Construction Safety


OSHA Fines Roofer $50K for Repeat Fall Hazards

The agency initiated an inspection as part of a local emphasis program in New Jersey, where the South Carolina-based company had two employees working approximately 13 feet above the ground without proper protection, according to OSHA.

OSHA: Deviance from Disassembly Plan Led to Crane Crushing Fatality

Changes in the dismantling process exposed employees to crushing and struck-by hazards due to inadequate planning, failure to control movement, and failure to ensure the structural stability of the leg during its removal, the agency found.

OSHA Cites Arms Plant for Lead Exposure, Firing Range Hazards

OSHA has proposed $115,500 in fines against Kahr Arms of Worcester, Mass., for alleged willful and serious violations of workplace health and safety standards at its Goddard Memorial Drive manufacturing plant and testing facility.

Study Connects Worker Lead Exposure to Later Cognitive Problems

Both the developing brain and the aging brain can suffer from lead exposure, according to a report that appears in the January issue of Neuropsychology, titled "Association of Cumulative Lead and Neurocognitive Function in An Occupational Cohort" and published by the American Psychological Association. For older people, a buildup of lead from earlier exposure may be enough to result in greater cognitive problems after age 55, according to a follow-up study of adults exposed to lead at work.

OSHA Revises Compliance Officer Manual

OSHA has revised its Field Operations Manual to provide OSHA Compliance Officers with a single source of updated information and guidance to more effectively protect employees from occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.

OSHA Revises its Voluntary Protection Program

OSHA published in the Jan. 9, 2009 Federal Register final changes to its Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) that, among other enhancements, allow participation by companies with mobile workforces. Changes are effective May 9.

OSHA Renews Construction Safety Pact with Metro Denver HBA

More than 25 residential homebuilders, together employing more than 1,600 employees, participate in the program.

On-the-Job Deaths in Baton Rouge Spark ASSE/OSHA Alliance

The pact will target specific hazards, including falls, combustible dusts, trenching/excavation, 'struck-by' object hazards associated with local petrochemical and construction industries, and more.



an older worker

Healthy Aging Conference Aims to Help Key Sectors

The Feb. 17-18 conference at the National Labor College will examine challenges of the nation's aging workforce and begin developing approaches to help workers maintain good health as they age. Construction workers and others who perform taxing physical labor are a special focus of the conference.

Electrical Wiring How-To Books Recalled for Shock Hazard

The books contain several errors in the technical diagrams that could lead users to incorrectly install or repair electrical wiring, with shocking results.

NCOSH, APHA Urge New Agenda for Protecting Workers

The seven goals listed today start with making protecting workers on the job a top priority for President Obama and the 111th Congress. Goal 3: Count all occupational injuries and illnesses.

OSHA Cites Pa. Company for Safety, Health Violations

OSHA has cited Lloyd Industries Inc. for violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and has proposed a total of $140,760 in penalties. The Montgomery facility, which manufactures fire and smoke dampers, has 50 employees.

Case Study: Risk Management in Health Care Construction Projects

Planners need to address the impact of these projects, which can expose workers and patients to airborne dust, bacteria, and mold spores.

highway construction flagger

Flagging Hazards Away

Taking extra precautions during temporary traffic control helps workers and motorists alike. Since Nov. 24, 2008, all workers in rights of way of federal-aid highways who are exposed to traffic must wear high-vis apparel meeting ANSI/ISEA 107-2004.

Cultivating Safety at Wind Farms

Wind towers reap the power of wind to generate electricity. How ironic, then, that wind towers can take the wind out of those who must repair, maintain, or inspect equipment there. According to one published account, three wind tower technicians were installing bolts in a turbine in a wind tower in Minnesota when their work ignited a fire. The tower quickly became engulfed in flames. One worker fell more than 200 feet and died; the other two escaped with injuries.

Safety Dummies

When someone has a work-related incident or illness, one of the most critical steps toward preventing future incidents like it is to let all other workers know as soon as possible what happened.

Play It Safe with Engines

From moving parts to flammable fluids,engines contain a number of materials that can harm a mechanic who’s not cautious. Some safety items may seem simple, but sometimes a little reminder can go a long way when the focus is on the job and safety measures are unintentionally neglected.

Fall Protection Considerations in the Wind Industry

The world is watching as more wind turbines are popping up to generate enough power to sustain a city, a state, or maybe even a country. Information and predictions about the wind energy market change every day. Every time someone estimates the market to be on a certain growth path, it turns out to be even bigger.

Hydraulic Institute to Address Business Growth, Turbulent Times at Annual Meeting

A key feature of the meeting will be the opportunity to work with technical committees on industry standards, guidelines, and electronic data exchange protocols affecting the pump industry.

CDC Offers Information on Sleep Problems, Workplace Impact

"Insufficient sleep and sleep disorders are associated with chronic diseases including diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and obesity. Sleep-related issues also can be primary symptoms of mental illness, such as depression," said Michael Decker of CDC's Chronic Viral Diseases Branch.

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