faulty or defective components-must immediately be marked defective, or tagged with “Do Not Use” or similar language and withdrawn from service until repaired.
  • Fixed ladders with structural defects-such as broken or missing rungs, cleats, or steps, broken or split rails, or corroded components-must be withdrawn from service until repaired.
  • Defective fixed ladders are considered withdrawn from use when they are (a) immediately tagged with “Do Not Use” or similar language; (b) marked in a manner that identifies them as defective; or (c) blocked (such as with a plywood attachment that spans several rungs).
  • Ladder repairs must restore the ladder to a condition meeting its original design criteria, before the ladder is returned to use.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Under the provisions of the standard, employers must provide a training program for each employee using ladders and stairways. The program must enable each employee to recognize hazards related to ladders and stairways and to use proper procedures to minimize these hazards. For example, employers must ensure that each employee is trained by a competent person in the following areas, as applicable:

  • The nature of fall hazards in the work area;
  • The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, and disassembling the fall protection systems to be used;
  • The proper construction, use, placement, and care in handling of all stairways and ladders; and
  • The maximum intended load-carrying capacities of ladders used. In addition, retraining must be provided for each employee, as necessary, so that the employee maintains the understanding and knowledge acquired through compliance with the standard.

GLOSSARY

CLEAT – A ladder crosspiece of rectangular cross section placed on edge upon which a person may step while ascending or descending a ladder.

DOUBLE-CLEAT LADDER – A ladder with a center rail to allow simultaneous two-way traffic for employees ascending or descending.

FAILURE – Load refusal, breakage, or separation of components.

FIXED LADDER – A ladder that cannot be readily moved or carried because it is an integral part of a building or structure.

HANDRAIL – A rail used to provide employees with a handhold for support.

JOB-MADE LADDER – A ladder that is fabricated by employees, typically at the construction site; not commercially manufactured.

LOAD REFUSAL – The point where the structural members lose their ability to carry the load.

POINT OF ACCESS – All areas used by employees for work-related passage from one area or level to another.

PORTABLE LADDER – A ladder that can be readily moved or carried.

RISER HEIGHT – The vertical distance from the top of a tread or platform/landing to the top of the next higher tread or platform/landing.

SIDE-STEP FIXED LADDER – A fixed ladder that requires a person to get off at the top to step to the side of the ladder side rails to reach the landing.

SINGLE-CLEAT LADDER – A ladder consisting of a pair of side rails connected together by cleats, rungs, or steps.

STAIRRAIL SYSTEM – A vertical barrier erected along the unprotected sides and edges of a stairway to prevent employees from falling to lower levels.

TEMPORARY SERVICE STAIRWAY – A stairway where permanent treads and/or landings are to be filled in at a later date.

THROUGH FIXED LADDER – A fixed ladder that requires a person getting off at the top to step between the side rails of the ladder to reach the landing.

TREAD DEPTH – The horizontal distance from front to back of a tread, excluding nosing, if any.


1. If installed before March 15, 1991, not less than 30 inches (76 cm).

Source: United States Department of Labor, “Stairways and Ladders” https://www.osha.gov website. Accessed February 25, 2017. https://www.osha.gov/Publications/ladders/osha3124.html

© Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. This content is strictly for informational purposes and although experts have prepared it, the reader should not substitute this information for professional insurance advice. If you have any questions, please consult your insurance professional before acting on any information presented. Read more.

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 110, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings

August 6, 2014 By admin Leave a Comment

Portable Ladder Safety

Misc_WarningTapeFalls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.

  • Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder.
  • Avoid electrical hazards! – Look for overhead power lines before handling a ladder. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.
  • Always inspect the ladder prior to using it. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.
  • Always maintain a 3-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) contact on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing (see diagram).
  • Only use ladders and appropriate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks or hooks) for their designed purposes.
  • Ladders must be free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps or feet.
  • Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position.
  • Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose.
  • Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement.
  • Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to obtain additional height.
  • Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder.
  • An extension or straight ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend at least 3 feet above the point of support (see diagram). Do not stand on the three top rungs of a straight, single or extension ladder.
  • The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface (see diagram).
  • A ladder placed in any location where it can be displaced by other work activities must be secured to prevent displacement or a barricade must be erected to keep traffic away from the ladder.
  • Be sure that all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.
  • Do not exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder. Be aware of the ladder’s load rating and of the weight it is supporting, including the weight of any tools or equipment.

 

For more information:

U.S. Department of Labor
www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA

 

Source: United States Department of Labor, “Portable Ladder Safety” https://www.osha.gov website. Accessed February 25, 2017. https://www.osha.gov/Publications/portable_ladder_qc.html

© Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. This content is strictly for informational purposes and although experts have prepared it, the reader should not substitute this information for professional insurance advice. If you have any questions, please consult your insurance professional before acting on any information presented. Read more.

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 110, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings

August 6, 2014 By admin Leave a Comment

Welcome To OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign

Misc_BlueHardHatFALLS ARE THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN CONSTRUCTION. In 2010, there were 264 fall fatalities (255 falls to lower level) out of 774 total fatalities in construction. These deaths are preventable.

Falls can be prevented and lives can be saved through three simple steps:

  • Plan
  • Provide
  • Train

This website is part of OSHA’s nationwide outreach campaign to raise awareness among workers and employers about the hazards of falls from ladders, scaffolds and roofs. The educational resources page gives workers and employers information about falls and how to prevent them. There are also training tools for employers to use and posters to display at their worksites. Many of the new resources target vulnerable workers with limited English proficiency.

We invite you to join in this effort by helping to reach workers and employers in your community with the resources you find on this site. OSHA will continue to add information and tools to this page throughout the year.

OSHA has partnered with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) – Construction Sector on this nationwide outreach campaign to raise awareness among workers and employers about common fall hazards in construction, and how falls from ladders, scaffolds and roofs can be prevented and lives can be saved. Here’s how:

PLAN ahead to get the job done safely

When working from heights, such as ladders, scaffolds, and roofs, employers must plan projects to ensure that the job is done safely. Begin by deciding how the job will be done, what tasks will be involved, and what safety equipment may be needed to complete each task.

When estimating the cost of a job, employers should include safety equipment, and plan to have all the necessary equipment and tools available at the construction site. For example, in a roofing job, think about all of the different fall hazards, such as holes or skylights and leading edges, then plan and select fall protection suitable to that work, such as personal fall arrest systems (PFAS).

PROVIDE the right equipment

Workers who are six feet or more above lower levels are at risk for serious injury or death if they should fall. To protect these workers, employers must provide fall protection and the right equipment for the job, including the right kinds of ladders, scaffolds, and safety gear.

Different ladders and scaffolds are appropriate for different jobs. Always provide workers with the kind they need to get the job done safely. For roof work, there are many ways to prevent falls. If workers use personal fall arrest systems (PFAS), provide a harness for each worker who needs to tie off to the anchor. Make sure the PFAS fits, and regularly inspect all fall protection equipment to ensure it’s still in good condition and safe to use.

TRAIN everyone to use the equipment safely

Falls can be prevented when workers understand proper set-up and safe use of equipment, so they need training on the specific equipment they will use to complete the job. Employers must train workers in hazard recognition and in the care and safe use ladders, scaffolds, fall protection systems, and other equipment they’ll be using on the job.

OSHA has provided numerous materials and resources that employers can use during toolbox talks to train workers on safe practices to avoid falls in construction. Falls from ladders, scaffolds and roofs can be prevented and lives can be saved through three simple steps: Plan, Provide and Train.

Fact Sheet
English: HTML | PDF — en Español: HTML | PDF
Polish: PDF | Russian: PDF

Multiple printed copies can be ordered by any of the following methods.

Online

  • Visit OSHA’s Publications web page.

Fax

  • Send your request via fax to 202-693-1635.

Telephone

  • Call 1-800 321-6742 (OSHA) or 202-693-1999.

Mail

  • Send your request in writing to:
  • U.S. Department of Labor
  • OSHA Office of Communications
  • 200 Constitution Ave., NW
  • Room N3647
  • Washington, DC 20210

National Safety
Stand-Down

What’s New?

versión en español

HighlightWhat’s New

  • NEW OSHA announces national stand-down for fall prevention in construction[3/19/14]
  • NEW CPWR: Construction Fatality Map
  • NEW New Jersey Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE)
    • Temporary Wooden Bridge Platforms (PDF)
  • NEW Fall from a Telecommunications Tower: FATAL Facts(PDF*)
  • Complete Fall Prevention Campaign Web Page available in Spanish [en español]
  • Ladder Safety Guidance
    • Falling Off Ladders Can Kill: Use Them Safely – Booklet (PDF* | EPUB* |MOBI*)
    • Safe Use of Extension Ladders – Fact Sheet (English) (PDF*)
    • Safe Use of Job-made Wooden Ladders – Fact Sheet (English) (PDF*)
    • Safe Use of Stepladders – Fact Sheet (English) (PDF*)
    • NIOSH Ladder safety phone app – English and Spanish
  • Fall Protection: Roofing. Washington State Video.
  • Fall Protection: Trusses. Washington State Video.
  • American Ladder Institute Training Videos. Now available in Spanish
Prevention Videos (v-Tools)
  • Falls in Construction
    • Floor Openings
    • Fixed Scaffolds
    • Bridge Decking
    • Reroofing
    • Leading Edge Work
    • California Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE).
      • Solar Industry
      • Skylights
Campaign Partners
  • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
  • The National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA)

Source: United States Department of Labor, “Welcome to OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign” https://www.osha.gov website. Accessed February 25, 2017. https://www.osha.gov/stopfalls/index.html

© Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. This content is strictly for informational purposes and although experts have prepared it, the reader should not substitute this information for professional insurance advice. If you have any questions, please consult your insurance professional before acting on any information presented. Read more.

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 110, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings

July 31, 2014 By Julian Aston Leave a Comment

IN: When You’re Pushing Or Pulling Heavy Objects

Dear Valued Customer,

In this issue of the “——————–“ we focus on pushing or pulling heavy objects.

Lifting heavy items is one of the leading causes of injury in the workplace. In fact, in a recent year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that over 36 percent of injuries involving missed workdays were the result of shoulder and back injuries. Overexertion and cumulative trauma were the biggest factors in these injuries.

Read on to understand the potential hazards and possible solutions. Awkward postures to avoid when lifting. What to do if you are lifting a lot for long periods at a time, and more. Together we can help make lifting safer.

We appreciate your continued business and look forward to serving you.

Kind regards,

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 98, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings, Workers' Comp

July 31, 2014 By admin Leave a Comment

Materials Handling: Heavy Lifting

Workers_ConstructionWorkerNeckPainLifting heavy items is one of the leading causes of injury in the workplace. In 2001, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that over 36 percent of injuries involving missed workdays were the result of shoulder and back injuries. Overexertion and cumulative trauma were the biggest factors in these injuries.

When employees use smart lifting practices and work in their “power zone,” they are less likely to suffer from back sprains, muscle pulls, wrist injuries, elbow injuries, spinal injuries, and other injuries caused by lifting heavy objects.

  • Weight of Objects
  • Awkward Postures
  • High-Frequency and Long-Duration Lifting
  • Inadequate Handholds
  • Environmental Factors

Weight of Objects

Potential Hazards:

  • Some loads, such as large spools of wire (Figure 1), bundles of conduit, or heavy tools and machinery place great stress on muscles, discs, and vertebrae.
  • Lifting loads heavier than about 50 pounds will increase the risk of injury.

Possible Solutions:

  • Use mechanical means such as forklifts (Figure 2) or duct lifts to lift heavy spools, transformers, switch gear, service sections, conduit, and machinery.
  • Use pallet jacks and hand trucks to transport heavy items.
  • Avoid rolling spools. Once they are in motion, it is difficult to stop them.
  • Use suction devices (Figure 3) to lift junction boxes and other materials with smooth, flat surfaces. These tools place a temporary handle that makes lifting easier.
  • Use ramps or lift gates to load machinery into trucks rather than lifting it.
  • Materials that must be manually lifted should be placed at “power zone” height, about mid-thigh to mid-chest. Special care should be taken to ensure proper lifting principles are used. Maintain neutral and straight spine alignment whenever possible. Usually, bending at the knees, not the waist, helps maintain proper spine alignment.
  • Place materials that are to be manually lifted at “power zone” height, about mid-thigh to mid-chest. Maintain neutral and straight spine alignment whenever possible. Usually, bending at the knees, not the waist, helps maintain proper spine alignment.
  • Order supplies in smaller quantities and break down loads off-site. When possible, request that vendors and suppliers break down loads prior to delivery.
Figure 1. A spool holding 117 pounds of wire
Figure 1.
A spool holding 117 pounds of wire.Figure 2. Forklift
Figure 2.
Forklift.Figure 3. Suction tool
Figure 3.
Suction tool.Figure 4. Two-man lift
Figure 4.
Two-man lift.
  • Prefabricate items in a central area where mechanical lifts can be used. Only transport smaller, finished products to the site.
  • Limit weight you lift to no more than 50 pounds. When lifting loads heavier than 50 pounds, use two or more people to lift the load (Figure 4).
  • Work with suppliers to make smaller, lighter containers.

Awkward Postures

Potential Hazards:

  • Bending while lifting (Figure 5) forces the back to support the weight of the upper body in addition to the weight you are lifting. Bending while lifting places strain on the back even when lifting something as light as a screwdriver.
  • Bending moves the load away from the body and allows leverage to significantly increase the effective load on the back. This increases the stress on the lower spine and fatigues the muscles.
  • Reaching moves the load away from the back, increases the effective load, and places considerable strain on the shoulders.
  • Carrying loads on one shoulder, under an arm, or in one hand, creates uneven pressure on the spine.
  • Poor housekeeping limits proper access to objects being lifted, and forces awkward postures.
Figure 5. Employee twisting in an awkward position.
Figure 5.
Employee twisting in
an awkward position.
Possible Solutions:
  • Move items close to your body and use your legs when lifting an item from a low location (Figure 6).
  • Store and place materials that need to be manually lifted and transported at “power zone” height, about mid-thigh to mid-chest.
  • Minimize bending and reaching by placing heavy objects on shelves, tables, or racks. For example, stack spools on pallets to raise them into the power zone.
  • Avoid twisting, especially when bending forward while lifting. Turn by moving the feet rather than twisting the torso.
  • Keep your elbows close to your body and keep the load as close to your body as possible.
  • Keep the vertical distance of lifts between mid-thigh and shoulder height. Do not start a lift below mid-thigh height nor end the lift above shoulder height. Lifting from below waist height puts stress on legs, knees, and back. Lifting above shoulder height puts stress on the upper back, shoulders, and arms.
Figure 6. Employee lifting a box
Figure 6.
Different approaches
to lifting.
Figure 7. Aerial lift
Figure 7.
Aerial lift.
  • Use ladders or aerial lifts (Figure 7) to elevate employees and move them closer to the work area so overhead reaching is minimized.
  • Break down loads into smaller units and carry one in each hand to equalize loads. Use buckets with handles, or similar devices, to carry loose items.
  • Keep the load close to the body. When lifting large, bulky loads, it may be better to bend at the waist instead of at the knees in order to keep the load closer to your body.
  • Optimize employee access to heavy items through good housekeeping and preplanning.
  • Use roll-out decks installed in truck beds to bring materials closer to the employee and eliminate the need to crawl into the back of a truck. See the Vehicular Activities section for more information.

High-frequency and Long-duration Lifting

Potential Hazards:

  • Holding items for a long period of time, such as when installing fixtures or j-boxes (Figure 8), even if loads are light, increases risk of back and shoulder injury, since muscles can be starved of nutrients and waste products can build up.
  • Repeatedly exerting, such as when pulling wire, can fatigue muscles by limiting recuperation times. Inadequate rest periods do not allow the body to rest.
Figure 8. Employee reaching overhead
Figure 8.
Employee reaching
overhead.
Possible Solutions:
  • Use a template made of a lightweight material (Figure 9) such as cardboard to mark holes for drilling when mounting heavy items such as junction boxes and service panels. This ensures that the heavier item does not need to be held in place to level and measure for anchor mounts.
  • Provide stands, jigs, or mechanical lifting devices such as duct lifts to hold large, awkward materials such as junction boxes and service panels in place for fastening.
  • Rotate tasks so employees are not exposed to the same activity for too long.
  • Work in teams; one employee lifts and holds items while the other assembles.
  • Take regular breaks and break tasks into shorter segments. This will give muscles adequate time to rest. Working through breaks increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), accidents, and reduces the quality of work because employees are overfatigued.
Figure 9. Cardboard template for lighting fixtures
Figure 9.
Cardboard template for lighting fixtures.Figure 10. A prefabricated electrical box
Figure 10.
A prefabricated electrical box.
  • Plan work activities so employees can limit the time they spend holding loads.
  • Pre-assemble work items such as fixtures or boxes (Figure 10) to minimize the time employees spend handling them.

Inadequate Handholds

 

Potential Hazards:

  • Inadequate handholds (Figure 11) make lifting more difficult, move the load away from the body, lower lift heights, and increase the risk of contact stress and of dropping the load.
Figure 11. Boxes without handles
Figure 11.
Boxes without handles.
Possible Solutions:
  • Utilize proper handholds, including handles, slots, or holes (Figure 12), with enough room to accommodate gloved hands.
  • Ask suppliers to place their materials in containers with proper handholds.
  • Move materials from containers with poor handholds or without handholds into containers with good handholds.
  • Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid finger injuries and contact stress. Ensure that gloves fit properly and provide adequate grip to reduce the chance of dropping the load.
  • Use suction devices (Figure 13) to lift junction boxes and other materials with smooth, flat surfaces. These tools place a temporary handle that makes lifting easier.
Figure 12. Slots in boxes help in lifting
Figure 12.
Slots in boxes help in lifting.Figure 13. Suction deviceFigure 13.
Suction device.

Environmental Factors

 

Potential Hazards:

  • Cold temperatures can cause decreased muscle flexibility, which can result in muscle pulls.
  • Excessively hot temperatures can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and increased metabolic load.
  • Low visibility or poor lighting (Figure 14) increases the chance of trips and falls.
Figure 14. Work space with window as only light sourceFigure 14.
Work space with window as only light source.
Possible Solutions:
  • Adjust work schedules to minimize exposure to extreme temperatures.
  • Wear warm clothing when exposed to cold temperatures.
  • Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration in excessive heat.
  • Provide proper lighting (Figure 15) for areas with low light and perform work during daylight hours.
Figure 15. Light stand illuminating the work areaFigure 15.
Light stand illuminating the work area.

Source: United States Department of Labor, “Materials Handling: Heavy Lifting” https://www.osha.gov website. Accessed February 22, 2017. https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/electricalcontractors/materials/heavy.html#weight

© Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. This content is strictly for informational purposes and although experts have prepared it, the reader should not substitute this information for professional insurance advice. If you have any questions, please consult your insurance professional before acting on any information presented. Read more.

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 98, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings, Workers' Comp

July 31, 2014 By Julian Aston Leave a Comment

Materials Handling & Storage

Workers_ConstructionPulleyPOTENTIAL HAZARDS

Handling and storing materials involves diverse operations such as hoisting tons of steel with a crane, driving a truck loaded with concrete blocks, manually carrying bags and material, and stacking drums, barrels, kegs, lumber, or loose bricks.

The efficient handling and storing of materials is vital to industry. These operations provide a continuous flow of raw materials, parts, and assemblies through the workplace, and ensure that materials are available when needed. Yet, the improper handling and storing of materials can cause costly injuries.

Workers frequently cite the weight and bulkiness of objects being lifted as major contributing factors to their injuries. In 1990, back injuries resulted in 400,000 workplace accidents. The second factor frequently cited by workers as contributing to their injuries was body movement. Bending, followed by twisting and turning, were the more commonly cited movements that caused back injuries. Back injuries accounted for more than 20 percent of all occupational illnesses, according to data from the National Safety Council (1).

In addition, workers can be injured by falling objects, improperly stacked materials, or by various types of equipment. When manually moving materials, however, workers should be aware of potential injuries, including the following:

  • Strains and sprains from improperly lifting loads, or from carrying loads that are either too large or too heavy.
  • Fractures and bruises caused by being struck by materials, or by being caught in pinch points; and
  • Cuts and bruises caused by falling materials that have been improperly stored, or by incorrectly cutting ties or other securing devices.

Since numerous injuries can result from improperly handling and storing materials, it is important to be aware of accidents that may occur from unsafe or improperly handled equipment and improper work practices, and to recognize the methods for eliminating, or at least minimizing, the occurrence of those accidents. Consequently, employers and employees can and should examine their workplaces to detect any unsafe or unhealthful conditions, practices, or equipment and take the necessary steps to correct them.

METHODS OF PREVENTION

General safety principles can help reduce workplace accidents. These include work practices, ergonomic principles, and training and education. Whether moving materials manually or mechanically, employees should be aware of the potential hazards associated with the task at hand and know how to exercise control over their workplaces to minimize the danger.

MOVING, HANDLING, AND STORING MATERIALS

When manually moving materials, employees should seek help when a load is so bulky it cannot be properly grasped or lifted, when they cannot see around or over it, or when a load cannot be safely handled.

When an employee is placing blocks under raised loads, the employee should ensure that the load is not released until his or her hands are clearly removed from the load. Blocking materials and timbers should be large and strong enough to support the load safely. Materials with evidence of cracks, rounded corners, splintered pieces, or dry rot should not be used for blocking.

Handles and holders should be attached to loads to reduce the chances of getting fingers pinched or smashed. Workers also should use appropriate protective equipment. For loads with sharp or rough edges, wear gloves or other hand and forearm protection. To avoid injuries to the hands and eyes, use gloves and eye protection. When the loads are heavy or bulky, the mover should also wear steel-toed safety shoes or boots to prevent foot injuries if the worker slips or accidentally drops a load.

When mechanically moving materials, avoid overloading the equipment by letting the weight, size, and shape of the material being moved dictate the type of equipment used for transporting it. All materials handling equipment has rated capacities that determine the maximum weight the equipment can safely handle and the conditions under which it can handle those weights. The equipment-rated capacities must be displayed on each piece of equipment and must not be exceeded except for load testing. When picking up items with a powered industrial truck, the load must be centered on the forks and as close to the mast as possible to minimize the potential for the truck tipping or the load falling. A lift truck must never be overloaded because it would be hard to control and could easily tip over. Extra weight must not be placed on the rear of a counterbalanced forklift to offset an overload. The load must be at the lowest position for traveling, and the truck manufacturer’s operational requirements must be followed. All stacked loads must be correctly piled and cross-tiered, where possible. Precautions also should be taken when stacking and storing material.

Stored materials must not create a hazard. Storage areas must be kept free from accumulated materials that may cause tripping, fires, or explosions, or that may contribute to the harboring of rats and other pests. When stacking and piling materials, it is important to be aware of such factors as the materials’ height and weight, how accessible the stored materials are to the user, and the condition of the containers where the materials are being stored.

All bound material should be stacked, placed on racks, blocked, interlocked, or otherwise secured to prevent it from sliding, falling, or collapsing. A load greater than that approved by a building official may not be placed on any floor of a building or other structure. Where applicable, load limits approved by the building inspector should be conspicuously posted in all storage areas.

When stacking materials, height limitations should be observed. For example, lumber must be stacked no more than 16 feet high if it is handled manually; 20 feet is the maximum stacking height if a forklift is used. For quick reference, walls or posts may be painted with stripes to indicate maximum stacking heights.

Used lumber must have all nails removed before stacking. Lumber must be stacked and leveled on solidly supported bracing. The stacks must be stable and self-supporting. Stacks of loose bricks should not be more than 7 feet in height. When these stacks reach a height of 4 feet, they should be tapered back 2 inches for every foot of height above the 4-foot level. When masonry blocks are stacked higher than 6 feet, the stacks should be tapered back one-half block for each tier above the 6-foot level.

Bags and bundles must be stacked in interlocking rows to remain secure. Bagged material must be stacked by stepping back the layers and cross-keying the bags at least every ten layers. To remove bags from the stack, start from the top row first. Baled paper and rags stored inside a building must not be closer than 18 inches to the walls, partitions, or sprinkler heads. Boxed materials must be banded or held in place using cross-ties or shrink plastic fiber.

Drums, barrels, and kegs must be stacked symmetrically. If stored on their sides, the bottom tiers must be blocked to keep them from rolling. When stacked on end, put planks, sheets of plywood dunnage, or pallets between each tier to make a firm, flat, stacking surface. When stacking materials two or more tiers high, the bottom tier must be chocked on each side to prevent shifting in either direction.

When stacking, consider the need for availability of the material. Material that cannot be stacked due to size, shape, or fragility can be safety stored on shelves or in bins. Structural steel, bar stock, poles, and other cylindrical materials, unless in racks, must be stacked and blocked to prevent spreading or tilting. Pipes and bars should not be stored in racks that face main aisles; this could create a hazard to passers-by when supplies are being removed.

USING MATERIALS HANDLING EQUIPMENT

To reduce potential accidents associated with workplace equipment, employees need to be trained in the proper use and limitations of the equipment they operate. This includes knowing how to effectively use equipment such as conveyors, cranes, and slings.

Conveyors

When using conveyors, workers’ hands may be caught in nip points where the conveyor runs over support members or rollers; workers may be struck by material falling off the conveyor; or they may become caught on or in the conveyor, thereby being drawn into the conveyor path.

To reduce the severity of an injury, an emergency button or pull cord designed to stop the conveyor must be installed at the employee’s work station. Continuously accessible conveyor belts should have an emergency stop cable that extends the entire length of the conveyor belt so that the cable can be accessed from any location along the belt. The emergency stop switch must be designed to be reset before the conveyor can be restarted. Before restarting a conveyor that has stopped due to an overload, appropriate personnel must inspect the conveyor and clear the stoppage before restarting. Employees must never ride on a materials handling conveyor. Where a conveyor passes over work areas or aisles, guards must be provided to keep employees from being struck by falling material. If the crossover is low enough for workers to run into, it must be guarded to protect employees and either marked with a warning sign or painted a bright color.

Screw conveyors must be completely covered except at loading and discharging points. At those points, guards must protect employees against contacting the moving screw; the guards are movable, and they must be interlocked to prevent conveyor movement when not in place.

Cranes

Only thoroughly trained and competent persons are permitted to operate cranes. Operators should know what they are lifting and what it weighs. The rated capacity of mobile cranes varies with the length of the boom and the boom radius. When a crane has a telescoping boom, a load may be safe to lift at a short boom length and/or a short boom radius, but may overload the crane when the boom is extended and the radius increases.

All movable cranes must be equipped with a boom angle indicator; those cranes with telescoping booms must be equipped with some means to determine the boom length, unless the load rating is independent of the boom length. Load rating charts must be posted in the cab of cab-operated cranes. All mobile cranes do not have uniform capacities for the same boom length and radius in all directions around the chassis of the vehicle.

Always check the crane’s load chart to ensure that the crane is not going to be overloaded for the conditions under which it will operate. Plan lifts before starting them to ensure that they are safe. Take additional precautions and exercise extra care when operating around power lines.

Some mobile cranes cannot operate with outriggers in the traveling position. When used, the outriggers must rest on firm ground, on timbers, or be sufficiently cribbed to spread the weight of the crane and the load over a large enough area. This will prevent the crane from tipping during use. Hoisting chains and ropes must always be free of kinks or twists and must never be wrapped around a load. Loads should be attached to the load hook by slings, fixtures, or other devices that have the capacity to support the load on the hook. Sharp edges of loads should be padded to prevent cutting slings. Proper sling angles shall be maintained so that slings are not loaded in excess of their capacity.

All cranes must be inspected frequently by persons thoroughly familiar with the crane, the methods of inspecting the crane, and what can make the crane unserviceable. Crane activity, the severity of use, and environmental conditions should determine inspection schedules. Critical parts, such as crane operating mechanisms, hooks, air or hydraulic system components and other load-carrying components, should be inspected daily for any maladjustment, deterioration, leakage, deformation, or other damage.

Slings

When working with slings, employers must ensure that they are visually inspected before use and during operation, especially if used under heavy stress. Riggers or other knowledgeable employees should conduct or assist in the inspection because they are aware of how the sling is used and what makes a sling unserviceable. A damaged or defective sling must be removed from service.

Slings must not be shortened with knots or bolts or other makeshift devices, sling legs that have been kinked must not be used. Slings must not be loaded beyond their rated capacity, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Suspended loads must be kept clear of all obstructions, and crane operators should avoid sudden starts and stops when moving suspended loads. Employees also must remain clear of loads about to be lifted and suspended. All shock loading is prohibited.

Powered Industrial Trucks

The OSHA standard for Powered Industrial Truck Operator Training was revised March 1, 1999. Training information which follows relates to the previous standard, and while it still has practical applications, the reader should refer to the current standard for compliance.

See Powered Industrial Trucks (Forklifts) Safety and Health Topics Page.

Workers who must handle and store materials often use fork trucks, platform lift trucks, motorized hand trucks, and other specialized industrial trucks powered by electrical motors or internal combustion engines. Affected workers, therefore, should be aware of the safety requirements pertaining to fire protection, and the design, maintenance, and use of these trucks.

All new powered industrial trucks, except vehicles intended primarily for earth moving or over-the-road hauling, shall meet the design and construction requirements for powered industrial trucks established in the American National Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks, Part ll, ANSI B56.1-1969. Approved trucks shall also bear a label or some other identifying mark indicating acceptance by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Modifications and additions that affect capacity and safe operation of the trucks shall not be performed by an owner or user without the manufacturer’s prior written approval. In these cases, capacity, operation, and maintenance instruction plates and tags or decals must be changed to reflect the new information. If the truck is equipped with front-end attachments that are not factory installed, the user should request that the truck be marked to identify these attachments and show the truck’s approximate weight, including the installed attachment, when it is at maximum elevation with its load laterally centered.

There are 11 different types of industrial trucks or tractors, some having greater safeguards than others. There are also designated conditions and locations under which the vast range of industrial-powered trucks can be used. In some instances, powered industrial trucks cannot be used, and in others, they can only be used if approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory for fire safety. For example, powered industrial trucks must not be used in atmospheres containing hazardous concentrations of the following substances:

  • Acetylene
  • Butadiene
  • Ethylene oxide
  • Hydrogen (or gases or vapors equivalent in hazard to hydrogen, such as manufactured gas)
  • Propylene oxide
  • Acetaldehyde
  • Cyclopropane
  • Dimethyl ether
  • Ethylene
  • Isoprene, and
  • Unsymmetrical dimethyl hydrazine

These trucks are not to be used in atmospheres containing hazardous concentrations of metal dust, including aluminum, magnesium, and other metals of similarly hazardous characteristics or in atmospheres containing carbon black, coal, or coke dust. Where dust of magnesium, aluminum, or aluminum bronze dusts may be present, the fuses, switches, motor controllers, and circuit breakers of trucks must be enclosed with enclosures approved for these substances.

There also are powered industrial trucks or tractors that are designed, constructed, and assembled for use in atmospheres containing flammable vapors or dusts. These include industrial-powered trucks equipped with additional safeguards to their exhaust, fuel, and electrical systems; with no electrical equipment, including the ignition; with temperature limitation features; and with electric motors and all other electrical equipment completely enclosed.

These specially designed powered industrial trucks may be used in locations where volatile flammable liquids or flammable gases are handled, processed, or used. The liquids, vapors, or gases should, among other things, be confined within closed containers or. closed systems from which they cannot escape.

Some other conditions and/or locations in which specifically designed powered industrial trucks may be used include the following:

  • Only powered industrial trucks that do not have any electrical equipment, including the ignition, and have their electrical motors or other electrical equipment completely enclosed should be used in atmospheres containing flammable vapors or dust.
  • Powered industrial trucks that are either powered electrically by liquified petroleum gas or by a gasoline or diesel engine are used on piers and wharves that handle general cargo.

Safety precautions the user can observe when operating or maintaining powered industrial trucks include:

  • That high lift rider trucks be fitted with an overhead guard, unless operating conditions do not permit.
  • That fork trucks be equipped with a vertical load backrest extension according to manufacturers’ specifications, if the load presents a hazard.
  • That battery charging installations be located in areas designated for that purpose.
  • That facilities be provided for flushing and neutralizing spilled electrolytes when changing or recharging a battery to prevent fires, to protect the charging apparatus from being damaged by the trucks, and to adequately ventilate fumes in the charging area from gassing batteries.
  • That conveyor, overhead hoist, or equivalent materials handling equipment be provided for handling batteries.
  • That auxiliary directional lighting be provided on the truck where general lighting is less than 2 lumens per square foot.
  • That arms and legs not be placed between the uprights of the mast or outside the running lines of the truck.
  • That brakes be set and wheel blocks or other adequate protection be in place to prevent movement of trucks, trailers, or railroad cars when using trucks to load or unload materials onto train boxcars.
  • That sufficient headroom be provided under overhead installations, lights, pipes, and sprinkler systems.
  • That personnel on the loading platform have the means to shut off power to the truck.
  • That dockboards or bridgeplates be properly secured, so they won’t move when equipment moves over them.
  • That only stable or safely arranged loads be handled, and caution be exercised when handling loads.
  • That trucks whose electrical systems are in need of repair have the battery disconnected prior to such repairs.
  • That replacement parts of any industrial truck be equivalent in safety to the original ones.

ERGONOMIC SAFETY AND HEALTH PRINCIPLES

Ergonomics is defined as the study of work and is based on the principle that the job should be adapted to fit the person, rather than forcing the person to fit the job. Ergonomics focuses on the work environment and items such as design and function of workstations, controls, displays, safety devices, tools, and lighting to fit the employees’ physical requirements and to ensure their health and well being.

Ergonomics includes restructuring or changing workplace conditions to make the job easier and reducing/stressors that cause cumulative trauma disorders and repetitive motion injuries. In the area of materials 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.

Although no approach has been found for totally eliminating back injuries resulting from lifting materials, a substantial number of lifting injuries can be prevented by implementing an effective ergonomics program and by training employees in appropriate lifting techniques.

In addition to using ergonomic controls, there are some basic safety principles that can be employed to reduce injuries resulting from handling and storing materials. These include taking general fire safety precautions and keeping aisles and passageways clear.

In adhering to fire safety precautions, employees should note that flammable and combustible materials must be stored according to their fire characteristics. Flammable liquids, for example, must be separated from other material by a fire wall. Also, other combustibles must be stored in an area where smoking and using an open flame or a spark-producing device is prohibited. Dissimilar materials that are dangerous when they come into contact with each other must be stored apart.

When using aisles and passageways to move materials mechanically, sufficient clearance must be allowed for aisles at loading docks, through doorways, wherever turns must be made, and in other parts of the workplace. Providing sufficient clearance for mechanically moved materials will prevent workers from being pinned between the equipment and fixtures in the workplace, such as walls, racks, posts, or other machines. Sufficient clearance also will prevent the load from striking an obstruction and falling on an employee.

All passageways used by employees should be kept clear of obstructions and tripping hazards. Materials in excess of supplies needed for immediate operations should not be stored in aisles or passageways, and permanent aisles and passageways must be marked appropriately.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION

OSHA recommends using a formal training program to reduce materials handling hazards. Instructors should be well-versed in matters that pertain to safety engineering and materials handling and storing. The content of the training should emphasize those factors that will contribute to reducing workplace hazards including the following:

  • Alerting the employee to the dangers of lifting without proper training.
  • Showing the employee how to avoid unnecessary physical stress and strain.
  • Teaching workers to become aware of what they can comfortably handle without undue strain.
  • Instructing workers on the proper use of equipment.
  • Teaching workers to recognize potential hazards and how to prevent or correct them.

Because of the high incidence of back injuries, safe lifting techniques for manual lifting should be demonstrated and practiced at the work site by supervisors as well as by employees.

A training program to teach proper lifting techniques should cover the following topics:

  • Awareness of the health risks to improper lifting—citing organizational case histories.
  • Knowledge of the basic anatomy of the spine, the muscles, and the joints of the trunk, and the contributions of intra-abdominal pressure while lifting.
  • Awareness of individual body strengths and weaknesses—determining one’s own lifting capacity.
  • Recognition of the physical factors that might contribute to an accident, and how to avoid the unexpected.
  • Use of safe lifting postures and timing for smooth, easy lifting and the ability to minimize the load-moment effects.
  • Use of handling aids such as stages, platforms, or steps, trestles, shoulder pads, handles, and wheels.
  • Knowledge of body responses—warning signals—to be aware of when lifting.

A campaign using posters to draw attention to the need to do something about potential accidents, including lifting and back injuries, is one way to increase awareness of safe work practices and techniques. The plant medical staff and a team of instructors should conduct regular tours of the site to look for potential hazards and allow input from workers.

SAFETY AND HEALTH PROGRAM MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES

To have an effective materials handling and storing safety and health program, managers must take an active role in its development. First-line supervisors must be convinced of the importance of controlling hazards associated with materials handling and storing and must be held accountable for employee training. An on-going safety and health program should be used to motivate employees to continue to use necessary protective gear and to observe proper job procedures.

OSHA’s recommended “Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines” issued in 1989 can provide a blueprint for employers who are seeking guidance on how to effectively manage and protect worker safety and health. The four main elements of an effective occupational safety and health program are (a) management commitment and employee involvement, (b) worksite analysis, (c) hazard prevention and control, and (d) safety and health training. These elements encompass principles such as establishing and communicating clear goals of a safety and health management program; conducting worksite examinations to identify existing hazards and the conditions under which changes might occur; effectively designing the job site or job to prevent hazards; and providing essential training to address the safety and health responsibilities of both management and employees.

Instituting these practices, along with providing the correct materials handling equipment, can add a large measure of worker safety and health in the area of materials handling and storing.


1 National Safety Council. Accident Facts, 1989 and 1991 Editions, Chicago, IL.

Source: United States Department of Labor, “Materials Handling and Storage” https://www.osha.gov website. Accessed December 2, 2015. https://www.osha.gov/doc/outreachtraining/htmlfiles/mathan.html

© Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. This content is strictly for informational purposes and although experts have prepared it, the reader should not substitute this information for professional insurance advice. If you have any questions, please consult your insurance professional before acting on any information presented. Read more.

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 98, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings, Workers' Comp

July 31, 2014 By admin Leave a Comment

Solutions For Electrical Contractors: Installation & Repair

Workers_ElectricianInstallation and Repair: Pulling and Feeding Wire

Electrical employees run or pull wire throughout a worksite. This involves pulling at one end of the run and feeding at the other. Wire is pulled through chases, conduit, or knockouts to get from the electrical supply to the final destination. This path is usually under the floor or in the ceiling, which forces employees to reach up or bend down. When these tasks are performed manually, they often require employees to exert significant force, assume awkward postures, perform repetitive motions, and be exposed to vibration and contact stress.

  • Pulling Force
  • Frequency of Pulling and Feeding
  • Overhead Reaching

Pulling Force

  • Due to increased weight and stiffness, pulling larger gauge wire requires greater effort than pulling smaller gauge. This increased effort can stress the hands, arms, shoulders, and back.
  • Running wire through small diameter conduit increases the contact points between the conduit and wire. This increases the resistance, requiring employees to exert more force while pulling.
  • Unwinding wire from spools may be strenuous when wire spools are large and heavy (Figure 1).
  • Pulling wire through bends in conduit creates restriction points, which increases the force required to perform the task.
  • Running wire while standing on ladders results in twisting torso and awkward posture of the upper extremities.

Possible Solutions:

  • Use a mechanical wire puller (Figure 2). Pullers provide the force of several employees, eliminating the manual effort needed to pull therefore increasing productivity and reducing risk of overexertion.
  • Appropriately positioned portable pulleys(Figure 3) allow employees to exert larger forces when in proper postures. Employees standing on the ground or other stable surfaces and working with the elbows close to the body and the torso upright can increase effectiveness of the task.
  • Use spool rollers (Figure 4) that allow spools to rotate in place and release wire smoothly without twisting.
  • Install inspection boxes at appropriate intervals so that employees do not have to pull wire through repeated bends or long lengths of conduit.
  • Employees should be provided with platforms, scaffolds, or lifts so that they can raise themselves to do pulling tasks within easy reach and minimize overhead or low-location pulls. Pulling should be done in the power zone.
  • When manual pulling is required:
    • take regular breaks from manual pulling, allowing muscles to rest.
    • rotate employees between pulling and feeding, installation and repair tasks.
    • use gloves that improve coupling and protect the hands from contact stress and cuts.
  • Lubricate wire as it enters chases, conduits or knockouts to reduce friction and force requirement of pulling task.
  • Use platform ladders which provide a work surface where employees may stand and turn to face the direction of work when pulling. This allows employees to exert force in ergonomically correct postures improving efficiency and reduces fatigue. A regular ladder is generally not as desirable since it restricts repositioning, forcing employees to reach and twist the torso when performing pulling tasks.

Frequency of Pulling & Feeding

  • Manually pulling or feeding wire through long runs of conduit may take a great deal of time, requiring highly repetitive forceful exertions involving muscles of the hands, arms and back.

Possible Solutions:

  • Use spool rollers (Figure 4) that allow spools to rotate in place, releasing wire smoothly with less effort thus reducing force requirement of the task.
  • Use a mechanical wire puller (Figure 5). This can reduce force requirements of the task, thereby reducing the risk  and preventing cumulative trauma disorders in the workplace.
  • When manual pulling is required:
    • rotate employees between pulling and feeding and installation and repair tasks.
    • use gloves that improve coupling and protect the hands from contact stress and cuts.

Overhead Reaching

  • Working on overhead tasks in awkward posture with the hands raised above the shoulder may restrict blood flow and result in nerve compression that affects the upper extremities and shoulders causing numbness, tingling, discomfort and fatigue when these postures are maintained for long periods of time. Common overhead tasks may include attaching parts, completing circuits, and pulling or feeding wire. (Figure 6)
  • Awkward postures while pulling with the hands above the shoulder cause an increased load imposed on the shoulders, neck and back. When performed repeatedly, these tasks may result in overexertion of the back and upper extremities.

Possible Solutions:

  • Conduct pre-planning to ensure that employees are provided with appropriate height ladders.
  • Use platform ladders, lifts or other devices to get closer to the work area. Remove impediments such as work tables, bins or power equipment to improve access.
  • Adjust height of the work pieces to allow elbows to stay close to the body within thepower zone (Figure 7).
  • Use of a portable pulley (Figure 8) combined with mechanical pullers may significantly reduce overhead reaches and force requirements of the task.

 

Source: United States Department of Labor, “Solutions for Electrical Contractors: Installation and Repair” https://www.osha.gov website. Accessed February 22, 2017. https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/electricalcontractors/installation/pulling.html#Overhead%20Reaching

© Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. This content is strictly for informational purposes and although experts have prepared it, the reader should not substitute this information for professional insurance advice. If you have any questions, please consult your insurance professional before acting on any information presented. Read more.

Filed Under: Business, OSHA/Safety Training, Theme 98, Uncategorized, Weekly Safety Meetings, Workers' Comp

July 4, 2014 By Julian Aston Leave a Comment

IN: Disaster Preparedness For Your Business: Plan For & Protect

Dear Valued Customer,

In this issue of “—————-” we focus on planning for and protecting your business from a disaster. It’s the first in a 2-part series.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, up to 40% of businesses affected by a natural or human-caused disaster never reopen. And we recognize that insurance against an occurrence of this nature is only a partial solution. It does not cover all losses and it will not replace customers. That’s why it is so important to have a plan and implement it into your organization. It may make the difference between conducting business as usual, ever again.

Please read on for vital planning information, and do call us for the professional guidance you will need to assess your personal or business needs. We appreciate your continued business and look forward to serving you.

Kind regards,

Filed Under: Business, Disaster, Theme 37, Uncategorized

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