Safety Tips

Some serious hazards can be present during a demolition project – from maintaining the structural integrity of the building while workers are inside to the potential hazards created from lead-based paints, asbestos materials, sharp nails and debris. OSHA recommends the following steps to protect the safety of workers while demolition is taking place.

The potential hazards present on a worksite can be exacerbated during inclement conditions such as rain. Working in the rain can cause slippery surfaces and limited visibility.

A number of dangers are inherent in felling trees. Safely felling trees requires an evaluation of the surrounding areas to identify potential hazards.

Between 1992 and 2005 at least 154 workers were killed by electrocution when a metal ladder came into contact with overhead power wires, according to the most recent data available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

An adult male sustained fatal injuries when the crane boom he was disassembling buckled and crushed him. The victim was not an employee of the construction company that owned and operated the crane – he was a friend of the owner.

According to OSHA, the most common emergency small businesses must plan for is a fire. Fire extinguishers can be invaluable tools to help fight smaller fires in the workplace or to protect evacuation routes in the event of a larger one.

Dangers related to roofing are present not only for construction workers, but also for people who live or work near jobsites.

According to NIOSH, research has found that stress can increase employees’ risk of developing cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the back and upper extremities.

A 48-year-old shipyard welder was injured and later died from burns she sustained when her wire-fed welder ignited atomized hydraulic oil.

Jump-starting, testing or inspecting a vehicle battery without taking proper safety precautions could lead to a serious eye injury, warns Chicago-based Prevent Blindness America.