Construction Zone Safety 2019

Page 1

T HE 2 019 GUIDE T O S A FE T Y FOR CON S T RUC T ION EQUIP MEN T O W NER S An AC Business Media Supplement, 2019

CREATE A SAFETY CULTURE

THAT BEATS COMPLIANCE RITUALS

Build tools that empower employees 4

Telematics Data Can Help Improve Driver Behavior 16

CZS0719_01_CoverFinal_JAL.indd 1

Focus on Wellness as Part of Safety 18

Worker Participation is Key to Eliminating Safety Incidents 22

7/31/19 8:07 AM


TRAININ

G & SAFETY

PREPARE TO PERFORM

F

4 8 10 12 Bobcat ® online operator training courses are internet accessible and mobile friendly to enable self-led training anywhere – even in your cab.

16

ACCE S S TR A INING R E SOURCE S AT B O B C A T. C O M / T R A I N I N G Bobcat is a Doosan company. Doosan is a global leader in construction equipment, power and water solutions, engines, and engineering, proudly serving customers and communities for more than a century. Bobcat ®, the Bobcat logo and the colors of the Bobcat machine are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. ©2019 Bobcat Company. All rights reserved. | 65971

CZS0819_02-03_TOC_JAL.indd 2

14

7/30/19 2:31 PM


T H E 2 019 GUIDE T O S A F E T Y F O R CO N S T R U C T IO N E Q UIP M E N T O W N E R S

Editor’s note: The material presented in Construction Zone Safety 2019 a supplement to Rental, Equipment Today and Concrete Contractor magazines, relating to the safer use of specified items of equipment, has been compiled by the staffs of the aforementioned publications.

F E AT UR E S

4 Cover Story

Create a safety culture that beats compliance rituals.

8 Ventilation

Breathing clean air is crucial in enclosed cabs.

10 Compact Equipment

Training to enhance safety on the jobsite.

12 Operations Management

4 natural disaster preparedness tips for construction contractors.

14 JLG Sponsorship

Safety improvements on today’s equipment.

16 Today’s Technology

Telematics data can help improve driver behavior, safety.

17 Attachments Vacuum lifting protects workers from silica.

18 Employee Management It’s time to focus on wellness as part of safety.

20 Traffic Safety Smart work zones minimize fatalities and injuries.

24 Safety Products

This material is intended to provide general safety guidelines to equipment owners on how to impart safer operating techniques to their customers and staff. Only the fundamentals of safety are discussed herein. The manufacturers’ operating and servicing instructions will always take precedence and must be consulted for specific equipment operation, application and maintenance. Under no circumstances should Construction Zone Safety 2019 be used as an exclusive source of information on the use or maintenance of equipment. Operators must study current manuals, operating instructions and maintenance procedures provided by manufacturers, regulatory agencies and national, state and local codes, laws and ordinances. Rental, Equipment Today and Concrete Contractor disclaim any warranty or merchantability or fitness, either expressed or implied, for any use, regarding any of the items of equipment referred to in Construction Zone Safety 2019. Rental, Equipment Today and Concrete Contractor expressly disclaim liability of any loss, damage, injury or cost incurred (including attorney fees) through the use, operation or maintenance of equipment discussed in Construction Zone Safety 2019. Each company accepting this supplement to Rental, Equipment Today and Concrete Contractor agrees to the foregoing and promises to make use of the information herein in the manner so specified. Each company accepting this supplement further agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless Rental, Equipment Today and Concrete Contractor, their editorial sources and advertisers from any loss, damage, expense, or cost (including attorney fees) arising from the use of this material.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_02-03_TOC_JAL.indd 3

3

7/30/19 2:31 PM


C O V E R S T OR Y By Gregg War tgow, contributing editor

Create a Safety Culture that Beats Compliance Rituals

Sc Th ple of int of tio

Some company leaders surpass safety priorities by building tools that empower employees into their business DNA

I

t’s common for construction companies to talk about their desire to create a culture of safety. But enacting a safety culture that actually makes the work safer demands more than making regulatory compliance a priority. And the transformation does not happen overnight. “Safety culture is about measuring the presence of safety, not the absence of accidents,” says Don Swasing, CEM, while quoting a respected safety mentor. Swasing is chief operating officer for Schlouch Inc., a Pennsylvania-based site preparation company. “A safety culture is the way in which safety is managed in the workplace. It most often reflects the attitudes, beliefs, perceptions and values employees share as they relate to safety.”

Culture goes deeper than compliance Compliance is the basic component of a company’s safety program, but a safety culture must go much deeper. In order to create a living safety culture, company leaders must commit to the transformation. A failure (accident or near miss) can often be used as a catalyst for change. “We are focused on relationship-based safety,” says Kris Manning, national director of safety and vice president, Clark Construction Group, a commercial building and civil construction services firm with offices and operations across the U.S. “We don’t view safety as a priority - safety is a core value to us. Priorities often change. A core value, on the other hand, represents the foundation of who you are and what you do. Everyone shares this belief at Clark.” “Safety dovetails between safety and operations,” says Clark’s Kris Manning. “It starts with camaraderie on the jobsite and the genuine, shared concern for each other’s safety.”

4

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_04-7_CoverStory_JAL.indd 4

7/30/19 3:41 PM

sh rol de com ty be

sev an ori qu

wh we tan we ne to yo ev

co ins Ma we mi tic tea

ing gro pa

saf co


alk felly an nd ht. nce on fefor rach en ues

must ety nsen

y,” nd mrm n’t us. her nd k.”

y.”

Shown here is a Schlouch Inc. team meeting. “Leadership must be very open and honest when it comes to safety,” says Don Swasing. “As we’ve transformed our culture, it has been important to celebrate good results. At the same time, when you have a near miss, you have to immediately let everyone know.”

Driven by the desire to eliminate rollovers, Schlouch embarked on its transformation in 2014. The first thing the company did was assign a couple of key employees to investigate the root cause of rollover accidents. “The findings were quite interesting,” says Swasing. “It was a combination of operational habits, along with a lack of education and time.” Once the analysis was in, Schlouch leadership told employees of its intention to eliminate rollovers. A specific rollover prevention plan was developed and put into place. “Everyone in the company clearly understood that this was a priority of senior management, and concrete steps were being put in place to address it,” Swasing says. Schlouch has made great progress over the past several years. It has eliminated heavy equipment and tri-axle-truck rollovers, which was leadership’s original intent. It is an important milestone, but the quest for a healthy safety culture continues. “Leadership must be very open and honest when it comes to safety,” Swasing points out. “As we’ve transformed our culture, it has been important to celebrate results as they’ve happened. When we went 100 days without an accident, it was big news. At 200 days, it was bigger news. You have to celebrate the good. At the same time, when you have a near miss, you have to immediately let everyone know.” Clark Construction Group believes in the concept of celebration, as well. “Rewards are instrumental when trying to change behavior,” Manning says. “We often have stand downs where we have breakfast or lunch brought in to celebrate milestones. We’ll issue spot rewards like TVs or tickets to a sporting event. We are excited to reward teams for strong safety performance.” An interesting way in which Swasing is helping celebrate safety is through a private Facebook group. Approximately 100 Schlouch employees are part of that closed group. “We share photos and stories, and celebrate safety successes,” Swasing says. “I also send out company-wide emails. These types of things are

important if you want to shift away from a compliance-driven culture. The ‘front line’ contributes a tremendous amount of great ideas and examples of what ‘right’ looks like.”

Leaders must accept the cold hard truth In order to get to a place that “looks right” with respect to safety, leadership must first acknowledge the current state of safety in their company. If a leader shrugs off accidents as a cost of doing business, the culture cannot transform. Leadership must decide and communicate what is and isn’t acceptable. At Schlouch, superintendents and the fleet coordinator assessed their current state of safety, then reported their findings to the CEO. “It could have been easy to make excuses for our rollovers, i.e. the operator was inexperienced or the underfoot condition was poor,” — Don Swasing, CEM Swasing says. “But at the end of the day, a lot of our problems had to do with unsafe acts and putting employees and machines into challenging situations. “You have to be strong because there’s a risk in being honest about your current state,” he continues. “A lot of CEOs do not want to hear that things are messed up. It’s important to give the CEO confidence that you’re going to fix it. Trust is a critical component in cultural change.” In order to establish the necessary level of trust, leaders have to be “present” out on the jobsite so they can see the hazards and conditions for themselves.

“Safety culture is about measuring the presence of safety, not the absence of accidents.”

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_04-7_CoverStory_JAL.indd 5

5

7/30/19 3:41 PM


C O V E R S T OR Y

“We don’t view safety as a priority - safety is a core value to us. Priorities often change.” — Kris Manning

All Clark new hires, including office personnel, go on a jobsite walkthrough with a safety professional. “Whether you’re a company veteran or it’s your first week on the job, you have the authority and responsibility to stop anyone on the jobsite who is doing something unsafe,” Manning says. “When it comes to safety, there is no rank.”

6

“Safety leaders must be credible, respected and inspirational,” Swasing adds. “If they are trying to inspire change, they need to walk the talk every day. At Schlouch, we actually created leadership standards together as a team, published those standards and gave them to everyone in the company.” Any leaders who do not embrace change threaten the credibility and viability of the safety transformation. It’s possible that they may need to be removed from the team.

Refocus from rituals to attitudes When trying to distinguish between a culture of safety and a culture of compliance, you must scrutinize what Swasing calls “compliance rituals”. He offers the following example: “We had a loss control person who went out into the field nine times a year to conduct audits. He would look at equipment logs, seatbelt on/

off, backup alarms, housekeeping of trailers, etc. Then he submitted his report to me. Guess what? Everything looked great. We were focused on the wrong things, which we got right every time, but we missed the employee engagement piece completely. “What didn’t make sense was that even though everything always passed audit, our incident rate kept going up. What I discovered was that this ‘ritual’ of the monthly audit was not tied to anything that helped us move the needle to improve safety and hazard elimination." Now, Schlouch hunts for these types of rituals. "You must have standards and processes that actually produce results," says Swasing. "We don’t have a loss control person doing audits like that anymore. Now he functions as a mentor and safety coach.” That’s not to say that Schlouch suspended site audits altogether. Rather, senior leaders assumed responsibility for conducting the audits. The company has 13 safety trained supervisors in construction (STSCs) certified by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. “We audit each other’s sites. We’re looking for hazards and corrections, and things in a site foreman’s blind spot," Swasing notes. "We’re also looking for things employees are doing right — and are recognizing and celebrating them. We then produce a site audit report and distribute it to everyone in the company.” A Schlouch daily huddle is less ritualistic, as well. “We used to have a sign-up sheet,” Swasing recalls. “Then someone laid out three or four standard jobsite hazards. Now it’s different. When you first arrive on a jobsite, someone greets you and escorts you from place to place. New employees also get tool and jobsite orientation task training. Everyone always has their PPE on, no questions asked. The daily huddles are more energetic and interactive.”

em wh em “W of res do

on lon Sh aw al.

wh an ou wi

in of ex ab

Ac ori com the an un tise fee

ly wh

Tips to help gain employee buy-in Rather than take a traditional approach that simply holds certain people accountable, Clark Construction Group no longer believes that safety solely falls on the shoulders of the safety professional. “Safety dovetails between safety and operations,” Manning states. “It starts with

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_04-7_CoverStory_JAL.indd 6

cam con on foc pe

7/30/19 3:41 PM

wr thi lea ly em tor


tc. at? he we ely. gh ate ritng ety

tuhat n’t hat fe-

ite ed he oned

for reso — We to

as ng anou nd ees ng. ns nd

hat ark hat feety ith

camaraderie on the jobsite and the genuine, shared concern for each other’s safety. It’s a relentless focus on keeping the jobsite clean. Everyone is always focused on what they can do better to help ensure people go home safely at night.” “Another way for leaders to approach it is to get employees to take ownership of safety themselves, which results in both leadership and frontline employees owning accountability,” Swasing says. “When that happens, leadership can spend most of its time providing support coaching and training resources. That’s exactly what we’ve been able to do at Schlouch.” At Clark, the “safety first” indoctrination starts on an employee’s first day of employment. A daylong orientation has a heavy safety emphasis. Shortly after that first day, every employee must do a walk-through of a jobsite with a safety professional. This includes office personnel and estimators. “Everyone in the company must understand what we do on a jobsite,” Manning says. “When an estimator understands, he or she can talk with our trade partners about what we’re trying to do with safety.” Manning prefers to use the term safety climate in addition to culture. “When you walk onto one of our jobsites, you can feel a heightened level of expectation and what we hold ourselves accountable for,” he relates. Clark has a program called Stop, Talk and Accept. Everyone on its jobsites goes through an orientation. “Whether you’re a veteran with the company or someone in their first week, you have the authority and responsibility to stop and address anyone on the jobsite who is doing something unsafe,” Manning says. “We don’t want you to chastise them, of course, but the person must accept the feedback. When it comes to safety, there is no rank.” The concept of reporting near misses is critically important. Manning is especially interested in what he refers to as leading indicators. “We ask employees: If something were to go wrong in your area or with your crew, what do you think it would be? Asking those probing questions leads to a candid conversation about what is really going on out in the field," he explains. "Some employees are taken aback that a general contractor is asking for their opinion.

"We are always on site, but we can’t be everywhere on the site at one time. Getting to know people on a personal level and fostering an ongoing dialogue around safety are critical to achieving an engaged workforce and strong safety culture," Manning continues. "We strive to ensure that every employee on our jobsite gets the same level of respect as senior leadership – and every employee knows that.” Transforming to a safety culture takes time. Thus, leaders must exhibit patience to allow it to happen. “There can’t be an undercurrent of fear during a cultural shift like this,” Swasing says. “When you look at your current state, it’s likely that things are going to be pretty screwed up. You can’t start scaring people and firing people. A company has to allow this new approach to settle in. If an employee refuses to get on board six months down the road, that’s a different story. But the current-state assessment is designed to see things for what they are. Identify your low-hanging fruit and biggest risks, take action, and lead the transformation one employee at a time starting from the very top of the company.” No company is ever 100% perfect. When an incident does occur, it’s important to refrain from finger pointing. “Our goal is to identify the root cause and contributing factors, and have an open dialogue," says Manning. "We share lessons learned throughout the organization if we feel like others could learn from it.” The reality is that, in many cases, it’s not an individual who failed, it’s the process. “As soon as you start blaming your employees, the chance of getting their honest feedback and jobsite observations goes away,” Manning says. “At the end of the day, all of this rooted in a respect for people.” Find more insights on safety and related topics in the Equipment Management channel at www. ForConstructionPros.com/equipment-management. ●

Schlouch's safety culture is built around recruiting all employees to continually refine job hazard analyses until incidents end. Photo Credit: Schlouch Inc.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_04-7_CoverStory_JAL.indd 7

7

7/30/19 3:41 PM


V ENTIL ATION

Breathing Clean Air Is Crucial in Enclosed Cabs

Y a

Complete cab air quality systems remove dust and provide clean air for heavy equipment operators

T

he dust generated in construction zones is more than just annoying for heavy equipment operators, it’s dangerous. Workers who breathe in toxic particles are at an increased risk of respiratory ailments including lung cancer and other related diseases that can lead to disability and death. While it might seem intuitive that machine operators in cabs are protected from dangerous jobsite particles, this is true only if the operator enclosure is fitted with a complete cab air quality system that creates and maintains clean air.

OSHA regulations focus on silica According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 2.3 million people in the U.S. are exposed to silica at work and workers who breathe in the tiny crystalline silica particles are at an increased risk of developing serious silica-related diseases, including silicosis (an incurable lung disease that can lead to disability and death), lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease. Construction workers may be exposed to crystalline silica dust particles when drilling, sawing or crushing concrete, rock, brick or mortar. While personal protective equipment like masks and wearable respirators help workers not in machine cabs, the operators who work from enclosed cabs of bulldozers, loaders and haul trucks may also be exposed to crystalline silica dust particles. Crystalline silica is a common mineral found in the earth's crust and construction-related materials like sand, stone, concrete and mortar contain crystalline silica. Breathable or “respirable” crystalline silica particles are tiny and measure less than 10 microns in length. (A micron is equal to one millionth of a meter.) To put this into perspective, the average

width of a human hair is 50 microns and anything smaller than 40 microns is invisible to the human eye.

How do complete cab air quality systems help? To provide cleaner and safer air to equipment operators, it’s important for heavy equipment fleet owners to specify new machines with a complete factory-installed cab air quality system. A complete system includes three parts: a fresh-air unit that includes a powered precleaner, a recirculating-air unit with high-efficiency filtration and a cabin-pressure monitor. Equipment owners with existing machines should test and assess their equipment in real-world working conditions to determine baseline performances. If the equipment does not meet the requirements for providing operators with clean air throughout the work day, owners or equipment managers can retrofit machines with a readily available and complete threepart aftermarket cab air quality system. Many manufacturers offer clean air products for operator enclosures, but the three-part RESPA Cab Air Quality System from Sy-Klone International is the first complete and cost-effective and proven solution for creating and maintaining a cleaner and safer cabin environment.

The last word Breathing in crystalline silica dust particles and other toxic particles and gases can have harmful and far-reaching effects for heavy equipment operators. Complete cab air quality systems greatly reduce operator risks by removing dangerous particles from outside air before it reaches the cab and continuously filtering the recirculated air inside the operator cabin. The result is an enclosed working environment that’s safer and more healthful for machine operators all shift long. ●

Im he

Le V

Information provided by Sy-Klone International.

sy8

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_08-9_SyKlone_JAL.indd 8

7/30/19 2:23 PM


s

You’re probably not thinking about cab air quality.

ng ye.

?

ent eet ete ete hat nit ure nes rld ncnts he ofit ee-

for ab l is en nd

nd ment atus ab de rkfor

You definitely should. Improving the air quality in your operator enclosures can be your route to enhanced operator health and safety, regulatory compliance and extended HVAC system life.

Learn more in our white paper, “Cab air quality: It’s more important than you think.” Visit sy-klone.com/cleancabair sy-klone.com

CZS0819_08-9_SyKlone_JAL.indd 9

+1 (904) 448-6563

7/30/19 2:23 PM


COMPACT EQUIPMENT

Incorporating

ca mi Wa Sa am tra an ati –i wo

SAFETY

on the Jobsite

im es str ma ack go

ma cis ma

all

Educational training can maximize efficiency and keep operators safe

10

W

hen it comes to operating compact equipment, safety should be at the forefront of every stakeholder’s mind, including business owners, managers and the operators themselves. Those who know and understand how to safely use equipment can work faster and more efficiently, leading to better overall performance and profitability. Knowing how to properly use compact equipment can also help reduce the risk of injury to operators or others on jobsites.

Building a safety mindset requires a shared responsibility at all levels, proper training, daily integration, continuous improvement and positive reinforcement. A safety culture starts with management and operational staff members who treat safety and health as an investment, not a cost, and who value as well as demonstrate model behaviors. Also, employees who know how to properly use their equipment and follow manufacturers’ recommendations are more likely to use it more safely and efficiently. “Educating your operators on machine

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_10-11_Bobcat_JAL.indd 10

7/30/19 2:24 PM


d g, d ts rs t, e w w y

e

capabilities and safe operation is paramount to minimizing risks on the jobsite,” says Shawn Warkenthien, Senior Director of Global Product Safety & Compliance for Bobcat Company. “The amount of money you invest in safety education and training can reap dividends in increased performance and profitability … not to mention the decreased negative consequences of a careless work environment – injuries, insurance claims, lost revenue or even worse.” Safety is always being refined and continuously improved upon, so dedicating time and resources will help strengthen areas as well as define strategies that can positively impact safety performance. Positive reinforcement – by celebrating and acknowledging efforts – is another key aspect that goes hand-in-hand with continuous improvement. Knowing how a machine works, realizing a machine’s capabilities and limitations, and exercising appropriate behavior inside and around the machine can help minimize the risk of accidents. Some universal guidelines that can be used for all compact machines include: • Consult the Operation & Maintenance Manual before operating any type of compact equipment. • Follow instructions on machine safety signs to avoid situations that can cause serious injuries or even death. • Wear tight-fitting clothing that cannot get caught on working components or controls inside and outside of the machine. • Always face the machine when getting in, and use the grab handles and steps provided for a three-point contact. • Fasten the seatbelt. • Pay close attention to all warning lights and gauges. • Never attempt to start the engine or operate the controls from outside the machine. • Look to the rear first before backing up and check each side before swinging or turning the machine. • Run at a low speed until the operator is comfortable using the machine. • Never allow riders on the machine. • Keep all body parts inside the machine while it is running.

• Be aware of jobsite traffic patterns or potential hazards. • Make sure proper ventilation is provided if working in an enclosed area or building. • Move slowly uphill or downhill, with the heaviest part of the machine uphill. (When loaders are empty, the heaviest part may be the rear of the machine.) • Avoid sudden stops or turns; steep slopes or drop-offs; rocks; culverts and stumps. • Stop the machine on level ground when finished on a jobsite. Always lower the booms, lift arms, buckets and attachments before exiting the machine. • Engage the parking brake and stop the engine before leaving the unit with the threepoint exit strategy. An owners’ manual is the ideal source for equipment information, but manufacturers like Bobcat Company offer operator training kits and safety videos, in both English and Spanish, designed to improve safety and productivity for their machines. Bobcat operator training kits can be obtained by contacting your local Bobcat dealer or visiting Bobcat.com/train. Incorporating safety on the jobsite can help employees experience not only increased health and safety, but also increased pride in their work. “According to research done by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), a commitment to a safety culture almost always leads to better employee safety and health, less hazardous working conditions, lower workers’ compensation and other insurance costs, improved productivity and efficiency, enhanced employee morale and reduced turnover,” Warkenthien says. “Visible ownership/management commitment to safety also facilitates more trusting relationships between management and employees.” Customers also tend to notice operator safety as well. Being safe presents a favorable impression that can go a long way toward promoting a business. Building and maintaining a safety culture is something all managers and operators should strive for and is a commitment well worth making. ● Information provided by Bobcat.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_10-11_Bobcat_JAL.indd 11

11

7/30/19 2:24 PM


OP E R AT IO N S M A N A GE ME N T B y S t eve Dugger, Co-Founder & E VP of Operations of Buildertrend

It’s dis

Be

an ter tea tha ces

1.

tat co ad str wh tiv po

2.

4

Natural Disaster Preparedness Tips for Construction Contractors

Wildfires. Earthquakes. Hurricanes. Tornadoes. Hail storms.

N

atural disasters can take many shapes — with level of severity and exposure varying greatly depending on location. Statistically, close to seven hurricanes strike the United States every four years, with a significant rise in this number in recent years. Major earthquakes happen less

12

often but can also be devastating. Inland flooding is also becoming a more common occurrence, while persistent drought — especially in the West — puts a lot of states at risk for wildfires. Summer is high time for extreme weather — you need to be ready for when the next disaster could strike, no matter the location. Instead of waiting for disaster to be the catalyst for action, planning ahead can be the difference between mayhem and calamity or safety and security for your projects, employees and business.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_12-13_Operations_JAL.indd 12

7/30/19 2:25 PM

Ev be ter Sti ag wo ect

Pr

fac can by pla an da an ha

3.

dis wi

by thr ard tha


g is ile uts

ou uld for ad miees

It’s better to be safe and prepared than sorry if a natural disaster does occur. Photo Credit: ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES

Be prepared for disaster Creating a disaster plan may feel like a massive and complex undertaking on the chance a disaster strikes, but when the alternative is not keeping teams and projects safe, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Below are four steps to make the process easier:

1. Create a team Start by creating a team comprised of representatives from each department in your construction company. This usually entails members from the administrative side of the business, the on-site construction team and management. Select individuals who will be able to contribute different perspectives; doing so will identify all of the business’s possible vulnerabilities during a disaster.

2. Plan ahead Not every natural disaster can be predicted. Even those that can be forecast in advance can be unreliable. For example, hurricanes and winter storm warnings can change at the last minute. Still, planning for the worst will help project managers identify possible weak points and create a workable plan that ensures the safety of all projects, while minimizing potential damage.

Prepare for disaster Construction sites heighten the risks that people face during natural disasters, and materials on site can become dangerous debris. Minimize those risks by making sure materials and equipment have a place to be properly stored. Securing them prior to a natural disaster can save thousands in potential damages and losses. Additionally, be cognizant of any regulatory rules that must be followed if a plan has to be implemented.

3. Cascade emergency procedures The key to the successful implementation of a disaster plan hinges on effective communication with your team. Take the time to keep the team in the know by discussing and cascading the emergency plan throughout the organization. Consider on-site hazards and who needs to be kept informed of changes that might impact the safety of subcontractors and

laborers. Review company procedures with relevant subcontractors, as well as suppliers.

4. Reevaluate the recovery plan in the disaster aftermath Once the natural disaster has passed, it’s time to assess the aftermath. The first step is to ensure each member of the team is safe before visiting jobsites to take stock of the damage. Next, as soon as possible, take immediate steps to stabilize and secure projects. Develop a workback plan to schedule repairs with priority given to address urgent safety issues.

Is your business prepared for a hurricane? Once all of these issues have been addressed, and projects are moving back to normal, it’s time to reevaluate the team’s recovery plan. By questioning each stage of the emergency action plan, project managers can identify the most effective parts of the plan and where improvements can be made. For example, did everyone receive the instructions or were there loopholes due to communication gaps? Be as thorough as possible. Safety should never be underrated.

Construction technology can help make the planning process easier Just like any project or plan, disaster planning can get complicated. Project managers should consider implementing a centralized, cloud-based system to keep important documents safe from natural disasters and instantly accessible in the event an evacuation is necessary. A cloud-based system makes it easier to determine what equipment needs to be moved, which materials need to be protected, and other action steps critical to minimizing damage to jobsites. It can also help project managers and subcontractors get right back to work once the all-clear signal is given by automatically updating project timelines, assignments and to-do lists. Operating without a plan for a natural disaster works until it doesn’t. Don’t get caught unaware. Be proactive and take steps to plan out communication and recovery processes to minimize damage, costs and risk, just in case disaster does strike. ●

Steve Dugger is co-founder and EVP of operations at Buildertrend, the #1 cloudbased software for commercial contractors, homebuilders, remodelers and specialty contractors.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_12-13_Operations_JAL.indd 13

13

7/30/19 2:25 PM


A MESSAGE FROM JLG

EVERYONE WINS WHEN IT COMES TO

SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS A

t JLG, we continually strive to make our operations and the equipment we manufacture safe. This supports our core belief that everyone deserves to leave work each day in the same condition in which they arrived. When it comes to JLG products, the emphasis on safety begins at the design engineering phase and transcends through our manufacturing and test facilities to ensure the highest of safety standards are maintained. Self-governance is critical throughout our organization; however, we also adhere to the Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) standards for North, South and Central America, developed and published by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Changes to A92 were published more than 8 months ago and will become effective in December. Equipment manufacturers have had nearly one year to incorporate the required changes into their aerial products and training materials, although preparations have been in motion for far longer. As the industry leader, JLG was first to market with a number of product safety enhancements, many of which we anticipated would be incorporated into the new standard. Changes to the new regulations include: • SUSTAINED INVOLUNTARY OPERATION: Hand-operated controls in the platform will be required to protect against sustained involuntary operation. This will result in additional protection systems at platform controls. • LOAD SENSING: Machines will be required to actively monitor load and interrupt normal operations and sound an alarm if overloaded. This will result in new systems to monitor platform loads. • WIND FORCE REQUIREMENTS: To be rated for outdoor use, machines will need to meet stability requirements that include 28-mph winds. This requires reduced platform capacities and/or increased weight for additional stability. • PNEUMATIC TIRE REQUIREMENTS: Stability considerations for failure of pneumatic tires will be added. As a result, many machines will only be available with solid and/or foam-filled tires. • TILT SENSING REQUIREMENTS: Machines that could previously only operate on level surfaces will be used on 14

slopes but are required to have a tilt sensor alarm and function cutout. The system will disable boom and drive functions if the incline surpasses the slope limit. • ENTRANCE GATES: Flexible devices, like chains, will no longer be acceptable entrance gates, and toe boards will be required on all areas of the platform. • PLATFORM RAILINGS: The railing height requirement will be raised for small indoor scissor lifts. To fit through standard doorways, folding rails will replace fixed, non-folding rails on select JLG models. Prior to the adoption of the new standards, JLG has been proudly offering innovations and safety features, such as: SkyGuard® technology, JLG’s enhanced control panel protection system as standard equipment on all booms, as well as foam-filled or solid tires, self-closing gates, toe boards, and fold-down rails across JLG MEWPs. Our focus on safety doesn’t stop when a machine ships. A strong emphasis on operator training is supported through a full range of training opportunities at our Training Center and Proving Grounds in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvannia, at the job site or online at AccessReady.jlg.com. In addition to product changes, training requirements have been updated as part of the new ANSI standard. Training requirements on the machines now expand to cover not only operators, but also occupants and supervisors. Supervisors will be required to receive training on MEWP selection, applicable rules and standards, potential product hazards and knowledge of the operator’s manual. Safety and safe machine operation must always be a priority. While the new ANSI standard is bringing a number of changes to the way aerial equipment business is conducted, it’s important to keep in mind the focused intent— improved safety. And when it comes to safety improvements, everyone wins. JLG will continue to be the MEWP industry leader through continuous product improvement, innovating new technologies and enhanced training programs that keep workers out of harm’s way. For more information, visit jlg.com/ANSI. p

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_14-15_JLG_JAL.indd 14

7/30/19 2:26 PM


1732 High Capacity Telehandler

• Spacious cab with enhanced visibility • Precision gravity lowering system • 16755 lb maximum lift capacity

Every crew member brings something special to the job. Make sure there’s a telehandler on-site to help take those skills even further. When you choose JLG, you’re choosing the leader in precision lift equipment to help boost productivity and ensure uptime.

CHOOSE JLG.

CZS0819_14-15_JLG_JAL.indd 15

www.ChooseJLG.com

7/30/19 2:26 PM


T OD AY ’S T E C HN OL O G Y

Telematics Data Can Help Improve Driver Behavior, Safety

T Smith System

is the trusted global leader in crashavoidance driver safety training. They train tens of thousands of drivers each year, including drivers from more than half of Fortune 500 companies’ fleets. Their proven methods prevent crashes, reduce fuel and maintenance costs and — most importantly — save lives.

16

elematics applications exist for virtually every industry, but their capabilities go much deeper and provide distinct advantages for driver safety professionals and fleet managers. What’s more, the customization capabilities of today’s telematics devices mean that driver safety professionals can receive specific data that simply wasn’t available even a decade ago. And with this data comes the ability to analyze and improve driver performance at a precise level that can save time, money — and lives. The role of telematics in analyzing driver behavior is one of its greatest assets. According to the 2015 Cost of Motor Vehicles Crashes to Employers Report, traffic crashes cost U.S. employers $47.4 billion in crash-related expenses. This includes medical care, liability, lost productivity and property damage. With the clear correlation between unsafe driving and crashes, the need for driver safety is the No. 1 concern of driver safety professionals and fleet managers. With telematics, these professionals have direct insight into driver behaviors such as: • Speeding • Harsh braking or acceleration • Seatbelt usage • Tailgating

Cornering problems By identifying problems with driver behavior, managers are then able to address the root cause. For example, if the data shows that a driver has repeated instances of harsh braking, the manager might conclude that tailgating or failure to maintain proper eye lead time is the issue. After identifying

the cause of the problem, managers can then take steps (like additional training) to change driving behavior before it leads to a serious incident on the road. The results of using telematics to monitor and correct driver behavior are compelling; a 2016 survey found that 69% of fleet managers reported a noticeable improvement in driving behavior when they began using telematics. In that same survey, driver safety was cited as the No. 1 benefit of investing in telematics. Other benefits of telematics include: • Productivity: Tracking driver activity during the day means you can see where employees are spending their time and make adjustments as needed. Telematics can provide a documented and indisputable record of where drivers are at any given time and can be a useful tool for minimizing risk. • Fleet optimization: By tracking fuel fill-ups and usage, vehicle speed, idling time, vehicle maintenance and more, telematics can help reduce waste. Things like the amount of time a vehicle spends idling or how much fuel is consumed give a good indication of how a driver is using their time and where improvements could be made. • Compliance: From electronic logging devices (ELDs) and fuel tax to the FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program, telematics helps keep drivers and organizations organized and ensures compliance with all regulations. If you’re looking for ways to improve safety, reduce crashes and complement your driver safety training, telematics might be the right solution for you. ●

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_16_TodaysTech_JAL.indd 16

7/30/19 3:43 PM


AT TACHMENT S

Vacuum Lifting Protects Workers from Silica Many contractors have eliminated their need for dust-generating tools

S

ilica dust has been recognized for decades as an occupational health concern. Made up of microscopic particles typically at least 100 times smaller than ordinary sand, silica dust is commonly found in materials associated with constructionrelated activities. OSHA requires employers to limit worker exposure via the use of engineering controls, work practices or respiratory protection. With the identification of 18 common construction-related jobs, OSHA specifies exposure control methods to protect workers from crystalline silica, focusing on equipment type and duration of the task at hand. Types of engineering controls for silica include wet methods and local exhaust ventilation, as well as process isolation. Work practice controls involve performing a task in a manner that prevents or reduces the likelihood or levels of exposure by decreasing the quantity of airborne dust. Administrative controls revolve around limiting time spent working with or in close proximity to the material. For multiple concrete contractors interviewed by Vacuworx, vacuum lifting systems have been identified as a viable alternative to drills and jackhammers when lifting and handling concrete slabs. Here's a look at some innovative ways that companies are tackling the silica issue:

Limiting the number of cuts The use of walk-behind or handheld saws in enclosed areas is an example of one demolitionassociated situation where protective measures need to be taken. OSHA states such saws should be equipped with an integrated water delivery system that continuously feeds water to the blade. In

addition to this method, respiratory protection may be required – especially when cutting indoors, in enclosed areas or for an extended period of time. In many cases, contractors who use vacuum lifting equipment have reported the elimination of their need for dust-generating tools. With fewer saw cuts required since the concrete can be handled in larger pieces, adding vacuum lifting to the mix can help limit the amount of silica dust that would otherwise be released in the air. In addition, slabs can be removed with greater efficiency, which reduces the amount of time that workers may be exposed to environments in which silica dust is present.

Eliminating the need for hammers and drills Vacuum lifting can be used as an alternative to anchors, shackles or hammers as concrete may be cut into larger, more uniform pieces that can be lifted out without the drilling, prying or breaking associated with conventional methods of removal. “The problem with hammering concrete is it goes into a million pieces,” says Dave Weston with Blade Runners. “The jackhammer causes too much dust, and labor. Now they can keep it in one piece.” It is estimated that 1 million construction workers are exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust. All contractors engaging in activities that fall under OSHA’s silica rule are required to take measures to keep workers safe by reducing the quantity of hazardous dust they may inhale. Otherwise, they face the possibility of stiff penalties or costly fines for failing to comply. ● Information provided by Vacuworx.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_17_Vacuworx_JAL.indd 17

17

7/30/19 2:27 PM


E MP L O Y E E M A N A GE ME N T by Kimberly Hegeman, contributing editor

It's Time to Focus on Wellness as Part of Safety

A

healthy workforce is important. After all, if your workers aren’t healthy then they can’t do their jobs to their full capacity. Wellness is defined as the state of being healthy. It is also an approach that emphasizes preventing illness rather than treating it after the fact. Focusing on the wellness of your employees can have short- and long-term benefits for both your workers and your company. Construction Zone Safety had a conversation with Chris L’Ecluse, solutions specialist with Teletrac Navman, to determine the importance of wellness programs in construction companies. Construction Zone Safety: Why are wellness and safety programs essential for construction companies? Chris L’Ecluse: Construction is one of the nation’s most dangerous industries. In addition to the everyday jobsite injuries and fatalities, construction workers can also fall victim to extreme weather, physical fatigue, thrown out backs and other joint/ soft-tissue injuries. But wellness programs offer construction companies the ability to raise awareness and initiate the conversation around worker safety. Construction Zone Safety: What is physiologyinformed safety knowledge, and why is it important to construction workers? L’Ecluse: People often think, “I know how to walk and how to lift and carry an object.” But they rarely consider if there is a safer way to do it or if they are performing the act correctly. Physiology-informed safety knowledge focuses on the composition of how workers complete a job, not necessarily the job itself. For example, most construction workers have bad backs. By investing in wellness programs that focus on the physiology of the job, employers can train workers on proper lifting and walking techniques to avoid long-term back injury.

18

Some companies do a poor job of this, and smaller ones seldom invest in physiology. This lack of investment ultimately leads to long-term bodily injury, impacting quality of life and income. Construction Zone Safety: What are some tips to effectively design a wellness and safety program for your construction company? L’Ecluse: First and foremost, construction companies should designate a wellness leader who can incorporate the responsibilities of a wellness program into their day-to-day. Next, poll the employees — what are the biggest wellness and safety concerns, and what would they like to see? Leaders must ensure that they have provided a process to report poor safety conditions or request safety equipment needs, and it should be designed to create a cultural shift to one of ‘speaking up’ and looking out for each other, rather than ‘manning up’ and bottling issues up. Additionally, there should be a focus on adequate and continual education on all new equipment and regular checks on performance protocols. Once the groundwork is set, companies could begin to add more to cater to their workforce. They should address physical as well as mental conditions and provide support networks to assist with those seeking assistance. Finally, incentive programs can go a long way. Companies can begin to implement rewards for lack of incidents, for completing optional training, for adopting healthier lifestyles or for getting regular health checkups. Cosntruction Zone Safety: What key elements must be included in a construction wellness/safety program? L’Ecluse: To truly ensure you are creating a successful construction wellness/safety program, consider these elements: • Mandatory breaks: Operating a big rig may

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_18-19_EmployeeManagement_JAL.indd 18

7/30/19 2:28 PM

wh sub nic ery in

co po

saf for act sh kn lon the tio res an ing un ing


nd ck ily

ips am

mho llhe nd e? da est ed nd up’ uld on er-

uld ey diith roto mier

nts fe-

ga m,

ay

not be as physically demanding as operating an on-site vehicle, but physical and mental fatigue ultimately lead to the same mistakes. • Training: Injury prevention training focused on physiology of the work should be ingrained in any program. Without it, workers could use their muscles incorrectly and could permanently injure themselves. Workers should be able to learn how to lift with their legs - not their back and how to properly grasp things. For example, workers should know the difference between precision and power fingers (middle and index are precision, ring and pinky are power). • Mandatory safety trainings and health seminars: Weekly safety meetings can be used to discuss timely topics, jobsite hazards, weather conditions and tagged-out machinery. They can also be the place to review safety policies and procedures, including OSHA standards and regulations. • Basic first aid: Companies should offer recognized/certified basic first aid courses which help in immediate first aid response as well as self-management of certain injuries. Overall, there are many avenues a firm can take when constructing a wellness program. Some offer subsidized gym memberships, incentives to reduce nicotine usage and subsidized healthy lunch delivery. But what is most important is that it is effective in ensuring your workers are healthy and safe. Construction Zone Safety: What steps can contractors take to ensure that workers are incorporating these safety and wellness steps on the job? L’Ecluse: Contractors must build a culture of safety — there is no way for one person to account for everyone on the jobsite and ensure they are acting in the safest possible way. In doing so, they should promote a focus on education. If workers know why they need to lift a certain way to avoid long-term back injuries and how it could impact their future, they’ll be more inclined to pay attention. Additionally, incentive programs can really resonate with workers. Offering a reward for an annual physical, a healthy lifestyle or for identifying a situation in which a worker is operating in an unsafe way can help ensure workers are integrating wellness and safety into their work. Construction Zone Safety: How do wellness

programs work hand in hand with the latest safety technologies? L’Ecluse: Technology cannot exist in a silo. There must be someone on the other side that can take the capabilities of advanced technology and turn them into something actionable. For over-the-road vehicles, telematics provides insight into speeding, harsh braking, HOS violations and stop sign violations. The data is then gathered, analyzed and turned into actionable intelligence with expertise on remedial action to prevent repeated negative consequences and educational insights for future learning. On-site, wearable technologies can detect worker falls and alert supervisors of realtime locations. They also can, in certain circumstances, detect health ailments prior to a wearer’s knowledge to seek medical assistance prior to an event. As the industry continues to move towards technology, we’re beginning to see greater adoption of virtual reality aiding safety initiatives. VR replicates a certain environment, so construction workers can train and interact with the environment before the real thing. However, a proper training program must be in place for this to be effective. A lead person should be appointed to maintain a database on all safety technologies to ensure they are being used correctly and efficiently. A key factor in integrating safety technology is to be transparent. Transparency of technical data to all personnel should be provided to highlight the desired outcomes and potential issues. ●

“Construction is one the nation’s most dangerous industries… Wellness programs offer companies the ability to raise awareness and initiate the conversation around worker safety.”

Chris L’Ecluse

is a solutions specialist with Teletrac Navman, where he aims to assist clients better manage their drivers and provide a safer work environment for all personnel. As a qualified master driver trainer, he has extensive experience, knowledge and the background to continue to educate industry on land transport safety issues and future challenges and mitigation protocols. For the last 20 years, Chris has trained advanced defensive driving in many countries throughout the world and consulted on land transport safety issues.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_18-19_EmployeeManagement_JAL.indd 19

19

7/30/19 2:28 PM


TRAFFIC SAFETY

Smart Work Zones Minimize Fatalities and Injuries

Temporary work zones present unique safety challenges for travel, but modern technology is seeking to alleviate some of the hazards

D

ue to the United States’ aging infrastructure, we’ve seen an exponential increase in changes to traffic patterns, narrowed rights-of-way and additional construction activities resulting in more fatalities, injuries and crashes, not to mention excessive delays. To ensure the safety of all motorists and construction workers, proactive management of work zone operations has evolved from a temporary work zone to the utilization of ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems), more commonly referred to as “Smart Work Zones.” Let’s look at the dynamics of a temporary work zone in the United States: * More than 10,000 exist on any given day * In the last three years, work zone fatalities have increased an average of eight people every day * Speed is a contributing factor in almost 29% of 2017 fatal work zone crashes * A temporary work zone represents a change in the “permanent map.” * It is a “permanent map” that navigation systems rely on for proper positioning of the car Texting while driving, self-driving cars and connected (C2X) vehicles are just a small portion of the factors impacting safety. Contractors and DOT agencies need to ensure the digital navigation world like (Google Maps, WAZE, TomTom Navigation, Apple Maps and HERE Navigation) are aware of the presence of their work zones. How do you share work zone

20

information with the digital navigation world today? Companies exist which are providing equipment and services to develop what are called “smart work zones.” Smart work zone systems are designed to predict travel time, delays or the current speed in a work zone on a real-time basis. These systems are intended to better inform motorists, encourage them to take alternate routes, limit their frustration, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for motorists and workers. These systems can be used to provide real-time information to motorists during incidents, temporary closures, or any unexpected roadway conditions. Such systems, if properly designed and implemented, can accomplish the following: • Make work zones safer for highway workers and motorists • Clear incidents more quickly, thereby reducing secondary incidents • Encourage motorists to take alternate routes whenever possible • Reduce congestion and allow more free flowing traffic • Better inform motorists and reduce their frustrations. For everyone’s well-being and the ability to arrive safely at your destination, consider investigating and adopting smart work zone technology. Currently only 3-5% of all temporary work zones deploy ITS innovations. This technology, for construction workers and motorists alike, can mean the difference between life and death. ● Information provided by iCone Products LLC.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_20-21_iCone_JAL.indd 20

7/30/19 2:29 PM


l, s

ay? ent art

rena are ge rafor sed ng ted

1 in 5 work zone fatalities are construction workers. — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

le-

ers

uc-

tes

w-

eir

to stigy. nes onthe

Reduce highway fatalities by putting your workzone on the map. iPin devices are placed into the top of standard flexible traffic cones to transmit navigation information to drivers when approaching an active work zone to keep your work crew’s safe!

See iPin in action at www.ForConstructionPros.com/21021862 or visit www.iConeProducts.com for more information.

CZS0819_20-21_iCone_JAL.indd 21

7/30/19 2:29 PM


O N T HE JOB

Worker Participation is Key to Eliminating Safety Incidents

T

he United State’s worker fatality rate didnot change between 2008 and 2017, remaining at 3.5 workers per 100,000. Despite rising investments in employee health and safety over the same period (12% annually, according to Verdantix), the needle has not moved on fatal workplace injuries. We want to reduce workplace incidents and are spending more money every year toward this goal. Should we double training frequency or triple site audits or quadruple field-level risk assessments? Even with an unlimited budget, the answer is unclear.

Employee participation 1.0 We firmly believe that safety performance is controllable. The relationship between inputs and outputs is front-line employee participation.

22

Workers most at risk of injury are best positioned to identify those risks. Empower them to eliminate risks, and they will succeed. While the U.S. worker fatality rate is stagnant, we have the privilege of working with some of the safest companies in the world who have transformed their safety cultures. In 2018, we published a white paper titled “Building a High Participation Safety Culture” where we surveyed 40 customers and empirically defined employee participation in workplace health and safety. One third of the companies in the study were from the construction industry. Spoiler alert: companies with top quartile participation reduced injuries 3.5 times more than their bottom quartile peers. Participation measures the percentage of all employees who are involved in safety and the frequency of activities. High participation companies typically have 50% of all employees actively involved in safety and perform about one safety activity per day. Actively involved means the employee demonstrates intention, such as completing an inspection or a corrective action. Passive activities, such as attending a toolbox talk, are excluded. Showing up does not demonstrate intent.

Employee participation 2.0 What kind of ‘active’ activities do the safest companies perform, how often and how frequently? What do the safest companies share, and how are they different from the rest? The white paper listed five steps that all high participation companies achieved. • CEO commitment • Rise of the safety leader • Get employee buy-in • Safety Reflex • Safety Velocity

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_22-23_OnTheJob_JAL.indd 22

7/30/19 2:29 PM

ma res thr

gra fee ca ers to ris ipa mo

gra pra de vio rep

ev rep en as

ha ass rea icy som We tak erw the

ha qu for

top qu rea com

tie


ed ate

nt, he nsed on ers on he on ile an

of nd on ees ne ns as on. lk, ate

est ntow

gh

The fourth step, ‘Safety Reflex’, refers to information sharing and reaction time. Our follow-up research has focused on this concept. We found three driving factors backed up with data: 1. ACT FAST Earning employee buy-in to your safety program takes more than words. Employees need to feel their input is valued and that management cares. In high participation safety cultures, workers are recognized for their expertise, empowered to report hazards and given resources to eliminate risks quickly. Companies with top-quartile participation completed action items ‘Early’ 1.5 times more often than their bottom quartile peers. 2. TRANSPARENT REPORTING Some companies implement ‘zero incident’ programs. They mean well and set a noble goal. In practice, however, employees hear that no incidents should be reported since any incident is a violation. High participation companies encourage reporting and view it with a growth mindset. Top quartile companies report nine hazards to every consequence while bottom quartile companies report four hazards to every consequence - a difference of about two times. A consequence is defined as any type of property damage or physical harm. 3. PROACTIVE HAZARD REPORTING Some examples of proactive hazards include hazard identification, safety observation, risk assessments and near misses. Some examples of reactive hazards include procedure violations, policy infractions and disciplinary actions. There is some debate whether near misses are proactive. We take the position that reporting a near miss takes time to stop and identify risk that would otherwise go unreported, and it is easy to ignore since there is no consequence. Top quartile companies report 50 proactive hazards for every reactive hazard, while bottom quartile companies report five proactive hazards for every reactive hazard, a difference of 10 times. What drives such a steep difference between top and bottom quartile companies? To answer this question, I sat in a room with eight other colleagues reading proactive hazard reports from top quartile companies. We read hundreds of forms of routine activities such as driving to work. Even for construction

companies, driving represents one of the biggest risks’ employees face. These forms identified daily hazards we take for granted: it’s raining, roads are slippery; it’s snowing, roads are icy; it’s foggy, visibility is reduced. At first, we joked how mundane these forms were and figured there was a bonus associated with volume. After a few hours, the power of these inspections dawned on us. They were not for the manager, or for a bonus, but for the employees themselves. Pausing to consider risks we take for granted, and writing them down, elevates our awareness and leads to safer behavior. These employees were sensitive to risk many of us barely consider when we get into a car. Some even reflected on their drive once they arrived, noting where they followed too closely and unnecessarily increased collision risk. It was amazing to read pre-job hazard assessments for housework, such as climbing a ladder to clean eaves troughs. These workers were in the habit of considering risks before a job and documenting their observations. The process helped them feel safe and prepared for the task. Reducing workplace incidents is intentional. Safety performance is controllable through frontline participation. You are on the right track when a meaningful portion of your business is doing a daily safety activity. To get there, remember these three things: reaction time is how management tells their front-line workers they care and are paying attention. Transparency has impact when it is seen as an opportunity for growth and learning. The ratio of hazards, near misses and consequences says a lot about culture and is worth monitoring and benchmarking. Do these three things and our workplaces will be safer. ●

eCompliance is working towards a mission of eliminating one million workplace incidents by 2020. This mission is founded on the belief that safety performance is controllable, and there is a clear link between actions and outcomes. As the company discovers insights from its data and from its customers, eComplainace is sharing these findings through its Safety Nerd community. It is a mix of online and physical events where safety leaders can network, share best practices and have some fun. CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_22-23_OnTheJob_JAL.indd 23

23

7/30/19 2:30 PM


COMPRESSORS

Portable Compressor Safety and Operations Compressors are mission critical on jobsites, keep them up and running with proper procedures

P

ortable air compressors are a common power source on construction sites. Whether they in constant or intermittent duty, they are mission critical to getting the job done, so it pays to know how to keep them in running order and to operate them safely. Below are tips to get the equipment on site and operate it safely.

Pre-use inspection Before hooking up and driving off, you want to make sure the unit is in good condition, complete and road worthy. A walk-around inspection is good use of a few minutes than can save a lot of time and headaches later. Observe all applicable state and federal DOT laws/regulations.

Fuel up While some units are designed to be fueled while running, in general we advise shutting the unit down first. Keeping fuel clean and free of debris will reduce engine wear and downtime. Fuel should be clean. Check that there is a fuel strainer in the fill port. If needed, remove and clean it. If the compressor requires DEF (diesel exhaust fluid), it must be stored in a separate container. DEF goes into a separate filling point from fuel. It should not be mixed with the fuel, as it contains water and urea which will foul the engine, shut it down and might prevent restart.

Maintain for maximum uptime Newer compressors with Tier 4 engines are not as simple and can be more sensitive than older models. Keep an eye on DEF and battery charge levels. These are visible on the controller. If the compressor needs on-site servicing, turn it off before changing filters, checking fluids, etc. This will minimize the chance of being sprayed

with hot fluids. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper operation and routine maintenance. Despite safety features such as fan and belt guards, only trained technicians should adjust compressor components. In general, users should not adjust safety, blowoff, or control valves, but if it becomes necessary, refer to the operating manual. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for proper operation and routine maintenance. Despite safety features such as fan and belt guards, only trained technicians should adjust compressor components.

Start/stop how-to Starting and stopping compressors is typically a two-step process. Generally there is a master (key) switch that must be turned on first to allow power to the motor starter. Then the motor can be started by turning the switch or pushing a button. Even with the newer electronic controls, the controller is booted up first before the motor is started. Proper shutdown is in reverse order. Turning off the power to the controller on newer units is vital to keeping the battery from running down. One of the mistakes seen far too often is improper shutdown by using the emergency stop button to turn off a machine in normal operation. The emergency stop bypasses internal shutdown steps, causing stress to the airend-motor coupling and preventing proper fluid flow internally. Avoid excessive idling. It wastes fuel and with newer Tier 4 compressors, can cause moisture to condense in the DEF circuit. If you are not using air tools for a while, turn the compressor off. When in doubt, consult your operation manual or contact the manufacturer with questions. â—?

A

K th d

C te o s

V

Information provided by Kaeser Compressors.

C 24

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_24-25_Kaeser_JAL.indd 24

7/31/19 10:24 AM


Compressed Air That Means Business

s

er’s ne nd ust

wry,

for ite nly sor

ya ey) to by ith ed wn onery

opon he ps, re-

ith to air

The M58 comes standard with the Sigma Control Smart controller, Tier 4 Final diesel engine, and 28 gallon fuel tank for up to 10 full hours of operation.

And it’s your business on the line. Kaeser’s Mobilair™ portable compressors have been powering the toughest jobs for more than 35 years. Construction and demolition are all in a day’s work for Mobilairs.

The one your customers ask for.

Cold start batteries give reliable operation even when the temperature drops. Oversized fuel tanks and energy efficient operation mean there’s no stopping mid-job to refuel. Galvanized steel chassis take the hits from even your roughest jobs. Visit www.us.kaeser.com/et to get the best for your business.

or

COMPRESSORS

CZS0819_24-25_Kaeser_JAL.indd 25

Kaeser Compressors, Inc. • 866-516-6888 • us.kaeser.com/et Mobilair is a trademark of Kaeser Compressors, Inc.

©2019 Kaeser Compressors, Inc.

customer.us@kaeser.com

7/31/19 10:25 AM


S A F E T Y P R ODUC T S

Following is a selection of products to help improve safety for construction professionals on the job. For more information about any of the products in this issue, please type the unique eight-digit code in the search bar at www.ForConstructionPros.com.

www

E-Z Drill Dust Collection Cart

Airmar WX Series Ultrasonic WeatherStation The WX Series Ultrasonic WeatherStation accurately measures current local weather conditions including true wind speed and direction while moving, as well as temperature, humidity and barometric pressure. • For pavement designers and contractors to make informed decisions based on real-time, site-specific weather information • Designed to help improve operational efficiency, reduce risks and enhance overall safety www.forconstructionpros.com/12279561

Iron Age Expands Groundbreaker Work Boot Line

26

The 215-lb. Dust Collection Cart uses the same technology as E-Z Drill’s concrete dowel drill Dust Collection System but can be used with handheld drills. • Uses the same air compressor as the drill, requiring an additional 40 cfm for operation • Includes 20 ft. of 2-in. dust collection hose and a shroud that goes around the bit to ensure dust is collected at the point of drilling • Two 600mm filters effectively trap dust particles • Drill can be set on the cart for easy transport

Pr 60

www.forconstructionpros.com/12303596

Pyramex Venture Gear Electronic Earmuffs The Clandestine and Sentinel Powered Earmuff options feature Rapid Noise Suppression technology that immediately cuts louder harmful sounds from damaging hearing. • Include a slim profile and fold-away, fully adjustable, padded headband • Clandestine has an NRR rating of 24 dB and an omni-directional microphone that picks up and amplifies the slightest noise through highdefinition speakers • Sentinel features an NRR rating of 26 dB, front-facing microphones that amplify hearing, an auto-shutoff feature and 3.5mm AUX input jack for use with mobile, MP3 and other devices www.forconstructionpros.com/21015574

West Chester Value-Priced, High-Visibility Apparel Line

Iron Age has added two new models to its Groundbreaker work boot line with the IA5011 and IA5019. • The IA5011 adds extra puncture protection with a puncture-resistant plate and the Vibram high-heat rubber outsole • IA5019 features exclusive Cushguard Internal Metatarsal Comfort and Protection Foam in a 6-in. lace-up steel toe work boot • Welted construction, Kevlar high-abrasion stitching and a steel toe • Iron Age’s premium custom memory foam Bootbed footbed

These high-visibility garments include vests, shirts, outerwear and rainwear designed for a variety of construction and work environments. • Vests and shirts with moisture wicking available in classic, breakaway and surveyor styles with many color block and reflective tape patterns and with standard and oversized pockets • Men’s and women’s vests available • All three high-visibility performance classes (ANSI class 3, class 2 and class 1) and enhanced visibility options • Add customized logo or wording

www.forconstructionpros.com/21067458

www.forconstructionpros.com/20989259

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019

CZS0819_26-28_Products_JAL.indd 26

Th Mo • T • Z D • A • T

7/30/19 2:33 PM

Th 60 com inc Co las • P w d f • T r f • P T c a s • P 9

www

Pr

Th har Re sus shi • B g • B b a

www


G

Guard (SRLs OSHA three abrasi 3,600 The lb. It f housin shock hook o 130 t The lb. an carab intern attach indica multip The arrest in. Th housin The fa

Nightstick ZERO-BAND Series of Headlamps These zero-slip, zero-wear, waterproof LED headlamps include a Model NS-HMC4 Hard Hat Clip Mount that easily and securely bonds to a hard hat using a sturdy PSA material. • Tilting-head design allows user to change light position without having to readjust • Zero-Band Series offers four Intrinsically Safe Dual-Light (spotlight/floodlight) headlamps and one Dual-Function (high/low beam) headlamp model • All five models IP-X7 rated waterproof and feature integrated stainless-steel clip • Three AAA batteries included to power each light www.forconstructionpros.com/21005383

Pure Safety Group Checkmate TR3 Tripod Fall Protection

3M SecureFit Protective Eyewear 600 Series The SecureFit Protective Eyewear 600 Series of self-adjusting, comfortable protective eyewear includes Scotchgard Anti-fog Coating to help provide longlasting clarity. • Photochromic lenses darken when exposed to UV light outdoors and lighten when removed from UV exposure indoors • Task-specific lens tints help reduce glare, eye stress and fatigue in a variety of applications • Pressure Diffusion Temple (PDT) Technology ensures secure, comfortable fit with ability to selfadjust to a wide array of head sizes • Polycarbonate lenses absorb 99.9% of UVA and UVB rays www.forconstructionpros.com/12310136

The Checkmate TR3 Tripod is used as personal protective equipment to access workers and provide fall protection in confined space environments. • 310-lb. maximum single-user weight for fall arrest • 620-lb. maximum combined capacity load when used in assisted rescue or 550 lbs. for carrying goods • Legs lock in the open position automatically during use and disengage for folding and are adjusted for proper height with captive pins • Pivoting spiked feet and rubber soles allow for its use on soft or hard surfaces • Anti-splay webbing prevents the legs from splaying under a load and can be neatly tucked into its own housing slot for storage

www.for

St

Step Acce

www.forconstructionpros.com/21067471

The St safety Dodge that in a dua truck, loads.

UAT Supply Easy-Grip, Non-Stick Cones Designed for better grip, and less stick, the Next Generation Traffic Cone is manufactured with a reduced carbon footprint. • Textured inner thumb grip and ergonomically correct finger rings to reduce hand fatigue • “Gorilla Grip Top” makes cones easy to grasp, even when hands are wet or greasy • Internal cross-hatching to prevent stacked cones from sticking • Recessed bands protect the 3M Retroflective collars when stacked

Step truck o make especi end of

The manuf of inje polypr resista

www.forconstructionpros.com/21068832

Werner Upgraded Fall Protection Harnesses The Blue Armor and LiteFit fall protection harness series now include an easy to grab Relief Handle that allows users hanging in suspension to use their thumb or four fingers to shift their weight into a safe post-fall position. • Bright blue color makes handle clearly distinguishable for quick access. • Blue Armor upgrades also include padding with a breathable compression interior, a back strap and added fabric flexibility that moves with the user

INDE X Bobcat.................................... 2

www.forc

iCone Products LLC. ............... 21 JLG Industries Inc ................... 15 Kaeser Compressors ............... 25 Sy-Klone International ............ 9 Vacuworx Global ..................... 28

www.forconstructionpros.com/21072003

CONSTRUCTION ZONE SAFE T Y 2019 27

CZS0819_26-28_Products_JAL.indd 27

7/30/19 2:33 PM


The Advantage is

Safety

Worker safety drives everything we do. Vacuworx vacuum lifting systems are engineered to help your crew be more productive while keeping them out of harm’s way. From our lifters to the pads, right down to the filters and Tough Seal™, we pay attention to every detail because safety is the standard we live by. Find out how much faster, safer and smarter your crew can be using Vacuworx lifting systems and put the Vacuworx Advantage to work for you.

vacuworx.com

CZS0819_26-28_Products_JAL.indd 28

7/30/19 2:33 PM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.