In a significant safety update, British Columbia has implemented new tower crane regulations to enhance safety across construction sites. Effective October 1, 2024, the regulations mandate that employers submit a Notice of Project (NOP) at least two weeks before any crane-related activity, such as erection, repositioning, climbing, or dismantling. This requirement, part of an amendment to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, is designed to mitigate the risks associated with an increasing number of cranes operating in the province.
With over 350 tower cranes currently in operation, British Columbia has seen a sharp rise in construction activities, particularly in multi-employer worksites. The new regulations address these concerns, offering a structured approach to monitoring crane activities and ensuring the safety of workers and the general public.
How the Notice of Project (NOP) improves crane safety
The NOP system provides WorkSafeBC with detailed information, including the name and qualifications of those responsible for the crane activity, the project location, and the safety measures in place. By receiving this data beforehand, WorkSafeBC can conduct inspections, ensuring that both the crane operators and supervisors meet the required standards.
This regulatory update, resulting from extensive consultations with over 130 crane-sector stakeholders, is a testament to the collective effort to enhance safety. It follows the tragic crane collapse in Kelowna in 2021, which highlighted the need for tighter safety measures. This strategy, coupled with the NOP requirement, allows for more proactive engagement with employers, ensuring compliance and reducing the risks of crane-related incidents.
The introduction of these regulations marks a significant step towards making proactive approaches for safety on construction sites, setting a higher standard, and minimizing risks in a rapidly expanding industry. These changes not only hold companies accountable but also underscore the crucial role of each individual in fostering a culture of safety within the crane sector.
Hand injuries are common in construction, affecting nearly half a million workers in Canada per year. Injuries include punctures, lacerations, crushes, fractures, burns, and strains, most of which are preventable with proper PPE and procedures to mitigate the risks.
While injuries can sometimes be an inevitable part of working in construction, these injuries can lead to time off work and come at a high cost to employers. OSHA’s hierarchy of controls provides guidelines for worker protection from most to least effective.
Hand injuries in construction are common
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, hand injuries account for approximately 20% of all work-related injuries. Our hands are used in virtually everything we do, often put in vulnerable positions and situations on the job site. Even taking precautions, the unforeseen can quickly lead to accidents and injuries.
Common hand injuries
Lacerations are the most common type of hand injury, usually caused by sharp objects or tools. They also typically occur due to improper gloves or no gloves at all.
Crush injuries happen when a worker places their limb within a pinch point that closes. A pinch point is where you can get caught between moving and stationary equipment.
Fractures often occur from machinery accidents, falling objects, or other hazards. They are broken bones, and there are two types: closed fractures, where no skin is broken, and compound fractures, which are open with broken bones penetrating the skin.
Punctures occur when pointed objects pierce the skin. They could be from any source, like spurs from damaged metal cables, nails, or splinters from lumber. Wearing proper gloves for the task is vital to avoid punctures.
Less common hand injuries
Amputations are less common but often the most traumatic. Amputations occur when limbs are completely severed from the body.
Stiff joints usually occur from repetitive motion injuries.
Nerve damage can occur when the median nerve is compressed, usually caused by repetitive hand movements while using tools.
Paralysis occurs when you lose functionality in your hand(s). It occurs when messages from the brain are interrupted as they travel to your hand and prevent movement. Paralysis can be caused by injury or illness, such as neck or spinal cord injuries.
Burns can becaused by heat, electrical, or chemical contact and can vary in severity. Some may require minor medical attention, while others may need surgery to repair the skin.
Implications of hand injuries
Workers suffer after hand injuries due to pain and suffering, loss of mobility and function, and possible loss of work. Employers also suffer from loss of productivity and possible temporary replacement of the injured worker. OHS Canada puts the average cost for each lost-time hand injury at $7,500.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data on hand injuries from 2021-2022 shows a breakdown of various factors relating to hand injuries. Most injuries occurred due to contact with an object or equipment, hand tools, and machinery. Cuts, lacerations, and punctures were the most common hand injuries.
Older workers often need up to 14 days to recover, and the compensation cost for lacerations and punctures came to nearly $31,000 per claim. In 2017, almost 10,000 workers missed days due to soreness and other pain from repetitive tasks and frequent hand movements that disrupted productivity.
Indirect costs of hand injuries include wages not covered by workers’ compensation, administrative time spent by supervisors, employee retraining or replacement costs, lost productivity, loss of morale after injury, and accommodations of injured employees.
Preventing hand injuries doesn’t start with PPE
PPE is the least effective control method for worker protection based on OSHA’s hierarchy of controls.
Elimination
Substitution
Engineering controls
Administrative controls
PPE
Elimination: Thisis the most effective control method. Although not always possible, designing the workplace with safety in mind can reduce incidents. Some ways to minimize injury are eliminating blindspots, controlling foot traffic in storage locations around moving equipment, and utilizing automated-guided vehicles and conveyors to mitigate workers entering hazardous areas.
Substitution: This refers to replacing hazardous equipment or processes with safer methods. For example, fork trucks can be replaced with powered walk-behind forklifts or hand trucks.
Engineering controls: These controls refer to isolating people from hazards with pedestrian aisles, barriers, and walkways to keep pedestrians away from dangerous situations. They also include adding mirrors at blind corners and motion detectors/alarms, limiting access to buildings, and limiting the speeds of mobile equipment.
Administrative controls: This can involve putting warning lights and backup alarms on mobile equipment or sensors on forklifts to sense objects and pedestrians. Procedures and training, limiting access to machine operation areas, providing appropriate training and awareness, requiring headlights, and coordination between people and forklift operators for specific tasks like inventory are also administrative controls to reduce injury incidence.
PPE: Requiring workers and visitors to wear appropriate personal protective equipment for job sites or tasks is the least effective control method but must be mandatory for all job sites. This can include high-visibility vests, safety glasses, appropriate gloves, hard hats, and safety boots.
Tips to prevent hand injuries on the job site
1. Eliminate the hazard
When possible, eliminate the hazard from human reach. Keep hands out of the hazardous zone by utilizing objects like a push stick or pike pole. If possible, use lock-out tag-out (LOTO) to completely shut off equipment.
2. Proper safety training
Never perform a task you haven’t been trained to do. If unsure, ask for training to proceed. Never agree to unsafe work, always insist on proper planning and training with each job task for everyone’s safety.
3. Hand protection
The cost of supplying a high volume of gloves to workers is relatively high for employers, but injuries cost more in the long run. Data shows that roughly 70% of workers who received a hand injury weren’t wearing gloves, and the other 30% had inadequate/damaged or the wrong type of gloves. Not all gloves are made the same, nor for every job.
Leather gloves provide great protection against rough surfaces and sharp edges that can cut or puncture. They are best for equipment handling and general construction.
Cotton gloves improve grip, insulate from heat or cold, and provide some protection from cuts. They are best for light-duty and general material handling.
Kevlar is highly cut-resistant when wet. These are best for working with metal and glass.
Dyneema fiber is an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) glove. It offers advanced protection with gel-spun, multi-filament fibers. It’s best for metalwork, automotive, and heavy equipment.
Spectra fiber is another ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber that is cut-resistant when wet. It’s best for metalwork, automotive, food preparation, and warehouse work.
Metal mesh is made of interlocked stainless-steel mesh and offers advanced protection against cuts and punctures. It’s best for metalwork, food preparation, and textile cutting.
4. Be aware of your surroundings
Always be aware of what’s around you and where your hands are. Stay alert and be mindful of moving equipment and pinch points. It’s also important to pay attention to who is around you that could be at risk.
5. Shortcuts
Avoid shortcuts to finish the job faster—work at your own pace. The frequency of hand injuries is proportional to how fast you work. Do a risk assessment for the task, regardless of whether your employer requires one.
6. Job safety analysis (JSA)
A job safety analysis (JSA) identifies and records the steps involved in a specific task. It may include potential safety/health hazards and how to reduce/eliminate them, who may get injured during the task, determined level of risk, types of injuries, how frequent the exposure is, and what safety gear is needed for optimal protection.
Learning from hand injuries and prevention
Safety should be the number one priority for both employers and workers. While the cost of hazard mitigation may seem high, it’s quickly outweighed by the cost of injuries, time away from work, and loss of employees. Following OSHA’s hierarchy of controls offers a simple way to reduce the number of injuries and accidents, but it’s not a be-all. Proper training and awareness are also essential to ensure worker safety.
Construction sites have heavy equipment, high-speed power tools, tall ladders, and slick surfaces. With all of these on-site safety risks, it would be easy to overlook the hazards of a simple hole in the ground. Unfortunately, excavations and trenches can be some of the most dangerous places on a job site. Trench cave-ins can happen due to water accumulation, unstable soil, and improper sloping. However, trench boxes, appropriate sloping, and ladders are simple methods to prevent trench accidents.
What are trench cave-ins?
Construction often involves excavation—digging into the ground to lay foundations, build below-ground structures, or lay pipes for plumbing, electrical work, and other systems. Trenches are excavations in which the depth of the hole is greater than the width.
When companies don’t take adequate safety precautions, there’s a high risk of cave-ins, which occur when the sides of the trench collapse and fall inward. Falling soil and rocks can weigh hundreds, if not thousands of pounds, and pose considerable risk to those working inside the trench. Workers can be trapped by soil, debris, or even buried alive.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported thirty-nine trench deaths in the US in 2022, over double the 15 deaths reported in 2021. Unfortunately, construction workers make up the majority of these deaths, accounting for 85% of fatal incidents in the decade from 2011-2021 and 90% of non-fatal injuries.
Even with the risk of fatality, companies regularly skirt regulations. In 2023, a company in Mandan, North Dakota, was handed fines totaling over half a million dollars for failing to protect its workers in trenches, while Connecticut-based Botticello Inc. earned over $375,000 in penalties for trench cave-in that led to a worker’s death.
Why trench cave-ins happen
Most—if not all—trench collapse cases can be prevented by being aware of the common causes and taking appropriate precautions to prevent cave-ins, including following proper safety guidelines for trench excavations.
Common causes of trench cave-ins are due to several factors:
Water accumulation from heavy rains, flooding, or high water tables can weaken the soil around a trench and cause it to collapse inwards.
Unstable soil like gravel or sand is more prone to cave-ins.
Improper sloping leaves trench walls too unstable to support the weight of surrounding soil. The deeper and narrower a trench is, the greater the pressure on trench walls and the higher the risk of collapse.
Soil overloading canoccur when heavy machinery, equipment, or materials are placed too close to the trench edge, causing it to cave in.
Vibrations from heavy machinery or nearby traffic can also contribute to trench collapses by destabilizing trench walls.
4 ways to prevent trench cave-ins and save lives
Although trench cave-ins can occur due to weather, soil quality, or ambient activity, there are proven ways to make the trench environment safe for workers on every project and every construction site.
OSHA provides regulations for trenches and excavations, including guidelines for making trenches safe and secure.
Sloping
Providing adequate sloping is one of the most effective ways to prevent trench cave-ins. Slope requirements vary based on soil type; stable surfaces require less sloping, and more unstable soils require more sloping to mitigate the risk of trench collapse.
A 1:1 slope means the sides must also slope back one foot for every foot of depth. Similarly, a 2:1 slope ratio means that for every foot of depth, the sides must slope back two feet.
Shoring
Shoring a trench involves stabilizing the walls using temporary supports to prevent soil from caving in. Shoring is typically made from wood or metal strong enough to withstand the soil pressure on either side of the trench. Shoring can use hydraulic systems, in which hydraulic pistons press metal plates against the trench walls to stabilize them, or fixed methods like beam and plate shoring.
Trench boxes
These structures aren’t designed to prevent trench cave-ins; instead, they protect workers in the event of a trench collapse. A trench box provides a protected space to shield workers from caving in soil. They typically involve thick panels held apart with spreaders to maintain the width of the trench box.
Competent person
OSHA also mandates that all sites have someone adequately trained in trench safety to inspect trenches daily before workers are allowed to enter. This person must ensure the safety and compliance of every trench, especially as conditions shift and change.
Ladders
OSHA requires that all sites provide ramps, ladders, or steps leading out of every trench over four feet deep. These structures offer a quick, easy exit in case there are signs of trench instability.
Bottom line
Cave-ins are predictable and almost always preventable sources of accidents, injuries, and deaths. Addressing trench cave-ins and collapses is simple when companies take appropriate precautions to adequately slope and shore trench walls and use trench boxes to protect workers.
A strong focus on workplace safety can significantly improve employee retention, job satisfaction, and overall morale. Research shows that up to 93.5% of employees are likely to stay with their employer for five years or more when they perceive a strong and safe work culture. Additionally, companies that prioritize safety experience 24% to 59% lower turnover rates compared to those that do not. By integrating comprehensive training and communication practices into daily operations, organizations can build a loyal and engaged workforce committed to long-term success.
How safety culture impacts retention
When employees feel physically and emotionally secure, their loyalty to the company increases. This is especially true when safety measures are integrated into daily operations, helping prevent accidents and fostering a sense of trust between the employer and employees. This trust leads to higher retention rates as employees are more likely to stay with a company knowing their health risks are low. This was shown by a survey that collected data from 6207 truck drivers in the U.S. It found that employees’ safety climate perceptions were linked to employees’ level of job satisfaction, engagement, and turnover rate.
Creating a safe environment has benefits for culture
A strong safety culture also reflects a broader organizational commitment to employee well-being. Surveys indicate that up to 93.5% of employees would stay with their current employer for five years or more if the company culture was strong. Leading companies with low turnover rates typically have open communication channels and high employee engagement, fostering a positive and safe work environment. These practices not only help in retaining current employees but they also help to:
Increase productivity
Attract top talent
Enhance collaboration and teamwork
Form a stronger company reputation
Reduce employee turnover costs
Reducing turnover costs
High turnover rates are costly, involving recruitment, training, and lost productivity. By prioritizing safety, companies can significantly reduce these costs. Companies with higher employee engagement and safety experience 24% to 59% lower turnover rates, substantially higher than organizations that do not prioritize these aspects. A well-implemented training and safety program leads to fewer workplace accidents, which in turn reduces absenteeism and turnover. This also helps workers feel psychologically safer, a key factor for contributing to team success and employee retention.
The silence of non-participation
Creating a safe work culture is not just about physical safety. It’s also about mental safety and the ability to voice your opinion as an employee and be heard. A survey by Cornell found that over half of respondents, 52.9%, have never spoken up about issues at work. What’s more concerning is that 41.1% of these people believe speaking up wouldn’t make a difference. This shows that many employees feel unheard, often because they think their concerns won’t be addressed. One big reason for this lack of follow-through is the heavy workload that managers and supervisors face. With so many problems to deal with every day, it’s easy for some issues to slip through the cracks. This can leave employees feeling like their voices don’t matter, which only makes them less likely to speak up in the future.
To fix this, it’s important for leaders to not only listen but also act, showing employees that their concerns are important and will be addressed. For example, this can be done by opening communication channels that allow workers to express their concerns anonymously and take polls on these issues. By making safety a core value, companies can build a loyal, engaged, and productive workforce that is committed to the organization’s long-term success.
As of July 1st, 2024, Malta Dynamics’ APEX Type 2 safety helmets will be available with prominent upgrades. Motivated by their commitment to improving safety and accessibility, Malta’s new helmets were launched at a price reduction and are ANSI Z89.1 and EN12492 compliant. These are some of the most stringent industry compliance requirements for helmets in industrial and construction sites.
“We’ve been watching what Europeans do for head protection for some time, and though Malta Dynamics was one of the first to offer helmets with chin straps in the USA, we’ll never stop making them better and safer for the hundreds of field workers in our organization, and millions around the world,” says Malta Dynamics CEO Damian Lang.
In addition to the helmets, new APEX hard hats will be introduced. The hard hats will be Class E electrical rating compliant for workers who need a full-brim hard hat or prefer a classic look.
Acknowledging that headgear can be expensive, Malta Dynamics is doing its part to make safety gear more affordable by offering a 30% decrease from the market average, with an MSRP of $69.99. There will be no minimum quantity for ordering, and workers can purchase Malta products through authorized retailers, over the phone, or online.
Greg Brown, President of Malta Dynamics, says, “This price reduction is our team’s effort to make it more feasible to work safely. There were a lot of hands involved, as reducing price without sacrificing quality or safety is quite an effort, but this puts us soundly lower than other reputable brands for these hats, and we’re looking forward to seeing our APEX products in the field.”
The new Malta Dynamics helmets and hard hats are available now and include visors, face shields, and flashlight mounts as additional accessories.
Some occupations require employees to work with or handle toxic substances and chemicals that can have adverse health consequences. OSHA requires employers to identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard(s) in their workplaces and ensure exposure does not exceed recommended exposure limits. Employers can keep their workers safe through engineering and work practice controls and by providing proper PPE.
Quick look
Dust, solvents, mold, and man-made mineral fibers are some of construction sites’ most common toxic substances.
Wood dust, silica, and lower-toxicity dust are most common on job sites, with silica dust being the most hazardous to health.
It is essential to take extra precautions when working around hazardous substances, such as wearing proper PPE and reducing exposure through skin or inhalation.
All employees have the right to know about hazardous materials on job sites, and it’s the employer’s responsibility to reduce exposure risk as much as possible.
Common causes of toxin or chemical exposure
Identifying the source is the first step in reducing worker exposure to chemicals and toxic substances on the job site.
Here are some of the most common hazardous substances on construction sites.
Dust
Dust is one of the most common substances found on construction sites. Although it may not seem like the biggest hazard, when inhaled repeatedly, certain types of dust can lead to serious health consequences, especially ones affecting the lungs and respiratory system.
Dust on construction sites usually falls into one of three categories:
1. Wood dust: Comes from handling wood through sanding and cutting. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), repeated inhalation of wood dust can cause cancer of the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, and nasopharynx. It’s also associated with toxic effects, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, dermatitis, and respiratory system effects that include decreased lung capacity and allergic reactions.
2. Silica dust: Silica dust is the most dangerous type of dust on construction sites, caused by working with materials containing silica (sandstone, concrete, etc.). Tiny airborne particles are inhaled and settle into the lungs, causing long-term scarring and silicosis, a fatal lung disease.
3. Lower toxicity dust: Lower toxicity dust comes from working with materials like drywall, marble, and other substances. Although not as hazardous, long-term exposure can still cause lung damage.
How to reduce exposure: The easiest way to minimize dust exposure is to utilize a system that suppresses dust. Vacuum systems are easy to install and reduce the amount of airborne dust. Using appropriate PPE can also minimize inhalation.
Solvents
Solvents, commonly found in paints, adhesives, and cleaning fluids, are another common substance on construction sites. Solvents can be dangerous for the lungs and skin and can adversely affect nerve and brain function. Long-term exposure to solvents can cause arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), cancer, blindness, kidney/liver damage, and even death.
Common symptoms of solvent exposure include:
Stomach pain
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Loss of coordination
Cracked/bleeding skin
How to reduce exposure: Exercise extra caution when working with solvents. Keep them out of contact with skin and wash hands and body thoroughly after use. Avoid working in a confined space with minimal ventilation and air circulation.
Mold
Mold is another common hazard found on construction sites that can lead to permanent health issues with repeated and prolonged exposure. Mold arises in damp conditions and becomes problematic when moisture becomes trapped in buildings. Asthma and allergy symptoms are mold exposure’s most common side effects, but other respiratory problems can also arise. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic sinusitis, increased risk of upper and lower respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and organ failure.
People with pre-existing respiratory conditions should take extra precautions when working around mold.
How to reduce exposure: The easiest way to reduce exposure to mold in the workplace is to use personal protective equipment. When working in areas with mold, consider using respirators, gloves, and goggles to avoid contact with lungs, skin, and eyes.
Man-made mineral fibers
Man-made mineral fibers are also a common find on construction sites. They’re typically made from glass ceramic, rockwool, and slagwool and are generally used for temperature and sound insulation. When these materials are installed or removed, they release tiny fibers that can become lodged in the lungs, leading to irritation and damage to the lungs, eyes, and skin.
Some types of man-made mineral fibers, specifically those classed as refractory ceramic fibers, may require specialized PPE when working with them.
How to reduce exposure: Use caution and be smart. Always wear the appropriate PPE when working with hazardous materials, which adequately protects you against contact with tiny fibers.
How to reduce exposure to workplace chemicals and toxins
OSHA guidelines recommend specific actions based on an employee’s level of exposure to a toxic substance or chemical hazard.
The CDC’s hierarchy of controls can be used to assess the action an employer should take to prevent or limit exposure to hazardous substances. The top of the pyramid signifies the ideal position (best-case scenario), while the bottom is the least ideal.
Here’s what an employer should do based on where they sit on the pyramid:
Elimination or substitution: If the chemical or toxin isn’t necessary, it should be eliminated. If it is needed, try to substitute it with a safer substance.
Engineering controls: Whenever possible, make the chemical safer to use. The workplace should also make changes to reduce or eliminate exposure to hazardous substances or materials.
Administrative and work practice controls: If the substance remains unsafe after physical changes, the employer should implement specific processes or procedures that minimize worker exposure, such as retaining job assignments or altering work schedules.
Supply PPE: Proper PPE should always be worn on job sites, especially when exposed to hazardous materials and substances. PPE can include chemical protective clothing, gloves, eye protection, and a respirator.
All workers have the right to know what hazards are present on the job site and what they are exposed to. If their job requires them to work with toxic substances, employers are responsible for reducing or eliminating the hazard as much as possible to ensure worker safety. If removing or reducing exposure isn’t possible, ensure proper PPE is provided.
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has launched a new app to protect construction workers from heat stress. The Heat Stress Mobile App provides essential features that help workers stay safe in high-temperature environments.
A tool designed for safety
Construction workers are frequently exposed to harsh elements, including extreme heat, making them particularly vulnerable to heat stress. The AIHA’s Heat Stress Mobile App is designed to address this issue by providing real-time data and personalized recommendations.
The app uses local weather information to calculate the heat index, offering a clear picture of the risk level at any moment. This allows workers and supervisors to make informed decisions about protecting themselves.
Key features
Real-time weather data
The app monitors local weather conditions, including temperature and humidity, to provide an accurate heat index. This is crucial to help workers understand the potential risks they face during their shifts.
Risk level alerts
The app assigns a risk level based on the current heat index and alerts when conditions become dangerous. This feature empowers workers to take immediate action, such as seeking shade or drinking more water.
Personalized recommendations
App users can access tailored advice on reducing heat stress. These recommendations consider the specific work environment and can include tips on clothing, hydration, and rest.
Educational resources
The app also serves as an educational tool, offering information on the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to prevent them. This helps workers recognize the early signs of heat stress and take action before the situation worsens.
Impact on the construction industry
AIHA’s Heat Stress Mobile App is particularly valuable in construction, where heat-related illnesses are common. The app helps reduce heat stress and related health issues by providing real-time data and actionable advice. This, in turn, promotes a safer work environment and ensures that workers can perform their jobs effectively without compromising their health.
Bottom line
The AIHA’s Heat Stress app is a game-changer for the construction industry, offering a practical solution to the challenges posed by extreme heat. With real-time monitoring, personalized recommendations, and educational resources, the app is essential for anyone working in high-temperature environments. As it continues to be tested in the open beta phase, the app promises to have a positive impact on worker safety and well-being.
Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, making up a significant part of what’s known as the ‘fatal four’—falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between accidents. Despite the risks, many of these accidents can be prevented with the right safety measures, such as proper PPE, adequate training, and integrating safety considerations during the design phase.
Quick look
The ‘fatal four’—falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between accidents—are the leading causes of accidental deaths in the construction industry.
The primary reasons for the high number of falls are a lack of focus on safety, improper PPE, incorrect tie-off levels, insufficient task planning, and poor risk management during design.
Companies can take practical steps to reduce fall-related incidents, including better training, proper use of PPE, correct installation of tie-offs, thorough task planning, and integrating safety into the design phase.
Construction’s ‘fatal four’
Falls
The biggest killer in the construction industry, falls make up more than 35% of all deaths, often happening when workers fall from roofs, scaffolding, or ladders. In 2022, 395 out of 1,069 construction deaths in the U.S. were due to falls. These accidents not only cause devastating injuries and loss of life but also lead to huge costs for companies through compensation claims and lost productivity.
Struck-bys
These incidents happen when a worker is hit by an object, equipment, or vehicle. This might involve tools falling from a height, vehicles hitting workers, or machinery accidents. In 2022, these incidents made up 15.4% of construction deaths. The injuries from struck-bys can be severe, such as fractures and concussions, which can delay projects and increase insurance costs for companies.
Electrocution
Electrocution hazards account for about 8.3% of related deaths. This usually happens through contact with overhead power lines [Backlink to powerline safety article], faulty wiring, or improper use of electrical equipment. Electrocution can be deadly, and those who survive often suffer from serious burns or long-term injuries, leading to high medical expenses and long recovery times.
Caught in or between
Workers being crushed, caught, compressed by equipment, or struck in collapsing structures account for about 5.5% of construction fatalities. Such accidents often happen in trench collapses or when workers are caught between heavy machinery and stationary objects, leading to catastrophic injuries or death and causing significant emotional and financial burdens on everyone involved.
Falls account for more than 35% of deaths in construction
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), falls, slips, and trips were the most common fatal accidents in construction, making up nearly 38% of all fatalities in the industry. In 2022 alone, the construction industry saw 395 out of 1,069 fatalities due to falls.
The American numbers are alarming. The BLS reports that in 2021, there were 1,102 fatal injuries in the construction sector, with 418 of these being from falls, slips, and trips. Events like the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction are crucial for raising awareness and promoting safety practices to prevent these deaths.
Canada faces similar issues. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety states that falls are one of the leading causes of severe injuries and deaths in construction, particularly from ladders, roofs, and scaffolding.
What’s even more amazing? According to BLS data, fall-related fatalities have been on the rise. From 2018 to 2021, there was a nearly 6% increase in fatal construction falls. Additionally, the Center for Construction Research and Training reports that over 300 fatal and 20,000 nonfatal fall injuries occur each year in the construction industry.
Put simply, there has never been a better time for effective fall prevention strategies and safety protocols.
5 reasons construction falls keep happening
1. Not enough focus on safety
Why it’s happening: A lack of a strong safety culture, insufficient training, and an emphasis on productivity over protection are major reasons that falls continue to occur. Many construction sites focus more on completing tasks quickly rather than safely, which can lead to unsafe practices and shortcuts that put workers at risk. Unfortunately, safety violations are all too common, and many companies fail to comply with even basic safety standards.
What to do about it: To prevent falls, companies need to implement comprehensive training programs that educate workers about the importance of safety and the correct procedures to follow. Establishing a strong work culture where preventing accidents is a top priority is essential. Enforcing strict safeguarding protocols and holding regular meetings or updates can help keep safety at the forefront of everyone’s mind.
2. Improper (or lack of) PPE
Why it’s happening: Falls often happen because workers are not using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) or are using it incorrectly. Sometimes, the right PPE isn’t available, or workers aren’t aware of how important it is.
What to do about it: It is crucial to ensure that all workers have access to the proper PPE and know how to use it correctly. Companies should provide regular training sessions on the correct use of PPE and enforce compliance on job sites with regular checks to ensure all safety gear is in good condition.
3. Tie-offs at the wrong level
Why it’s happening: Incorrect installation of tie-off points or a lack of understanding of proper tie-off procedures can lead to falls. Workers might tie off at the wrong height or use improper anchor points, which can create a falling hazard.
What to do about it: Training workers on proper tie-off techniques and ensuring they understand the importance of tying off at the correct level can help prevent falls. Regular inspections of tie-off points are necessary to ensure they are installed correctly and are safe to use.
4. Insufficient pre-work task planning
Why it’s happening: A lack of detailed planning before starting work can lead to falls. Many hazards can be identified and mitigated during the planning stage, but this step is often overlooked. Poor planning can result in workers being unprepared for the risks they might encounter.
What to do about it: Developing detailed task plans that identify potential fall risks and how to manage them is essential. Involving safety professionals during the planning stages can help identify hazards that might be missed. Conducting pre-work safety briefings can also ensure that all employees are aware of the risks and know how to work safely.
5. Not mitigating risks during design
Why it’s happening: Many fall risks are built into a construction project’s design. Design flaws that increase the likelihood of a fall often occur because worker safety isn’t adequately considered during the design process, leading to inherently dangerous work conditions.
What to do about it: Integrating safety considerations into the design phase can greatly reduce fall risks. Involving safety experts in the design process ensures that potential hazards are identified and mitigated early on. Ultimately, safer design practices create a safer working environment from the start.
The bottom line
Falls remain the leading cause of death in the construction industry. Addressing the root causes of falls can significantly reduce these incidents, and implementing the strategies discussed can go a long way to creating safer work environments.
Prioritizing safety is not just about compliance; it’s about protecting lives. Construction companies have to take proactive steps to ensure that every worker returns home safely at the end of the day.
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral often found in older building materials, such as insulation, floor, and ceiling tiles. Asbestos exposure can cause lung cancer, scarring of the lungs, mesothelioma, and other serious health problems—and workers are exposed to it by disturbing material that contains asbestos on job sites. Avoid exposure and reduce contact with asbestos materials through testing and proper PPE.
Quick look
Older buildings often contain asbestos in the ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and insulation
Workers who are exposed to asbestos are at higher risk of developing health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma
Regular testing, abatement, and ensuring workers are equipped with the proper PPE are all vital to mitigating asbestos exposure
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral found in older buildings
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral used to insulate buildings from cold weather, noise, and fireproofing in decades past.
From the 1930s through the 1970s, asbestos was common in building materials, vinyl goods, and other construction products, meaning older buildings are likely to contain asbestos in some form.
Most workers gain exposure to asbestos during construction or renovation work, but some industries are at a higher risk than others. These include:
Breathing in asbestos fibers can lead to severe illnesses such as lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and emphysema or chronic bronchitis. But, since these illnesses are slow to show symptoms, it can take up to 15 years or more before workers feel the effects of their exposure.
Approximately 235,000 Canadians are exposed to asbestos at work, most of whom are in the construction industry. The largest exposed groups by trade are carpenters, with 36,000 workers exposed, followed by helpers and laborers, with 36,000 workers exposed, electricians with 21,000 workers exposed, and janitors and caretakers, with 19,000 exposed.
From 2006 to 2016, the number of workers exposed to asbestos increased by approximately 83,000.
But it’s not just Canadians. Roughly 38% of Americans have been exposed to asbestos at work in high-risk industries. Even worse, 47% of family members have been exposed indirectly. Indirect exposure carries the same risks as primary exposure, and in some cases, secondary exposure reaches occupational levels.
If you’re surprised, consider that exposure can happen even with the simplest of tasks, such as washing a family member’s work clothes. Direct contact or disturbing clothing, furniture, and carpets embedded with asbestos fibers can cause particles to become airborne.
But here’s the thing. Even with early screening for asbestos exposure, many workers retire before asbestos-caused lung scarring appears. This makes it hard to determine when they were exposed and for how long it’s been an issue.
Asbestos regulation and worker protection
Since 2018, Canada has prohibited the manufacture, import, sale, and use of asbestos products.
Asbestos products in the US have been gradually phased out. As of March 18, 2024, a rule has been finalized to ban chrysotile asbestos, allowing a 12-year phase-out of the material used. It doesn’t ban all asbestos products, but is considered a major step in the right direction.
OSHA has set regulations for permissible exposure limits (PEL) to protect workers with engineering controls, work practices, and proactive equipment to limit exposure.
Effects of asbestos exposure
Asbestosis
Asbestosis, also called diffuse pulmonary fibrosis, is a chronic lung condition that can develop years after asbestos exposure. It is caused by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers that can get stuck in the lung tissue, leading to inflammation and scarring over time. Asbestosis is not a type of cancer but can become more severe, creating a higher risk of developing mesothelioma or lung cancer.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by asbestos exposure through inhaling or ingesting it. The most common sites in which it develops are the pleural and peritoneal tissues (lungs and lining surrounding your abdominal organs). Still, asbestos fibers can also get lodged in internal organs and cause tumors. The life expectancy of mesothelioma ranges from 18 to 31 months with treatment like surgery and chemotherapy.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer from asbestos exposure develops in lung tissue with two main types: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The Burden of Occupational Cancer in Canada project estimates 1,900 lung cancer and 430 mesothelioma cases each year from past exposures.
Creating a safer workplace
Regular asbestos testing
Asbestos isn’t present in every building, but those built before the mid-80s typically contain it. For contractors, hiring a qualified asbestos testing company is important. For older homes and buildings that have experienced flood or fire damage, it’s vital to test for asbestos, as disturbing contaminated materials could release asbestos fibers into the work area.
Asbestos abatement
Abatement involves identifying, removing, or encapsulating materials in a structure to eliminate or limit the threat of asbestos exposure by trained professionals. Hiring an asbestos removal company is the only safe and effective way to reduce or eliminate harm and worker or employee exposure. Be diligent in hiring a reputable abatement company to avoid fraudulent work that could put your workers at risk.
Don’t remove asbestos yourself
Do not attempt to remove asbestos materials on your own or by using unqualified employees. Hire specialists who can do the job safely and correctly to protect everyone in the surrounding environment.
Reducing the risks
Controls to consider on the job site to reduce the risk of asbestos exposure include:
Eliminate or substitute asbestos materials whenever possible
Modify facilities, processes, or equipment to encapsulate or enclose the hazard
Implement administrative controls through work practices, awareness, and proper safety training
Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers
Common materials containing asbestos
While most construction industry people know that asbestos exists in older buildings, many aren’t clear on where it can be found. Here are some of the most common materials that contain asbestos:
Drywall joint compound
Vermiculite insulation
Vinyl floor tiles
Ceiling tiles
Pipe duct insulation
Ceiling texture coat
Vinyl floor tiles
Other methods of asbestos exposure include:
Sanding or breaking old floor or ceiling tiles
Sawing or drilling of old plaster
Removing old insulation from pipe wraps or duct wraps
Removing old roofing shingles or roofing material
Working with the looming risk of asbestos
Although asbestos use is decreasing and, in some places, prohibited, the threat of exposure will always need to be considered. For crews working in older buildings, the protection of high-risk industry workers should be a top priority. Having a safety procedure in place to mitigate exposure through testing and the use of proper PPE while working around asbestos is critical to reducing its health impact.
With record-high temperatures in recent years in the U.S., federal officials are working to keep workers cooler and safer. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is soliciting comments from the public on its proposed new heat safety regulations. The new National Emphasis Program (NEP) is meant to protect workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses by mandating that certain conditions be maintained for workers, including access to shade, water breaks, and other measures to protect them from heat-related illnesses.
However, some are questioning the new rule’s practicality. The rule includes regulations regarding indoor and outdoor work temperatures, specific to workers who wear protective clothing and those who don’t. For example, asbestos abatement workers who wear protective body suits and respirators while removing asbestos in hot conditions.
The proposed regulation mandates, among other things, that indoor workplaces must be cooled to below 87 degrees Fahrenheit when employees are present. If feasible, the indoor work area must also be cooled to 82 degrees in places where workers wear protective clothing or work in high-radiant areas.
The proposed rule is part of a package of more stringent heat safety regulations that OSHA is developing. This includes a rulemaking process to develop a workplace heat standard. OSHA is seeking public input on the rules before their final adoption.
The NEP will include worksite inspections, communication with companies on the new rules, and support for companies in complying with them. Under the proposed rule, OSHA will inspect worksites on days when the heat index is expected to be 80 degrees or higher.
OSHA is working to lower workers’ exposure to heat-related hazards that result in illness, injury, or death. OSHA officials could inspect a work site for heat stress conditions under certain conditions, such as when an employee injury occurs and the heat index is above 80 degrees onsite, if an employee complains about heat-stressing conditions, and in pre-planned inspections that investigate a combination of conditions which could result in heat-related injuries or death.
With the proposed new rule, OSHA is scrutinizing more than 70 high-risk industries, including construction and agriculture. The NEP requires a company’s Certified Safety and Health Officer (CSHO) to review documents and inspect for heat illness-related compliance procedures. Companies must be prepared to do the following:
Supply OSHA 300 Logs and 301 Incident reports (if required by that industry)
Interview workers for conditions that may indicate heat-related illnesses
Determine if the employer has a heat illness and injury program
OSHA has programs that will help employers comply with the new rules, including its Heat Safety Tool. The tool provides safety information that’s accessible on mobile phones and enables workers to calculate the heat index on their worksite while displaying a risk level for that heat index. From there, the app provides protective measures to maintain workers’ safety, like reminders to schedule rest breaks, keep employees hydrated, plan for an emergency related to the heat, and more.
To submit comments, please follow these instructions:
You may submit comments and attachments, identified by Docket No. OSHA–2021–0009, electronically at http://www.regulations.gov, which is the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal. Follow the instructions online for making electronic submissions. After accessing ‘‘all documents and comments’’ in the docket (Docket No. OSHA–2021–0009), check the “proposed rule” box in the column headed “Document Type,” find the document posted on the date of publication of this document, and click the “Comment Now” link. When uploading multiple attachments to regulations.gov, please number all of your attachments because regulations.gov will not automatically number the attachments.
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