Contents

Back Injuries and Prevention ........................................................................................................................ 4

Being Observant ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Clothing ......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Drugs on the Job ........................................................................................................................................... 9
Defensive Driving ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Diet .............................................................................................................................................................. 11
Distractions and Safety ............................................................................................................................... 13
Does Safety Really Take Extra Time? .......................................................................................................... 15
Dropped Objects ......................................................................................................................................... 17
Dust (Construction Industry)....................................................................................................................... 19
Eating Habits ............................................................................................................................................... 20
Electrical Injuries ......................................................................................................................................... 22
Electrical Safety ........................................................................................................................................... 23
Elimination of Hazards ................................................................................................................................ 25
Eye Injuries and Prevention ........................................................................................................................ 27
Fatigue ........................................................................................................................................................ 28
Ground Personnel and Heavy Equipment Safety Talk ................................................................................ 30
Habits and Safety ........................................................................................................................................ 32
Hand Injuries and Injury Prevention ........................................................................................................... 34
Hand Tool Inspections................................................................................................................................. 36
Heat Stress .................................................................................................................................................. 38
Hierarchy of Controls .................................................................................................................................. 39
Horseplay .................................................................................................................................................... 40
Housekeeping (Construction Industry) ....................................................................................................... 41
Importance of Communication ................................................................................................................... 42
Importance of Mentoring ........................................................................................................................... 44
Importance of Reporting All Injuries ........................................................................................................... 46
Insect Sting Allergies ................................................................................................................................... 48
It Won’t Happen to Me ............................................................................................................................... 50
Ladders ........................................................................................................................................................ 51
Manual Handling ......................................................................................................................................... 53
Medications and Their Impact on Safety .................................................................................................... 55
Motor Vehicle Safety- Loose Cargo............................................................................................................. 56
Motor Vehicle Safety .................................................................................................................................. 57
New Employees........................................................................................................................................... 59
New Equipment .......................................................................................................................................... 61
Non-Routine Tasks ...................................................................................................................................... 63
“Not My Problem” ...................................................................................................................................... 65
Proactive vs Reactive Safety Approach ....................................................................................................... 66
Ready for Work ........................................................................................................................................... 68
Safety Can Be Redundant............................................................................................................................ 69
Securing a Construction Site ....................................................................................................................... 70
Self-Awareness and Safety .......................................................................................................................... 72
Shortcuts: The Acrobat and the Safety Net ................................................................................................ 74
Sleep............................................................................................................................................................ 76
Slips ............................................................................................................................................................. 77
Slips, Trips, and Falls ................................................................................................................................... 78
SORT Your Way to a Safer Work Environment ........................................................................................... 79
Spotter Safety ............................................................................................................................................. 80
Struck-by Incidents in Construction ............................................................................................................ 83
Taking Safety for Granted ........................................................................................................................... 85
Taking Safety Home .................................................................................................................................... 87
Theft from a Construction Site.................................................................................................................... 90
Using Multiple Safeguards to Prevent a Single Type of Incident ................................................................ 91
Vehicle Inspections ..................................................................................................................................... 93
Weakest Link ............................................................................................................................................... 94
Wind Dangers (Construction Industry) ....................................................................................................... 95
Work Area Best Practices ............................................................................................................................ 98
Workplace Inspections.............................................................................................................................. 100
Workplace Violence .................................................................................................................................. 102
Allergies

Allergies are an issue that many people have to pay attention to every day both on and off the
job. There are many sources of allergens that can cause an allergic reaction. Common allergens
include pollen, dust mites, food, drugs, latex, animal dander, insect stings, and mold. A few of
these allergens may be an issue while on the job. It is important to know what you are allergic
to as well as communicating it to others in case of an exposure resulting in an emergency
situation. In this safety talk we will discuss two common allergens that could be the source of a
severe allergic reaction on the job.

Insect Stings

Insect stings are a common cause of allergic reactions on the job. Most people respond to an
insect bite with redness and some minor swelling in the sting area. Some individuals have a
much more severe reaction including ones that are life threatening. A life threatening reaction
to any allergen, including an insect sting, is called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening
whole-body allergic reaction that can impair your breathing, cause a dramatic drop in your
blood pressure and affect your heart rate. According to the American Academy of Allergy
Asthma and Immunology, there are five insects most likely to cause an allergic reaction in the
United States. These five insects are yellow jackets, honey bees, paper wasps, hornets, and fire
ants.

The best practice when dealing with these insects is to avoid them whenever possible. If
working outdoors survey the work area for any possible nests or areas that could produce these
insects. Wear clothing that covers the majority of the skin in case of an attack. It is important to
have an EPI Pen that is easily accessible on the job if you are at risk for a severe allergic reaction
due to insect stings.
Back Injuries and Prevention

Back injuries are some of the most prevalent and hardest-to-prevent injuries on the job.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than one million workers suffer back injuries
each year, and back injuries account for one of every five workplace injuries or illnesses. These
types of injuries account for a large majority of worker’s compensation claims every year.

Back injuries often occur when:

• An individual is lifting up an object

• Using improper lifting techniques such as lifting with the back and not the legs
• Lifting an object that is too heavy for the individual
• Twisting while lifting or carrying objects
• Repetitive lifting during a work task

Ways to Prevent Back Injuries

Eliminate- The best way to protect individuals against back injuries is to eliminate as many lifts
as possible during the work day. Using equipment such as forklifts, heavy equipment, dollies,
etc. are the best way to achieve eliminating handling and lifting objects by hand. Break down
large or heavy objects that pose a hazard when lifting into smaller safer loads when possible.

Engineering Controls- Setup work areas that are ergonomically friendly to all employees. Install
mechanical lifting devices and conveyor belts where feasible to limit handling objects. Install
proper shelving and setup storage areas that keep objects and lifts within an optimal range.
Keeping objects within the proper range helps keep employees from making awkward or
dangerous lifts that can result in injury.

Administrative Controls- Use the buddy system when lifting any awkward or heavy objects.
Agree on weight limits for lifting. For example, having a policy to not lift anything over 100lbs as
a team without first involving a supervisor to see if there is a safer way to complete the lift.
Also, always select employees who are physically capable of making the lifts of a task before the
work begins.

Personal protective equipment such as back supports or back belts have not shown to be overly
effective in preventing back injuries. These devices often create a false sense of security when
completing lifts. Individuals should focus on stretching and using proper lifting techniques over
using a back belt to keep them safe.
Discussion points:

- Are there hazardous lifts we can eliminate in our daily operations?

- Are we using engineering controls when we cannot eliminate a lift or are we just completing
the lifts without looking at a safer way to do them?
Being Observant
There is so much noise and distraction in the world around us. Whether it is at home or at
work, we have so much on our minds as well as things going on around us that we miss a lot of
important details. It is critical to slow down and be able to observe the environment around
you while are at work to be able to safely perform tasks.

Being Observant

How many times have you tripped over something you did not see or turn around and get
startled because someone was in your area that you were not aware of? It happens to many of
us often. Depending on what is preoccupying our mind, our emotions, the distractions around
us, the noise levels in our area, etc. will determine how much of our ability to be observant is
affected. The less able we are to be observant the higher our chances are to be injured on the
job.

How to Be Observant

• Eliminate distractions from your work area. Whether it is someone talking to you or
excessive noise try to get rid of anything distracting you from your work. Another way to
eliminate distractions is to keep organized work areas to avoid unnecessary distractions.
• Take the time before starting a task to stop and look around your work area. Really
focus on the different tools or equipment in that area. Are there hazards you are
missing? Do you have everything you need?
• While completing a work task monitor your thoughts. Is your mind truly on the task? For
example think of a time when you were driving and can barely remember the trip. How
observant do you think you were while operating your vehicle?

Quick Exercise

Get out a regular number two pencil and look at it. If there is not a pencil around look at
another basic object such as a cup. Begin to name off observations you have about the pencil or
object. If you cannot think of more than 10 characteristics about the pencil or object you can
improve on being observant.

Some hints for exercise: Color of pencil, color of tip, is the tip sharp or dull, length, lettering,
color of lettering, eraser, eraser size, marks on it, weight, is it straight or bent, does it roll evenly
on a table, etc.
Clothing
An important but often overlooked aspect of safety is the clothing we decide to wear each day
on the job. Safety rules, weather, type of work, hazards of the work, and many other factors
weigh in on what type of clothing is optimal for the tasks being completed that day.

Weather

Outside of safety rules and regulations, weather is probably the main deciding factor of what
clothing someone is going to wear that day. The area where the jobsite is will decide many
things about the clothing a person should wear to work. Breathable thinner layers are more
desirable in warmer temperatures. In colder temperatures, thicker and warmer clothing will
need obviously to be worn to protect workers. In many climates, it may be necessary to wear
warmer clothing in the morning and then wear fewer layers in the afternoon. It is important to
plan what you are going to wear after considering the weather and how long you will be
exposed to it depending what work you are completing that day. Picking clothing that keeps
you comfortable as well as protects you from the elements is very important to allow you to
fully focus on a work task. Not wearing the proper clothing will take your focus off your work
and put it on the fact that you are cold, hot, or wet since you were unprepared for the weather.

Other Important Clothing Considerations

• Make sure clothing fits properly. Loose clothing can interfere being able to complete
work safely. It can get caught in rotating equipment or on other objects.
• Do not wear clothing with big tears or holes. Tears or holes can also interfere with work.
There have been incidents where a hole in clothing got caught on a control in
equipment causing unintended movements which lead to incidents.
• Bring extra clothing to work. Having extra clothes ensures you are able to change if you
get a chemical on your clothing or they become wet. Whatever the problem may be it is
important to have the option to change. Being comfortable in your clothes allows you to
focus on your work.
• Watch strings on hooded sweatshirts when working around rotating equipment or when
working on equipment. These can easily get caught up in rotating parts.
• Wear clothing that covers the skin when in areas where poison ivy or insects are a
possibility. Covering your skin is the best way to protect yourself from these types of
hazards.

Summary

Pay more attention to the clothing you choose to wear to work. Plan for what the weather will
be or whatever the environment is if working indoors. Choose types of clothes that will protect
you as well as fit comfortably. Proper clothing will allow you to focus on your work and work
more efficiently.

Discussion point:

Do you think clothing has a large impact on safety in the workplace?

Drugs on the Job
Individuals who come to work under the influence of drugs and alcohol are a big concern for
many employers across the world. In the United States, it is estimated over 60% of employers
conduct pre-employment drug screens. The cost of these tests are anywhere from $20 to $60 a
piece. Since employers are willing to spend this amount of money on screening employees
many find that the benefits outweigh the costs.

Problems Drug Abuse Causes in the Workplace

1. Safety- Individuals under the influence of the drugs are a danger to everyone at the
worksite. Drugs impair an individual’s reasoning abilities and motor skills. Drugs can also
negatively affect person’s ability to make decisions. Some drugs influence a person to
take more risks than they normally would if they were sober.
2. Production- Individuals under the influence of drugs are almost always less efficient
than when they are sober. Even if the drug is considered a stimulant, there are many
side effects or other consequences due to using these drugs. There is more absenteeism
by individuals who abuse drugs. Drug abuse often eventually leads to disruptive
problems between employees on the job which affects production.
3. Costs- There are many costs of drug abuse in the workplace. According to the National
Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Inc., the cost of drug abuse is over $81
billion annually in the United States. When a company has to spend a significant amount
of money randomly drug testing employees, dealing with the consequences of lost
production, and safety incidents, there is less money for the other areas of the business.
Upgrades to equipment, better benefits, bonuses, and pay raises can all be negatively
affected by drug abuse in the workplace.

Summary

Drug abuse in the workplace is an issue for everyone involved in the company. Not only is it a
safety issue for those individuals around someone who is abusing drugs, but there are other
consequences. When production is slowed down and costs go up, less money is available for
other areas of the business. Speak up to a supervisor if you see a coworker who may be having
issues with drugs.
Defensive Driving
The roads can be an extremely dangerous place. According to the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration, there were an estimated 6.3 million police-reported car accidents in the
United States in 2015. Distracted drivers, speeding, and drivers under the influence caused or
contributed to the majority of accidents each year. Drivers need to be cautious and aware of
the other drivers while on the road. Being a defensive driver is the best way to protect yourself
while on the road.

Most collisions that occur today are preventable. With all of the reckless drivers on the road
today, it is more important than ever to be a defensive driver. The National Safety Council
defines defensive driving as, “Driving to save lives, time, and money in spite of the conditions
around you and the actions of others”. Defensive driving techniques involve more than just
following the basic traffic laws.

Defensive drivers:

• Leave themselves an “out” when driving. Defensive drivers always think about their next
move if a crash were to occur.
• Slow down when the conditions warrant the need to.
• Do not engage in road rage activities.
• Avoid collisions by all means necessary- within the limits of the law.
• Plan their travels before leaving for their destination.
• Recognize the risks of their surroundings while driving.

Defensive Driving Example

John has been seeing a lot of deer activity in the roadway on his normal way home from work.
Instead of going the normal way John decides to take a route where there is less deer activity
on to the road. On his way home it begins to rain heavily and the roadway becomes slick so he
slows down to 5 MPH below the speed limit. After a few minutes of driving at this speed, the
driver behind him begins to flash his lights and tailgate his vehicle. Instead of speeding up or
stepping on the brakes, John decides to pull over where it is safe to do so to let the other driver
pass.

Discussion points:

-What were some of the defensive driving techniques that John used?

-How can we use defensive driving techniques here at work or on our commute to and from
work to stay safe?
Diet
The saying “you are what you eat” may be a little dramatic, but what you choose to eat can
have a major effect on your health and how you feel. How you feel at work will have a major
effect on being able to and choosing to work safely. It is important to make sure the things you
choose to eat and drink are helping improve your health and not hurt it.

Diet and Disease

Diet has a big effect on your overall health. Diet has been linked to many different health issues
including many diseases and cancer. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the
United States and is closely linked with diet. A proper diet reduces the chances of conditions
such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity which are all factors in whether a
person has heart disease or not. Heart disease and other aliments like it have a major effect on
you day in and day out. Whether it is the actual disease or medications you need to take to
combat it, you will not be able to feel 100% well every day.

Diet and Mood

Most people are aware that diet affects our weight and ultimately our health, but many people
may not realize there can be a link between diet and mood. For example, research has been
done that shows a link between vitamin D deficiency and depression. The sun is a major source
of vitamin D for us, but we also get it from our diet. If you are not getting enough vitamin D it
may be the source of a down mood.

Another example is research that has linked a low carbohydrate diet and lack of energy.
Participants in the study done by Arizona State University showed higher levels of fatigue and a
lack of desire to exercise just two weeks into beginning a low carb diet. While you may not have
these issues, it is important to know that diet could be the source or trigger of a change in
mood.

Diet and Safety

If you are not feeling good you cannot work to the best of your ability. Whether it is health
issues or lack of energy, your diet plays a big part in safety at work. If your focus is not on the
task or you do not have the energy to take the extra steps to ensure the task is being
performed safely, you are putting yourself and others at risk. Take a moment to reflect on your
diet and how it affects your work.

Discussion point:

-Can you think of ways to improve your diet?

Distracted Driving (Cellphone Use)

Using cellphones or other devices while driving has proven to be deadly. Cellphone use during
driving is very prevalent on our roads today. In fact, at any given time throughout the day,
approximately 660,000 drivers are attempting to use their phones while behind the wheel of an
automobile.

Smartphones have made it easy for us to stay connected at all times. But that can pose serious
safety risks if someone decides to check his or her text messages, emails, phone calls, or any
other mobile applications while driving.

Statistics on Cell Phone Use and Driving

• The National Safety Council reports that cell phone use while driving leads to 1.6 million
crashes each year.
• In 2013, 3,154 people were killed in distraction-related crashes.
• Nearly 330,000 injuries occur each year from accidents caused by texting while driving.1
out of every 4 car accidents in the United States is caused by texting and driving.
• Texting while driving is 6x more likely to cause an accident than driving drunk.
• Answering a text takes away your attention for about five seconds. Traveling at 55 mph,
that's enough time to travel the length of a football field.
• Texting while driving causes a 400% increase in time spent with eyes off the road.
• Of all cell phone related tasks, texting is by far the most dangerous activity.

Best Practices

• Put the cell phone down while driving.

• If you need to text or call while driving pull over to safe area to do so.
• When traveling as a passenger, urge any driver who is using their cellphone to put it
down.
• If there is another driver on the road who is using a phone while driving, maintain a safe
distance from them and be a defensive driver. Always leave yourself an out in case of
any type of accident occurs around your vehicle.

Discussion point:

-How often do you see others texting and driving on the road?
Distractions and Safety
There are many distractions in the world around us. There are so many things going on at once
in our environment that our brain actually limits what you respond to or recognize if it is
overloaded. Think about being in a loud crowded restaurant. Many other people are having
conversations around you but you do not really hear what they are saying. However, if
someone says your name your attention will snap to that conversation and you will now pay
attention to what they are saying.

This is an example of how our minds pick and choose what we actually take in from all of the
distractions and things going on in the world around us. At work, it is important to limit
distractions so it is easier to pay attention to what needs accomplished.

Stressors at Home

There can be many things distracting you from your work. Some of these distractions do not
even have to be in the immediate work area for it to be a distraction to you. For example,
stressors at home can be a major distraction for us while we are at work. Relationships,
illnesses, finances, etc. are common pain points that can distract an employee from their work.

Distractions at Work

There is an endless amount of distractions in the work environment that could be affecting your
ability to focus and execute work tasks. Some common examples of distractions in the
workplace:

• Noise can be a real issue in disruption of communication as well as distracting

individuals from the work going on at hand.
• Clutter and poor housekeeping can affect work performance. A study done by the
Princeton University Neuroscience Institute found that physical clutter makes it harder
for an individual to focus as well as for the brain to process new information.
• Other work tasks going on. Many workplaces have multiple work tasks going on at one
time. These other tasks going on around us can make it hard for us to focus on the work
task we are completing.

Best Practices in Eliminating Distractions

Evaluate your work area and the task you are doing and see what is distracting you from your
task. Is it stressors at home, something else on your mind, or is it something present in your
actual work environment? Once you recognize the distraction what can you do to eliminate it?
If it is a stressor at home can you make a phone call and attempt to get peace of mind? Talk
with a friend or family member about the situation that is bothering you to try to calm your
mind about it.

For the distractions in your work area, the fix may be more difficult to solve depending on what
the source is. Fix any issues that you can for the work area you are in such as picking up clutter
or organizing tools. For larger or more complex distractions work with a supervisor or safety
representative to get the issue resolved. Often times, preplanning or adjusting a work area can
solve many distractions.

Discussion points:

1. What are some distractions in our workplace?

2. How can we solve these distractions?
Does Safety Really Take Extra Time?
There are many complaints someone may bring up about workplace safety. One major
complaint or excuse for not following safety policies or procedures is time. At the company or
management level, time is equated to money. At the individual worker level, someone may just
not want to take the extra time to work safely. While individuals who do not follow safety
procedures to save time may get lucky and not have an incident, when one does occur much
time and money will have to be spent to address the issue.

Safety and Time

Some safe work practices take extra time to implement. On the other hand, many do not take
much time at all. Regardless of the time spent to put these safeguards into place or follow a
certain safe work practice, they are meant to be followed for a reason. Safety rules and policies
have been implemented over time due to many different reasons. These reasons may include
federal regulations, lessons learned, past injuries, near misses that have occurred, etc.

Regardless of why the policy or practice is in place, they all have one thing in common- they
were originally created in order to prevent injuries, illnesses, and property loss incidents. It may
cost more time or money up front to implement required safeguards, but it will often save time
and money on the back end through preventing injuries and illnesses.

Costs of a Workplace Incident

There are both obvious direct costs and hidden costs when an incident or injury occurs on the
job. Direct costs include the medical treatment needed to treat the injury. The direct costs are
always cheaper than the accompanying indirect costs. Some estimates state that every dollar
spent on the direct costs of an incident equals four to ten dollars in indirect costs. These
indirect costs created by an injury or illness are usually not recognized at first glance.

The National Safety Council lists examples of indirect or uninsured costs including:

• Lost production time.

• Productive time lost by an injured employee.
• Productive time lost by employees and supervisors helping the accident victim.
• Cleanup and startup of operations interrupted by an accident.
• Time to hire or train a worker to replace the injured worker until they return to work.
• Property damage. Time and cost for repair or replacement of damaged equipment,
materials or other property.
• Cost of continuing all or part of the employee's wages, plus compensation.
• Reduced morale among your employees, and perhaps lower efficiency.
 • Cost of completing paperwork generated by the accident.
• OSHA penalties.

Summary

There are even unknown costs associated with a company having injuries. These can include
the reputation of the company or talented workers not wanting to apply for jobs at that
company.

It may take extra time to follow safety rules or procedures up front, but not taking the time can
lead to many larger issues after an incident occurs. It is sometimes difficult to evaluate the
benefits working safely creates over time. Realize that the costs are much greater when an
injury occurs than they are when safe work practices are being followed and these incidents are
reduced.
Dropped Objects

Objects and tools dropped from higher levels is a serious hazard on the worksite. According to
the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2011 there were 219 fatalities from being struck by a falling
object or equipment in the United States. Objects as small as a bolt can cause serious injury or
even death when dropped from a higher level. Outside of injuries and deaths, dropped objects
are responsible for a large cost to employers due to property damage incidents.

Actions to Prevent Dropped Objects

Eliminate the hazard- Remove objects and tools from higher levels, scaffolding, or aerial lifts
that do not need to be there. Removing objects that can pose a hazard to people working
below is the best option to prevent a dropped object incident.

Engineering controls- Barricade zones below higher work levels to prevent personnel from
walking into the line of fire of a dropped object. Install toe boards on higher work levels to
make sure objects and tools cannot easily slide off an edge to a lower level. Place nets or some
type of protective barrier above ground level workers if there is continuous work being
performed above a work area. Another engineering control is the use of tethers or anchors for
tools and objects that are being used on a higher work level. This limits the object from falling.

PPE- Anytime there are overhead hazards present on a jobsite hardhats need to be worn. PPE is
always a last line of defense. Wearing a hardhat will only limit the damage a dropped object
does, not prevent it from happening. Rely on eliminating the hazard or installing engineering
controls to reduce the chance of objects striking ground personnel not PPE.

Look at all work areas where a dropped object incident can happen. Situations such as using
aerial lifts and working on scaffolds pose obvious hazards, but try to identify less obvious
hazards. An example could be a large wrench sitting on the edge of a piece of equipment that
has a mechanic working underneath in the line of fire. Paying attention to the smaller hazards
translates to larger changes in the safety of your work site.

Discussion points:

- How can we prevent dropped object incidents on our site?

-When working in your job area today, look for hazards associated with dropped objects and
report them to your supervisor or the safety department to get corrected.
Drowsy Driving
There are many hazards we face today anytime we operate a motor vehicle. Weather, poor
road conditions, and wildlife are some common hazards on the road today. There are also many
hazards created by other drivers on the road. One very deadly activity that is taking place far
too often on our roads is drowsy driving.

Causes for Drowsy Driving

• Lack of sleep- The amount of things we have going on in our lives can make it hard to
get plenty of sleep.
• Medical issues- Certain medical issues or health conditions can bring the onset of
drowsiness even if a person has had plenty of sleep. One common example is thyroid
issues.
• Drugs/ alcohol- Drugs and alcohol on their own can cause an obvious hazard while
driving. When they are paired with a lack of sleep or medical issues, it can be an
extremely dangerous situation.

How to Avoid Drowsy Driving

• Get plenty of sleep. Most experts recommend at least 7 hours of sleep.

• Eat a good diet and drink plenty of water. Taking care of your body is important to
function at optimal levels.
• Consult your doctor for an unusual or excessive fatigue. It could be a symptom of an
underlying health issue.
• Never drink and drive. Use caution even when only using prescribed medication. Many
medications cause drowsiness.
• Pull over when fatigue or drowsiness is setting in. A ten minute nap can make the
difference in whether or not you make it to your destination.

Summary

Do not be a drowsy driver. Take the necessary precautions to avoid putting yourself in a
dangerous situation. Pay attention to the drivers around you and practice defensive driving
techniques to protect yourself from other drivers who may be driving drowsy.
Dust (Construction Industry)
There are many different hazards on any single construction site. Dust can be one of them. Dust
can cause a variety of issues from health concerns to physical hazards for workers who are
exposed to it. It is important to understand the issues dust cause can and what steps that
should be taken to prevent it onsite.

Other Dust Hazards

Outside of health concerns that dust can create there are also other hazards it is responsible
for. A few of these hazards include:

• Injuries to the eyes

• Dust can serve as a distraction from a work task creating more risk for injury or property
damage
• Decreased visibility

Best Practices to Avoid Dust Related Illnesses and Injuries

• Eliminate the source of the dust whether that is through engineering controls or a
change in work processes.
• Use collection or vacuum systems on tools that create dust to collect it at the point of
operation.
• Use wet methods when cutting or breaking any concrete or similar materials.
• Use water as a means of suppression for the dust on roadways or in work areas.
• Have trucks and equipment keep speeds down if dusty conditions are present onsite.
• Stay out of areas where dust levels are high as well as avoiding being downwind from
these areas.
• Use proper respirators when engineering controls are not enough to protect you.

Summary

Consider the hazards dust creates onsite. Realize the health issues it can create as well as the
physical hazards. Elimination is the best way to protect yourself from dust or any other hazard
onsite for that matter.

Discussion point:

-How can we reduce our exposure to dust at this worksite?

Eating Habits
The well-being of our bodies is everything to us. If we do not take care of our health at some
point our bodies will develop problems. Without our health we are not able to fulfill our daily
tasks. Eating well should be a major goal for you to maintain good health throughout life.

Our bodies work like machines and are only able to withstand so much abuse. Food is the
equivalent of fuel to our bodies. If you are consistently putting bad fuel in a machine it will
breakdown, the same goes for our bodies. Diet has been directly linked to many different
aspects of our health. It is impossible to list every situation here, but we will discuss some of
the major problems caused by eating poorly.

Health Problems Caused by Poor Eating Habits

• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Some types of cancer

There are also smaller issues that a poor diet causes that can affect you on a daily basis. Fatigue
and lack of focus can sometimes be attributed to eating poorly. Being fatigued can have major
effects on performing your job safely. When you are not feeling 100% you are putting yourself
and others around you at risk. Eat healthy to benefit yourself and family first, but also think of
the positive effects it can have on your work.

Quick Tips to a Better Diet

Consult a doctor or nutritionist before any major diet changes.

• Drink more water. Water serves many important purposes for our bodies. Most
Americans do not drink enough water each day and are not aware of it.
• Limit food with processed sugar. Sodas, candy, sweets, and other junk food are filled
with processed sugar. These foods can lead to obesity and diabetes.
• Eat more fiber. Fiber has proven to help fight off some cancers. It also limits the amount
of calories your body will absorb.
• Choose whole grain foods. Whole grain foods contain many nutrients and like fiber, it
can help you maintain regular bowel movements.
• Take a multivitamin. Multivitamins can help you get essential vitamins and nutrients you
may not be getting in your diet.
Discussion points:

-Do you believe your diet has an effect on your work?

-Did you know that drinking one can of soda a day adds up to over 50lbs of sugar in a year?
Electrical Injuries
The hazards associated with electricity affect the majority of workplaces. Whether you are in
general industry, construction, or even farming electrical hazards are present. It is important to
be able to recognize the electrical hazards around you.

Common Electrical Hazards

• Energized overhead powerlines

• Lightning
• Faulty equipment
• Working on energized equipment
• Improper grounding
• Damaged insulation

Electrical Shock

Electrical shock occurs when a person becomes part of an electrical circuit and the current
passes through their body. A person becomes part of a circuit when they are in contact with an
electrical current and a ground or an electrical current and another electrical current with a
different voltage. Three primary factors affect the severity of the shock a person receives when
he or she is a part of an electrical circuit:

• Amount of current flowing through the body (measured in amperes).

• Path of the current through the body.
• Length of time the body is in the circuit.

There are also secondary factors such as presence of moisture, state of the heart of the
individual, and state of health of the individual that can affect the severity of the shock.

Summary

There are many ways to be injured or killed by electricity both at home and on the job. This talk
only discussed the injury statistics, common electrical hazards, and how electrical shock occurs.
It is important to understand how to mitigate electrical hazards. Discuss the electrical hazards
and the mitigation actions for these hazards in your workplace with your supervisor or health
and safety manager.

Discussion points:

-What are some electrical hazards present onsite?

-What are ways we can protect ourselves from electrical-related injuries?

Electrical Safety
The hazards associated with electricity affect the majority of workplaces. Whether you are in
general industry, construction, or even farming electrical hazards are present. It is important to
be able to recognize the electrical hazards around you and know how to mitigate them.

Electricity-Related Injuries

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, between 1992 and 2010 there were
5,096 fatalities in the United States due to contact with electricity. There were a total of 66,748
injuries that required days away from work in the same time period due to electricity. The
construction industry experiences the majority of injuries and fatalities. In these statistics they
do not include injuries caused by secondary events. For example, an individual falls from a
ladder due to getting shocked. If these types of injuries were included the statistics would be
higher. Everyday individuals suffer some type of shock, but do not seek or require treatment for
their injuries. Because of this, it is difficult to fully track the occurrence of electrical shock in the
workplace.

Common Electrical Hazards

• Overhead powerlines
• Underground powerlines
• Lightning
• Faulty equipment
• Working on energized equipment
• Improper grounding
• Damaged insulation

Electrical Safety

• Maintain at least a 10 foot distance from 50kV overhead powerlines, add more distance
as the voltage increases. Also avoid the poles themselves to avoid bringing lines to the
ground.
• Call your local 811 utility locator prior to digging to avoid unexpectedly striking an
underground electrical line or any other utility.
• Inspect all cords for damaged insulation or missing ground prongs. If either of these
conditions exist get them fixed by a professional or remove them from use.
• Never work on energized equipment. Always follow proper lock and tag out procedures
before performing electrical work. Test the power after locking and tagging out to
ensure there is no power being fed to what you are working on.
 • Do not operate electrical equipment in wet conditions. Also avoid having electrical
components in a wet environment unless they are protected.
• Secure all electrical boxes and panels. Ensure components in and around these panels
are in good working condition and not missing.

Summary

There are many different electrical hazards in any one workplace. It is important to understand
and respect the dangers electricity poses. Eliminate any electrical hazards in your work area to
avoid an injury to yourself or another coworker.

Discussion point:

-What are some electrical hazards you can face today and how can you mitigate them to
protect yourself?
Elimination of Hazards
When discussing how to mitigate hazards in the workplace there is a hierarchy of controls that
is often referred to. The safeguards we use to control hazards fall into the various levels on the
hierarchy of controls. The hierarchy of controls outlines the safeguards used to mitigate a
hazard from most effective to least effective. The hierarchy can have additional or less levels of
controls listed depending on the version you are looking at. A common version of the hierarchy
from most effective to least effective control is listed as: elimination, substitution, engineering
controls, administrative controls, and PPE. Elimination should always be considered first when
attempting to mitigate hazards in the workplace.

Relying on Lower Levels of Controls

If we do not first attempt to eliminate or use effective engineering controls to protect ourselves
against hazards, we have to resort to using some type of PPE or another less effective
safeguard. This is not an effective way to prevent injuries and accidents. Safeguards that would
fall under the PPE level of the hierarchy of controls are far less effective than safeguards that
eliminate or engineer out hazards. An example would be relying on a pair of gloves to protect
your fingers from a pinch point hazard instead of ensuring there is proper guarding around the
pinch point. PPE should always be considered the last line of defense and employees should
have this mindset as well.

Elimination

Elimination of hazards is the most effective way to protect employees against injuries.
However, far too often companies or individual employees do not take the time to plan out
work tasks or the time to actually eliminate the hazards they are faced with. Everyday millions
of workers are faced with hazards that they do not need to be exposed to. Proper planning of
work, thinking about alternative safer ways to complete a work task, and allocating the
necessary resources to complete the task are some of the first steps supervisors can take to
begin to eliminate hazards. At the worker level, hazard recognition and the elimination mindset
is important to ensure any additional hazards are eliminated.

Quick Examples of Eliminating Hazards

1. John Smith sees a hammer hanging half way off of a piece of equipment that is being
worked on and tells the mechanic it is up there. Instead of just not trying to knock the
hammer off the elevated surface the mechanic decides to remove it and put it back on
the tool bench. This ensures he or anyone else will not be struck by it falling.
2. Two cooks have cut their fingers while sharpening knives at XYZ Restaurant. The
manager of the restaurant decided to make a new policy that knife sharpening is
 completed by a third party company and not by the cooks in the restaurant. The
sharpeners are removed from the restaurant and the cooks are trained on the new
policy.
3. ACME Construction Company is excavating and moving excessive dirt for a footer of a
large warehouse. Due to excessive rain, the site conditions make it very dangerous for
dump trucks to operate. The superintendent decides to shut down dump trucks for the
day and have only the dozer operators to come in to dress up the site.

Discussion points:

-Are there hazards that we are relying on PPE or a lower level control to mitigate the hazard
instead of eliminating it completely?

-Is there any other example of eliminating hazards that you can think of?
Eye Injuries and Prevention
Our eyes are one of our greatest assets. They give us the ability to see the world around us. If
we do not protect our eyes from injuries while at work we could easily lose that ability. There
are an estimated 2,000 eye injuries every single day on the job according to the CDC. These
incidents cost employers over $300 million dollars per year. It is important to eliminate or
engineer out the hazards that could pose hazards to our eyes at work. Most of the hazards to
our eyes on a worksite cannot be fully eliminated so proper eye protection is also critical.

Eye Hazards

• Flying dust
• Flying debris
• Chemicals
• Blunt trauma to the eye
• Burns due to UV exposure, such as welder’s flash

Eye Safety Tips

• Identify all of the potential eye hazards in your work area and for your work task. Ensure
there are proper safeguards in place to prevent an eye injury. If there is a safeguard
missing, stop the work task and correct the problem.
• Always wear approved safety glasses, face shield, or goggles. The type of PPE needed
will depend on the work task. Three out of every five victims of eye injuries on the job
were not wearing any eye protection.
• If you get something in your eye do not rub or scratch it. Rubbing the eye can cause
scratching of the cornea resulting in injury. Find an eye wash station or saline bottle to
rinse out the object.
• If you get a chemical in your eyes, remove your contacts if there is any in and begin to
rinse your eyes out.
• Do not put yourself in the line of fire of hazards. Stand upwind and out of the line of fire
if debris or dust is blowing around the work area. If there is welding activities going on,
ensure there is a protective barrier in place to protect employees in the area. Eliminate
the chance of getting something into your eye.

Discussion points:

-What are some hazards we have onsite that can injure our eyes?

- What job tasks require us to wear a face shield onsite? What about goggles?
Fatigue
Your ability to work safely is one of the most important safeguards in protecting yourself and
others while at work. When you are not able to fully focus and perform your duties correctly,
you could be leaving yourself at a risk for injury. Fatigue on the job is a major problem in the
United States for workers. Fatigue leaves workers performing at lower levels and this exposes
them to higher chances of an injury or an incident occurring. It is important to prevent fatigue
while on the job to keep yourself and those around you safe.

Fatigue in the Workplace Statistics

• Fatigue carries an overall estimated cost of more than $136 billion per year to
employers in health-related lost productivity.
• 1 in every 5 workers are sleep deprived.
• Poor sleeping habits and fatigue lead to stress on the job
• In a survey by Caremark Rx Inc. of 29,000 adults, 38% reported feeling fatigue at work in
the last two weeks.

Fatigue Causes

• Lack of sleep
• Too many demands at work or home
• Medication
• Other health problems such as depression or anxiety

Safe Work Practices to Prevent or Improve Fatigue Issues

• Get plenty of rest. It is recommended to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep a night
by most experts.
• If your work schedule is too demanding or the hours you are working are making you
feel fatigued every single day, talk with a supervisor. Sometimes responsibilities or
schedules can be altered to improve productivity and safety in the workplace.
• It is important to understand the side effects of medication before using it at work. Talk
with your doctor to make sure he/she understands your work responsibilities to ensure
the medication will not interfere with your performance.
• Take care of your health. Addressing other health issues can greatly improve how you
feel both at home and at work.
• Eat a better diet. Food to humans is as gasoline is to a car- if you put dirty gas in your car
it will not run well. Same goes with your body!
• For short periods of less intense fatigue, use caffeinated beverages to help you wake up.
Another option is to get up from where you are working to stretch or take a walk.
Discussion point:

-What can we do to combat fatigue onsite?

Ground Personnel and Heavy Equipment Safety Talk
Being on the ground on a construction site is a hazardous situation. There are many moving
parts and hazards present for ground personnel. Heavy equipment is a major hazard on a
construction site. It is important to consider the hazards heavy equipment creates for the
individuals working around these machines and how to mitigate these hazards.

Three Common Hazards Created by Heavy Equipment

• Struck- by hazards created by the operation of heavy equipment is the top concern for
the personnel working around these machines. Backing up, moving attachments, and
suspended loads are all struck-by hazards for ground personnel.
• The noise created by these machines can exceed OSHA’s action level of 85dBA. The
engines of these machines, the back-up alarms, and the noise created at the point of
operation all lead to loud levels of noise for ground personnel. This noise can also drown
out important communication between workers.
• Dust and flying debris created by the operation of heavy equipment is another safety
concern for workers near this equipment. Eye injuries as well as respiratory issues can
result from being exposed to the flying debris or dust generated by heavy equipment.

Best Practices When Working Around Heavy Equipment

There are many safeguards, safety policies, and safety procedures that can be in place to
protect workers on the ground on construction sites that have heavy equipment present. Some
common best practices to protect ground personnel from the mentioned dangers of heavy
equipment are:

• Eliminate foot traffic from areas where heavy equipment is operating.

• Use spotters for heavy equipment operation when it is needed and safe to do so.
• Communicate with the operators of the equipment when working near their operating
area.
• Stop heavy equipment when possible before entering the work area or passing through
the work area.
• Always leave yourself an out when working around heavy equipment. Never place
yourself in the line of fire or in a position where you cannot move out of the way of
danger.
• Use hearing protection when noise levels exceed 85dBA.
• Use a water truck onsite to suppress dust to protect ground workers and the public.
• Always wear safety glasses with side shields when on construction sites.

Summary
Working around heavy equipment creates many hazards. It is necessary to take the proper time
to address these hazards in order to remain safe. Never assume an operator can see you on the
ground. Always communicate your location to these operators. When necessary, stop heavy
equipment to safely be able to complete a work task or pass through a work area.
Habits and Safety
We all have habits that we follow on a daily or weekly basis. These habits have a major effect
on our life. They also affect the choices we make at work. The choice to follow a safety
procedure on any given day could be affected by a habit you have had for years.

Your Habits

Think about the habits you follow every single day. Start with waking up. Did you hit the snooze
button once or twice? Do you do this every day? What about breakfast? Did you cook in the
house or did you stop at the same gas station you do every day to grab a quick bite to eat?
Most likely the choices that you have made from the point you woke up today to right now in
this safety meeting are the same choices you make every single day. These daily choices are
your habits.

How Habits Work

According to Charles Duhigg, who is the author of the book The Power of Habit, there is a “habit
loop”. The habit loop he describes in his book is a three part process. The first part of the
process is the cue or trigger, the second is the routine or behavior itself, and the third is the
reward.

Let us take the example of you repeatedly hitting the snooze button and look at it as a bad
habit you want to break. We will discuss the habit by looking at Duhigg’s habit loop. The trigger
of this habit would be your alarm going off in the morning. While the alarm is blaring your mind
tells you it is okay to hit the snooze button and continuing sleeping because in the past you
have done it. Hitting the snooze button would be the behavior. The reward would be getting
more sleep. To break this habit you would need to change the trigger or adjust the reward to
change the behavior over the long term.

Looking at the trigger first, maybe changing the location of your alarm and making it more
difficult for you to hit snooze will help break the habit. Another option to help break the habit is
experiencing a different reward which would be having more time in the morning. By not
hitting the snooze button repeatedly you will experience a new reward of more time and less
rush in the mornings before work. This reward alone over time may lead you to curve the habit
of hitting snooze.

Habits and Safety

Your habits may be leading you to consistently take shortcuts and not follow safety procedures.
Are there certain safety procedures you always follow and others that you rarely follow? For
example, you are a welder and every single day you complete your JSA, but many days there
are times you choose not to lower your helmet while welding. Why do you choose to follow
one safety procedure but not the other? Maybe you complete your JSA every day because you
have to turn it in everyday and you have learned that it gets reviewed. The reward would be
not getting disciplined by a supervisor so you choose to do the JSA every day. On the other
hand you choose not to lower your welding helmet because it is hard to see through and you
know supervisors rarely enter your work area. The reward is that you feel it is quicker to do the
task, you can see better, and you have not been injured yet. In your mind there is no
consequence that will most likely come that is more negative than the reward you receive from
not putting the helmet down so you continue the behavior.

Summary

Pay attention to the habits you hold on to and how they affect you daily. How many of these
habits are positive ones and how many are negative? Look at the choices you make at work and
if they lead to negative behaviors then look at changing them. By addressing the trigger or
experiencing a different reward for your behaviors you may find a way to change bad habits.
Hand Injuries and Injury Prevention
We use our hands for virtually every task we do. Without our hands and all of our fingers we
could not complete work easily. While gloves are the most common form of PPE found in the
workplace, hand injuries are still the second leading type of injury on the job.

Hand Injury Statistics

(source: www.bls.gov)

• There are 110,000 lost time cases due to hand injuries annually.
• 1 million workers are treated in an ER for hand injuries annually.
• 70% of workers who experienced a hand injury were not wearing gloves.
• Another 30% of victims had gloves on, but they were damaged or inadequate for the
work task.

Three Common Types of Hand Injuries

1. Lacerations are the most common type of hand injuries. Lacerations are due to sharp
objects or tools. Often inadequate gloves are used during an activity that involves a
sharp tool. A glove with Kevlar is effective in protecting the hand against a cutting or
slicing motion. A straight stab motion can still easily penetrate these gloves. Caution
needs to be used when using any tool that can easily penetrate the skin.
2. Crush injuries are usually due to employees placing their hands in the line of fire
between two objects or in a rotating piece of equipment. It may be more beneficial to
not wear gloves where they can get caught in machinery and pull the hand into a crush
injury situation. Evaluate the work task with a subject matter expert or safety
professional to decide what protection, if any, is needed on maintenance tasks.
3. Fractures occur when there is a sudden blow to the bones in the fingers or hands. Motor
vehicle accidents often cause fractures to the hands. Another common cause of
fractures is an individual extending out their hands to catch themselves from a fall.

Safe Work Practices

• Use tools instead of your hands when possible to get your hands out of the line of fire
during a work task. Tools such as push sticks when using a table saw is an example that
removes your hands from the line of fire.
• Avoid using fixed open blade knives whenever possible. There are safety knives that
limit the length of the blade exposed. They also have a safety feature that retracts the
blade when pressure is let off the handle or switch that controls the blade.
• Never put your hand in an area where you cannot see it.
 • Always wear the proper gloves for whatever work task you are doing. Understand the
limitations of your gloves and what work tasks they are appropriate for.
• Never work on an energized piece of equipment. Lock and tag out the equipment to
ensure there will not be unintentional start up while you are working on the equipment.

Discussion points:

-What are some of the biggest hazards to our hands onsite?

-Next time you are doing a simple task at home such as setting the table for dinner, getting
ready in the morning, or cleaning- try doing the task with one or two less fingers. It sounds like
a silly exercise, but this can help put into perspective how hard it would be to complete tasks
without some of our fingers. It is easy to take for granted our health and abilities when we have
had them for so long.
Hand Tool Inspections
There are many injuries while using hand tools on the job. Many of these injuries occur from
improper use, but there are also injuries that involve a tool that was broken or in need of
repair. What tool is being used will decide what needs to be inspected on it. In this safety topic
we will discuss basic hand held tools that are not electric or pneumatic.

Common hand tools found on almost every jobsite and at home across the country are screw
drivers, hammers, chisels, and wrenches. This is not an all-inclusive list, but these are the most
commonly used hand tools.

Common Hand Tool Inspection Items

Hammers- Ensure that the handle is not broken or chipped. If a handle is taped, more than
likely it is broken and needs replaced. On any tool, tape is not a manufacturer’s approved fix for
a needed repair. Make sure the head of the hammer is secured to the handle properly. Throw
the hammer away if part of the claw is broken off.

Screwdrivers- Ensure the handle is not chipped or broken. Many people will use the screwdriver
as a chisel and hit the back end of it with a hammer. This causes damage to the screwdriver and
will damage the handle. If the head of the screwdriver is chipped or worn down, replace the
screwdriver.

Chisels- Chisels are strong tools, but just like any other tool they will begin to break down over
time. Check the back of the chisel. Often times, the back will begin to mushroom. When
mushrooming occurs the chisel either needs to be repaired properly or replaced.

Wrenches- Check that the wrench is not bent. Replace any wrench that is chipped or
excessively worn. Losing the grip on a bolt due to a worn or broken wrench can easily cause
hand injuries to the user.

General Hand Tools Best Practices

• Keep tools clean. Dirty tools are harder to use safely and properly.
• Do not modify hand tools. Keep the manufacturer’s design intact.
• Secure all hand tools and store them away properly. Tools left out are much more likely
to get lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Use tools how they are designed to be used. This will keep the tool in good condition
longer and you safe when using it.
Discussion points:

-Are the hand tools we have onsite safe to use?

-Today in the field, look at every hand tool in your work area. Turn any tools into your
supervisor that are broken or need replaced.
Heat Stress
Heat stress can be a killer on the jobsite. Deaths from heat-related issues between 2005 and
2009 rose to higher rates than any others observed during any other 5-year periods in the past
35 years. Outside of the direct consequences such as heat stroke, heat stress can cause
incidents due to loss of focus or excessive fatigue on the job.

Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat Cramps- Are painful, brief muscle cramps. Muscles may spasm or jerk involuntarily. Heat
cramps can occur during exercise or work in a hot environment or begin a few hours later.

• Heat Exhaustion- There are two types of heat exhaustion. 1. Water depletion- Signs
include excessive thirst, weakness, headache, and loss of consciousness. 2. Salt
depletion- Signs include nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, and dizziness.
• Heat Stroke- Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. Heat stroke can kill or
cause damage to the brain and other internal organs. Heat stroke results from
prolonged exposure to high temperatures -- usually in combination with dehydration --
which leads to failure of the body's temperature control system.

If anyone is displaying symptoms of a heat-related illness, it is important to get them the proper
medical attention they need before the problem turns into heat stroke. For people displaying
symptoms of heat exhaustion, have them stop work and get to a shaded area. The affected
person needs to consume water or electrolyte replacing sports drinks. The person should not
return to work the rest of the day.

Anyone who is displaying symptoms of a heat stroke, immediate medical attention is needed.
Delaying calling 911 could result in irreversible injuries or death. Symptoms of heat stroke
include fainting, throbbing headache, dizziness, lack of sweating, vomiting, or behavioral
changes such as confusion. The person should be cooled down immediately in a shaded area or
indoors. DO NOT put ice cold water on the victim as this can cause shock. Use cool water to
lower the body temperature of the victim. Remove any unnecessary clothing and fan the victim
until medics arrive.

Safe Work Practices

• Allow for acclimatization to a hot environment before any strenuous work begins. It
takes roughly two weeks for an individual to acclimate to a hot environment.
• Drink plenty of water during strenuous activities especially in hot environments. An
average person sweats between roughly 27 oz. to 47 oz. per hour during intense labor.
To put that amount into perspective, an average water bottle holds 16.9oz.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors where there is AC.
Hierarchy of Controls
There are multiple safeguards to control any one hazard. Each level of these safeguards serves
to protect employees. Some safeguards or controls are more effective than others. The
hierarchy of controls outlines the controls used to mitigate a hazard from most effective to
least effective. The hierarchy can have additional or less levels of controls listed depending on
the reference you are looking at. The hierarchy we will discuss is listed as: elimination,
substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE in our example.

Real World Example

To better understand the hierarchy of controls we will provide a real world example. The
example: A painter will apply a paint with a high level of VOCs to a metal surface in a factory.

Elimination: Eliminate the hazard by not completing the process. The process can be
outsourced or completed by an automated process to take painter out of the situation.

Substitution: Use paint with a lower VOC content to protect the painter. There is almost always
a less hazardous option when dealing with chemicals.

Engineering: Apply the paint in a paint booth with a proper ventilation system. This will help
protect the painter as well as other employees in the factory.

Administrative: Train the painter to properly and safely complete the task. Use job rotations or
breaks to limit the painter’s exposure to the paint.

PPE: Provide a respirator that will protect the painter from the fumes of the paint. Also provide
googles to protect the eyes and some type of coveralls to protect the skin.

We should always strive to eliminate as many hazards as possible. If elimination is not possible
then other controls lower on the hierarchy should be implemented to protect employees. PPE
is always a last resort and should never be looked at as a primary control for a hazard. The more
safeguards in place for a hazard the least likely an incident will occur. Always verify controls are
in place and never just assume that they are.

Discussion points:

-Give me some examples of controls and where they would fall on the hierarchy of controls.

-Are we relying on a less effective safeguard instead of eliminating the hazard or implementing
an engineering control during a work task onsite?
Horseplay
Horseplay leads to many injuries and property loss damage incidents in the United States every
year. A quick search on YouTube or Google will show you hundreds of these types of incidents.
While you should enjoy the work that you do, your work should always be completed safely and
responsibly. Some companies actually condone and provide resources to employees to
horseplay and fun have such as Google, but many companies have a zero tolerance for it in
their workplace. While horseplay may seem innocent and fun it can lead to devastating
consequences.

Examples of Horseplay Leading to Injuries

• A guy pulls the chair from beneath a coworker as he goes to sit. The victim falls and
bruises his tailbone and cannot properly walk for weeks.
• A man decides it would be funny to blow an air horn in a coworker’s ear. This action
ruptures the victim’s eardrum, requiring medical attention.
• A worker decides to jump on the side of a piece of equipment and catch a ride. The
operator hits a bump at a fast speed in an attempt to scare the other worker. The
worker falls off and is run over by the equipment.

Some Safety Tips Involving Horseplay in the Workplace

• If your company condones or allows some type of horseplay know the limits. Just
because it is allowed does not mean it cannot lead to an incident.
• Stay busy at work. Excessive downtime often leads to horseplay or other activities to
pass the time that can distract workers from tasks going on around them.
• Do not initiate horseplay. You do not want to be the one responsible for an injury,
fatality, or property damage incident in your workplace.
• If others around you are taking part or initiating horseplay, report it to a supervisor. Do
not just turn a blind eye. An incident can have a huge effect on you, your job, and the
company as a whole depending on the severity of the incident.

Discussion point:

-Have you ever witnessed horseplay lead to an injury or a property damage incident on a job?
Housekeeping (Construction Industry)

Companies that hold general housekeeping of work areas to high standard usually have a better
safety culture than those companies who do not. Housekeeping is an important part of a robust
safety program. Poor housekeeping promotes inefficiency as well as leads to injuries and
property loss.

Poor housekeeping leads to:

• Slip, trip, and fall injuries

• Property damage incidents involving moving equipment or vehicles
• Caught in/between injuries
• Sprains/ strains due to unnecessary movements of objects that are in the way

Ways to Improve General Housekeeping in Your Work Area

1. Create lay down yards for equipment and tools when out in the field. At the end of the
task, return tools and equipment to their proper locations such as a workshop or
toolbox.
2. Designate walking areas or paths for employees in work area and keep equipment and
objects out of that path.
3. Designate parking areas within specific work areas to avoid clutter and vehicles or
equipment striking objects around them.
4. Barricade or place orange fencing around objects or areas where equipment, vehicles,
or people should not be. This also helps control points of access into work areas.
5. Keep tools and equipment clean. Heavy equipment should not have loose cargo such as
trash in the cab. These items can be a distraction or interfere with the controls.

Paying attention to the small details translates to bigger changes in the safety culture in the
field. Not only does good housekeeping help to lower property loss incidents as well as injuries,
but it also shows the maturity of a safety culture within a company. Many of us work for a
larger contractor or client in the construction industry and when your work areas are always
clean and tidy it shows responsibility of your company to address the small issues onsite.
Overlooking simple issues such as housekeeping can lead to big problems with injuries and
property loss.

Discussion point:

-How can we improve the housekeeping in our work areas?

Importance of Communication
Proper communication is crucial for a job to run safely and efficiently. When communication is
insufficient or missing totally there can be many negative consequences for employees and the
company as a whole. Recognizing the communication tools for work tasks and the work
environment is important to ensure the proper messages are being received.

Tools to Communicate in the Workplace

When someone says communication, the first thing you may think about is speaking words to
another person or sending an email. These are just two ways to communicate, but there are
many more ways found at work. Some other examples of communication include posters,
labels, warnings, bulletins, pictograms, JSAs, SOPs, body language, etc. Depending on any
number of factors, each of these tools of communication can be very critical to working safe.

Communication and Safety

Proper communication and safety go hand in hand. If there is no communication for a given
work task then safety is also missing. Some common tools for communicating a safety message:

• Training is a way to communicate how to do a task and how to do it safely and is one of
the first methods of communication used when preparing for a work task.
• JSAs are important tools to communicate the steps of a job task, the associated hazards
of each step, and the mitigation actions to be able to work safely.
• Safety meetings or toolbox talks discussing work tasks and the associated hazards of the
work are very important for work crews. Paying attention to the safety meeting
information can protect you during your work task that day or sometime in the future.
• Labels are found on almost every piece of equipment, tool, and chemical in the
workplace. Manufacturers put these labels on for a reason. They often relay some of the
most important information regarding the hazards and safeguards of that product.

There are many other ways that safety is communicated in the workplace. Verbal
communication is also very important. When you see a situation where someone could be hurt
or there could be property loss you should always speak up. Have a conversation with the
individuals involved in the task to voice your concerns. Involve the right personnel to correct a
situation before an injury occurs.

Summary

Recognize all the different tools used in the workplace to communicate a safety message.
Appreciate the time and resources dedicated to develop and use these tools every day.
Embrace the message they are conveying to keep you working safe and efficient. When
communication is not used to its fullest potential there can be an increased chance for injury.
Never be afraid to speak up when it comes to safety on the job.
Importance of Mentoring
No one has all of the answers. If you do, you are under-utilized and under paid. For the rest of
us, there is always going to be times when we need help from someone else. It is important to
feel comfortable asking for help when you need it or mentoring others when they need
assistance.

Mentoring

Dictionary.com defines a mentor as a wise and trusted counselor or teacher. While that
definition sounds like a formal and structured relationship between two people it isn’t always
the case. Often times a mentor at work is just someone who you are able to seek guidance or
expertise from. They are someone who has a lot of experience with a certain task or job and are
willing to help younger or less experienced coworkers. Many companies understand the
importance a mentor can have for a new hire and actually have an establish program to make
sure new hires have a mentor on the job. There are a lot of benefits from having a mentor at
work.

Benefits of Mentors at Work

1. Less job stress- Understanding your role at the company from someone who has went
through some of the same experiences can help to reduce the stress of a job. Many
times our friends or family may not understand the stressors and issues we deal with at
work so having a relationship someone who understands the issues that your position
can create can be beneficial.
2. Less injuries and incidents- Obviously when people with less experience are trained
better and are given guidance there is less chance for injury. Experienced individuals
have to be willing to step up and talk to lesser experienced individuals when they see
them working unsafe.
3. More efficiency- Production goes up when a new hire understands how to properly do
their tasks. Experienced individuals have learned many valuable tips and tricks over the
years that can be helpful for new hires.
4. Improved morale- When everyone helps each other out at a company, it is a more
enjoyable place to work.

Summary

If you do not have a mentor at work, think about reaching out more often to experienced
coworkers around you. It does not have to a structured relationship or even defined as a
mentor/new hire relationship. It can just be looked at as being able to approach someone to
get guidance or advice when needed. If you are an experienced worker, look to help out those
coming up behind you. Everyone can learn from each other in different ways. Even new hire or
younger individuals have life experiences that may drastically help someone who has a lot of
experience in their field. Everybody wins when all the individuals on a worksite are able to work
safely and efficiently.
Importance of Reporting All Injuries
We are all trained to report any near misses, injuries, or incidents to a supervisor or safety
representative. Often times however many of these incidents, especially first aid type injuries,
are not reported. Injuries are not reported because of many different reasons, but it is
important to understand why all of them need to be.

Reasons Why Incidents Go Unreported

There are many reasons why incidents such as property damage, near misses, spills, and injuries
go unreported. A major reason is often the individual’s pride. Most people do not want to
admit their mistakes to others, especially at work. They may also fear the outcome from sharing
what occurred with a supervisor. This fear may come from being afraid of being disciplined,
what others think, or the repercussions from the incident. Another reason a person may not
want to report an incident is because of the paperwork or energy involved in doing so. There
are many other reasons why an individual may not want to share what happened to them, but
this should never be the case.

Why it is Important to Report Injuries

There are many reasons why you should report any type of injury, no matter the severity. The
most important reason is to make sure the situation or hazard is made safe for not only
yourself, but the others at the worksite. Another reason is to further share your experience or
the lessons learned from the incident with others to prevent it from occurring in the future.

With injuries, even just minor ones, it is important to get them looked at by a supervisor or
safety representative. While many injuries, such as a small cut or an insect sting, may not seem
like a big deal they can turn into one. A quick example: You are bit by some type of insect on a
Friday afternoon at work, but decide not to tell anyone for various reasons. You leave work and
are home for a few hours when you notice that the bite area is beginning to swell up. Along
with the swelling, you notice that you have hives and are having trouble breathing. You realize
it is a serious allergic reaction and need medical attention. You tell the doctor you were bit or
stung at work and the treatment he gives you ends up being considered “medical attention”.
Because it happened at work and you needed medical attention beyond first aid it is now an
OSHA recordable injury. In this situation there are a few problems since the injury was not
reported to someone at work immediately.

1. There is no record or witness to it happening at work which could raise concern by the
employer whether or not the injury occurred at work. This may end up in a drawn out dispute
since there has been many people in the past who have faked or had injuries off the job, but
stated it occurred at work in an attempt for it to be paid through worker’s compensation.
2. If the injury was reported immediately someone may have been able to recognize that it may
develop into an allergic reaction. There could have been options for first aid instead of medical
treatment to treat the issue before it worsened which would have saved you a trip to the
hospital and the company an OSHA recordable.

Summary

All injuries need to be reported, no matter how small. Not only does it protect you, but it also
protects the company as a whole by possibly preventing a first aid injury developing into an
OSHA recordable. You never know when something that seems minor in nature will develop
into something more serious. There are also always lessons that can be learned, even from just
minor injuries, to prevent others from occurring in the future.
Insect Sting Allergies
There are many allergens that can cause an allergic reaction. One of the most common
allergens and hardest to avoid is insect stings. According to the American Academy of Allergy
Asthma and Immunology, it has been estimated that potentially life-threatening allergic
reactions to insect venom occur in 0.4 percent to 0.8 percent of children and 3 percent of
adults. Even after experiencing a normal reaction to insect stings, it is possible to experience a
more serious allergic reaction at any time during your lifetime. It is important to avoid insect
stings whenever possible as well as how to respond when someone is suffering from a severe
allergic reaction.

Insect Stings in the United States

According to AAACI.org, there are five insects that cause the majority of allergic reactions in the
United States. These insects are honeybees, hornets, wasps, yellow jackets and fire ants.
According to NIOSH, thousands of people are stung by insects each year, and as many as 90–
100 people in the United States die as a result of allergic reactions. This number may be
underreported as deaths may be mistakenly diagnosed as heart attacks or sunstrokes or may be
attributed to other causes. Insect stings can result in any of the following symptoms:

• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling (in area of sting and sometimes beyond)
• Flushing
• Hives
• Itching
• Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is the most serious reaction to allergens there is. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening
whole-body allergic reaction that can impair your breathing, cause a dramatic drop in your
blood pressure, and affect your heart rate. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical treatment,
including an injection of epinephrine and a trip to a hospital emergency room. If it isn’t treated
properly, anaphylaxis can be fatal.

Best Practices in Avoiding Insect Sting Allergic Reactions

Avoid stinging insects whenever possible. If you know you have severe reactions to insect stings
do not complete work that puts you at great risk of being stung. Inspect work areas prior to
completing any work to ensure there are no insect nests that could be disturbed. Wear long
sleeves and long pants in case of an insect attack. Have an EPI pen on hand in case of a sting
and ensure your coworkers know where it is. If you suspect someone is suffering some type of
serious allergic reaction immediately call 911, even if an EPI pen has been used.

Discussion points:

-Does anyone have an allergy to insect stings?

-Has anyone experienced someone suffering from a severe allergic reaction?

It Won’t Happen to Me
There are many excuses someone will give for not working safely. Some common excuses
include: I didn’t know, I didn’t have time, I lost my PPE, nothing will happen, etc. One of the
worst excuses to have for not working safe is a “it won’t happen to me” mindset. This excuse
communicates a mindset that is set on not completing a task safely or shows a person is relying
on luck to keep safe while on the job.

Experience and Attitude Towards Workplace Safety

There is no substitute for experience. Experience, for the most part, allows us to work more
efficiently and safely, however this is not always the case. Experience can also lead to
complacency or a higher level of tolerance for risk. When an employee has done the same task
or has been in the same occupation for many years they can have the “it won’t happen to me
mindset”. This doesn’t mean that newer employees cannot have the same mindset, but it is
often very experienced employees who fall into this mindset trap. We have all heard stories of
experienced workers or supervisors getting seriously injured from becoming complacent
towards known hazards. It is necessary to be mindful of your attitude towards safety on the
job.

Why it is Necessary to Avoid This Mindset

Complacency can be hard to avoid, however having the mindset that an incident or injury will
not happen can put you at a great risk of sustaining an injury. Believing you are not susceptible
to the hazards of the job is a quick way to be injured. No one is able to avoid injury from the
majority of hazards from just having experience alone. It takes action on top of that experience
to ensure safeguards are in place and safe work practices are being followed to avoid injury. No
matter how much experience you have, the necessary steps still need to be taken to prevent an
incident from occurring.

Summary

Do not let experience on the job affect your attitude towards taking the correct steps to work
safe. Hazards need to be controlled. They are only controlled when we as workers take the time
to implement the proper safeguards and follow safe work practices. Evaluate your attitude
towards safety as well as what hazards or work tasks you may have become complacent
towards.
Ladders
Ladders are an essential tool on many jobsites and at home across the United States. Because
of their wide spread use and the inherent danger of working at heights, they are responsible for
a large number of injuries both on and off the job. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission reports there are an average of 165,000 injuries at home every year and the CDC
reported there was over 50,000 injuries on the job resulting from ladders in 2011.

Ladder Injury Facts and Statistics

• In 2011, 113 workers died while using a ladder.

• 43% of fatal falls on the job from 2001 to 2011 involved a ladder.
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 50% of all ladder-related injuries occurred
when the individual was climbing with objects in their hands.
• Fractures are the most common type of ladder-related injury.

Common Causes of Ladder Falls

• Misuses of ladders- People often do not follow the safe work practices when using
ladders. Standing on the top step of a ladder is a common and deadly practice. Other
actions like climbing up a ladder carrying objects, leaning to reach for something, and
attempting to move the ladder while still on it are some common practices that lead to
injuries.
• No inspection prior to use- Problems such as cracked or broken rungs, loose bolts, non-
approved fixes, etc. lead to injuries.
• Not using the correct ladder- People will often use the same ladder for many different
jobs and situations. Choosing a ladder that is too short for the job is often a problem
that leads to an injury. Also choosing a ladder not stable enough for the ground
conditions or one that is not rated properly for the job are issues that can lead to injury.

Ladder Safe Work Practices

• Never stand on the top step if it is not designed to be a step.

• Do not lean or reach to grab something while on a ladder. Climb down and reposition
the ladder closer to the object or area you were trying to reach.
• Do not carry objects up the ladder in your hands. Use a tool belt or a retrieval system to
bring tools up to you once you have climbed the ladder. Always have your hands free
when climbing so you are able to have three points of contact with the ladder.
• Always inspect a ladder before use. If there is any problems with it, immediately tag it
out of use and find a properly functioning ladder.
• Use the correct ladder for the job. There are many types of ladders to work in different
situations. Check weight ratings to ensure you do not overload the ladder during use.
• Always secure the ladder. Make sure the ladder is stable on the ground before climbing
up. Tie off the ladder to the structure you are next to. Have someone hold the ladder to
secure it.
Manual Handling
There are many injuries on the job caused by individuals moving objects by hand. The Bureau of
Labor Statistics reports that strains and sprains are the most prevalent type of injury on the job.
While these types of injuries can be hard to prevent it is possible through taking the right steps.
Many injuries are suffered due to individuals who are willing to take risks while completing lifts.

Types of Injuries Sustained While Completing Lifts

• Strains
• Sprains
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Pinch point injuries
• Struck-by injuries
• Slips, trips, falls

Best Practices for Manual Handling

The single best protection you can take from getting an injury while completing a lift is to
eliminate lifting by hand! Elimination should always be the first consideration while discussing
mitigating hazards on the job. Much of the manual handling on the job can be completely
eliminated through proper planning, engineering controls, or use a piece of equipment to
complete the lift. When setting up any job area or placing an object down, the next person who
has to move the object should be thought of. If the object is awkward or heavy and there is no
room for a piece of equipment to be able to lift it then someone will have to end up handling
the object again. These situations can lead to injury. Properly plan out work tasks so that
objects do not need to be repeatedly lifted and moved. Each time a lift is made there is chance
for injury.

A best practice is to establish a weight limit of what one person or a team of people are allowed
to lift and carry on a work site. Consider a cut-off weight before mechanical means need to be
used to lift the object. For example some companies have the policy that no single person can
lift an object heavier than 50lbs and a team of people cannot lift anything over 100lbs. While
you may be able to handle these weights, it is good to have an established point where manual
handling is no longer an option.

Summary

Injuries due to manual handling can be hard to prevent, that is why eliminating as many of
these lifts as possible is important. Plan out your work tasks and your work areas to reduce the
chance of manual handling injuries. It is important to know your limits and not to exceed them.
Even if you are strong it is easy to injure back muscles due to lifting awkward or heavy objects.

Discussion point:

-Are we taking unnecessary risks while lifting objects?

Medications and Their Impact on Safety
The use of prescription strength and over the counter medications is exceedingly common today.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, over 4 billion prescriptions in 2016 were filled at retail
pharmacies in the United States. Over the counter medication sales are also at high levels. According to
the market research company IRI, sales for over the counter medication were around $340 dollars per
household in 2015. It is important to understand the effects medications and even supplements can
have on you and the work that you do.

Side Effects of Medications

There are many different side effects a medication can have on the person taking it and they can vary
widely from person to person. We have all heard the commercials selling certain medications and the
long list of possible side effects that follow. It is important to understand the side effects that can come
with the medications you are taking.

For example, fatigue is an extremely common side effect for many different medicines today. Fatigue
can create dangerous situations in the workplace and is just one possible side effect. There is an endless
amount of side effects created by medications that can create hazardous conditions in a workplace.

Medications and Work

Often times companies or supervisors will not ask individuals about any type of medical related issues or
concerns due to privacy laws. While individuals are not required to disclose every single medical issue or
medication they are taking, they should talk with a supervisor when they can lead to problems in the
workplace. For example, a worker is found passed out on a construction site. The worker is not
responsive and an ambulance is called. It is found out later that the individual is diabetic and his sugar
was low. While the supervisors may not have been able to prevent the incident, they may be able to
provide better more accurate information to get proper treatment for the individual if they would have
known they were diabetic.

Summary

Know the effects of medications before using them at work through speaking with your doctor as well
beginning to take them outside of work. Speak up to someone such as a supervisor or safety
representative when medications or medical issues can create issues for you at work. Knowing someone
is dealing with certain issues can help management choose safer work options for the individual.
Management will also have more information to get an individual the proper care in case of a medical
emergency.

Discussion points:

1. Does anyone have any examples of when medications lead to an accident or medical
emergency?
Motor Vehicle Safety- Loose Cargo

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were an estimated 6.3
million police-reported car accidents in the United States in 2015. Motor vehicle crashes are the
leading cause of workplace injuries according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2013, motor
vehicle incidents contributed to 40% of all workplace fatalities. The majority of injuries occur
during the initial impact of a crash however loose cargo both inside or outside the vehicle, such
as the bed of a truck, can cause additional injuries or property loss incidents.

Loose cargo within a vehicle or piece of heavy equipment such as empty bottles, trash, tools,
PPE, etc. are not only a distraction while driving or operating, but they also turn into projectiles
during a crash. A recent segment on Good Morning America looked at the dangers unsecured
items in a vehicle can pose. Safety expert, Sean Kane of Safety Research and Strategies, told
Good Morning America that ordinary objects in cars and trucks are responsible for 13,000
injuries each year. Those half-filled water bottles, canned goods, lab tops could all become
dangerous projectiles when hurling through the air during collisions. At 55 miles per hour, a 20-
pound object hits with 1,000 pounds of force — so powerful that a suitcase can literally shear
the arm of a crash test dummy. It is just as important to mitigate the secondary hazards, such
as loose cargo, as it is to do so for the more obvious primary hazard of the actual impact of a
crash.

Mitigation Actions

• Practice good housekeeping. Remove any trash and unnecessary items from your
vehicle or cab of a piece of heavy equipment.
• Utilize the trunk area or cargo boxes before putting items in the cab area of the vehicle.
• Tie down or secure any remaining items properly.
• Perform periodic inspections of any vehicles used both on and off the work site for loose
cargo.

Discussion points:

-What items currently pose a hazard in your vehicle or piece of equipment?

-What can we do to make our vehicles safer when dealing with loose cargo?
Motor Vehicle Safety
Year after year, motor vehicle incidents are at the top of the list for cause of workplace
fatalities. Off the job, they take tens of thousands of lives a year. Driving while off the job safely
is just as important of driving safely while on the job. A serious car crash will affect your family
emotionally as well as probably financially. Serious injuries sustained in a car crash will affect
your ability to earn an income. Not only will your family be affected from a car crash off the job,
but your company and coworkers will as well. Everyone has a role at work and when one
person isn’t healthy or misses work, the company loses a valuable piece to that puzzle.

Safe Driving Tips:

• Do not engage in other activities while driving. Activities such as using cellphones,
eating, or even just reaching for an item takes your eyes and focus off the road. A large
majority of accidents are caused by distracted drivers.
• Be a defensive driver. Always leave yourself an out when driving. Think about your next
move if an accident was to happen in front of you or a car ran the next stop light.
Thinking ahead and being proactive when driving can save your life.
• Always wear your seatbelt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, seat belts reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by about
half.
• Maintain a clean and well-kept vehicle. Dirty windows and dust can be distracting and
make it hard to see while driving. Loose cargo such as empty water bottles, tools, PPE,
and other items are not only a distraction, but they can also interfere with controls in
the vehicle.

Discussion points:

-How many people here have been involved in a car crash? Could it been avoided? How did it
affect you or your family?

-How can we become better drivers both at work and outside of work?
Muddy Work Areas
Weather can create many hazards and slow down production for construction sites and other
work sites that are outdoors. This is especially true when rain creates excessively muddy
conditions. There are many different hazards to consider if work is going to take place in muddy
conditions.

Hazards and Injuries Created by Muddy Work Areas

• Equipment/ vehicle crashes or over turn. Traction and control is greatly reduced when
operating on mud.
• Slips, trips, and falls. Walking around or getting into equipment in the mud can lead to
slipping or falling.
• Sprains/ strains. Many people will pull muscles due to getting their boots stuck in the
mud and trying to yank them out. Also, falling over with your feet stuck in an awkward
position can lead to suffering a sprain or strain injury.

Best Practices When Working in Mud

• The single best practice is eliminating work in excessively muddy areas until it clears up
or work areas are addressed.
• Dress up areas with equipment such as a bull dozer to get down to more solid ground.
• If work is continuing in an area that is muddy stop when needed to dress it up again. It
takes less time to fix an area to make it safer than it does to pull out stuck vehicles or
equipment that tips over.
• Never drive into excessively muddy areas or down slick slopes. Getting stuck creates
more hazards due to other personnel having to come into the field to pull out your
vehicle or equipment.
• If you get your foot stuck in the mud, slowly work it out by moving your foot back and
forth. Yanking on it is not very effective and can result in injury.
• Maintain clean steps on equipment and remove mud off of your boots before climbing
up and down equipment. Always use three points of contact.

Summary

While these safeguards seem like common sense, many injuries and property damage incidents
occur every year due to poor site conditions. Use your best judgement when working in the
mud. Do not put yourself in a situation where you make a bad situation worse. Always adjust
work plans to site conditions.
New Employees
New employees often are viewed as a liability to a company or jobsite when it comes to
working safely. One study found that employees with less than one month on the job are three
times more likely to suffer a lost time injury than employees with more than a year on the job.
While new employees are at higher risk at getting injured, much of that depends on the other
employees and the work site itself.

Benefits of New Employees

A new employee often wants to follow all the safety rules especially if the majority of people
onsite are following the rules as well. If a new employee observes the other employees working
safely they will often want to do the same. New employees also have a fresh set of eyes
towards hazards onsite and may have experiences of unique lessons learned from previous
jobs. That being said, measures should still be taken to ensure new employees are able to and
do perform work safely.

Safeguards for New Employees

• Training- Even if a new employee has many years of experience on the job at another
company they still need comprehensive training on their job at the new company,
jobsite, and the company’s expectations.
• Mentoring- Many companies use some type of mentoring program to ensure that new
employees have someone to ask questions and get guidance from. This allows for a new
employee to be more comfortable approaching a more experience employee with any
questions he or she might have.
• Supervision- Newer employees or even just employees on new tasks need to be
supervised. Proper supervision may not necessarily mean an employee’s immediate
supervisor. Depending on the task, a subject matter expert or a senior employee may be
more beneficial for supervision of newer employees. Just like mentoring, a newer
employee may feel more comfortable and get more out of being supervised by someone
else other than their immediate supervisor.

Summary

While new employees can be a liability to a company, they also can serve as a great asset to
everyone around them. The odds of a new employee avoiding an injury greatly depend on the
other employees around them. Everyone starts somewhere and needs guidance in the
beginning. Remember the struggles and important lessons learned as a new employee and pass
that knowledge on. Safety on the job is everyone’s responsibility. Watch out for those around
you and never hesitate to help out a new employee.
Discussion point:

-What is the biggest hazard for a new employee on this job?

New Equipment
Every single day new technologies and equipment are being introduced into the marketplace.
These technologies and equipment eventually make it to our workplaces. It is important to fully
understand these new tools before beginning work. Often new tasks and equipment are a
source for injury on the job.

Before Using New Equipment

Depending how complex the task or piece of equipment is that you are going to use will dictate
what will need addressed before it is put into service. Here we will only discuss a few basic
guidelines of what needs to happen before a new piece of equipment or process is put into
place.

1. Involve a subject matter expert (SME). This person can be a rep from the supplier,
someone who is familiar with the process within your company, or a consultant.
Regardless of who it is, involving someone with the expertise on the new equipment
before the decision is made to purchase or use it is crucial. Involving the SME before the
equipment is purchased better ensures that all aspects of bringing in the new
equipment have been thought of and if it will actually fits the needs of what it being
brought into the workplace for.
2. Review all the relevant paperwork for the piece of equipment. Documentation such as
the operator’s manual, safety guidelines, and technical sheet should be reviewed by
everyone involved in the process. From this material and guidance from the subject
matter expert, company specific job hazard analysis, job safety analysis, and/or standard
operating procedures should be created.
3. Ensure that all of the other necessary resources in place to safely operate the
equipment. Some other resources that could be needed is: additional training, other
tools, other emergency equipment, maintenance equipment, additional personnel,
more time to complete the task, shutdown schedules, etc. The list goes on and on
depending how complex the new equipment is. The subject matter expert along with
the other personnel involved in this process should be able to foresee these other needs
and communicate them to the management during the onboarding process.

Other Considerations

The above steps may seem excessive for many new tools or tasks, however even new versions
of equipment used onsite could benefit from the guidelines above. For example, it may not
seem like a big deal to bring in new 2017 models of the CAT excavators you are already using
onsite. However, if the model the company is using onsite now is from 2009 there can be a
major number of differences. Items like operational controls, safety controls, maintenance
schedules, training requirements, new features, etc. can be vastly different than the model
from eight years prior. Use the guidelines above to review the equipment before bringing it
onsite and having your operators put the equipment to use. This could save a life from a safety
stand point and time and efficiency from an operations stand point.

Summary

There are almost always secondary considerations that are not thought of when bringing in
new equipment. Creating a thorough process for bringing in new equipment is a proactive
approach that benefits everyone involved in many ways. The proper process will not only help
to ensure injuries are prevented, but can also help to avoid costly mistakes from an operational
standpoint.
Non-Routine Tasks
Many days we complete the same tasks at work, week after week. There are other times when
we are required to do non-routine work tasks. Whether it is a task that is only done a few times
a year, something that just comes up, or just lending a hand to another work group it is
important to understand the unique hazards non-routine work tasks present for the employees
who complete them.

Non-Routine Tasks Examples

Non-routine tasks can be defined in many different ways. Some examples of non-routine tasks
include:

• Helping a new work group out due to a lack of trained personnel

• Maintenance issues on equipment
• A completely new work task
• A task that only needs completed a few times a year

These are just four examples of different types of non-routine tasks that could occur in any
workplace.

Routine Tasks and Complacency

The opposite of non-routine tasks are the tasks we complete every day. These tasks can
become redundant to the individuals who do them day in and day out. Because of this
redundancy corners start to be cut. When corners are cut, safeguards are not put into place
which can lead to an incident occurring. Complacency can be an issue for non-routine work
tasks as well, however there are also additional hazards that may not be present in the normal
day to day scope of work.

Hazards Associated with Non-Routine Tasks

The tasks that are not part of the normal scope of work for an individual present different
hazards than they normally face. Individuals will still be exposed to many of the same hazards
they normally are, but there are also unique hazards associated with non-routine work tasks.
These hazards can include lack of experience for the task, insufficient training and knowledge,
improper tools for the work, not enough personnel, poor hazard recognition, etc.

Best Practices for Completing Non-Routine Tasks

The complexity and type of task will dictate what needs to occur to ensure the work is
completed in a safe manner. There are some best practices that apply to the majority of non-
routine tasks.
 • Ensure you fully understand the task and have the necessary training to be able to
complete the task safely.
• Complete a thorough JSA with everyone involved in the task.
• Involve a supervisor or subject matter expert when discussing the work task as well
when writing the JSA.
• Do not start the task if you lack any of the proper resources to complete it.

Discussion points:

-What are some examples of non-routine tasks at this worksite?

-What are steps we can take to ensure we are working safe while completing tasks we do not
do often?
“Not My Problem”
We have all heard someone say in the workplace, “it is not my problem” or “that is not my job”.
They may have been referring to a coworker not following rules, someone doing a task wrong,
or a hazard left by someone in the work area. Regardless of what the circumstances are, all of
these scenarios affect everyone in the company.

Why it is your Problem

No matter what the basic issue is, from someone not following safety rules or a hazard created
by a coworker, it will affect you if an incident occurs. The ripple effect from an injury usually
most greatly affects the individual’s family. However, it also will affect all of the workers in that
workplace, the jobsite, and the company as a whole. This idea can sound extreme but we will
look at the construction industry for example.

Injury Rates Affect All

Injury rates affect both how much a company has to pay for insurance as well as a company’s
ability to bid work. Many larger companies will not allow a contractor to bid any work for them
after they exceed a certain injury rate. Many companies use the a 1.0 experience modification
rate (EMR) as a starting point for considering contractor’s bids. If a company’s EMR is over 1.0
this means they have had more than the average rate of injuries for their industry. If the
company’s EMR is below 1.0 then it means they are doing better than their peers in preventing
injuries which usually equates to being more competitive in being able bid new work.

If the company is not able to bid new work or even lose existing jobs due to having incidents
and injuries then it will affect you or your coworkers. More immediate effects of an injury
include loss of hours or job shutdown. After an injury occurs, even minor ones, many
companies will stop work to complete an investigation. If the injury or incident is more serious
then there can be a few days where work is stopped to complete a thorough investigation.

Summary

We took a selfish approach to why it is your problem when there is an unsafe condition or
someone is working unsafe. You should want a safe workplace outside of your own good and
interests for all involved. However, remembering that it does truly affect you and the company
as a whole when something is not right will encourage you to own whatever the hazard is and
see it through that it gets corrected. Keep this thought in your mind as you go into work today
and share it with your coworkers.
Proactive vs Reactive Safety Approach
Many of the safety rules and procedures that are in place were “written in blood”, meaning
they came about from a previous incident that caused an injury, property loss incident, or a
fatality. When we implement a safeguard after an incident occurs we are taking a reactive
approach to safety. We can look at the majority of rules and procedures that we follow today as
a proactive approach towards safety, however many of them came from a reactive position.
Something bad had to happen first before many of the rules and procedures were put into
place.

Being proactive is the best way to approach safety in the workplace. Addressing and eliminating
hazards before work begins should be a main goal of a company’s safety program. Many
workers or the management in some companies would rather take a reactive approach with
some hazards rather than being proactive and eliminating them up front. This mindset puts
everyone onsite and the company as a whole at risk for an incident or injury.

Proactive Versus Reactive Example

An operator is on an excavator in an already tight work area. A crew that has a work task next
to him decides to park in his work area. The crew is not aware of the scope of work for the
operator’s task and that is why they did not recognize the hazard of parking there. This makes
his job even more difficult to complete. Instead of the operator asking the crew to move their
vehicles to a safer location or contact his supervisor he decides he can probably squeeze by the
vehicles to complete his work. Ten minutes later he turns his excavator around and in the
process hits two of the crew’s vehicles with his counterweight.

If he were to took a proactive approach towards the hazard of the vehicles in his work area this
incident would not have happened. He could have stopped his work and asked the crew to
move their vehicles to eliminate the hazard of hitting them. This small decision could have
made a big difference. Instead, there will be a site shutdown to complete an incident
investigation. The investigation takes time and money to complete. There will be a large cost to
fix the vehicles. Individuals could be written up in result of the incident. New procedures and
rules will be implemented to prevent a similar incident from occurring.

Being proactive sometimes takes time to do successfully. To eliminate some hazards it takes
thought and planning to do correctly. Other times, like in the example, a two minute
conversation to move the vehicle could save hours of downtime, money, and stress for
everyone involved.

Discussion points:
-Think of an example of a hazard onsite and get example on how to handle it proactively and
reactively.

-Ask the crew what are some proactive steps they are going to take today for the work they are
completing that day.
Ready for Work

Coming into work healthy and in the right mindset every day is just as important as being
properly trained or having the right tool for the job. Many factors, both on and off the job,
affect how well or poorly we do our jobs on any given day. Some of the factors we will discuss
are sickness, fatigue, medication, and stress.

• Sickness- We all get sick from time to time. Some illnesses are minor and work can
continue, but others we need to stay home to get better before coming to work. When
you are sick you may not be able perform your duties as needed and this can put
yourself or others at risk for an injury. Know when it is time to stay home due to an
illness. During flu season especially, it is important that you do not come to work and
infect others. Not only are you not able to work to your fullest ability you also affect
others being able to work due to being infected with your illness.
• Fatigue- Fatigue is a killer on jobsites all across the country. Many employees work over
the normal 40 hours a week. Add on the demands of home life and there are many
people who are probably too tired to safely perform their functions. Get at least six
hours of sleep a night and eat a balanced diet to help combat the demands of a busy
life. Drink caffeinated drinks or take a break and stretch when feeling tired on the job.
• Medication- Many medications affect how we feel. When starting a new medication it is
important to try it off the job to see how it affects you. Ask your doctor about all of the
side effects. Make sure he or she understands the work you do as well as any other
medications you take. Let a supervisor know if you are not feeling well due to a
medication. If you feel comfortable telling a coworker about what medication you are
taking, let him or her know so they can keep an eye on you.
• Stress- There is good stress as well as bad stress. We are more familiar with the bad
stress. Stress from work demands, home demands, family problems, health problems,
etc. affect us every day. A combination of high expectations for productivity and limited
resources to complete work often leads to high stress levels on the job. It is important
to be able to handle stress in a constructive way. Exercising or taking time to enjoy
hobbies is a good way to relieve stress. Recognize when you are stressed and step away
from the situation to take time to relax.

Summary

Whether it is sickness, fatigue, medication, or stress affecting you in a negative manner at work
it is important to speak up and address the problem. When “simple fixes” are not enough to
correct a health related issue it is important to let a supervisor know and cease the work task.
Address the problem at its source to ensure you can continue to work productively and safely.
Safety Can Be Redundant
Some individuals like to reflect back on the “old days when there was no safety” to protest the
ever increasing emphasis on workplace safety. Over the last few decades many changes have
come into play regarding workplace safety. Whether it is through new technologies, new laws,
new rules, or just more focus given to safety, those in the same job for years have experienced
a major shift towards more of an emphasis on safety than the years before.

Why Safety Can Be Redundant

Often times the same work tasks are completed every single day. Because of this, the safety
issues and focuses are often the same- day in and day out. The discussions on safety will often
focus on a handful of hazards for the work going on that day. The reason for this is because the
same hazards often are the ones that cause the most incidents and injuries. While discussing
and focusing on the same old hazards can get redundant, it is important to never become
complacent towards these hazards.

Battling Complacency

We do many of the tasks in the same exact way every single day. Yet paperwork is still filled out
and discussions are still had regarding safety for these tasks. One of the hardest things to avoid
at work is complacency with hazards as well as going through the motions with safety
procedures. As time goes on, individuals become more confident in their abilities and
knowledge at work and some people are willing to take more risks. This is one reason why
safety issues need to be constantly reinforced, even if it has become redundant to talk about
them.

Summary

It is understood that safety can be redundant at times, but it needs to be understood by

employees that we all need reminded to stay focused on working safely. The same old hazards
are often the ones that get people injured. OSHA’s Fatal Four construction hazards are an
example of this. It is known that falls, electrocutions, struck-bys, and caught in or between
incidents are the main causes for the overwhelming majority of fatalities in the construction
industry yet it reoccurs year after year. Do not get complacent with the hazards of your work
and do not view some redundancy in a safety program as a negative.
Securing a Construction Site
There are many instances where the public make their way into a work site to run equipment
for the thrill of it. Some other reasons such as theft, vandalism, curiosity, or even accidental
entry are cause for people to enter a work site after hours. No matter what the intention of the
people entering, it is important to have a secure workplace, especially after hours. Securing the
workplace means taking steps such as locking up areas, shut down equipment, placing
barricades, posting signage, and protecting property.

Safeguards to a More Secure Workplace

General Work Area- Ensure adequate fencing is up around the entire work site. Depending on
the area, crime rate, and potential property loss evaluate the possibility of investing in a site
wide security system or outside agency to provide site security. Keep valuable items out of plain
sight from the viewpoint of the public. Pay attention to where scrap metal piles may be onsite.
Scrap metal often brings thieves into a work site.

Buildings- Always lock buildings. Keep valuables out of sight within the buildings. If someone
looks through a window and does not see anything worth taking it may deter them from
entering. Use alarms, flood lights, and cameras when possible. While the upfront cost can be
expensive, a good security system can prevent expensive break-ins.

Heavy Equipment- There has been many instances where people break into a construction site
and run equipment for the thrill of it or to cause problems for the company. This can do a lot of
damage to the site as well as be a dangerous situation for the people who broke in. It is
important to take steps to protect against situations where heavy equipment is stolen. Some
steps to take:

• Do not leave equipment out in the open when possible. Lock equipment in a shop or at
least in a fenced in area.
• Remove key from the equipment and lock the doors. Do not rely on the fence around
the site to keep people out.
• Most pieces of equipment have a master switch. At the end of your shift shut the
master switch off. If someone is not familiar with that piece of equipment they will not
be able to get it to turn on.

Excavations- All excavations should be 100% barricaded or fenced in at the end of the day. This
protects the public or any employees who enter the area from driving or falling into the
excavation. Do not rely on a perimeter fence to protect individuals from harm due to an
exposed hole within the site’s boundaries.

Discussion point:
-The points made in this talk did not cover every aspect of securing a work site. How else can
we more effectively secure our worksite?
Self-Awareness and Safety
Gary Vaynerchuk, a successful serial entrepreneur, repeatedly states that self-awareness is the
most important tool to anyone’s success. Knowing who you are, your strengths, your
weaknesses, and why you do the things that you do is critical to your success in any part of life.
Self-awareness plays an important role in your success at work including working safely while
on the job.

What is Self-Awareness?

Self-awareness is defined by Google as “conscious knowledge of one's own character, feelings,

motives, and desires.” There are many aspects and parts to self-awareness, but it basically boils
down to knowing who you are and what you want. Self-awareness is important for the success
in all areas of our lives.

Awareness Versus Action

Even if you are aware of who you are, your strengths, your weaknesses, etc. it is useless unless
you apply action towards what you could improve at. Improving at the things you know you
need to improve at is as important as knowing what those things are. Knowledge without
action is meaningless.

Self-Awareness and Safety

How is self-awareness related to safety? There are many ways self-awareness applies to
workplace safety.

1. Knowing your strengths can help others. When you are confident in your experience and
training you can be a leader to others in the workplace regardless if you are in a
management role or not. Being self-aware allows you to know when you can provide
value to others around you at work as well as when you need to just sit back and let
someone who has the knowledge or skills to lead a work task.
2. As an employee, knowing and recognizing your limitations may be more important than
knowing your strengths. Being able to recognize when you are not able to do something
or know the answer is important. Being able to drop your ego and get help when
needed is very critical to having a safe workplace. When individuals do not recognize
their weaknesses or do not seek assistance when needed, it can create an opportunity
for injury to occur.
3. Being self-aware is also important for our relationships with the other employees at the
worksite. Being able to get along with coworkers is very important for everyone to
successfully work safe. When relationships between employees are weak,
communication and trust is limited thus reducing the effectiveness of a safety program.
 Self-awareness allows an individual to recognize how to more effectively communicate
and work more effectively with those people around them.

Summary

The idea of self-awareness and workplace safety do not often get connected, but they are
important to one another for a worksite to have individuals that can work together safely. Self-
aware individuals know their strengths and weaknesses and use this knowledge to become
better people. When the individuals in a company strive to be better people, the measures
taken for safety on the job are more effective.
Shortcuts: The Acrobat and the Safety Net
Taking short cuts during a work task is one of the hardest things to prevent workers from doing
on the job. Short cuts, no matter how small they may seem, can eventually lead to an incident.
On any jobsite there can be a lot of procedural or safety-related rules. These procedures and
rules serve to protect life and property. Every rule and procedure is in place for a reason.

The Safety Net and the Acrobat

To create a visual of what effects short cuts have on safety in the workplace, we can compare
them to cutting holes in a safety net and a possible incident as an acrobat falling. When a safety
procedure is not followed for the sake of making the work task quicker or easier, we begin to
put “holes” in our safety net. Think of each rule or safeguard that is supposed to be in place as a
strong area of netting. Each time we take a short cut and do not put a safeguard into place, we
comprise the net. As more safeguards are not put into place or comprised by a short cut we
continue to comprise the net as a whole. If an incident occurs, in our example- the acrobat
falling towards the net, without those safeguards in place the net breaks and the effects are
catastrophic instead of minimal.

Real World Example in the Workplace

In a real world example, we will use a man working in an aerial lift. The example company’s
main safety procedures for this task are to do a workplace inspection of the area, wear fall
arrest equipment, and to have a spotter at all times. The two men assigned to the task, the
operator and spotter, had a late start to the day and decide to not inspect the work area before
they start the task. The operator checks his harness, finds no defects, and puts it on. The
operator climbs into the lift and clips his lanyard into the appropriate anchor point. Ten minutes
into the task the spotter decides he does not have to be there the whole time and lets the
operator know he is going to work inside the shop while the aerial lift work is done. The
operator acknowledges and continues on with his work. The operator moves the aerial lift and
hits a pot hole in the pavement and it throws him over the side of the lift. He is knocked
unconscious and no one heard the crash. The operator is saved from falling to the ground
because of the harness and lanyard; however he suffers from suspension trauma and dies an
hour later.

Real World Example Overview

Out of the three main safety procedures that served as safeguards, only one was put into place,
which was the fall arrest equipment. The workplace inspection should have been completed
prior to the start of work, but was not due to the workers starting late. If they would have spent
the five minutes doing the workplace inspection they would of probably noticed the large
pothole in the pavement, which could have avoided the entire situation. This created the first
weak spot in our imaginary safety net. The other safeguard that was affected by a shortcut was
the spotter leaving to attend to another task to save time in his day. If the spotter was watching
the aerial lift work and saw the pothole before the lift hit it he could have saved the operator.
Even if the lift still struck the hole when the spotter was there he could of notified emergency
personnel and probably saved the operator’s life before it was too late.

We take shortcuts because we have the “it will never happen to me” mindset with many of the
tasks we do often. Just like us taking shortcuts- most times the acrobat stays on the line, never
falls, and never needs the safety net. However one day he does fall, but since the net is
comprised it is not there to save him. Take every safeguard seriously. Every safeguard is one
more strong point in our net that a potential incident has to break through to cause an injury.

Discussion points:

-What are common shortcuts in our line of work?

-How do we avoid taking shortcuts here on our site?

Sleep
The importance of adequate sleep cannot be overstated. Sleep has many effects on a variety of
aspects of our health. The way you feel awake has a link to what kind of sleep you get at night.
Poor sleeping habits can lead to an acute sudden incident such as a car crash due to a tired
driver or chronic problems over the long term such as a number of health issues.

Research has shown up to 40% of Americans are sleep deprived. This causes many issues in the
workplace and at home while completing tasks. For example, driver sleepiness is a factor in
about 100,000 car accidents each year, resulting in about 1,500 deaths. Studies have also
shown that sleep deprivation can significantly reduce workers’ reaction time, motor control,
decision-making ability and situational awareness. This creates an unsafe condition where a
worker, or a whole jobsite, is exposed to a potential incident that could cause injury.

Sleep and Your Health

Sleep affects your ability to learn and remember new information.

• Sleep affects your ability to pay attention.

• Sleep affects your heart and cardiovascular system. There is a link between long-term
sleep deficiencies and heart disease.
• Sleep affects how your body reacts to insulin. Sleep deficiency leads to higher blood
sugar levels; leaving you at a higher chance to be diagnosed with diabetes.

Tips to be Well Rested

• Get at least seven hours of sleep. Studies vary on exactly how much sleep we need but
the consensus is between six and eight hours.
• Shut your TV off and place your phone face down. Blue light and other light sources can
disrupt your sleep.
• Avoid naps during the day. Naps can throw off your internal clock for rest at night. If
napping is a must during the day keep it under 20 minutes.
• Keep your room between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the range that is best for
sleeping conditions for most people.
• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every night. This keeps your internal clock on
track and your body gets into a routine.

Discussion point:

-Have you ever experienced a time where you did not remember driving down the road? How
could a situation like that affect our work if it were to happen here?
Slips
Slips, trips, and falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the workplace.
According to OSHA, slip, trip, and fall incidents cause 15% of all accidental deaths, and are
second only to motor vehicle incidents as a cause of fatalities on the job. According to the 2006
Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index, the annual direct cost of disabling occupational injuries
due to slips, trips and falls is estimated to exceed $11 billion.

Slips

While slips do not cause as serious injuries or the number of fatalities falls do, they are
responsible for a large number of costly injuries every year. Addressing the hazards that cause
slip incidents should be a focus in the workplace. Slips happen when there is too little friction or
traction between the footwear and the walking surface. Common causes of slips are:

• Wet or oily surfaces

• Spills
• Poor weather conditions
• Loose, unanchored rugs or mats
• Flooring or other walking surfaces that do not have same degree of traction in all areas

Slip Prevention

Good housekeeping is a basic step in preventing slips in the workplace. Keeping walkways and
paths clear of water, snow, ice, oils, etc. is important in preventing slippery conditions that lead
to injuries. When considering housekeeping also look for floor mats or other materials that
could create a slip hazard. Objects such as pieces of cardboard or wood can cause a person to
lose their balance due to the object moving when stepped on. Another important consideration
is proper footwear. Footwear with good tread makes better contact with the walking surface
which leads to less of a chance of a fall. When there is slippery conditions present that you
cannot avoid take smaller steps or shuffle your feet. Taking larger steps can lead to your
balance being thrown off resulting in a slip.

Summary

Slip incidents are hard to avoid if there are slippery conditions or other hazards present that
cause slips. The key is to eliminate these hazards so individuals are not exposed to them in the
first place. If there are no conditions where there is too little friction or traction between an
individual’s footwear and the walking surface then there is no slip.

Discussion point: What are some hazards that can cause slip incidents in our workplace?
Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the workplace.
According to OSHA, slip, trip, and fall incidents cause 15% of all accidental deaths, and are
second only to motor vehicles as a cause of fatalities on the job. According to the 2006 Liberty
Mutual Workplace Safety Index, the annual direct cost of disabling occupational injuries due to
slips, trips and falls is estimated to exceed $11 billion.

Common Slip, Trip, and Fall Incidents

• Falls from elevation are often deadly or result in serious injury and may include falls
from ladders, falls off of mobile equipment, falls from roofs or other elevated structures,
etc.
• Slip incidents on slippery surfaces such as snow and ice are common in colder
geographical areas in the U.S. Wet floors due to moisture or chemicals are also common
causes of slip incidents at work.
• Trips can be caused by a multitude of reasons including poor housekeeping, changes in
elevation, improper footwear, etc.

Mitigations for Slip, Trip, and Fall Incidents

• Always use fall prevention or protection for work over 4ft in general industry work and
6ft in the construction industry. Protect workers by using proper guarding of any holes
or open windows and use guardrails to prevent falls. Where guardrails are not feasible,
use proper fall protection. An example of proper fall protection is a full body harness
and a self-retracting lanyard.
• Proper housekeeping is very important in preventing slip, trip, and falls incidents.
Objects on the ground create a hazard for anyone walking or working in the area.
Maintain clearly defined paths for walking in the work area. Have lay down yards for
tools and equipment out of the way of employee foot traffic. Address any wet, slippery,
or icy walking surfaces in your work area. Post signs of any hazardous surfaces until the
situation is taken care of completely.
• When climbing up or down a portable or fixed ladder ensure that you use proper
techniques such as using three points of contact and keeping your belt buckle within the
sides of the ladder. Do not lean to reach objects- this can throw off your balance and
you could fall.

Discussion points:

-Are there trip hazards due to improperly placed objects in your work area?
SORT Your Way to a Safer Work Environment
There is an endless amount of acronyms when talking about safety. The acronym S.O.R.T. is a
tool that can help remind us to take steps to address hazards and create a safe work
environment. S.O.R.T stands for Stop, Observe, Recognize, and Take Ownership.

Stop- It is necessary to take time not only at the beginning of the work shift to evaluate both
the work area and equipment for hazards, but also as conditions change. When we are rushed
we miss the small details that matter. Always take the time before a task begins to evaluate the
work task you are about to do. Anytime conditions change or things are not going as planned,
stop work and evaluate what needs done to correct the situation.

Observe- Take time to look at the environment around you. How are weather conditions,
lighting, and temperature at the work area? Are the needed personnel and tools in the work
area ready to go? Has all equipment been thoroughly inspected prior to starting the work task?
Has all necessary paperwork such as SOPs, JSAs, or permits been reviewed and completed?

Recognize- Once you have stopped and observed the work area what hazards do you see? Your
ability to recognize hazards comes down to utilizing training, safety meetings, company policies,
lessons learned, safety shares, and past experiences. Much time is spent in discussing and
training everyone onsite to be able to recognize hazards in order to mitigate them and protect
ourselves from injury.

Take Ownership- Ownership is the most important part of the process. Once you recognize
hazards or potential issues while on the job, own them. See through that they get properly
corrected in a timely manner. It is easy to just walk past an issue and think that it is not your
problem. In reality any hazard on the job is your problem. If someone else is hurt or there is
property damage due to the hazard you recognized and walked past, it will have some sort of
effect on you. Incidents affect a jobsite as a whole, and depending the severity, can have far
reaching consequences for an entire company. There is also guilt you could feel due to an injury
occurring to a coworker from a hazard you could have addressed. Taking ownership means
more than just communicating the hazard to the other people in the work area. Stop work if
necessary and get the right people involved to correctly address the hazard.

Summary

While these four steps are very basic, it is easy skip some of them and just go through the
motions due to complacency or time restrictions when at work. We often complete many of the
same work tasks in the same way every day. This makes it easy to fall into a trap of having
blinders on to hazards that could lead to an injury. Use the S.O.R.T. tool to remind yourself to
take the time to really evaluate your work area for hazards and to take ownership of them.
Spotter Safety

Basic Safe Work Practices for Spotting:

• Never walk behind the equipment and spot at the same time. When spotting stand at
the desired area where the equipment is going and flag the equipment back to you.
• Agree on hand signals prior to any spotting activities with equipment operators.
• As the operator, stop anytime you lose sight of the spotter.
• Review the work area for any additional hazards such as trip hazards or fixed objects
that the equipment can strike. Remove any people, objects, or equipment prior to
needing to back into an area to eliminate the possibility of a strike.

Other Considerations

When planning work, look at the task and determine if there is a way to eliminate backing or
minimize it. If there are trucks in the work area that need to dump material, look to be able to
pull through where they need to dump. If pulling through is not possible, pick a route that
minimizes the need to back up.

Often times, personnel who are spotting for equipment may not have ever operated that
specific piece or model of equipment. Work with operators to discuss and review the blind
spots of the equipment onsite. Some of the large off-road dump trucks have more than a 60
foot blind spot in the rear. If the spotter or other personnel in the work area are not aware of
the blind spots of the equipment, they may unknowingly walk into the line of fire.

Discussion points:

-Is there a task where we can eliminate the need for a spotter?

-What are some other safe work practices we can use when spotting or operating around a
spotter?
Stopping Work
When there are hazards present or some other issue that interferes with being able to perform
a work task safely then it is important to feel comfortable to stop the work until it is safe to
continue. Many companies stress the importance of being able to stop work without
punishment, but there are many employees who do not feel comfortable doing this for many
reasons.

Reasons Why Individuals are Afraid to Stop Work

• Afraid of punishment from supervisors

• Want to avoid conflict with others
• Do not want to be seen as scared or a “snitch”
• Do not want to slow work down

It is easier said than done to stop work in the name of safety, but it needs to be communicated
that it is encouraged and okay to do so. Even if the highest levels of management in a company
stress the importance of being able to stop work, a single individual can make it hard for the
employees on the work site to actually do so comfortably. Employees need to know different
avenues of reporting safety hazards to the management in a company. If a certain manager or
supervisor makes it uncomfortable for you to stop work or report a hazard, go to another
supervisor or your safety officer to do so. You should be able to go to someone who will work
to fix the problem as well as not disclose who reported the hazard in the first place if you feel
that you could be punished for doing so. Outside of the company you have the right as an
employee to report safety issues to OSHA without the fear of retaliation. You can do so
confidentially.

Reasons to Stop Work

• To protect yourself and your fellow coworkers

• To protect property or equipment from damage or loss
• To protect the company’s bottom line and reputation

Situations Where Stopping Work is Necessary

• When there is an unaddressed hazard.

• When the correct personnel are not a part of the task. For example- a company policy
states that a spotter is needed while working on an aerial lift and the spotter needs to
leave the area. You need to stop work until the spotter returns.
• When you do not have the right tool or equipment for the job. Using tools not designed
for the task can lead to an incident.
 • When you do not understand the work task or procedures. Stop and get clarification for
the task.
• When you do not have the correct knowledge or training to do a task safely.

Summary

These are just a few of the situations where stopping work is necessary. Individuals need to feel
comfortable stopping work to address whatever the problem is to be able to complete the work
safely and efficiently. Many times the fixes that will make a job safer are quick and easy. You
have the power to make a difference and stop work when it is needed. Despite how
uncomfortable some of these situations can be, if an incident occurs it is much more painful for
everyone involved.

Discussion points:

-What are some situations that could come up in your work today where stopping work is
necessary?

-Do you feel comfortable stopping work? Why or why not?

-Discuss a past incident and how stopping work could have prevented it.
Struck-by Incidents in Construction
With all of the moving equipment, flying debris, and falling objects on a construction site it can
be a very dangerous place for an individual on the ground. It is important to understand the
specific hazards of the work for that day as well as the job site overall as ground personnel who
will be on the job site. Furthermore everyone needs to work together to eliminate or mitigate
the hazards that result in struck-by incidents.

Struck-by Incidents

Struck-by incidents are one of the biggest risks to ground personnel on any construction site.
These incidents were responsible for 8.1% of all fatalities in the construction industry in 2014.
There are many struck-by hazards on every construction site that can severely injure or kill
workers on any given day. Common struck-by hazards include moving equipment, falling
objects, and flying debris.

Safeguards to Prevent Struck-by Incidents

• Eliminate as many struck-by hazards due to equipment as possible. For example, does a
piece of equipment or vehicle need to be operating in an area where there are
pedestrians? Can you eliminate unnecessary backing? Can the worker on the ground
wait to complete the task they were assigned to do or complete it somewhere else away
from moving equipment?
• Eliminate the potential for dropped objects. Remove materials or tools that are located
on an elevated level when possible. If elimination is not possible then make sure there is
proper toe boards located on any elevated surfaces to prevent objects from sliding off.
Another option is to tie off tools and materials to ensure they do not fall to a lower
level.
• Barricade work zones to prevent entry where equipment is operating or there is work
overhead being completed. Substantial barricades such as fences will help prevent
ground personnel from entering an area they could be injured.
• Barricade or separate any work tasks that create flying debris. For example, workers
should not be exposed to grinding operations or operations that create excessive dust,
like cutting concrete, if they are not the ones completing the task.

Summary

It is difficult to fully eliminate the hazards that result in struck-by incidents, but proper planning
and work zone delineation can help to eliminate exposure to these risks. Evaluate your work
tasks to see if there are any unnecessary risks to ground personnel due to the mentioned
hazards above.
Discussion points:

-What are some of the struck-by hazards we face?

-How can we eliminate some of these hazards on the jobsite?

Taking Safety for Granted
The measures we take to work safely can become redundant or repetitive at times, especially
on jobs that do not change much. The reason why it can become repetitive is because it is often
the same hazards that lead to the majority of injuries. We need to appreciate the amount of
time and money companies spend on safety in the United States. Not so long ago Americans
faced horrible working conditions and a lot more risk when they went into work. Today there
are many countries whose employees do not enjoy the same rights regarding workplace safety
as we in the United States do. It is critical keep these facts in mind to not take workplace safety
for granted.

Workplace Safety in the United States in the Early 1900s

There are many different statistics we can look at regarding the workplace in the early 1900s to
demonstrate how dangerous it was to be a worker in this country back then. One eye opening
statistic is that the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that there were about 23,000 industrial
deaths in 1913 among a workforce of 38 million, equivalent to a rate of 61 deaths per 100,000
workers. In contrast, the most recent data on overall occupational fatalities show a rate of 3.3
deaths per 100,000 workers. The difference is staggering. You were almost 19 times more likely
to die in the early 1900s working in an industrial setting than you are today, not to mention the
unimaginable amount of serious workplace illnesses and injuries that occurred during this time.
There are many stories of horrible tragedies that claimed hundreds of workers’ lives in single
events from this time period.

Workplace Safety in Developing Countries Today

While workplace fatality rates in the United States are close to all-time lows today there are
many countries that experience higher fatality rates and horrible working conditions. For
example, many Chinese workplaces today look much like the ones found in America in the early
1920s. Workers are looked at as expendable by many employers and the government does not
offer very much protection for the individual worker like we experience here in the U.S. One
well-known news story was about how FoxConn, a company that assembled iPhones in China,
had to install “suicide nets” around their building due to multiple employees jumping from the
top of the factory and committing suicide. These workers often worked long hours completing
monotonous tasks for a minimal amount of money per hour.

Summary

We need to take a step back as Americans, or anyone who is from a progressive developed
country, and realize how lucky we are to have basic protections as employees. Furthermore
companies spend a lot of money and time to go beyond just basic compliance to ensure
employees are comfortable and safe while at work. Think about this safety talk alone, it was
only five minutes or so, but multiply that time for each individual worker in this room and total
it up for a year’s time. Safety does benefit the company’s bottom line as well, but workers enjoy
more benefits from the amount of attention to workplace safety than the company does.
Taking Safety Home
Dozens of hours every year, if not more, are spent discussing safety in the workplace at many
companies. Employees who work for companies that spend this amount of time discussing
safety should do more with that knowledge than just use keep it to themselves and use it at
work. The safety information you learn on the job should be taken home to your family.

Why You Should Take Safety Home

The most obvious reason you should take the safety information you learn at work home is to
pass it on to your family. If your company spends the time to educate you about some safety
concern that applies to home, you should also pass it on to your family. You do not know what
you do not know. Educate your family so they can recognize hazards and protect themselves
from harm.

Another reason you should apply the safety knowledge you gain at work when you are at home
is to keep yourself healthy. Keeping yourself healthy allows you to continue to work and earn
money for your family. Every person plays a role at work and even when someone gets injured
off the job it hurts the company. Every company wants their workers to be safe off the job so
they can return to work and fulfill their role in the workplace.

Safety at Home Self Check

There are similar safety concerns at almost every home. Below is a small basic checklist to
gauge whether or not you are addressing some of the larger safety issues in your home.

• Are there working smoke alarms in the house? Are they in the proper locations?
• Are chemicals and other harmful substances locked up to protect small children and
pets?
• Do you and other family members wear proper PPE when doing yard work such as weed
trimming or while using a chainsaw?
• If you have a pool does it have a proper fence and locking gate?

If you answered “no” to a lot of these questions, then you need to ask yourself why are these
safety concerns not addressed in my house? Have you educated your family members on these
hazards? How would it affect you and your family if something happened to a young child in
your home because a hazard was not addressed? Take safety in the home seriously and protect
your loved ones.

Discussion point: Have you taken safety information you have learned here home? If so, do you
have an example?
Task Planning
Today more than ever, demands at work are at an all-time high. Productivity is recognized and
rewarded in the workplace. Working fast however does not always equal working productively
and efficiently. When we go to do a work task it is very important to plan out the time and
resources it might take beforehand. Poor planning and inefficiency in the work process creates
many problems and affects our ability to work safely and productively.

Preplanning Work Tasks

When more than one work task needs to completed in a day and there is not adequate time or
resources to complete the tasks, there is a breakdown in the workers’ day. It is important up
front to know what time and resources are needed for a task. This planning should start at the
management level and they should get input from any subject matter experts as well as the
workers involved in the task. This process can be informal, but especially for complex tasks,
there should be a written document outlining the steps of the task. After reviewing the steps of
the task, the necessary training, personnel, equipment, permits (if needed), and time needed
for the task can be determined. When all of this is determined up front and all of the necessary
resources are made available for the work task ahead of time, everything can run efficiently.
Having all the required resources also allows for workers to take the time to ensure the proper
safeguards are in place during the task.

Adjusting Work Plans

While we can plan all we want, there will still be changes that we will have to account and
adjust for. Things such as equipment breakdowns, employee absences, and weather are just a
few common problems that could throw off the original plans for the task. For critical tasks
especially, there should always be back up plans thought of in case of changes. When things
come up and changes need to be made, the new plan has to be implemented thoughtfully. If
new equipment or personnel have to come in on a work task, take the time to let everyone
involved know of the changes. Look at the original plan again and see if any additional
resources or time will be needed after the change.

Weather Considerations

Weather is one item that should always be planned for during every task. In new construction
for example, there is a lot of grade work and excavations every day. If there is rain in the
forecast for later in the day then the supervisors and operators should have a plan of where the
run-off water will go and accumulate. Having a plan to adjust your work area before weather
arrives could mean the difference between a few hours and a few days of downtime in a work
area. Not only will this planning and adjustment lead to production, it will also allow everyone
in that work area to work safer after the rain event.

Discussion point:

-What other considerations should we take account for when planning for a work task?
Theft from a Construction Site
Theft is a major concern for all companies. Construction companies especially deal with unique
challenges in protecting themselves from theft. According to the National Equipment Register,
construction jobsite theft costs the industry up to $1 billion each year. It is important to
consider the challenges of protecting a work site from theft and take steps to prevent it from
occurring.

Best Practices to Prevent Theft from a Construction Site

There are many different and even high tech ways to prevent tools, equipment, or valuables
from being stolen from a construction site. Depending what is onsite, the challenges to protect
the site as a whole, and what geographical area the site is in will better determine what is
needed to properly plan for theft prevention. To save time, we will discuss a few basic
considerations to prevent theft from a worksite:

• Secure the perimeter around the site with fence and barbed wire.
• Do not leave tools or valuables near fence lines.
• Have laydown areas that equipment is parked in overnight with a simple camera system
focused on that area of the work site.
• Lock valuables up in a secure building or Conex container.
• Do not leave valuables where they can be seen through a window. Seeing valuables
could give a thief the green light to actually break in to retrieve the object and more.
• Do not let people outside the company know what valuables onsite. People are more
likely to break into a site if they know there is certain valuable equipment, tools, or
material on that site.
• Keep detailed records and pictures of all tools and equipment. If something is stolen it
may be easier to prove that it belonged to the company if recovered.

Summary

There are many steps we can all take to ensure valuables, tools, materials, and equipment are
not stolen. While much of the theft is done by individuals who break into a site after hours, it
also occurs in house by employees. It is important to speak up if you think someone is stealing
from the company. Theft hurts the company as a whole and can cut into benefits and
improvements that could have been made if theft did not occur.

Discussion point:

-What are steps can we take to prevent theft from this jobsite?
Using Multiple Safeguards to Prevent a Single Type of Incident
We have all heard of the term “root cause” of an incident or injury. Root cause can be defined
in many ways. One definition is, “The cause of a problem which, if adequately addressed, will
prevent a recurrence of that problem." When discussing a root cause of an injury using this
definition, it seems that if you control the root cause then you will prevent the injury from
happening again. However, there are also contributing factors that lead to an incident and not
just a single root cause. Because of this fact, there are multiple ways to prevent any one injury
through various safeguards.

Root Cause and Contributing Factors

For an injury to occur there are usually multiple failures in the safeguards in place or that are
supposed to be in place for that work task. The hierarchy of controls lists the most effective
safeguards down to the least effective safeguards. Different levels of these safeguards can
prevent any single type of incident or injury from occurring. The more safeguards that are put
into place and used correctly the less chance there is of an injury occurring.

Real World Example of Using Multiple Safeguards

To break this down we will look at a real-world example. One incident that can occur in many
different industries is a vehicle or heavy equipment striking a pedestrian. Let us discuss a
fatality of a laborer on a construction site that was struck by a front loader backing up. In our
example the laborer was looking at his cell phone and walked into the roadway where a front
loader operator was backing up. The operator did not look while backing nor did he have a
spotter.

Many people would state that the root cause is either the front operator not looking while
backing or the laborer distracted by his cell phone. One of these could be the root cause or
something else may be, but there is not enough information provided to determine this. We
are going to use this example to discuss using multiple safeguards to prevent this incident.

Multiple Safeguards and Injury Prevention

The hierarchy of controls can vary depending on what source you look at, but in this example
we will look at preventing a back over incident by discussing elimination of hazards, engineering
controls, administrative controls, and PPE/ individual behaviors.

Elimination- The best safeguard is one that eliminates the chance of the incident occurring at
all. In our example management could pre plan the activity so that pedestrian activity is
completely eliminated in an area where heavy equipment is operating thus preventing the
chance of the incident happening altogether. Elimination of every hazard is not always possible
so we will look at the other safeguards.

Engineering controls- Engineering controls are some type of physical barrier or safeguard that
protects workers in that area or during a certain task. In our example a physical barrier such as
fence or wall would be an engineering control that could prevent a worker from walking into a
work area where they could be struck by moving equipment.

Administrative controls- Administrative controls are controls implemented by management to

prevent injuries and illnesses. These controls include, training, hazard recognition, JSAs, SOPs,
policies, programs, etc. In our example there are many different administrative controls that
could have prevented a back over incident. A good JSA discussing the hazards for the work that
day is an example of an administrative control that could prevent a back over incident.
Implementing a policy that states no backing is allowed unless there is a spotter present is
another example. Training for both the operator and laborer on policies regarding the hazards
of the work is also an example of an administrative control.

PPE/ Individual Behaviors- Relying on PPE and individuals making the right choices is always
the last line of defense and should never be relied on solely to prevent injury or an incident
from occurring. A type of PPE that could help to prevent a back over incident is a reflective vest.
An example of an individual behavior that could prevent a back over incident is the employees
choosing to follow safety rules or policies that are in place.

Summary

The point of an incident investigation is to find the root cause to try to correct it and prevent a
similar incident from occurring again. Incident investigations are reactive in nature. It is an
action taken after an incident has already occurred. There are many proactive safeguards that
could be used to prevent a single incident from occurring just like in our example. If any one of
the mentioned safeguards were in place the fatality would not have occurred. Always start with
eliminating the hazard completely or choosing an engineering control to protect employees
before only relying on an administrative control, PPE, or individual behaviors.
Vehicle Inspections
The roads can be an extremely dangerous place. According to the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration, there were an estimated 6.3 million police-reported car accidents in the
United States in 2015. While many accidents are caused by distracted driving and driving under
the influence, mechanical issues also lead to accidents. Vehicle inspections and preventative
maintenance are effective ways to prevent mechanical issue-related crashes.

Vehicle Inspections

Most states require an annual in-depth inspection of any vehicle registered in that state to help
avoid these types of problems creating a hazard on the road. It is important to also complete
more frequent inspections of your vehicle prior to use. A simple walk around of your car or
truck prior to operation can avoid an accident. A few things to look for during a quick
inspection:

• Look for low tire pressure. This could signal that you need air in the tire or a patch
depending on the problem.
• Look for any bubbles in your tire. If there is a bubble in your tire this means you have a
break in a belt in the tire and it is now compromised. It is recommended that you use
your spare or get it replaced immediately before driving the vehicle again because the
tire could give way at any time.
• Start the car and listen for any odd noises.
• Make sure there are no objects that you could strike pulling out from where you are
parked.
• Pull forward and test the brakes before starting your trip.

Preventative Maintenance

There is a lot of maintenance vehicles require to ensure safe and efficient operation. Changing
tires before they get too worn is very important to be able to operate a vehicle safely. Other
common issues to address include changing the oil, replacing belts, replacing fluids, and
replacing windshield wipers just to name a few. Read your vehicle’s owner manual to get
familiar with what preventative maintenance needs taken care of and when.

Summary

While the majority of the time you will never any of the issues mentioned above, the one time
you do it could result in a serious accident. Take mechanical issues seriously and when you find
one during an inspection get it fixed by a professional to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate.
Weakest Link
Have you ever heard of the saying “you are only as strong as your weakest link”? The weakest
link on a team can be a variety of people on any given day. Traditionally, the weakest link is
usually considered the lazy guy or the new guy. No matter who is the weakest link on that day,
they can be a huge liability for your entire team to work safely.

A new guy may not always be a liability to the safety culture of a company, but a lazy worker is
almost certainly is. Lazy workers are workers who take short cuts and do not want to do the job
correctly for the sake of making the task easier on themselves. Taking shortcuts often leads to
safety rules and procedures being broken. When rules and procedures are broken, the entire
workforce on that job is at risk. While the shortcuts may be “small” in nature, even the smallest
of injuries or incidents can have a large impact on the company as a whole. Many industries use
a company’s total recordable incident rate into account when considering bids for work. Small
injuries due from taking “small shortcuts” can lead to big effects in the company’s ability keep
current work and to get future work. This affects the entire workforce, not just the individual
taking shortcuts.

Even the most experienced or safest worker can be the weakest link on the jobsite on any given
day. We all have our bad days where our minds and attention are not completely focused on
the job. Many people do not know what a coworker is dealing with at home and how it is
affecting their work. It is important as individuals to take ourselves out of work when it affects
our ability to do our job safely and effectively. Look out for one another and take the time to
check on a coworker who seems off of their game.

Summary

Everyone has to work together to create a safe work culture where injuries and incidents are
prevented every single day. Everyone from the top manager to the lowest guy on the totem
pole needs to believe in working safely and working together to go home healthy to their
families every day. Working as a team means more than just a unified belief that work safely is
important. To achieve excellence in safety, a strong team is needed in every aspect of the work
being completed.

Discussion points: What are some things in our lives that can distract us from our work?

-Talk about examples of past incidents that may have seemed small but had huge consequences
for a company. If you do not have any examples, ask everyone in the meeting to think about if
there were a few injuries onsite and how that would affect the site and the company as a
whole.
Wind Dangers (Construction Industry)
Weather plays a huge role in our ability to work safely when working outdoors. While rain,
snow, ice, and hot temperatures are often discussed, less focus is given to the hazards wind can
create for workers. It is important to realize the different hazards high winds can pose and what
can be done to work safely in these conditions.

Hazards Created by the Wind

The exact scope of work will determine what hazards high winds can create on a worksite.
Some hazards created by high winds that are universal for many construction jobs are:

• Strains/ sprains due to wind forcefully pulling doors from operator’s hands.
• Struck-by incidents due to objects being blown around.
• Slips, trips, falls due to workers reacting to a falling hardhat or object due to wind
blowing these items from them.
• Eye injuries due to small particles of flying debris and dust.
• Dropped loads while completing lifts with wind present.
• Objects falling from elevated surfaces.
• Dump truck tip-over.

Best Practices to Eliminate Hazards and Injuries Related to Wind

• Eliminate work altogether in excessively windy conditions.

• Park trucks and equipment where the wind is blowing against the opposite side that the
operator exits and enters.
• Do not reach or react to dropping an object or losing a hardhat to the wind. This can be
very dangerous especially when you are on an elevated surface.
• Do not attempt to conduct lifting operations during high wind events. Many companies
will use anemometer to monitor wind speeds and have a certain wind speed that
constitutes a stoppage of lifting activities.
• Never stand in the line of fire- whether that is below a lifted load, next to a truck
dumping material, or downwind from blowing dust.
• Wear at minimum safety glasses, but also consider going to a goggle if conditions
warrant their use.

Summary

Preplanning of tasks is critical to ensure a solid start to working safely on a construction site.
Weather is a major factor in what tasks can or cannot be done on a particular day. When high
winds are going to be present, plan work accordingly. Avoid certain tasks during high wind
events as well as implement extra safeguards to ensure safety during the normal job tasks.

Discussion point: What other hazards do high winds pose for us on our worksite?
Winter Weather Driving
The roads are a dangerous place on even the nicest day, but in the winter the dangers of driving
increase dramatically. According to the Department of Transportation, winter weather
conditions are responsible for over 192,000 injuries and 2,200 deaths each year. Outside injury
and loss of life, winter weather conditions are responsible for millions of dollars in property
damage incidents.

Winter Weather Overview

The majority of the United States and its population are located in an area that receives snow
or ice during the winter months. While most of the population has experienced driving in snowy
or icy conditions, many individuals do not know how to safely drive in winter weather
conditions. The hazards created by winter weather make it difficult for even the most
experienced drivers to operate a vehicle safely.

Tips for Avoiding a Winter Weather-Related Accident

• Monitor weather for any incoming snow storms or icy conditions and plan your travel
around those conditions. Do not put yourself in a situation where you are stuck on a
roadside.
• Do not drive in wintery conditions if possible. Eliminating driving eliminates your
chances of being in an accident.
• Be a defensive driver. Stay clear of other drivers and maintain a safe distance in case
you need to brake or turn to avoid an accident.
• Slow down. Winter weather conditions necessitate having to reduce your speed.
Reducing your speed will give you more time to react as well as help to avoid losing
control of your vehicle.

Summary

The best way to avoid an accident during the winter months is to avoid driving in dangerous
conditions. If you absolutely have to drive in bad weather conditions travel main roads that
have already been plowed and salted. Notify your supervisor if necessary to alert him or her
you will be late for work due to road conditions. Take your time getting to your destination.

Discussion point:

-Has anyone experienced a car accident due to winter weather conditions?

Work Area Best Practices
Often times much of our focus is given to the hazards of a work task, but less focus is given to
the hazards poor work area conditions create. Work areas that are chaotic and that have poor
organization can lead to injuries and property damage incidents. It is important to consider
what improvements we can make to our work areas to create a safe work environment.

Hazards Created by Chaotic Work Areas

• Struck-by incidents. Work areas that do not have any designated paths for personnel
walking through or areas blocked off for specific work tasks such as grinding, create
struck-by hazards can be particularly dangerous. Flying debris, lifting loads, and moving
objects can all create struck-by hazards for anyone in the area.
• Slips, trips, and falls. Objects on the ground due to poor organization or housekeeping
create trip hazards for any walking through that area. Slippery surfaces due to moisture
or other liquids such as oil can cause a slip or a fall. Uneven surfaces, steps, or
unexpected drop-offs are also a common trip hazards in poorly designed work areas.
• Caught in or between incidents. Work areas that place people near moving parts or
equipment is also a huge concern. Moving equipment such as belts or fans can grab a
hold of a person’s clothing or hair pulling them into the moving parts.

Best Practices for Work Area Setup

• Delineate walking paths from actual work areas. Consider when physical barriers such as
a fence or wall are needed to protect people from a hazardous work process. Consider
color coding for work areas or the facility as a whole.
• Organize all tools, equipment, materials, etc. in an area. Everything should have its own
place that does not pose a hazard to anyone in that area. Housekeeping is one of the
most basic safe work practices there is.
• Always guard moving parts and equipment even when they are not in the immediate
planned walking path. If people can fit into an area and the moving parts are not
physically blocked off there is a chance of a caught in or between injury.
• Keep walking and working surfaces kept up and safe. Mark any elevation changes with
bright fluorescent paint. Patch any holes or major cracks to prevent trip hazards. Always
strive to keep dry clean floors. Consider applying some type of grit or material that
improves traction in areas where moisture can occur.

Summary

The above hazards and best practices are just a few of the many that are related to how a work
area is setup and maintained. What hazards are we not addressing in our work areas? What
improvements can we make today and in the future to create a safer workplace? What other
hazards and best practices are out there?
Workplace Inspections
Workplace inspections are a basic necessity of any safety program. These inspections should be
done prior to the start of work as well as periodically throughout the shift and at the end of the
work task. Workplace inspections serve the purpose of identifying any hazards in a work area.
After hazards are identified, they need to be corrected before work proceeds or continues.
There can always be additional hazards present in any work area that were not planned for.

Hazards in the Work Area

Objects, equipment, people, or even animals find their way into work areas disrupting the work
and creating additional hazards. Elimination of hazards is the most effective way to avoid
injuries and property damage incidents. It is important to remove any unnecessary people,
items, or equipment prior to the start of a work task.

By removing unnecessary personnel from a work area there are less people that have the
chance to interfere with the work or be in the line of fire if something were to go wrong.
Objects that are not needed in the area create trip hazards or can be struck by moving
equipment and should be moved as well. Biological hazards such as insects or wildlife in work
areas can pose many hazards to workers. Insects such as ticks or spiders can carry disease or
poison that can affect an individual for years. Insects and wildlife can also distract employees
from their work which could cause an injury.

Inspection Focuses

There are many other hazards that can affect a work area. Some of the common items you
should look for during a work place inspection include: fire hazards, faulty equipment, broken
tools, housekeeping issues, missing equipment guards, electrical cord and outlet problems,
sharp objects, and missing labels. These are just a few examples- think of hazards unique to
your work tasks.

Summary

There can be a variety of issues in any single work area. It is important to take the time to
thoroughly check your work area for hazards and take the steps to mitigate them. Eliminate as
many hazards as you can before relying on a less efficient control to protect yourself such as
PPE.

Discussion points:

-What are items you look for during your workplace inspections?
-What do you do if you find a problem in your work area during an inspection?

-What is a hazard you discovered while conducting a workplace inspection?

Workplace Violence

Workplace violence is any threat, disruptive behaviors, intimidation, physical aggression, or act
of violence in the workplace including homicide. Homicide in the workplace is currently the
fourth leading cause of death on the job. In 2014 alone, there were 403 deaths on the job due
to homicide. According to OSHA, over 2 million people report being victims of workplace
violence every year.

Contributing Factors for Workplace Violence

Different factors contribute to whether someone may experience workplace violence. People
who work where money is exchanged are at a higher risk factor for workplace violence. Other
career fields such as EMS, police officers, healthcare workers, customer service representatives,
and delivery drivers are more likely to experience violence while on the job. Factors such as
time of day worked, geographical area of work, working alone or in small groups, also has
impact on whether someone is more likely to experience workplace violence.

Employer Responsibility

Employers are ultimately responsible for keeping their employees safe. A zero tolerance policy
is one of the best preventable measures an employer can take, especially for workplace
violence between employees. Any threat or aggression needs to be immediately reported and
addressed. Any concern from employees or a customer needs to be taken seriously and
corrected immediately. Depending on the type of work being done other controls can be
implemented by the employer to keep employees safe.

Summary

Individuals need to be diligent in protecting themselves as well. Report any suspicious activities
whether it is the public or another employee when dealing with situations that can lead to
workplace violence. When faced with workplace violence dealing with another coworker, do
not become confrontational with them. Leave the area when you can do so safely and report
the situation immediately to a supervisor. If your immediate supervisor does not take the
report seriously, go to a higher level of supervision to correct the issue. Workplace violence
almost never comes out of nowhere and when smaller issues are reported and addressed it
keeps the entire workplace safer as well as yourself.