Whenever you hire a structural concrete contractor, it’s vital to make certain that they always follow best practices when it comes to safety.  After all, they aren’t only looking out for the welfare of their own workers … on a job site, safety affects everyone—including your people and job site visitors.

 

If you believe they may skimp on safety, such as ignoring the following items, it’s time to reconsider whether they’re capable of handling your.  These are some of the most-commonly ignored OSHA regulations.

 

Four Vital Safety Regulations a Proper Structural Concrete Contractor Cannot Overlook

1 – Fall Protection – 1926.501 Duty to Have Fall Protection.

Despite how obvious this would seem, OSHA cited 7,133 businesses in 2015 for failing to properly secure their workers.  Falls are also one of the top causes of construction workers dying or becoming disabled.  All workers operating six feet above ground, or higher, must have fall protection, including guardrails, safety nets, or personal “lifeline” fall arrest systems.

2 – Scaffolds – 1926.451 General Requirements.

In 2015, more than 4,450 contractors failed to provide their crews proper scaffolding  This includes anchoring them to the ground, keeping them at least ten feet away from power lines, and integrating fall protection features as appropriate.  Workers should also wear non-slip footwear and keep all tools on lanyards.

3 – Stairways and Ladders – 1926.1053 Ladders.

Recently, OHSA issued more than 2,660 citations for improper ladder use. Ladders are a major contributor to  job site injuries and deaths.  They need to be inspected daily for defects and removed from service if damaged.  Workers need be properly trained in ladder use, including permissible heights and how to safely transport materials up and down without creating drop hazards.

4 – Personal Protective and Life Saving Equipment – 1926.102 Eyes and Face Protection.

Again in 2015, more than 1,325 businesses failed to provide proper face gear.  All face gear must be provided free of charge to workers, and be constantly monitored to ensure proper fit and function.  All gear must be rated to protect against the materials in use, and it must incorporate features that accommodate employees’ eyewear, such as glasses.  

Donald Rushing Emphasizes Safe Construction

One reason Donald Rushing Construction is widely trusted as a structural concrete contractor is our dedication to safety.  Contact us today to request a quote.