 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is designed to provide protection from specific workplace hazards. When hazards can’t be eliminated by engineering or administrative controls, PPE provides the last line of defense for worker safety. While most PPE is to be provided by the employer, there are some instances where workers must supply their own. Here we will review the PPE requirements of employers and the requirements of employees.
Employer Responsibilities When it comes to PPE, employers are responsible for providing personal protective equipment for specific hazards in the workplace. Employers are required to conduct a Hazard Assessment of the workplace to determine the present hazards and provide the types of PPE that will protect workers from these hazards. Typical forms of PPE in the workplace include:
Once the proper PPE has been determined, the employer will provide the PPE and training to the employee to make sure it is properly used and stored. Training on PPE must include:
If work conditions change, additional PPE is required, or if current PPE is not protecting from workplace hazards, additional hazard assessments and training need to be completed. Employee Responsibilities Employees are responsible for providing their own personal protective equipment when it comes to ordinary protection or non-specialty protection. This type of protection includes:
Identifying the types of hazards and the effective protection is the most important aspect of PPE. As an employer you are responsible for identifying hazards and providing the protection against them. As an employee you are tasked with understanding the protection provided and keeping it maintained properly. To keep the conversation going, download the Personal Protective Equipment Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.
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 On average, a fire is reported every 23 seconds in America. When it comes to fire safety, fire extinguishers are the first line of defense to keeping a fire from getting out of control. This blog will help explore where they are needed, the types of fire extinguishers, and how to properly use one in case of an emergency.
Where Fire Extinguishers Are Needed Per NFPA 10 code requirements, fire extinguishers are required in all occupancy types except for one and two family dwellings. When you are required to have an extinguisher, making sure they are accessible and visible are two key factors that can help keep a fire under control. This is why NFPA recommends extinguishers are placed along normal travel pathways that are free of obstructions. Another requirement regarding placement of extinguishers is a maximum travel distance ranging from 30ft-75ft depending on the type of extinguisher and size of the room. Types of Fire Extinguishers There are five types of fire extinguishers, each marked for specific fire hazards that may be present. The types of extinguishers and their use include:
The PASS Method When it comes to using a fire extinguisher, the PASS Method is the most widely accepted technique taught for extinguisher operation. PASS stands for:
Knowing where a fire extinguisher is located, making sure it is the right type, and following the PASS Method is the most effective way for an individual to stop a fire from spreading. Training for individuals and identifying extinguisher locations in your Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are two ways an employer can make sure they are prepared for a fire emergency. To keep the conversation going, download the Fire Extinguishers Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.  When it comes to open excavations or trenches, OSHA allows four different types of protection: benching, sloping, shoring, and shielding. Shielding involves the use of trench boxes, shields, or other types of support to prevent cave-ins. This blog will discuss when a trench box can be used and how to safely use them while working below grade.
When to Use Trench Boxes Per OSHA requirements (1926.652), employees must be protected when excavations are more than 5ft in depth. Trench boxes are a great protection system when workers are needed where benching or sloping of the soil is not possible. Trench boxes can also be utilized for utility work where large excavations are unnecessary. When selecting a trench box or other type of support, it is important to consider factors such as soil classification, depth of cut, water content within the soil, and other loads in the vicinity. When using trench boxes, some rules to follow include:
Installing Trench Boxes When installing or removing trench boxes, the protection of workers is always critical. Make sure to identify your soil type as well as the limitations of your trench box before it is used. Some rules to installing/removing trench boxes include:
Excavations and trenches have potential hazards that are fatal if not handled correctly. Make sure your competent person understands the types of protective systems and which is best for their situation. To keep the conversation going, download the Trenching & Excavation Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.  Construction is one of the few industries that still relies heavily on hands-on work. With a job that requires so much hands-on activity, new technologies like a quick response code (QR code) can help improve productivity, reduce downtime, and create a digital network of forms and inspections. This blog will address what a QR code is and how it is being implemented within the construction industry. What is a QR Code? A QR Code is a two dimensional barcode that is used to access online information via a digital camera (phone, tablet, etc.). Originally created for the automotive industry for inventory tracking, the QR code quickly gained popularity in other industries due to its readability and larger storage capacity for information. When using a QR code, the black squares are arranged in a unique pattern that allows the data to be interpreted when scanned. Due to its size and features, all QR codes are unique and offer nearly a limitless option for use. Uses Within Construction Paperless Checklists and Inspections Maintaining daily and weekly checklists/inspections can create lots of paperwork and storage problems. Most of these documents can now be made electronically accessible using a QR code. Now employees can scan, fill out the form, and it is tracked/maintained online. Toolbox Talks and Sign-In Sheets Sharing the weekly safety information and timesheets with foremen/superintendents can be more efficient with QR codes. Scan the code, fill out the employee information, and send to the office on a regular basis so time and training is maintained effectively. Emergency Contact Information Have an emergency on the jobsite? Is an employee injured and not sure who to contact? QR codes are great for sharing contact information like phone numbers in case of an emergency. Quickly scan a QR code to access the project or safety manager’s phone number or scan to find out an individual’s emergency contact. Equipment and Inventory Tracking As equipment and tools move from job to job, keeping track of where they are and who has them can be difficult. Using QR codes to check in/out tools can help provide an accurate inventory of equipment and allow for the ability to know when tools need maintenance or removed from use. Employee Training Management Having trouble keeping track of employee safety, training, and HR records? Finding it difficult to know when training needs renewed or making sure it hasn’t expired? STAC uses QR codes to help create employee profiles that when scanned, show their training and HR records to remind you when they are close to expiration. Utilizing QR codes for training management allows for easy recordkeeping and a singular storage place for all documents. These are just a few ways QR codes are being used in the construction industry. There are many other uses for QR codes and even more technologies becoming available that help improve productivity and reduce administrative time on a jobsite. What ways does your company use QR codes? Where could your company see the benefit in using QR codes? To find out more about STAC and the way we use QR codes, scan or click the QR code below.   With summer officially here, it is time to enjoy the great outdoors. While the sun beats down, many people will remember sunscreen to stop sun burns, but will they remember the most dangerous effects from the sun? Heat Illness is a medical condition that comes from your body’s inability to cope when it is overheated. Many factors like temperature, humidity, direct sun exposure, and physical activity can contribute to the effects of Heat Illness. This blog will be exploring the four types of Heat Illness, how to recognize the signs, and how to prevent serious injury. Heat Rash The most common form of Heat Illness is a Heat Rash. This condition is caused by extensive sweating in areas like your neck, armpits, elbows, or knees creating a red cluster of pimples or blisters. While a Heat Rash may be uncomfortable, it is usually mild and can be relieved by keeping the area dry and applying powder for comfort. Heat Cramps Muscle pains caused by the loss of body salt through sweat are called Heat Cramps. Heat cramps are uncomfortable and usually affect the stomach, arms, or legs. To relieve the effects of Heat Cramps, replenish your body’s fluid loss with water and carbohydrate/electrolyte sports drinks every 15 to 20 minutes. Heat Exhaustion As your body heats up, it is important to make sure it can cool itself back down. If your body temperature begins to climb over 100°F, you may start to feel signs of Heat Exhaustion. Headache, dizziness, confusion, and body weakness are all signs of Heat Exhaustion. If you see these signs, get the person out of the area to cool down and replenish their liquids. Make sure the symptoms do not worsen and contact emergency personnel if they do. Heat Stroke The most serious and potentially fatal Heat Illness is Heat Stroke. Heat Stroke occurs when your body can no longer cool itself and your body temperature reaches over 104°F. Confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, and loss of sweat are the common signs of your body shutting down. If someone begins showing signs of Heat Stroke, get medical help immediately. If you can, move the person to a shaded area, remove any heavy clothing, and wet their body down to lower their body temperature. Prevention Tips Now that you know the signs and symptoms of Heat Illness, here are some things you can do to keep you and others safe from heat-related health problems:
Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors but making sure your body is prepared for the heat is an important part of your to-do list. Know your limits, make sure you are acclimated, and stay hydrated as you spend the day in the sun. To keep the conversation going, download the Heat Stress Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.  Falls have continued to be the leading cause of occupational deaths in the United States for over 10 years accounting for nearly 1,000 deaths yearly. The unfortunate part, all falls are preventable. Multiple organizations partner with OSHA each year to have both educational and promotional campaigns to help prevent falls and save lives in their industry. One thing is clear, training and employer provided resources are key in helping prevent falls in the workplace.
OSHA has two primary fall prevention standards:Each focus on the three principles of Plan, Provide, and Train. These principles assist in the prevention of falls within the industry in addition to providing a more well-rounded worker. Plan Proper planning through a Job Hazard Analysis or Job Safety Analysis (JHA/JSA) is the acceptable method of identifying hazards on a jobsite or facility. Through the use of JHAs, workers collaborate and communicate to come up with a safe way to perform the task at hand. While providing the safest process, recording the information for estimators will also allow for safety equipment to be included for future work. As each day begins, the JHA should be reviewed in a morning huddle or pre-task plan to make sure that conditions have not changed or that additional equipment, personnel, or tools are not necessary to complete the day’s work. Creating a plan and adjusting the plan as new conditions arise are a vital part of getting the job done safely. Provide Providing the right tools and equipment is the second most important component of ensuring worker safety. Before the project begins while using the JHA and past experience, the employers or supervisors should identify what tools or equipment are needed to get the job done. Once that happens a valiant effort should be made to provide all possible means to ensure worker safety. Is a lift required? Is a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) needed? Do you need guardrails or floor coverings? All these questions need answered before any work begins. As an employer, it is your responsibility to provide the equipment and resources needed to complete the work in the safest manner possible. Train Understanding how and when to perform certain tasks is key to preventing falls in the industry. Training on how to use personal fall arrest systems (PFAS), ladders, scaffolds, and guardrails are critical components of a fall prevention program. Not only should workers be trained on how to use a specific tool or piece of equipment, they should also know how to recognize and mitigate hazards as they are made apparent. Supervisors should verify worker training and their competency to make sure employees can identify and mitigate hazards as they work. If a worker fails to complete a task or has a near miss then retraining may be necessary to make sure that there is not an accident in the future. It is a proven fact that with proper knowledge, equipment, and collaboration all falls are preventable. Planning for tasks, Providing proper equipment, and Training your employees are critical parts to fall prevention plans that will save lives. To keep the conversation going, download the General Fall Protection Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.  Each year there are an estimated 400,000 injuries and 3,000 fatalities due to crashes from distracted drivers. As technology has advanced and safety features are standard, it appears as though drivers have become even more distracted as they rely too much on phones and features. In this blog we will look at the main distractions drivers face and how to help prevent them from causing an accident.
Cell Phones The largest contributor to distracted drivers and the main cause of fatalities. Now with smart phones, drivers are not only tempted by calls and texts but with videos, emails, web surfing, and many other apps. When it comes to cell phones the best policy is Out of Sight, Out of Mind. Some ways to keep your cell phone from becoming a distraction include:
Other Electronics Radios and GPS are other types of electronics normally used when operating a vehicle. These audible distractions are dangerous as they can take your focus away from the road and onto something unseen. Some tips to keep these electronics from becoming a distraction are:
Eating, Drinking, and Smoking When you’re on the go, all aspects of your life sometimes need to be as well. This can include eating, drinking, and smoking while driving. While they may help you stay focused long-term, they also preoccupy your hands from the wheel and eyes from the road. When on the go, some tips to remember are:
Driving is the main mode of transportation for many Americans and will likely stay that way for years to come. As drivers, it is your responsibility to stay focused on the road and to avoid distractions for your safety and for those around you. Remember to keep your eyes on the road and if tasks can be done before your car leaves park, make sure they are done. To keep the conversation going, download the Distracted Driving Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.  Equipment is all around us. It’s used to pave the roadways we drive on, assemble the cars we drive in, and manufacture the phones we so desperately can’t live without. Equipment can be extremely helpful in our daily jobs, but also extremely dangerous if not utilized correctly. So what does OSHA say about construction equipment? Standard 1926.20(b)(4) states “The employer shall permit only those employees qualified by training or experience to operate equipment and machinery.” What type of training do you need? What qualifies as experience? We will explore these questions for the many different types of equipment you will find on a jobsite.
Construction Equipment Excavators, bull dozers, graders, milling machines, skid steers, loaders, and other outdoor equipment are required to follow the basic OSHA standard as mentioned above. Qualified means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers states to be qualified, you must understand the written instructions supplied by the manufacturer, have training including actual operation of the equipment, and know the safety rules and regulations for the jobsite. So what do they all have in common? Three basic principles:
Forklifts / Powered Industrial Trucks Do forklifts fall in the same category as construction equipment? The short answer is No. Forklifts have their own OSHA standard and are one of the few types of equipment that have additional regulations associated with using a powered industrial vehicle. Powered Industrial Trucks (forklifts) require specified training depending on the classification of the forklift, which is in close relation with the type of fuel source the forklift utilizes to power the engine. It is important to understand the differences between passenger vehicles and forklifts as the center of gravity, stability, and weight vary greatly. Forklifts require operators to be certified to run the equipment and the certification must be renewed every 3 years. The specific requirements can be found in OSHA standard 1910.178(I). Aerial Lifts / Scissor Lifts / Mobile Elevated Work Platforms Traditionally Aerial Lifts and Scissor Lifts were found under the mobile scaffold standard, but this has begun to change with new industry best practices and associations implemented in 2021. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) released a new standard, A92, which recategorizes lifts into 2 Groups and 3 types. It also mandates newer safety features from manufacturers to assist in safe operation of the lifts and avoid tip overs while working from heights. With these changes, the goal is to align more closely to a globally recognized standard, yet requires retraining for all employees that use any type of lift on a jobsite. Since these standards were applied by ANSI and OSHA references ANSI in standard 1926.453, it by reference becomes an OSHA standard required under law. Very similar to forklifts, the Mobile Elevated Work Platform standard requires classroom and operation to be considered qualified to operate the MEWP equipment. There are various other types of equipment found on jobsites or in manufacturing facilities, yet all of them require safety training prior to use. Make sure you know and understand the operation manual and perform a visual or written inspection prior to operating each shift. Don’t forget a refresher will be required every few years to confirm safe operation and review any new safety features available or in operation. To keep the conversation going, download the Aerial Lift Toolbox Talk (TBT) below or comment below.  According to the National Safety Council, nearly 250,000 work-related injuries are due to falls each year. Coupling this with slips and trips, these become the most dangerous in the workplace accounting for nearly 30% of all injuries each year. How can you help reduce slips, trips, and falls in your workplace? We will review three main ways to help you and your employees prevent these workplace injuries.
Proper Housekeeping What is the single, most important step in preventing slips and falls? Proper Housekeeping. Keeping your floors clean, dry, and free of obstructions are the best way to provide a safe working environment for your employees. Some things to remember when it comes to housekeeping:
Choose the Right Equipment What height are you working at? What types of activities are being done? What training have you completed? These are all questions that should be answered before you begin working in heights above the floor. Once answered, choosing the right equipment will help you assess the risk and find the best way to complete the task safely. Here are some types of equipment for heights and the best way to use them:
Use a Fall Protection System Protection systems allow workers to move freely at heights while either preventing them from reaching fall hazards or preventing a free fall. Common types of fall protection systems include:
While slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of injury and citations in the workplace, we need to remember that all are preventable. Proper housekeeping, choosing the right equipment, and using a fall protection system are all great ways to help prevent these injuries, but a proper plan, risk assessment, and finding the best way to complete the task are the most important. To keep the conversation going, download the General Fall Protection Toolbox Talk (TBT) below or comment below.  Since November 5th, OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) on COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing is the latest push to minimize COVID-19 transmission in the workplace. With nearly 750,000 reported deaths in the U.S. from COVID-19, the ETS is requiring employers with 100 or more employees to develop, implement, and enforce policies that either require mandatory vaccinations or require weekly COVID-19 testing for those who do not wish to be vaccinated. This blog will help walk you through the summary of OSHA’s ETS to give both employers and employees a look at what will be required of them in 2022. Who Does This ETS ImpactThe ETS generally applies to all employers that are under OSHA’s authority and jurisdiction and currently have more than 100 employees firm-wide/corporate-wide. Employers who are exempt from this standard include:
For those employers who are not exempt from the ETS, a policy regarding vaccination or testing will be required. What is Required in the Employer Policy For employers who decide to enforce a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy, they will be required to:
For employers who permit non-vaccinated employees to work, they will be required to:
When implementing either policy, employers will be required to:
What Additional Requirements Must Employers Meet Alongside implementing the policies above, employers will be required to:
When Does This Emergency Standard Take EffectThe ETS, officially published on November 5th, will take effect 30 days from publication (December 5th). Once effective, all requirements (besides testing employees) will be required. Testing for employees who have not received any or all vaccinations will be in effect 60 days from publication (January 4th). While this standard is set to take effect next month, multiple states have currently filed suit in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to stay (halt) the enforcement until further review from the court.
With the ETS looming, employers should prepare themselves for this standard becoming effective. If you are looking for help maintaining and reporting employee records, STAC is here to be your solution. With our unique QR coded stickers and ID badges, you will be able to adhere to the ETS standards while also providing other important training information for your employees with a simple scan from your phone. For more information regarding the ETS, visit https://www.osha.gov/coronavirus/ets2 |
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