Construction

Backing vehicles and equipment are a serious occupational hazard. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that, of the 443 struck-by fatalities at road construction sites between 2003 and 2010, 143 cases involved a vehicle or mobile equipment backing up.

More than 500 people were killed in roadway work zones in 2013. Although safety has improved during the past decade, experts say more needs to be done.

Washington – A new NIOSH document outlines best practices for minimizing the risk of crystalline silica exposure during asphalt pavement milling.

Portland, OR – Logging and construction industry deaths in Oregon continue to occur despite widely known preventive measures, according to the State Plan state’s administrator.

Oakland, CA – California’s occupational safety and health agency has launched a campaign aimed at protecting roofers from falls and other hazardous conditions.

Washington – The Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health has scheduled a public meeting on March 31 and April 1 to discuss a proposed revision to OSHA’s crane operator qualification requirement.

Washington – OSHA hopes to reach about half of the nation’s construction workers through a two-week safety stand-down aimed at preventing falls – the leading cause of death in the construction industry.

As expected, OSHA has rejected Arizona’s fall protection standards for residential construction, meaning the state’s employers must immediately comply with federal standards.

Spraying ignitable liquids such as paint at construction sites can lead to explosions and serious injuries, warns a new hazard alert from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Newly introduced legislation would mandate site-controlling employers to record all worker injuries and illnesses, regardless of who employs the worker.