WHO S MAKING MISSOURI WORKPLACES SAFER? The MEM Difference EXCAVATION SAFETY.

Transcription

1 The MEM Difference WHO S MAKING MISSOURI WORKPLACES SAFER? EXCAVATION SAFETY

2 1/09 These materials are provided for informational purposes only. Missouri Employers Mutual assumes no liability for the use or sufficiency of the information provided. The applicability of this information to your specific workplace can be determined only in consultation with your own legal counsel and/or safety professional.

3 Our Vision Safe, healthy and injury-free workplaces Vision Our Mission We provide innovative, cost-effective solutions employers need to create safe, healthy and injury-free workplaces. This guide is intended to explain in easily understood terms the safe work practices contractors can utilize to eliminate injury and assist in meeting some OSHA requirements. This guide does not replace any requirements detailed in actual OSHA regulations for construction, and it should be used only as a companion to the actual regulations.

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5 WorkSAFE SM Excavation and Trenching Tool Box Talks Trenching Access Welding Safety Getting On and Off Equipment Eye Protection Fire Extinguisher Use Unsafe Trenches Ladder Safety Personal Protective Equipment Trench Safety Review Dump Beds and Power Lines Excavation Inspection Safe Attitudes Safety Commitment Resources Ta b l e o f Co n t e n t s 5

6 Wo r ksafe 6 A WorkSAFE SM company is one that strives to create and maintain an injury-free workplace as demonstrated through a systematic approach using sound safety practices, accountability, training and resources. The WorkSAFE System consists of four critical components: Management Commitment Management s commitment to keeping the workforce safe Education All employees are properly trained on how to work safely Best Safety Practices Consists of all those policies, procedures, best practices and equipment that encourage and enable employees to work safely Injury Management Actions taken to reduce the severity and cost of an accident after it has occurred The WorkSAFE System applies to all types and sizes of accounts. Management commitment must exist for the system to work. The extent of education, best safety practices and injury management tools needed will depend on the hazard and potential for loss. To find out more about MEM s WorkSAFE System, call the toll-free safety resource hotline at SAFE (7233) to request information or a visit from one of our Loss Prevention Consultants.

7 7 Wo r ksafe Em p lo y e r Responsibilities Regularly communicate with employees about workplace safety and health matters and involve employees in hazard identification, assessment, prioritization, training and program evaluation. Establish a way and encourage employees to report job-related fatalities, injuries, illnesses, incidents and hazards promptly. Make recommendations about appropriate ways to control those hazards. Employers must ensure that all employees have a safe work environment and that the employees follow safety and health standards and company policies. This becomes more challenging when the employer is a contractor and the work sites continually change with each project. Employers should enforce safety and health standards along with the company s safety and health policies by periodically monitoring employee work practices. The employer routinely conducts scheduled and unscheduled worksite inspections and addresses any reported or observed unsafe practices.

8 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Wo r ksafe 8 Construction is one of the nation s most hazardous occupations, with an annual work-related fatality rate that is more than three times the rate for all industry sectors. For the approximately seven million people currently employed as construction workers, simply going to work each day can be a risky venture. Based on NIOSH statistics, an average of 60 workers die in cave-ins each year. Several factors contribute to trench cave-ins. For example, soil stability is related to soil type and may be affected by changes in weather. In the spring, unshored trench walls, heavy from rain, can become unstable. Also, when damp soil is exposed to air during excavation, it can dry out and lose the ability to stand on its own, increasing the risk that it will slide into the trench. Other factors, such as proximity to highways, large machinery, backfilled areas or existing structures, can affect soil stability, as well. Other potential hazards include falls, falling loads, hazardous atmospheres and incidents involving mobile equipment. Injuries and deaths can be prevented if employers and employees are aware of the hazards they face and ensure that proper precautions are taken.

9 9 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Planning for safety Many on-the-job accidents are a direct result of inadequate initial planning. Correcting mistakes in shoring or sloping after work has begun slows the operation, adds to costs, and increases the possibility of an excavation failure (cave-in). Contractors must build safety into pre-bid planning, including safety checklists specific to each job. The following specific site conditions should be considered before preparing a bid: Traffic Proximity of structures and their conditions Soil condition, type and depth Surface and groundwater The water table Overhead and underground utilities Weather These and other conditions can be determined by job site studies, observations, test borings for soil type or conditions, and consultations with local officials and utility companies.

10 In j u r i e s The loss history of MEM s excavation and trenching policyholders finds the leading injury types as follows:* Falls, all other types 13% Average cost per injury = $24,125 Falls from ladders 2% Average cost per injury = $26, 415 Trench collapse 2% Average cost per injury = $254,703 Motor vehicle accidents 5% Average cost per injury = $22,258 One of every five workplace fatalities is a construction employee. X *Based on MEM s recent loss data for companies like yours. 10

11 11 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Competent Person and Qualified Person A qualified person is one who by possession of a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience has successfully demonstrated his/her ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work or the project. A competent person can identify existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous to workers, and is authorized to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them [Reference OSHA ]. A competent person s duties can be shared as long as each person is qualified to perform the duty and has authority to abate hazards promptly.

12 12 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Av o i d h i t t i n g u n d e r g r o u n d utilities a n d s t r u c t u r e s Before starting work, the OSHA standard requires you to do the following: Determine the approximate location of utility installations sewer, telephone, fuel, electric and water lines or any other underground installations; Contact the utility companies or owners involved to inform them of the proposed work within established or customary local response times; and Ask the utility companies or owners to find the exact location of underground installations. If they cannot respond within 24 hours (unless the period required by state or local law is longer) or cannot find the exact location of the utility installations, you may proceed with caution. If your excavation work exposes underground installations, OSHA regulations require you to protect, properly support or remove them. REgardless of where you are, Call 811 before you dig.

13 Pre-job employee safety education When you share the details of your safety and health program with employees, it is important to emphasize the critical role you expect them to play in keeping the jobsite safe. You may want to emphasize specific rules to help reduce the risk of on-the-job injuries. These rules may include requirements that workers: Remove or minimize all surface obstacles at the worksite that may create a hazard, Wear warning vests or other reflective or high-visibility garments that you provide when they are exposed to vehicular traffic, Wear or use prescribed protective gear and equipment correctly, Operate equipment only if they have been trained properly in its use and alerted to its potential hazards, and Follow safe work practices. It also is important to establish and maintain a safety and health management system for the worksite. The system should include policies and procedures to protect employees and allow them to recognize job-related safety and health hazards. Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 13

14 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 14 Pr o t e c t i v e Sy s t e m s Preventing Cave-ins. OSHA requires that all excavations in which employees could potentially be exposed to cave-ins be protected by: Sloping or benching the sides of the excavation, Supporting the sides of the excavation, or Placing a shield between the side of the excavation and the work area. One cubic foot of soil can weigh from 110 pounds to 140 pounds or more, and one cubic meter (35.3 cubic feet) of soil can weigh more than 3,000 pounds. Choosing the most appropriate protective system design Designing a protective system can be complex because contractors must consider many factors: soil classification, depth of cut, water content of soil, changes due to weather and climate, or other operations in the vicinity. The Competent Person should choose the most practical design approach for any particular circumstance. Once an approach is selected it must meet the required performance criteria per OSHA 1926, Subpart P.

15 FISSURE Excavation & Trenching what is wrong with this picture? 15

16 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 16 Determination of Soil Type STABLE ROCK is natural solid mineral matter that can be excavated with vertical sides and remain intact while exposed. It is usually identified by a rock name such as granite or sandstone. Determining whether a deposit is of this type may be difficult unless it is known whether cracks exist and whether or not the cracks run into or away from the excavation. TYPE A SOILS are cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength of 1.5 tons per square foot (tsf) or greater. Examples of Type A cohesive soils are often: clay, silty clay, sandy clay, clay loam and, in some cases, silty clay loam and sandy clay loam. (No soil is Type A if it is fissured, is subject to vibration of any type; has previously been disturbed; is part of a sloped, layered system where the layers dip into the excavation on a slope of 4 horizontal to 1 vertical (4H:1V) or greater, or has seeping water. TYPE B SOILS are cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength greater than 0.5 tsf but less than 1.5 tsf. Examples of other Type B soils are: angular gravel; silt; silt loam; previously disturbed soils unless otherwise classified as Type C; soils that meet the unconfined compressive strength or cementation requirements of Type A soils, but are fissured or subject to vibration; dry unstable rock; and layered systems sloping into the trench at a slope less than 4H:1V (only if the material would be classified as a Type B soil). TYPE C SOILS are cohesive soils with an unconfined compressive strength of 0.5 tsf or less. Other Type C soils include granular soils such as gravel, sand and loamy sand, submerged soil, soil from which water is freely seeping, and submerged rock that is not stable. Also included in this classification is material in a sloped, layered system where the layers dip into the excavation or have a slope of four horizontal to one vertical (4H:1V) or greater.

17 Protective Systems The OSHA standard describes methods and approaches for designing protective systems such as the following: Method 1 Slope the sides to an angle not steeper than 1 1 / 2 degrees horizontal to 1 degree vertical (34 degrees measured from the horizontal). All simple slope excavations 20 feet or less deep should have a maximum allowable slope of 1 1 / 2 :1. These slopes must be excavated to form configurations similar to those for Type C soil. A slope of this gradation or less is safe for any type of soil. Figure 1. Excavations Made in Type C Soil Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 17

18 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 18 Sl o p i n g Maximum allowable slopes for excavations less than 20 feet based on soil type and angle to the horizontal are as follows: Soil type Height/Depth ratio Slope angle Stable Rock Vertical 90 Type A ¾:1 53 Type B 1:1 45 Type C 1½:1 34

19 Sl o p e Re q u i r e m e n t s b y So i l Ty p e Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 19

20 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 20 Pr o t e c t i v e Sy s t e m s Method 2: Use tabulated data such as tables and charts approved by a registered professional engineer to design the excavation. The data must be in writing and must include the criteria for making a selection and the limits on the use of the data. At least one copy of the data, including the identity of the registered professional engineer who approved it, must be kept at the worksite during construction of the protective system. After the system is completed, the data may be securely stored away from the jobsite. A copy must be provided upon request to the Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA. Method 3: Use a trench box or shield designed or approved by a registered professional engineer or based on tabulated data prepared or approved by a registered professional engineer. Timber, aluminum or other suitable materials may also be used. OSHA standards permit the use of a trench shield (also known as a welder s hut) if it provides the same level of protection or more than the appropriate shoring system.

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22 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 22 Pr o t e c t i v e Sy s t e m s Employers can choose the most practical method for the particular circumstance, but that system must meet the required performance criteria. The standard does not require a protective system when an excavation is made entirely in stable rock or is less than 5 feet deep, if a competent person has examined the ground and found no indication of a potential cave-in.

23 Pr o t e c t i o n o f Ad j a c e n t St r u c t u r e s Provide support systems such as shoring, bracing or underpinning to ensure that adjacent structures such as buildings, walls, sidewalks or pavements remain stable. The standard also prohibits excavation below the base or footing of any foundation or retaining wall unless: A support system such as underpinning is provided. The excavation is in stable rock, or A registered professional engineer determines that the structure is far enough away from the excavation, and that excavation will not pose a hazard to employees. Excavations under sidewalks and pavements are prohibited unless an appropriately designed support system or another effective means of support is in place. Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 23

24 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 24 Co m b i n e d Us e o f Sl o p i n g w i t h Tr e n c h Bo x e s COMBINED USE. Trench boxes are generally used in open areas, but they also may be used in combination with sloping and benching. The box should extend at least 18 inches above the surrounding area if there is sloping toward excavation. This can be accomplished by providing a benched area adjacent to the box. Earth excavation to a depth of two feet below the shield is permitted, but only if the shield is designed to resist the forces calculated for the full depth of the trench and there are no indications while the trench is open of possible loss of soil from behind or below the bottom of the support system. Conditions of this type require observation on the effects of bulging, heaving and boiling, as well as surcharging, vibration, adjacent structures, etc., on excavating below the bottom of a shield. Careful visual inspection of the conditions mentioned above is the primary and most prudent approach to hazard identification and control.

25 Su p p o r t Sy s t e m s OSHA Subpart P requires taking the following steps to protect employees when installing support systems: Connect members of support systems securely, Install support systems safely, Do not allow employees in unprotected trenches, Avoid overloading members of support systems, and Install other structural members to carry loads imposed on the support system when there is a need to remove individual members temporarily. In addition, the standard permits excavation of 2 feet or less below the bottom of the members of a support or shield system if the system is designed to resist the forces calculated for the full depth of the trench. In addition, there must be no indications of a possible cave-in below the bottom of the support system. After the excavation is cleared, remove the protective System from the bottom up, taking care to release members slowly. As soon as work is completed, backfill the excavation when the protective system is dismantled. Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 25

26 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 26 Sp o i l s TEMPORARY SPOIL. Temporary spoil must be placed no closer than two feet from the surface edge of the excavation, measured from the nearest base of the spoil to the cut. This distance requirement ensures that loose rock or soil from the temporary spoil will not fall on employees in the trench. Spoil should be placed so that it channels rainwater and other run-off water away from the excavation. PERMANENT SPOIL. Permanent spoil should be placed at some distance from the excavation. Permanent spoil is often created where underpasses are built or utilities are buried. The improper placement of permanent spoil, i.e. insufficient distance from the working excavation, can cause an excavation to be out of compliance with the horizontal-to-vertical ratio requirement for a particular excavation. This can usually be determined through visual observation. Permanent spoil can change undisturbed soil to disturbed soil and dramatically alter slope requirements. The spoil pile is required to be at least two feet from the edge of the trench and/or retained to prevent it from falling into the trench.

27 27 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Maintaining Materials and Equipment Employers are responsible for maintaining materials and equipment used for protective systems. Defective and damaged materials and equipment can cause failure of a protective system and other excavation hazards. To avoid possible failure of a protective system, ensure that: Materials and equipment are free from damage or defects; Manufactured materials and equipment are used and maintained consistent with the manufacturer s recommendations, so as to prevent employee exposure to hazards; and While in operation, a competent person examines any damaged materials and equipment. Remove unsafe materials and equipment from service until a registered professional engineer evaluates and approves them for use.

28 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 28 Additional Hazards and Protections Other excavation hazards In addition to cave-ins and related hazards, workers involved in excavation work also are exposed to hazards involving falls, falling loads and mobile equipment. To protect employees from these hazards, take the following precautions: Keep materials or equipment that might fall or roll into an excavation at least two feet from the edge of excavations or use retaining devices, or both. Provide warning systems such as mobile equipment, barricades, hand or mechanical signals, or stop logs to alert operators to the edge of an excavation. If possible, keep the grade away from the excavation. Provide scaling to remove loose rock or soil, or install protective barricades and other equivalent protection to protect employees against falling rock, soil or materials. Prohibit employees from working on faces of sloped or benched excavations at levels above other employees unless you provide the employees at the lower levels adequate protection from the hazard of falling, rolling or sliding material or equipment. Prohibit employees from standing or working under loads being handled by lifting or digging equipment. Require employees to stand away from vehicles being loaded or unloaded to protect them from being struck by any spillage or falling materials. Operators can remain inside cabs of vehicles if they provide adequate protection from falling loads during loading and unloading operations.

29 Water Accumulation Effects on Excavation Safety Water in an excavation can undermine the sides and make it more difficult to get out of the excavation. If water is present: Prohibit employees from working without adequate protection in excavations where water is present. If water removal equipment is used to control or prevent water accumulation, ensure that a competent person monitors the equipment and its operation to ensure proper use. Require the use of diversion ditches, dikes or other suitable means to prevent surface water from entering an excavation and to provide adequate drainage of the adjacent area. A competent person must inspect excavations subject to runoffs from heavy rains before work begins. Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 29

30 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Fa l l Pr o t e c t i o n 30 Protection against hazardous atmospheres Before an employee is permitted to enter an excavation, a competent person must test any excavation deeper than four feet or where an oxygen deficiency or a hazardous atmosphere is present or could reasonably be expected. If there are any hazardous conditions, provide the employee controls, such as proper respiratory protection or ventilation. In addition, regularly test all controls used to reduce atmospheric contaminants to acceptable levels. If unhealthful atmospheric conditions exist or develop in an excavation, provide emergency rescue equipment, such as a breathing apparatus, safety harness and line and basket stretcher, and ensure that it is readily available. This equipment must be attended when in use.

31 31 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Required Means of Entering and Exiting the Trench Provide safe access and egress to all excavations, including ladders, steps, ramps or other safe means of exit for employees working in trench excavations four feet or deeper. These devices must be located within 25 feet of the excavation. Any structural ramps you use in your operation must be designed by a competent person if they are used for employee access or egress, or by a competent person qualified in structural design if they are used for vehicles. Also, structural members used for ramps or runways must be uniform in thickness and joined in a manner to prevent tripping or displacement. The ladder is the wrong type and should extend three feet above the excavation.

32 La d d e r s 32 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Site Inspection A competent person should inspect the trench/excavations and the adjacent areas daily for possible cave-ins, failures of protective systems and equipment, hazardous atmospheres, and other hazardous conditions. If the competent person finds these conditions, all exposed employees must leave the hazardous area until necessary safety precautions are taken. Larger and more complex operations should have a full-time safety official who makes recommendations to improve implementation of the safety plan. In a smaller operation, the safety official may be part-time and usually will be a supervisor. Supervisors are the contractor s representatives on the job. Supervisors should conduct inspections, investigate accidents and anticipate hazards. They should ensure that employees receive on-the-job safety and health training. They also should review and strengthen overall safety and health precautions to guard against potential hazards, get the necessary employee cooperation in safety matters, and make frequent reports to the contractor.

33 33 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Excavation Safety Checklist Is a trained competent person available for daily excavation safety inspections? YES NO Has the excavation been inspected by a competent person? YES NO Is the site inspected daily and before the start of each shift? YES NO Is the site inspected after weather events like rain, snow, wind, thaws or earthquakes? YES NO Is the site inspected for fissures, cracks, sloughing, water seepage or bulging? YES NO Are site inspections documented? YES NO Is a protection system in use in trenches five feet or deeper? YES NO Is the cave-in protection system appropriate for the soil type? YES NO Is the cave-in protection system inspected every day by the competent person? YES NO Are spoil piles placed at least two feet back from the excavation? YES NO For trenches four feet or more, is a safe way to enter and exit the excavation provided? YES NO Is access within 25 lateral feet of employees? YES NO Is the air tested for possible oxygen deficiency or build up of hazardous gas? YES NO Is oxygen content in the air maintained between % percent? YES NO Are generators & pumps stationed where exhaust (CO) will not enter the trench? YES NO Does the site have water removal systems such as pumps? YES NO Do employees avoid working beneath suspended loads? YES NO

34 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 34 Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Lack of vehicle safety practices on site risks employees being pinned between construction vehicles and walls, struck by swinging backhoes, crushed beneath overturned vehicles, or other similar accidents. Workers near public roadways risk being struck by trucks or cars.

35 Best Practices to apply: Make sure that each vehicle and equipment operator has a valid driver s license. Allow equipment to be operated or repaired only by persons who have been trained and authorized to work with that piece of equipment. Assign responsibility for each piece of equipment to an individual worker. Designate a supervisor to be responsible for: daily pre-shift equipment checks verifying that any problems are corrected ensuring maintenance is performed maintaining records of all inspections and repairs Ensure that workers are paid for the time they spend performing equipment safety checks. When repairs are made on site, require that the operator s controls are made inoperable so that another worker cannot move the equipment while repairs are being made. Require equipment operators to set parking brakes when leaving equipment unattended. When equipment is parked on an incline, chock wheels and set parking brakes. Chocks should be of sufficient size and configuration to immobilize the equipment. A warning system (barricades, hand or mechanical signals, or stop logs) shall be utilized when: Mobile equipment is operated adjacent to an excavation, Equipment is required to approach the edge of an excavation and the operator does not have a clear view of the excavation. If possible, the grade should be away from the excavation. 35 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g

36 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 36 Best Practices to apply (Continued): Require employees to report equipment problems to the competent person. Give employees the authority to shut down unsafe equipment without repercussion. Train equipment operators in safe work practices to prevent equipment rollovers: Maintain proper tire pressure. Know material density and surface stability. Use spotters with two-way radio communication. Train operators to use seat belts and remain belted in the event of a rollover. Use edge guards on trailers to prevent rollovers. Use spotters during loading and unloading of equipment from transport trailers. Install full-width loading ramps on transport trailers. Haulage vehicles that are loaded by cranes, power shovels, loaders, etc., must have a cab shield or canopy that protects the driver from falling materials. Getting in and out of the vehicle: Use the 3 Point Contact (1 hand/2 feet or 2 feet/1hand). Be aware of wind when opening your door. Enter and exit cab facing steps. Use appropriate steps and hand rails. Maintain good foot grip. Don t Jump! Wear seat belts that meet OSHA standards [ (b)(9)], except on equipment that is designed only for standup operation, or that has no rollover protective structure. When on the road, obey traffic rules and regulations. Do not drive a vehicle in reverse gear with an obstructed rear view, unless it has an audible reverse alarm or another worker signals that it is safe.

37 Best Practices to apply (Continued): Drive vehicles or equipment only on roadways or grades that are safely constructed and maintained. Develop pictorial checklists to make equipment inspections easier. Keep operator manuals in the equipment cab. Ensure ready access to repair manuals by maintenance personnel at all work locations. Contact the equipment manufacturer to obtain operator and repair manuals when purchasing used equipment. Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 37 37

38 Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g Vehicles and Heavy Equipment Best Practices to apply: Do not exceed a vehicle s rated load or lift capacity. Do not carry personnel unless there is a safe place to ride. Use traffic signs, barricades or flaggers when construction takes place near public roadways. Workers must be highly visible in all levels of light. Warning clothing, such as red or orange vests, is required, and if worn for night work, must be of reflective material. This accident happened because the excavation was not properly guarded or barricaded 38

39 The following Case Report of a vehicle accident investigated by OSHA illustrates how seemingly innocent workplace activities can have deadly consequences. An employee was operating a bulldozer at the top edge of a sloped drainage ditch. The bulldozer began to slide down the side of the snow and ice covered excavation, tipped over on its side, and pinned the operator under the roll bars. The driver was not wearing a seatbelt. Ex c a v at i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 39

40 40 Ex c a v a t i o n & Tr e n c h i n g 40 Employee Communication Employer responsibilities: Regularly communicate with employees about workplace safety and health matters, and involve employees in hazard identification, assessment, prioritization, training and program evaluation. Establish a way and encourage employees to report job-related fatalities, injuries, illnesses, incidents and hazards promptly, and make recommendations about appropriate ways to control those hazards. Employers must ensure that all employees have a safe work environment and that the employees follow safety and health standards and company policies. This becomes more challenging when the employer is a contractor and the worksites continually change with each project. Employers should enforce safety and health standards along with the company s safety and health policies by periodically monitoring employees work practices. This can be accomplished by the employer routinely conducting scheduled and unscheduled worksite inspections and addressing any reported or observed unsafe practices or conditions.

41 Tool Box Talks MEM s WorkSAFE System Education component places emphasis on training all employees on how to work safely. Specifically, employees need to know: About workplace hazards to which they may be exposed, How to recognize hazards, and How to minimize their exposure. The best way to educate employees and for them to learn is through training. The following Tool Box Talks are designed as a five- to 15-minute pre-work shift discussion that covers a particular safety topic and can be delivered on the jobsite during a tailgate session. The talks are related to the workplace hazards and exposures addressed in this guide. To o l Bo x Ta l k s 41

42 To Bo Ed u c Ta at i o n To o l Bo x Ta l k s 42 Tool Box Talks are discussions that cover a specific safety topic. They are generally held prior to a shift, last five to 15 minutes and are designed to heighten safety awareness and provide basic safety information on the topic. More detailed training should be done at orientation, on the job or other regularly scheduled training. How often should Tool Box Talks be presented? This will depend on site conditions and safety concerns. On a large construction project it may be necessary to give the same Tool Box Talk several times to ensure all subcontractors are addressed. On smaller projects one session could address all personnel on site. It is recommended that Tool Box Talks be presented at least weekly to all employees. When possible, this should be at a routine time and day to establish it as a good safety habit. What Tool Box Talk should be used? The purpose of the Tool Box Talk is to raise safety awareness of a particular topic. Ideally, corresponding the talk with location activities would provide the maximum impact to keep the topic fresh in employee s thoughts. A Tool Box Talk can be presented to correspond with a recent near miss or accident. Summary Tool Box Talks provide an effective method of reinforcing and communicating a safety message to employees. The result will include a potential reduction in injury accidents and even save a life. How to conduct a Tool Box Talk: 1. Read or paraphrase the introduction of the subject to the group. 2. Review the WorkSAFE tip items with employees. 3. Discuss how the topic is important to the health and safety of all employees. 4. Note any concerns or recommendations for improvements. 5. Record attendance and date presented.

43 TRENCHING ACCESS Access to and egress from trenches is an important part of excavation safety. Each year unnecessary falls occur that result in needless injuries and deaths. All workers who work in trenches and excavations are required by OSHA to be properly trained in proper access and egress. This Tool Box Talk will cover the basics of setting up and properly accessing these dangerous areas. These are basic items that we sometimes forget to follow due to our thoughts not being focused on the job, and the safety and care required. TIPS Trenches four feet or more in depth should be provided with a fixed means of egress. When ascending or descending a ladder, the worker must face the ladder. Ladders must be inspected by a competent person for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any incident that could affect their safe use. The area around the top and bottom of the ladders must be kept clear. The rungs and steps of portable metal ladders must be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material or treated to minimize slipping. The top or top step of a stepladder must not be used as a step to get into or out of a trench.. Ladders must be secured and extend a minimum of 36 inches above the landing. Spacing between ladders or other means of egress must be such that a worker will not have to travel more than 25 feet. Metal ladders should be used with caution, and ladders should have nonconductive side rails if the employee or ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment. Ladders must not be loaded beyond the maximum intended load for which they were built or beyond their manufacturer s rated capacity. Ladders must not be moved, shifted or extended while in use. Ramps may be used for access if designed by a competent person. Structural members used for ramps or runways must be uniform in thickness and joined in a manor to prevent tripping or displacement. proper access helps prevent falls and supports safe exiting from trenches in times of emergencies. To o l Bo x Ta l k s 43

44 To o l Bo x Ta l k s Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

45 WELDING SAFETY The potential hazards of fire or explosion are inherent in oxy-fuel welding due to the presence of flammable fuel gas, oxygen and an open flame. Employees must follow safe operating procedures and use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to reduce the chance of injury. Misuse of equipment can lead to serious injury from fire. TIPS The American Welding Society (AWS) Fact Sheet on Fire and Explosion Prevention notes that sparks can travel up to 35 feet horizontally even farther when falling and still ignite combustible materials. They can pass through or become lodged in cracks, clothing, pipe holes and other openings. Even at the 35-foot distance, a spark can be hotter than 2500 degrees! Similarly, torch flames can ignite materials within several feet of the visible flame. Material in contact with a hot work surface away from the flame source and weld bead can be ignited. Welding & Cutting Should not be done near storage of combustibles If combustibles cannot be removed or protected, move the piece to be welded outside Sheet metal guards or fireproof blankets should be used to prevent hot metal and sparks from falling on wood floors or combustibles. Sprinkler systems should not be shut down in the area where welding is done. A fully charged fire extinguisher should be kept near the operation. A fire watch person should be stationed to watch sparks and promptly use the extinguisher if needed. When welding is completed, check for smoldering fire in out-ofthe-way places where sparks could have landed. Maintain the fire watch for at least a half hour after welding is complete. Arc Welding Maintain equipment and cables in good condition to prevent shorting against metal. Provide protective caps where the cables connect to the welder. Ground the welding machine and the work. Remove electrodes from the holder when not in use. Power should be shut off and the welding unit disconnected during significant work interruption. See fire watch precautions noted above. To o l Bo x Ta l k s 45

46 To o l Bo x Ta l k s 46 Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

47 GETTING ON AND OFF EQUIPMENT Getting on and off large construction equipment is a source of workplace injuries. The higher seating position requires the operator to climb up and down from the equipment. Employees often fall, injuring their backs, legs or ankles. Employees should receive training on proper mounting and dismounting. Supervisors should enforce safe practices of getting on and off equipment. TIPS Maintain a three-point contact when mounting and dismounting by keeping two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot on the steps/ladder and handholds at all times. Be aware of wind when opening the cab door. Do NOT jump down to the ground. Uneven dirt or a rock could cause a knee or ankle injury. Move slowly to prevent slipping. Avoid dismounting into traffic lanes. Daily inspections of equipment should include ladders, rungs and handholds. They should be clean and in good condition. Face the equipment while mounting or dismounting. Look for firm footing. Be aware of large rocks and dirt clods when stepping down from equipment. Do not swing out and off the equipment. Be sure boots are clean of mud or other debris. Set the parking brake prior to dismounting. Seatbelts should always be used along with any other required equipment. To o l Bo x Ta l k s WorkSAFE and remember: Using proper methods for getting on and off equipment will help prevent falls and the injuries that result from them. 47

48 To Bo Ta To o l Bo x Ta l k s 48 Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

49 EYE PROTECTION Eye injuries are one of the most devastating because they have the potential to prevent the injured employee from returning to the same type of work if eyesight is impaired. In spite of this, employees often fail to use eye protection, using excuses such as: The glasses are uncomfortable; I forgot them at home/in truck; They are in my toolbox across the shop/jobsite; and the ever popular, I ll only be a minute. Flying particles can injure an unprotected eye in an instant, therefore prevention must include a thorough explanation by management on how eye protection is a benefit to employees. One approach is to discuss off-work activities enjoyed by employees and how they would be impacted by a severe eye injury. TIPS Plan the task. Can the tool to be used produce flying particles or dust? If flying particles or dust are created, eye protection is needed. Provide appropriate eye protection for the task: safety glasses, goggles or face shield. Counter objections by discussing the purpose of eye protection and proper adjustment to wear it properly. Review the use of guards on tools that help contain flying particles. Keep eye protection clean check and clean before use. Provide eye protection that is adjustable. If the equipment is comfortable it is more likely to be used. Discuss employee hobbies and off-work activities that could be impaired by lost eyesight: watching children s activities; seeing wife/significant other; watching or participating in sports, hunting, fishing, driving, etc. Inspect tools prior to use to be sure guards are in place. To o l Bo x Ta l k s Remember TO WorkSAFE AND PROTECT YOUR EYESIGHT. 49

50 To To o l Bo Bo x Ta Ta l k s Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

51 FIRE EXTINGUISHER USE Don t Let Your Job Go Up In Smoke! A small fire, unchecked, can quickly become a large one, causing injuries and property loss. Did you know that when a company s building and production equipment is destroyed, the odds are against being able to reopen? Use of a fire extinguisher in the early stages of a fire may either put it out or delay its spread until the Fire Department arrives. Fire extinguishers are only effective for small fires in the early stages. Only properly trained employees should use fire extinguishers. Upon Observing Smoke or Fire Remember R.A.C.E. and P.A.S.S. R.A.C.E. R: React, Rescue. Clear all personnel from the area. A: Alarm. 1. Sound the alarm. Have someone notify the Fire Department. 2. Follow procedures in the emergency evacuation plan. Life safety is the most important consideration! C: Contain. Shut off equipment. Shut doors on the way out. E: Extinguish. Use an extinguisher labeled for the type of fire present. Having ABC labeled extinguishers saves time by eliminating that decision. Once the extinguisher is removed from the wall hanger or cabinet, stand at least 6 to 8 feet from the fire to avoid splashing or scattering embers with the spray from the extinguisher. It s now time to P.A.S.S. P.A.S.S. P: Pull the pin on the extinguisher handle. A: Aim at the base of the flames. S: Squeeze the handle. S: Sweep the spray across the base of the flames. A dry chemical fire extinguisher can make short work of a 3 x 4 foot pan of burning diesel fuel. Extinguishers Type Fire Type Extinguishing A Ordinary combustibles: wood, paper etc. Water B Flammable liquids Dry chemical or foam C Electrical: energized equipment Dry chemical D Metals: magnesium, titanium, etc. Specialty dry chemical To o l Bo x Ta l k s 51

52 To o l Bo x Ta l k s 52 To o l Bo x Ta l k s Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

53 UNSAFE TRENCHES Trenching and excavation companies should make every effort to prevent cave-ins. Trench collapses kill construction workers on a frequent basis. All workers on the trenching/excavation jobsite should be familiar with trenching safety practices. Even though trench safety has been taught for 30 years, accidents still kill construction workers today. Review this Tool Box Talk with members of your organization that work in the trenches. TIPS EXCAVATION TRIGGER NUMBERS 4 feet need to be given adequate access or egress. (ladder or steps into the trench) 4 feet atmospheric testing where there is likely to be a hazard. 5 feet sloping, shoring or trench boxes required. 25 feet of lateral travel requires additional access or egress installed. (ladder every 50 feet) 18 inches minimum clearance above the ground for trench box. 6 feet fall protection is required. (guardrails to prevent falls into the trench) Less than 5 feet shoring is not required after daily inspection from competent person and no indication of potential cave-in. (rare instance) MORE TRENCH SAFETY INFO: Make sure materials or equipment that may fall or roll into the trench is moved at least 2 feet back. Provide warning systems when trenches are near traffic areas. Never allow workers to stand or work beneath loads or digging equipment. Never lift or lower workers with digging equipment. Provide safe access to all trenches 4 feet or deeper. Ladders must be within 25 feet of all workers. TRENCH RESCUES REQUIRE: Extensive resources Multiple personnel Involvement by many government agencies Trench rescues require many hours of labor; survival is not likely UNSAFE TRENCH! NO SHORING & WATER INFILTRATION ANY TRENCH 5 FEET IN DEPTH REQUIRES PROTECTIVE SHORING or SHIELDING To o l Bo x Ta l k s 53

54 To To o l Bo Bo x Ta Ta l k s 54 Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

55 LADDER SAFETY Ladders are used throughout our industry daily to help complete our operations. Ladders and falls from ladders account for numerous employee injuries every year. To avoid these injuries, we have adopted the following safety rules, which we expect you to follow at all times. TIPS Know your ladders. Ladders must be inspected by a competent person for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any incident that could affect their safe use. When ascending or descending a ladder, the employee must face the ladder. Metal ladders should be used with caution, and ladders should have nonconductive side rails if the employee or ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment. Ladders must not be loaded beyond the maximum intended load for which they were built or beyond their manufacturer s rated capacity. Ladders must not be moved, shifted or extended while in use. Frequently clean the rungs of mud and other foreign material. Ladders must be secured and extend a minimum of 36 inches above the landing. The rungs and steps of portable metal ladders must be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material or treated to minimize slipping. The area around the top and bottom of the ladders must be kept clear. To o l Bo x Ta l k s Remember TO WorkSAFE. PROPER LADDER SAFETY HELPS PREVENT FALLS ON THE JOB. 55

56 To Bo Ta To o l Bo x Ta l k s 56 Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

57 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Personal Protective Equipment is used to protect you when the hazards of a job can t be eliminated. Some examples would include protection from falls, noise, punctures or lacerations, overhead or falling objects, and environmental conditions such as sun, heat or cold. PPE gives you the best possible protection when you know what to use, how to use it, when to use it and how to maintain it properly. TIPS PPE works if you know how to use it. Know which equipment is designed to guard against certain types of hazards. If you have any question about appropriate PPE, ask a supervisor. Know the proper way to put on PPE, adjust it, determine if it fits properly, determine whether it is defective and how to maintain it on a regular basis. If you have any questions about how to put on and adjust your PPE, ask a supervisor. There are different sizes of PPE. Make sure you use the correct size to provide you with the maximum amount of protection from the PPE. Store your PPE properly and take it out of service if it is defective. A respirator shoved into a toolbox can become distorted and no longer seal properly. Fall protection equipment can be damaged during use and no longer provide protection in another fall. Safety glasses, goggles and face protection should be worn by employees exposed to flying particles, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquid splashes. Hard hats should be worn where there is a danger of falling objects. Wear an approved hat liner if working in cold environments. Safety shoes should be worn in work areas where tools or heavy objects could be dropped on the feet. Gloves should be worn for protection from cuts, scrapes, punctures, burns, chemical absorption or temperature extremes. Earplugs or earmuffs should be worn in noisy workplaces. Wear long sleeve shirts and properly fitting pants to worksites. Make sure your clothing is not loose or baggy. Layer up to stay warm! Two lightweight wool shirts will keep you warmer than one heavy one. Remember TO WorkSAFE. WEAR THE PROPER PPE ANd KEEP IT IN GOOD WORKING ORDER AND IT WILL PROTECT YOU FROM JOB HAZARDS THAT CANNOT BE ELIMINATED. To o l Bo x Ta l k s 57

58 To Bo Ta To o l Bo x Ta l k s 58 Topic: Discussion: Follow-up Items: Attendees: Instructor: Date of Talk:

59 TRENCH SAFETY REVIEW Trenches and excavations are dangerous areas for workers. It is vital that trench safety be a top priority. Trench collapses kill construction workers on a frequent basis. Other hazards in trenches include carbon monoxide, fire, falls and falling objects. Even though trench safety has been taught for30 years, they still kill construction workers today. Review this Tool Box Talk with members of your organization that work in the trenches. TIPS TRENCH COLLAPSE FACTS 80% of all trenching fatalities occur in trenches less than 15 feet. 40% of all fatalities occur in trenches under 10 feet. 30% of all trenching incidents occur with less than 10 employees. Soil can weigh up to 100 pounds Ft 3. A cubic yard of soil weighs 2700 pounds. An average cave-in is about 3 to 5 cubic yards of soil, weighing from 8,000 to 14,000 pounds. A person buried up to his neck has to move 800 pounds of force with each breath. Suffocation is likely to take place in approximately three minutes. A person buried up to his belly button would not be able to dig himself out. EXCAVATION TRIGGER NUMBERS 4 feet need to be given adequate access or egress. (ladder or steps into the trench) 4 feet atmospheric testing where there is likely to be a hazard. 5 feet sloping or shoring required. 25 feet of lateral travel requires additional access or egress installed. (ladder every 50 ft.) 18 inches minimum clearance above the ground for trench box. 6 feet fall protection is required. (guardrails or barricades that prevent a fall into the trench) Less than 5 feet shoring is not required after daily inspection from competent person and no indication of potential cave-in. (rare instance) To o l Bo x Ta l k s no cave-in protection! deadly situation! collapse imminent! 59