With spring heading out the door and summer coming in full effect, we are going to discuss an important aspect of safety that must not be overlooked: dealing with insects. Insects can pose various risks on construction sites, from stings and bites to the potential spread of diseases. By being aware of these risks and taking appropriate precautions, we can ensure a safer working environment for all of us. Here are a few reminders to keep in mind…

1. Identify common insects that may be encountered on construction sites

There is a wide variety of different insects you may encounter while working on sites such as bees, wasps, mosquitos, ants, and ticks just to name a few. Many of which may result in allergic reactions, a disease, or even worse if stung or bitten. Knowing what insects are common for the region in which you are working will help you better prepare for the unexpected.

• Be aware of common nesting areas

Insects are incredibly adaptable creatures and have evolved to live successfully in most environments. However, most insects prefer high moisture conditions in cool, dark environments. Which brings up housekeeping. Proper housekeeping is always something to be mindful of for many reasons but in this case, if done properly, it can aid in reducing potential nesting sites. Simple things like clearing vegetation from the working areas storing the materials neatly in sealed boxes away from the elements and discarding trash daily can make all the difference.

• Wear appropriate clothing

Wearing the appropriate clothing is somewhat broad so let’s provide a little more clarity. Ultimately, we are aiming to reduce the area or areas in which are exposed to insect bites and stings. That is why we strongly encourage all our employees working in the field to wear long sleeves, pants, tall socks, above-the-ankle work boots, and last but not least, wear your work gloves.

Over the years, there have been multiple cases where employees had some run-ins with insects. One individual was stung several dozen times by bees while working on a stealth tower that required medical treatment and another recently was bitten by a tick which resulted in Lyme disease. We share this you to help remind everyone how serious of a topic this is. By staying informed and proactive about the risks associated with insects on construction sites, we can create a safer working environment for everyone. Let’s prioritize safety by following preventive measures, staying vigilant, and supporting each other in maintaining a hazard-free workplace.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

Cranes are one of the most versatile, powerful and important pieces of construction equipment that we use on a day-to-day basis, and they are also one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment you will encounter on one of our projects.  According to research published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and OSHA, an average of 40 construction workers dies each year on the job from crane accidents, Employees working with and around cranes need to understand the hazards, and potential for serious accidents that are associated with the suspended loads that cranes often carry.  A few of the hazards associated with crane work can include but are not limited to striking injuries from moving equipment or dropped loads, crushing or caught between injuries from moving equipment into place and electrocution from contact with overhead power lines.  Like many safety topics, crane safety is a broad topic that would require a multi-day course to cover every detail.  Today we will focus on just 3 of the many potential topics related to safe crane operations.  Those 3 topics are:

• Establish a communication plan before working with a crane
• Ensure that you setup the proper barricades when using cranes
• Never violate the minimum approach distance to power lines

ESTABLISH A COMMUNICATION PLAN BEFORE WORKING WITH A CRANE

Crane operations are sometimes complex and can be risky if not executed property. Therefore, it requires high levels of coordination and communication among workers. Effective communication can prevent accidents, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.   A clear communication plan should be in place between the crane operator and other workers on the site before any crane activity starts. This can include hand signals, radios, or other communication devices.  For tasks that require real-time updates and coordination, two-way radios play a crucial role and are considered a first choice.  Now we all know that our friend Murphy always likes to show up when we least expect, so having a pre-planned secondary method of communication in cases where the primary method fails is something to work out before operations start and critical to safe operations.  Do not allow any crane activity to start if a communication plan is not clearly defined and communicated to all on-site. 

ENSURE YOU SETUP THE PROPER BARRICADES WHEN USING CRANES

This topic is one that is regularly overlooked and commonly missed during crane operations.  OSHA has clear requirements.  OSHA requires a barricade in accessible areas when the swing radius of the rear of the rotating structure of the crane, either permanently or temporarily mounted, may cause an employee to be crushed between other objects and the rear of the crane or any portion of the crane carriage, regardless of whether it be front, rear or side. Failure to abide by this regulation could result in citations to the company.  Now that I hear that out loud it might not sound so cut and dry, besides the citation piece.  Let me try and simplify it for you.  We are required by OSHA to provide barricading during crane operations in two cases.  The first is required 100% of the time when using cranes.  We must clearly identify the swing radius of a crane to prevent entry into this area during active operations.  Probably the easiest way to do this is to string up caution tape from outrigger to outrigger 360 degrees around the crane.  We get a bonus when we do this as we identify the trip hazard that outriggers introduce into the work area.  The second scenario requiring barricades is not always so simple.  We are required to prevent anyone that is not a part of the job from entering the work area, especially when loads are suspended.  Now in this case caution tape might not be the answer, we might need something a bit sturdier depending on the situation.  Some cases might even call for a monitor to stand watch during actual operations. As I mentioned to open this topic, this is something that is easily overlooked and we must engrain this step in our pre-work process.  Like I always say, these few extra minutes are well spent if it prevents an incident from occurring.

NEVER VIOLATE THE MINIMUM APPROACH DISTANCE TO POWER LINES

Electrical dangers, especially from power lines, are prevalent with cranes. Contact can lead to severe accidents, affecting not just the operator but also others nearby.  OSHA’s requirements regarding working near overhead power lines with cranes are straightforward. For lines 50 kilovolts (kV) or less, the operator must keep all parts of the crane and any loads at least 10 feet away from all power lines.  If the lines are greater than 50 kV, then the line’s minimum clearance distance must be increased depending on the actual line voltage. You can contact the OneSafety team for the specifics in these scenarios.   Distribution lines are typically 50 kV or less and are the most used lines.  Whereas transmission lines are typically greater than 50 kV.  Knowing the voltage rating of power lines is key, notice I said knowing and not guessing.  To determine the voltage rating of the power line you might need to contact the power company.

Cranes are great machines that are essential to many aspects of our daily work life, but we must always be aware of the potential dangers. As mentioned in our opening, crane safety is a broad topic, and we only scratched the surface today.  If you need any additional information related to this topic, please reach out to the safety team. 

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

Thunderstorms can bring powerful winds, intense rainfall, tornadoes, lightning strikes, and damaging hail  Thunderstorms and lightning are most likely to develop on hot, humid days and can be very dangerous to construction workers.  In 2023 the United States experienced 28 separate weather or climate disasters that resulted in an approximate $301 billion dollars in loss and repairs, and sadly 492 people losing their lives.  Just last week many metropolitan areas endured severe hailstorms, high winds, and abnormal amounts of rainfall in short periods of time.  These elements caused damage to buildings, fleet vehicles, and knocked out power to a few of our local offices.  Thunderstorms can be sometimes unpredictable, and a lack of preparation can lead to dangerous conditions for our workforce. But we can take action to prepare.  Preparing now can protect you, your crew and viable gear and equipment.  Let’s look at three key points for your safety during a thunderstorm.

• Stay attuned to the weather forecast
• Take shelter in the presence of thunder and lightning
• Always remain aware of your surroundings

STAY ATTUNED TO THE WEATHER FORECAST

Week after week, we discuss having a plan to keep everyone safe.  Pre storm preparedness is no different.  Each day, someone on the crew should be tasked with looking up the weather forecast for that day and to periodically check for changing conditions throughout the work shift.  If the forecast calls for thunderstorms, it should be notated on your JHA, and the safety plan should be discussed during the daily tailgate meeting.  The plan should indicate when and where workers will take shelter during the storm.  Each crew member should know where that shelter is and the best means to access and egress after the storm.  Keeping additional provisions in your vehicle such as fresh water and simple snacks are a good idea for those cases where you could be stuck for an extended period. The use of alerts from weather apps is a good way to stay abreast of changing conditions due to the unpredictability of weather conditions.  Find an app that will help you identify how close lightning strikes are so you can make an informed decision of when to remove workers from situations with increased risks of lightning strikes.

TAKE SHELTER IN THE PRESENCE OF THUNDER AND LIGHTNING

There is an old saying “When thunder roars, go indoors”. This is since lighting is a dangerous biproduct of thunderstorms.  Lightning is unpredictable and can strike outside the heaviest rainfall areas or even up to 10 miles away from any rainfall. Many lightning victims are caught outside during a storm because they did not act promptly to get to a safe place, or they go back outside too soon after a storm has passed. If there are signs of an approaching thunderstorm, workers should not begin any task that they cannot quickly stop if they need to get to safety.  A building is a safe shelter if you are not in contact with anything that can conduct electricity like electrical equipment or cords.  Do not lean against concrete walls or floors which may have metal bars inside.  If workers are caught outside during a thunderstorm with no safe place to take cover you must remember that lightning is likely to strike the tallest objects in each area—you should not be the tallest object. Avoid isolated tall trees, hilltops, utility poles, cell phone towers, cranes, large equipment, ladders, scaffolding, and rooftops.  IF there is just no other safe place you can seek shelter in hard-topped metal vehicles with the windows rolled up.  Always remain in your shelter/vehicle until the warnings have cleared and it can be deemed safe to exit.

ALWAYS REMAIN AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS

As mentioned, before exiting your shelter make sure it is safe to do so.  Listen for wind, precipitation and in some cases the audible announcements from tornado sirens.  Text messages, social media and word of mouth are important to get the word out about the conditions of an area and provide a firsthand assessment.  Check your surrounding area for damage.  Avoid fallen power lines, poles and other wires.  They should be reported to the power company immediately.   Low lying areas may have become flooded with unforeseen quick water movement.  If possible, move to higher ground.  Be mindful of broken glass from vehicles and buildings.  If a traveled road or exit has become blocked, do not attempt to drive over or remove it without first knowing the cause and effect of doing so.     

Today’s topics are just a few precautions we can take to better prepare ourselves for a thunderstorm.  There are a variety of thunderstorms that each have their own challenges to be aware of.  Staying informed and having a plan will give you greater confidence during any of these storms.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

When a fire breaks out, the correct use of a fire extinguisher can be the difference between a minor or a major loss.  As we all know, fire requires fuel, heat and oxygen to burn. With the use of a fire extinguisher, we are able to apply an agent that will cool burning heat, smother fuel or remove oxygen so the fire cannot continue to burn. That is why when used properly, fire extinguishers can help control a small fire until emergency responders arrive. However, if they are not used correctly, they can actually make the fire worse. Today’s discussion targets the proper means and methods for using fire extinguishers.

• Use the right type of fire extinguisher
• Ensure your fire extinguisher is properly inspected
• Understand the limitation of your fire extinguisher
• Use the PASS Method when extinguishing fires

USE THE RIGHT TYPE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER

There are four classes of fire extinguishers A, B, C and D.  Each class can put out a different type of fire.  Class A extinguishers are to be used when extinguishing fires of ordinary combustibles including wood, cloth, rubber, paper, as well as many plastic materials.  Class B extinguishers are for use on flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, solvents, lacquers, alcohols, oils and other similar substances.  Class C extinguishers are suitable for use only on electrically energized equipment fires.  Class D extinguishers are designed for use on flammable metallic substances like potassium and sodium.  Multipurpose extinguishers can be used on different types of fires and will be labeled with more than one class, for example A-B, B-C or A-B-C. You can find the class label of most fire extinguishers in a pictograph on the side of the extinguisher.

ENSURE YOUR FIRE EXTINGUISHER IS PROPERLY INSPECTED

Fire extinguishers require 2 types of documented inspections, monthly and annual.  Both of these inspections should be properly logged with a tag on the unit.   The monthly inspection is to be conducted by the responsible competent person.  When doing so, we should be verifying the locking pin is intact and the tamper seal is unbroken as well as looking for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or a clogged nozzle.  Next, we need to check that the pressure gauge or indicator is in the operable range or position, and that the extinguisher is still full.  Lastly, we want to make sure the operating instructions on the nameplate are legible and facing outward, and that the annual and monthly inspections are in date.  Unlike the monthly fire extinguisher inspections, the annual inspections must be administered by a licensed fire protection company per NFPA.  Every FMC should have a provider to conduct the annual inspections.  If you need help finding a location to conduct annual inspections, please contact the OneSafety team for assistance.

UNDERSTAND THE LIMITATIONS OF YOUR FIRE EXTINGUISHER

It is important to know the limitations of your fire extinguisher before you have to use it and put yourself in danger. Knowing the model and weight of the extinguishers located in your work area is crucial information.  A dry chemical fire extinguisher such as the common “ABC” red extinguishers will reach a distance between 5 and 20 feet.  A 10 lb. to 20 lb. dry chemical fire extinguisher will last anywhere from 10 to 25 seconds. The length of time the extinguisher can be used depends on the model type and weight. Make sure you are familiar with how long the available extinguisher will last.  Fire extinguishers are designed to fight small fires. This means the fire should be about the size of a small trash can if you are looking to extinguish it with a basic fire extinguisher. If it is any larger, don’t put yourself in harm’s way and call 911 for assistance.

USE THE PASS METHOD WHEN EXTINGUISHING FIRES

If you need to use a fire extinguisher, remember the P.A.S.S method for how to use it safely and effectively. Each letter represents one of the four steps to use the fire extinguisher.  P = Pull the pin. Grab the extinguisher, hold it away from your body, and release the lock pin.  A = Aim. Aim the extinguisher towards the base of the fire (always aim it at the base and not the flames or smoke as this won’t put the fire out).  S = Squeeze. Slowly squeeze the lever while it is pointed at the base of the fire.  S = Sweep. Move the extinguisher side to side while squeezing the lever until the fire is out.  

Fire extinguishers are an important part of any workplace safety plan, and it is essential that everyone understands how to use them correctly and safely.  Failure to execute on the items discussed today may result in property damage or injury.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

For many people summertime means cookouts, outdoor activities, and fun in the sun but for those of us who work outdoors in the harsh weather, it means direct sunlight, little to no shade, and extreme temperatures. The combination of hot weather and intense labor puts our workforce at risk for several types of heat related illnesses.  Since 2011 an average of 40 workers per year lose their life due to a heat related illness.  Heat illness initially may manifest itself as heat rash or heat cramps but can quickly escalate to heat exhaustion and then heat stroke if simple preventative measures are not followed. Some symptoms to be mindful of are a loss of concentration, irritability and sometimes fainting.  All these conditions are pre-warning signs of heat-related illnesses.  Other symptoms to be on the lookout for are heavy or no sweating, nausea, vomiting, increased fatigue, headache and in some cases a loss of conciseness.  Today’s key points target preventing heat illness.

• Stay hydrated
• Pace yourself and get the proper rest
• Create cooling off areas and wear the right clothing

STAY HYDRATED

Hydration starts prior to coming to work. What you consume when you are not at work can have an adverse effect on how your body holds up during those hot workdays.  While drinks such as energy drinks, alcoholic beverages, and other caffeinated drinks provide some short-term refreshment, they can dehydrate you.  Instead of these drinks choose drinks that will provide and replenish electrolytes.  These drinks help to replace minerals and salt lost when sweating.  A best practice when working in the heat is to alternate between water and electrolyte drinks.  The center for disease control recommends drinking 8 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes at a minimum.  Drinking smaller amounts of hydrating fluids frequently is more effective than drinking a large amount all at once.  Water is our friend in more ways than 1 in the hot summer months and is a key piece to preventing heat illness.

PACE YOURSELF AND GET THE PROPER REST

Try to work at an even pace and don’t overdo it when it’s extremely hot. If your heartrate increases and you feel like you’re gasping for air, stop immediately, find a cool area, and rest until the symptoms go away.  You must know your own limits and when you need to take a break.  Breaks should be long enough to allow the body to cool off.  Crew leaders and supervisors should consider overall work scopes and try to schedule heavy physical tasks during cooler parts of the day.  Most heat related deaths occur between 2 and 4pm, so keep that in mind when adjusting schedules and work activities.  Rest is also a key factor in avoiding heat illness. You need to get plenty of rest at night so your body can properly recover and be ready for the next day.  The length of shifts should also be considered so that workers can properly recover after a long day in the sun.  At the end of the day, we all have deadlines to keep, and we all want to get the job done.  However, this desire should not lead us to skipping breaks or just trying to push thru in extreme heat conditions.  That choice could be deadly!   

CREATE COOLING OFF AREAS AND WEAR THE RIGHT CLOTHING

As we just covered, when working in extreme heat we need to schedule breaks to allow workers to cool off for a bit.  Taking these breaks in the sun just won’t do it.  Once we arrive to our work location, we need to identify areas that can provide shade for our breaks.  This could be under a tree or in a shelter with air conditioning.  In some cases, we might need to create our own cool-down areas.  We can do this by setting up canopies or hanging up tarps.  Wearing the right clothing will help keep you cool during those hot summer days.  Wear loose fitting and flowing clothing. Flowing garments allow air circulation close to the body, which helps keep the body cool.  Select clothing with fabrics that are lightweight and moisture wicking.  Avoid wearing dark colors, as they absorb heat lighter colored clothing reflects heat away from your body.  The key is to try and cover as much skin as possible.  Lastly, don’t forget the sunscreen. Pay attention to any exposed skin that is not covered by work clothing, such as hands, neck, and ears. 

Working in the heat is something that we will be hard pressed to avoid altogether but that doesn’t mean we should ignore the fact that working in extreme heat can be dangerous.  If we properly prepare ourselves for these conditions, we can still get our work done and ensure everyone makes it home safe.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

In keeping up with the 11^th annual OSHA fall prevention stand-down week, we would like to take the time to expand on some of the hazards associated with scaffolding. Scaffolding is an essential tool for construction and maintenance activities that require working at heights. This morning we are going to expand specifically on supported scaffolds. This is a type of scaffold that is supported by poles, frames, and outriggers, and usually consists of one or more stationary platforms. Around 65% of the construction industry works on scaffolds and experiences 4,500 injuries and 60 fatalities annually. It is important that we abide by OSHA construction standards when performing daily inspections, training, and controls, to ensure Ontivity frontline workers make it home safely. How do you erect scaffolding? The same way we build a safety culture, from the ground up.

• Never assemble, or adjust scaffolds without proper training.
• Ensure that scaffolding is properly inspected daily before use
• Understand the tagging system for scaffolding

NEVER ASSEMBLE, OR ADJUST SCAFFOLDS WITHOUT PROPER TRAINING

Similar to most tasks performed on the jobsite here at Ontivity, the assembly of scaffolding systems requires trained individuals to safely perform the task. Competent persons are vital during the erection, movement, alteration, and dismantling of the structure. The competent person also ensures only experienced and trained employees assist them during these critical tasks. Erection can be dangerous, as it also exposes the erectors to other hazards such as falls from elevation, electrical risks, falling/flying objects, and ladders. Untrained employees might overlook OSHA requirements for scaffolding such as the planking must hold four times its intended load, the minimum height of top rails is 38 inches, or that the platform height shall not exceed three times the smallest dimension of the base. If you encounter a scaffold at work and do not fully understand how to proceed, stop work, and make the call. Either notify your supervisor, call the safety hotline, or initiate a request for assistance in the issues tab in Safety Culture.

ENSURE THAT SCAFFOLDING IS PROPERLY INSPECTED DAILY BEFORE USE

Scaffolding and its components shall be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before use each day. A lot can happen when we are off the jobsite; weather, misuse by other trades, or accidental disturbances of the structure can occur that affect the structural integrity. Simply put, we do not know the current condition of the structure at the start of our shift, so the scaffold needs to be inspected. The trained competent person must record the daily scaffold inspection on tags and then hang them where employees access the scaffold system. Inspections cover items like the plumb and level of the poles and planks of the standing sections. If the scaffold is on soft or unstable ground the base can shift resulting in an un-level structure so we must check this. Some inspectable items at height are gaps in the planking or ensuring that planks do not extend over the end supports less than 6 inches or more than 12. Many scaffolding setups can be braced to the structure, and this also needs to be checked prior to use.  At the end of the day its’ pretty simple, never access a scaffolding system that has not been inspected by the proper personnel before work starts.

UNDERSTAND THE TAGGING SYSTEM FOR SCAFFOLDING

If you have ever worked on or near a scaffold, you will notice that the equipment has large tags hanging at entrances. These are used to quickly inform users of the status of the scaffold. The tags come in three colors: green, yellow and red. They are also assigned a unique number to ensure that they cannot be swapped to other scaffolds. Much like a stop light at an intersection, green means the scaffold has been inspected by a competent person and is safe to use. Yellow tags are placed on scaffolds whenever they have been modified to meet work requirements, and as a result, could present a hazard to the user. Lastly, Red should inform individuals to STOP! and not proceed. If the competent person deems the scaffold unsafe during their inspection this tag will be used.  If you are unsure of why a scaffold system has been flagged with a yellow or red tag, remember to Make the Call!!

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

The ground that we walk, drive and play on every day covers an incredible amount of buried utilities. In fact, there are more than twenty million miles of underground utilities in the Unites States. An underground utility line is damaged once every six minutes nationwide because someone decided to dig without first calling 811 or their local area locate number. Digging without knowing the approximate location of underground utilities can result in damage to gas, electric, communication, water and sewer lines. These damages can also result in service disruptions, costly repairs, and serious injuries. Just last week there was an event were an individual struck a buried electrical line with a non-insulated tool narrowly avoiding a serious injury that we later discovered was lacking the proper locates. Making a call to your local dig test or 811 is the easiest way to make sure you keep yourself and our communities safe and connected. Today we would like to discuss three safety reminders when it comes to underground utilities…

1. Never excavate without calling for a dig test at least forty-eight hours in advance
2. Always take photos of all locate marks and flags before breaking ground
3. Only use non-conductive tools while potholing or hand digging

NEVER EXCAVATE WITHOUT CALLING FOR A DIG TEST AT LEAST FORTY-EIGHT HOURS IN ADVANCE

We all know that our #1 core value is safety. When it comes to excavation safety, our 1^st step must be to initiate the dig test process prior to any excavation. Make sure that you give them the exact location or route and depth of the proposed excavation by marking the area with white paint. Dig test generally requires a minimum of forty-eight hours advance notice prior to any excavation. However, when possible, give them more lead time and always remember that the locate is only valid for 14-days. While on site, we should always maintain copies of all email correspondence and ticket requests. Doing so will aid in the dispute of any potential back charges for repairs in the event of a “not at-fault” utility strike. In some cases, you may need to call for a private locate to verify that all utilities have been located. This is especially important in densely populated areas.

ALWAYS TAKE PHOTOS OF ALL LOCATE MARKS AND FLAGS BEFORE BREAKING GROUND

There have been many instances where a utility strike has taken place of an unmarked line and a short time later, an individual shows up on site and starts to mark the line that was just struck and then later claims that the line was marked. That is why we must take good photos of the locates before breaking ground. For many customers, they require copies of all the dig test paperwork and photos of the locates to be included as part of the close out package as well. If you arrive on site and there are not any locate marks present, you should verify that the dig ticket has been cleared by all known utilities and then proceed with capturing all necessary photos. Remember that a photo is worth a thousand words. In this case, the potential for injury or cost of an outage just isn’t worth it.

ONLY USE NON-CONDUCTIVE TOOLS WHILE POTHOLING OR HAND DIGGING

The marks or flags only show the approximate location of underground utilities and can help prevent a utility strike. If you must dig within 18”-24” of the locate marks, or what we call the tolerance zone, hand dig with non-conductive tools or use a vac truck to expose the utility. Notice we stated to use non-conductive tools. This is because there is a chance that the person digging could come into contact with an energized line and the use of a non-conductive tool helps ensure that the individual won’t be shocked or electrocuted. Given the example we talked about at the beginning of the call, you can see why this is a big deal because the tool being used was a conductive non-insulated tool.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

The term MEWP refers to equipment that was traditionally called manlifts or scissor lifts.  When it comes to the use of MEWPs, we are required to abide by guidelines set forth in the ANSI A92 series of standards.  There are 4 individual standards within the ANSI A92 series of standards that cover many aspects of design, maintenance, and operations of MEWPs. Several of the standards in the A92 series are incorporated by reference to OSHA regulations which means we are subject to citations for violations of the guidelines set forth in them. Before we get too far we have one small clarification for everyone.  The A92 series of standards covers more than just MEWPs, the entire series provides standards for a series of equipment related to aerial platforms.  Our discussion today is relative to the standards directly related to MEWPs. Bucket trucks are covered in the A92 series as well but have their own specific standard with some different requirements.  Today we will discuss 3 points intended to increase your knowledge of MEWP operations but more importantly decrease the incidents we have experienced in recent weeks.

• Do not operate a MEWP without the proper level of training
• Inspect your MEWP daily before use

• Only operate a MEWP in safe conditions

DO NOT OPERATE A MEWP WITHOUT THE PROPER LEVEL OF TRAINING

The requirements for training when using MEWPs recently changed in the latest release of applicable ANSI standards.  The standards set specific training requirements for occupants, operators, and supervisors.  Occupants are required to be trained to have a basic knowledge to work safely in the MEWP.  This training in no way qualifies the occupant to operate the MEWP for standard operations but should cover emergency procedures in the event the fully trained operators cannot lower the device.  Supervisors that oversee MEWP operators are responsible for the selection of equipment and are required to receive at a minimum theoretical training for safe MEWP operations.  MEWP operators are required to have both theoretical and practical training before being authorized to operate MEWPs in production environments.  The completion of online training alone is against OSHA, ANSI, and company policy.  It is important to note that when using any type of MEWP that a fully trained operator is required to be on the ground and ready to take emergency actions if needed. Operators are subject to out of cycle retraining if deemed necessary by a supervisor or a member of the EHS team.

INSPECT YOUR MEWP DAILY BEFORE USE

This topic is one that seems to always make its way into just about every safety call, so it must be a pretty important step.  The Ontivity digital JHA contains several statements to help you complete the inspection process.  If your customer requires you to use another JHA form, you can still use the list in our version as a resource.  Now for obvious reasons we can’t get into each item in great detail but there are a couple we wanted to take the time to remind everyone of.  All labels should be legible and not damaged.  Labels on older units can be riddled with paint so keep that in mind.  Guardrails should not be damaged.  Make sure to check switches that are spring loaded, these functions are in place for good reason and must operate properly.  Check all hoses and look for any leaks.  One last thing to check is all MEWPs must have a manufacturer’s operating manual and ANSI Manual of Responsibilities in an undamaged weatherproof container.  Any noted issues must be reported immediately to your supervisor and/or rental provider.  Additionally, the MEWP cannot be used until all issues are corrected.  As I mentioned at the start of this topic, we only brushed the surface when it comes to items to inspect if you need more information, please “Make the Call”. 

ONLY OPERATE A MEWP IN SAFE CONDITIONS

There are many conditions that could be hazardous when it comes to the safe operations of any type of MEWP.  Overhead beams in buildings, uneven or soft ground, steep inclines, overhead electrical lines, and even speed bumps can be big problems if not taken into consideration when operating a MEWP.  Today we are going talk a bit deeper about one that many take for granted, and this is wind.  For starters, MEWPs shall not operate in wind speed conditions beyond the maximum allowed by the manufacturer. No modifications or additions to the MEWP that affect its wind loading or its stability shall be made without the manufacturer’s approval.  Care shall be taken when handling materials which could act as sails.  This includes items like stealth panels or oversized antennas. The shielding and funneling effects of structures can cause high wind speeds and turbulence on days when wind speeds in open areas are low.  It is important to check weather reports prior to using a MEWP. Some conditions could warrant the use of handheld monitors to determine wind speeds. If you are unsure of the maximum allowed operating winds speeds for a specific unit, check the manual that is required to accompany the lift.

We could be here for several hours going thru the ends and outs of operating a MEWP safely. We didn’t cover items like PPE, not exceeding weight limits, or keeping off the guardrails but that doesn’t mean they are not important.  In some parts of the country MEWPs are used on a regular basis and it’s very easy to become complacent when operating them.  In other parts of the county, they are not used very often so it’s easy to forget the small stuff.  In either situation, MEWP safety is not to be taken lightly, the smallest mistake could lead to big problems.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of. 

One of the greatest things about being a part of the Ontivity family is the diverse types of work we are engaged in.  We have seen recent growth in our underground fiber and small cell portfolio.  This new type of work is exciting and continues to show signs of significant growth.  However, it does introduce some hazards that traditionally we did not have to deal with when building a new cellular infrastructure.  In conjunction with this week’s National Initiative to Raise Work Zone Awareness, we want to discuss one of those hazards more in depth.  That hazard is traffic. More than 40,000 people are injured each year as a result of incidents in work zones.  Our key points today are aimed at increasing your level of awareness to prevent one of our family members from contributing to that statistic.  Our 3 discussion points today are:

• Develop a traffic control plan prior to starting work
• Inspect traffic control devices before use
• Use the proper PPE in work zones

DEVELOP A TRAFFIC CONTROL PLAN PRIOR TO STARTING WORK

Before you start work near a road, evaluate the work site for hazards. Look for blind corners, how heavy the traffic is, and how fast it flows. Note the weather, temperature, and visibility, and how they will affect the work that you are doing and how motorists will respond.  Every highway or public road work zone should be set up in accordance with the current edition of the Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) manual. There are many parts that comprise a work zone. Items like the length of advance warning area, transition area, buffer area, work area, and termination areas have specific requirements based on where your work is. Each one of them are key to your overall safety. The specific details on setting up these areas can be found in MUTCD guidebook. Now you may be thinking, I am just using a bucket truck and going up real quick, do I really need a full traffic plan.  Well, the answer is maybe not, but you should verify with the local jurisdiction before you assume you don’t.  In most cases, you can deploy a temporary traffic control plan when conducting utility work. Guidance for how to properly deploy a temporary traffic control plan is also provided in the MUTCD guidebook.  If you take away one thing from this topic make it this – proper planning and execution is key to protection of our employees and the general public when you’re working in public roadways.

INSPECT TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES BEFORE USE

Traffic control devices are markers, signs and signal devices used to inform, guide and control traffic, including pedestrians. They serve as a visual warning to those approaching that work is taking place ahead of them.  If you heard it once, you have heard it a thousand times.  Pre-work inspection is a key part of the process to ensure these devices will function for their intended purpose.  When inspecting, look for things like excessive fading or discoloration of equipment that could decrease the visibility of the device.  Don’t use equipment with damaged supports that could allow them to easily tip over.  Some traffic control equipment is equipped with reflective material and is another item to pay attention to, especially if you are working after sunset. The use of damaged or questionable equipment could create a situation where vehicles inadvertently enter or exit the work zone in the wrong place.  Traffic control equipment serves a critical purpose which is your safety! Don’t gamble with your well-being by using damaged or defective equipment.

USE THE PROPER PPE IN WORK ZONES

Not only are hardhats, and appropriate footwear a necessity for safety in work zones but the correct level of high visibility garments is arguably the most critical.  Workers in and around roadside work areas need to be visible to any potential traffic and heavy equipment. As per Ontivity company policy, in situations where workers are assigned work in areas with vehicle or heavy equipment traffic, they are required to wear the appropriate high visibility clothing for the time of day the work is being performed. Let’s explain this a bit further. Appropriate clothing is a shirt or high visibility vest that meets or exceeds the ANSI/ISEA 107 standard for Class 2 or Class 3 garments. The color of the garment must be orange, yellow, yellow-green or a fluorescent version of these colors. Class 2 garments are intended for workers who are exposed to daytime traffic traveling above 25 mph where workers need to be visible.  Class 3 garments provide visibility under poor light conditions and at great distance with the greatest body coverage. This class is for workers who need to be visible through a full range of movement, from a minimum of 1280 feet, and are working in a road closure environment or when working after the sun sets.  If you are unsure of the type of high visibility clothing or vest you need, please contact the EHS team for assistance.

If you would like more information on this topic or any other safety-related topic, please reach out to the Ontivity safety team at safety@ontivity.com, and we will get you taken care of.