Safety and Health

from BAC Journal Issue 3, 2020

by International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers

Mensaje Del Presidente

MEMBERS AT WORK

dead loads, all of which attached the aluminum framing system to the structure.

Savelloni says the project involves sequential steps where BAC members install the aluminum framing and insulation system, both of which form the blast resistant face. Once the air/water/vapor backup wall is erected, BAC members then install the 2-inch granite panels and complete the installation with silicone joint sealant.

Adding to the complexity of the project was the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic just as production ramped up. Project work was deemed essential, allowing the renovation to stay on schedule, once Rugo and BAC Local 1 MD/ VA/DC were able to establish work practices to maintain a safe working environment for BAC members.

BAC Local 1 MD/VA/DC President Scott Garvin says, “We are proud of our men’s professional response and integrity to not only continue to perform a high quality installation, but do so with new work restrictions, PPE

BAC Local 1 MD/VA/DC stone mason Victor Hernandez-Mazariego, left, and Finisher Jorge Guzman-Cruz.

BAC Local 1 MD/VA/DC stone mason Victor Hernandez Mazariego, left, showing the stone panel installation to BAC Secretary-Treasurer Bob Arnold.

requirements (at times in very hot and humid conditions) and the continued uncertainty of the course of the pandemic.”

When the Museum returns to welcoming visitors again, the members of BAC Local 1 MD/VA/DC who worked on this project can take pride in knowing that their skills helped ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the Museum’s exceptional exhibits dedicated to the history, culture, and science of aviation and spaceflight and the study of the universe. //

SAFETY & HEALTH

COVID-19: Masonry r2p Partnership Helps Contractors Keep Jobs Open, Members Safe

When COVID-19 hit earlier this year, little was known about the disease or how it spreads. While we know more today, new findings continue to emerge. “Since the industry and BAC Members are considered essential, BAC has been working since Day 1 to keep its members safe and contractors informed,” Executive Vice President Jerry Sullivan Jr. said.

The new COVID-19 Exposure Control Planning Tool, which BAC helped develop, is an important element of that mission. The free online tool is designed to help all types of construction employers think through and plan how to protect their employees, prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep job sites open.

Thanks to the support of BAC President Tim Driscoll and NABTU’s leadership, BAC and IMI worked with CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training through our Masonry r2p Partnership to develop and launch the planning tool in record time.

Using the tool to create a COVID-19 Exposure Control Plan involves four steps:

Step 1 — Identify the areas on the job site where employees could be exposed to COVID-19 and the control measures that will be used to prevent exposure.

Step 2 — Decide how employees and visitors will be screened, and how workers who show symptoms and those who may have been exposed will be handled.

Step 3 — Since training is a critical for a safe workforce, identify who will be trained, how and when the training will be provided, and what will be covered.

Step 4 — Complete the plan, including information on who will be responsible for implementing the plan.

The planning tool is closely aligned with the CPWR COVID-19 Construction Clearinghouse released in May. This Clearinghouse includes the latest information on the diseases, state and federal requirements, training resources, and examples of how unions, contractors and workers are joining forces to solve exposure challenges. (Watch the COVID-19 webinar: “Safety in Action — An Example from the Job Site” to learn about Local 1 OR/WA/ ID/MT’s efforts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= N6T9fjqFx1c&feature=youtu.be).

The new planning tool continues to evolve. If you have questions or ideas to improve it, email covid19@cpwr.com. //

The free online tool is designed to help all types of construction employers think through and plan how to protect their employees, prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep job sites open.”