Company Vehicle Safety Inspections

 

Before you drive a company vehicle, make sure it’s safe by conducting a vehicle safety inspection.

Check the vehicle to be sure:

• The vehicle does not have any visible damage that affects its safe operation.
• The tires are properly inflated (use the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations that are typically noted on a sticker inside the door, glove box, or trunk -- the pressures stamped on the tire are not specific to the vehicle). Check the pressure when the tires are cold.
• Tires have sufficient tread depth (tread depth should be at least 1/16 inch).
• The vehicle’s fluid levels are correct (oil, brake, transmission, battery, and wiper fluids).
• Belts and hoses are free of blisters, cracks, and cuts.
• The vehicle has plenty of fuel.
• The windshield wipers are in good condition and are functional.
• You are familiar with the location and operation of all the vehicle’s controls; and the seat, steering wheel, and mirrors are properly adjusted.
• Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights are working.
• The seat belt is properly adjusted, and it’s in good condition.
• The vehicle is equipped with an emergency kit.
• Loose objects are secured so they won’t shift to cause injury during a sudden stop or turn.

A safety inspection is only helpful if you report defects or unsafe conditions right away. Don’t risk driving an unsafe vehicle.

Hazards with Suspended Loads

 

Multiple times a year I’m sent a serious injury or fatality report associated with suspended loads. You should never consider working, walking, standing or traversing under a suspended load. Suspended loads pose great dangers to all involved in that work task and all of those who are not associated with that task.

Let’s consider some scopes of suspended loads:

• Crane picks

• Lull and forklift operations

• Beta hoist material handling

• Chain fall material handling

 • Well wheel material handling

• Boom lift material setting

• Scissor lift material handling

• Ladder material handling

• Suspended Swing stage work

• Backhoe’s placing shields in deep excavations

 

What could possibly go wrong?

• Communication breakdown amongst the tradesmen

• Tradesmen/people traversing under our loads

• Rigging failures • Equipment failures

• Overloading the capacity of such equipment’s

• Human error while guiding a load

 

What can we do to prevent these struck by/crushed by accidents?

• Better pre-planning

• Better jobsite communications in orientations

• Inspections of all rigging

• Knowing the capacity ratings of such equipment’s

• Only certified/trained operators on mentioned equipment’s

• Constant inspections of equipment and rigging prior to each use

• Keep 20 ft away from overhead powerline

• Demark a controlled access zone with directional and warning signage at ground level

• Provide a spotter or flagger while lifting or swinging load

• Provide public canopies at access routes

• Wear high visibility PPE

• Discuss upcoming suspended work at weekly foreman meetings

• Only one person at a time communicates with crane operations

• Place bobcat buckets and lull forks on the ground when not in use

 

There is plenty of information here to benefit from regarding suspended loads. Take a look at your projects today and discuss who may be performing suspended load applications. Address their task according to what we have discussed within this document

Excavation Safety

 

Excavation work is a common activity in construction that involves digging, trenching, and grading. However, it also presents significant hazards, including cave-ins, falls, and hazardous atmospheres. Understanding excavation safety and adhering to OSHA standards is essential for protecting workers. This toolbox talk will cover key aspects of excavation safety, including relevant OSHA standards, hazard identification, protective measures, and safe work practices.

Relevant OSHA Standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established specific standards for excavation safety under 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P. Key standards include:

• 1926.650: Scope, application, and definitions applicable to this subpart.
• 1926.651: Specific excavation requirements, including general requirements for protective systems.
• 1926.652: Requirements for protective systems, including trench boxes and shoring.

These standards outline the requirements for safe excavation practices and protective measures to prevent accidents.

Common Hazards in Excavation

1. Cave-Ins:
• The most significant hazard in excavation work. Cave-ins can occur suddenly and can be fatal.
2. Falls:
• Workers can fall into excavations or from the edges of trenches.
3. Hazardous Atmospheres:
• Excavations can contain hazardous gases or lack sufficient oxygen, especially in deep or confined spaces.
4. Underground Utilities:
• Striking underground utilities can cause injuries, service disruptions, and fires.

Protective Measures

1. Soil Analysis:
• Conduct a soil analysis to determine the type of soil and the appropriate protective measures needed. Different soil types require different shoring and sloping techniques.
2. Protective Systems:
• Use appropriate protective systems such as:
• Trench Boxes: Used to protect workers in trenches.
• Shoring: Supports the walls of the excavation to prevent cave-ins.
• Sloping: Angling the sides of the excavation to reduce the risk of collapse.
3. Access and Egress:
• Provide safe access and egress for workers entering and exiting the excavation. Ladders or ramps should be placed within 25 feet of workers.
4. Daily Inspections:
• Conduct daily inspections of the excavation site before work begins. Look for signs of instability, water accumulation, or other hazards.

Safe Work Practices

1. Training:
• Ensure all workers are trained in excavation safety, including recognizing hazards and understanding the use of protective systems.
2. Communication:
• Maintain clear communication among workers, especially when working near the edge of an excavation.
3. Marking Utilities:
• Before digging, contact utility companies to mark the location of underground utilities. Use hand tools when working near marked utilities to avoid damage.
4. Emergency Procedures:
• Establish and communicate emergency procedures in case of a cave-in or other incidents. Ensure all workers know how to respond and who to contact.

Excavation safety is critical to preventing accidents and injuries on construction sites. By adhering to OSHA standards, identifying hazards, and implementing protective measures, we can create a safer work environment for everyone involved. Always prioritize safety and report any unsafe conditions or practices to your supervisor.