2007
|
2009
|
2011
|
2018
|
2021
|
2022
|
2023
Safety Talk 3/29/11 - (3/29/2011)
FALLS - Causes and Cures
From Laurie Shadrick, Health and Safety National Coordinator
Has this thought ever crossed your mind? The only way to be safe from falls is to avoid them! Avoidance is the key word. Let’s explore just a few of the factors contributing to falls and their serious results. Here are some things to think about.
Scaffolds - Never erect a temporary scaffold. Even if the job will only last a very short time, the scaffold should be erected as if you were going to use it indefinitely. Make sure you install all the cross braces both vertically and horizontally, be sure the scaffold is built on a level surface and fully decked, and don’t forget to provide proper access.
Ladders - Select the right ladder for the job. Is it the right size, did you tie it off, did you inspect it prior to use? Always face the ladder when you climb and avoid carrying tools in your hands when climbing—one slip could send you down—use a hand line or pouch for the tools. Never stand on the top two steps.
Floor Openings - Unprotected holes in the floor, deck, or roof have been responsible for a number of very serious injuries. Yet, through planning and personal attention, falls through openings under foot are very easy to prevent. If you make a hole, guard it. If the hole must be open, install permanent barricades around the perimeter. Like railings around the edge of a building or stairwell, these should be a minimum of forty-two inches high, have a mid-rail and be capable of withstanding a 200 pound load. Toe boards are recommended at all times and are required if anyone is going to work under the hole. If the hole is not guarded, it must be covered. The cover must be capable of supporting at least a 200 pound load, be larger than the opening, secured against displacement, and labeled “Floor Opening, Do Not Remove”. Never cover a hole with any type of non-substantial material such as paper, cardboard or plastic. You may ask, “Why would anyone do that?” Unfortunately, it happens surprisingly often. Be extremely careful if you have to walk over protective paper or plastic. A hole could be lurking underneath. If you find a hole, expose it immediately for others to see, barricade it or post someone to warn others of the danger, and notify your supervisor. Even shallow holes can cause serious injuries. Plastic skylights and smoke vents are very popular. You should never stand or sit on a skylight. They are not made to support your weight.
Stairways - Slow down—don’t run up or down. Avoid carrying objects that block your view of the steps. To help eliminate falls on stairways take your time, look where you step, and use the handrail. Keep stairways free of clutter to prevent tripping.
Housekeeping - A secure footing is a positive step in avoiding falls and good housekeeping is essential to secure footing. Debris, trash, spent welding rods and water left to accumulate on stairs, walkways etc. will lead to certain falls. A clean worksite is a safer worksite.
Watch your step! Stay alert! Avoidance and prevention is your first line of defense in falls.
Remember, preventing accidents and having a safe jobsite is up to all of us.
Thanks to Laurie Shadrick and the United Association for posting these safety tips each month.
Show All News Headlines
