A necessary component of a construction project is the safe disposal of debris. Different building methods and job requirements will generate varying amounts of waste that will require proper handling. One of the most important aspects of that process is ensuring trash and recyclable materials are collected safely. Continue reading
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Infrastructure: America Needs An Update
According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, America’s infrastructure is in need of some serious help. The overall GPA assigned to America’s roads was a dismal D+. The low grades are attributed to America’s crumbling infrastructure and aging roads.
In the 2013 Infrastructure Report Card released by the American Society of Civil Engineers, America’s roads, dams, bridges and drinking water all received low marks. A committee of approximately 30 reputable civil engineers was assembled for the number crunching, scoring project. The average bridge in the U.S. is at least 42-years-old. Engineers consider aging bridges structurally deficient and at risk for collapse. Although the 2013 GPA showed minor improvement from the 2009 D grade, the report shows that there is still a lot of room for improvement. Continue reading
OSHA Guide to Scaffold Use in Construction
OSHA’s Safety Standards for Scaffolds publication. This informational booklet is intended to provide a generic, non-exhaustive guide to scaffold use in construction. This publication does not itself alter or determine compliance responsibilities, which are set forth in OSHA standards themselves and the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.
OSHA also has a list of publications covering many other issues that effect business operations. Most of these can be downloaded and used as handouts. They are also offered in different languages.
They also offer links to online training for the OSHA 10 hr, 30 hr. construction courses and also the 10 hr. and 30 hr. general industry course.
Moreover, because interpretations and enforcement policy may change over time, for additional guidance on OSHA compliance requirements, the reader should consult current administrative interpretations and decisions by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and the courts.
Material contained in this publication is in the public domain and may be reproduced, fully or partially, without permission of the Federal Government. Source credit is requested but not required.
Fall Protection Video
This fall protection video outlines the steps to develop safe practices when working from heights including a fall protection plan and proper protection equipment.
On April 10, at 11 a.m. EST, OSHA’s Director of Construction Jim Maddux, and NIOSH’s Director of Construction Safety and Health, Dr. Christine Branche, will co-moderate a webinar to discuss ways of stopping the leading killer of construction workers – falls from heights. To register for the free webinar and to learn more about efforts by OSHA, NIOSH and CPWR to protect construction workers from fatal falls, visit the registration