Our Safety Blogs

Main Differences Between the HAZWOPER 40-Hour and 24-HourTraining ProgramsWe have all heard of OSHA, and often hear mention of HAZWOPER in conjunction. So, what is HAZWOPER? HAZWOPER stands for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response and is a significant set of regulations developed by OSHA for the health and safety of personnel employed in hazardous waste operations as well as emergency response personnel who may be called in instances of the release of a toxic substance or related accidents, and those involved in cleaning up hazardous waste sites.Of course, as part of the requirements of the HAZWOPER standard, OSHA requires employers to train employees before starting work in hazardous waste operations and retrain them annually thereafter. OSHA has identified several levels of HAZWOPER training depending on the employee’s job tasks and responsibilities. However, the most sought-after and popular HAZWOPER training remains the initial HAZWOPER 40 Hour training and the initial HAZWOPER 24 Hour training.Still, the differences and who should enroll, and take which of these two courses can be confusing for many of us. This article puts into context the main differences between the 40-hour and 24-hour HAZWOPER training and provides guidance to enable a clearer understanding of the appropriate online training course to take.40 Hour HAZWOPER Training vs. 24 Hour HAZWOPER Training 40 Hour HAZWOPER24 Hour HAZWOPERWho Should Take the Course?General site workers who are engaged in hazardous material removal or other activities that could expose or potentially expose them to hazardous substances.Workers who are exposed to contaminated substances at hazardous waste sites that exceed the Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) and hence, must wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).Workers who are engaged in the storage and treatment of hazardous substances.General site workers who come in contact with hazardous substances occasionally and are not involved in hazardous waste clean-up operations.Workers who work at hazardous sites occasionally for a specified task and are not exposed to hazardous substances at or above the Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs).Workers who are regularly on hazardous waste site but work in areas which have been monitored and fully characterized, meaning the hazard exposures at these work sites are declared to be under PELs and published exposure limits Why is HAZWOPER Training Important?To comply with OSHA requirements.To comply with State and employer requirements.Because you work with hazardous substances occasionally and must be aware of the prevalent hazards and protections.To safeguard your health in case of an emergency.To prevent accidents and injuries to yourself and others.To comply with OSHA requirements.To comply with State and employer requirements.Because you work with hazardous substances regularly and must know what type of PPE to use and how to properly use PPE.To safeguard your health in case of an emergency.To prevent accidents and injuries to yourself and others.To ensure the safety of employees involved in cleanup operations on hazardous sites. Topics CoveredTopics covered for both training programs are similar. The difference is in the details and depth of the information contained in each of the courses. Course ContentUnderstanding of the regulations and OSHA HAZWOPER standard, the importance of an effective workplace health and safety plan, as well as how to identify potentially hazardous situations, classify hazards, and characterize work sites.An explanation of the basic principles of toxicology, chemical exposure, decontamination, confined spaces, and the components of an effective Medical Surveillance Program.An understanding of the uses of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and how to identify and select the correct PPE related to a particular worksite.An understanding of the various considerations in an emergency and the training and actions needed for personnel safety and the safety of others.How to recognize the hazard detection and monitoring tools available to the worker.To comply with OSHA requirements.New workers employed in hazardous waste operations.Workers involved in groundwater monitoring, land surveying, or geophysical surveying and expected to work on a hazardous waste site.On-site incident commandersOn-site managers and supervisors directly responsible for, or who supervise employees.Anyone needing to fulfill the 24-hour HAZWOPER training requirement. Examples of Workers who require the HAZWOPER certificationWorkers who handle contaminated waste, soil, water, etc.Workers who handle tanks that store/treat and pipes which pump in/out contaminated waste.Workers who may work near sites that release contaminated waste.Workers who may work near sites that are contaminated such as hazardous waste treatment plants.Clean-up operations crews of hazardous waste sites.Workers who work with emergency response teams which handle or may be exposed to contaminated substances.Workers who work at a listed or proposed for the listing site under the Superfund National Priority List (NPL).Workers who conduct operations at corrective action sites under the purview of U.S. EPA's Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).New workers employed in hazardous waste operations.Workers involved in groundwater monitoring, land surveying, or geophysical surveying and expected to work on a hazardous waste site.On-site incident commandersOn-site managers and supervisors directly responsible for, or who supervise employees.Anyone needing to fulfill the 24-hour HAZWOPER training requirement.Technicians, assistants, specialists, and other workers involved in handling hazardous materials. Is online training only enough?OSHA requires that workers must have 40 hours of initial training (online, instructor-led, or group in-person) and at least three days of actual field experience under the direct supervision of a trained, experienced supervisor.OSHA requires that workers must have 24 hours of initial training( online, instructor-led, or group in-person) and one day of actual field experience under the direct supervision of a trained, experienced supervisor.Next Step: Online Training, Virtual Instructor-Led Training, or In-Person Group TrainingNow that you understand the main differences between the 24-hour and 40-hour HAZWOPER training courses, the next step is comparatively easy. It is time to enroll in the appropriate HAZWOPER training program.Here are the links for the online HAZWOPER training courses:OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Training CourseOSHA 24-Hour HAZWOPER Training CourseFor information on in-person on-site group training or virtual instructor-led training, send us an email or call us.

Seven Safety Ideas for the Workplace Safety Professionals Must ImplementThose who watch a lot of movies must have caught a scene with a large signboard that says “X days without an accident”, or someone dying or getting crippled due to a workplace accident. Well, such cases do happen and occur quite frequently if safety in the workplace is not ensured. Organizations have to provide a safe, secure, and engaging workplace for their employees. If they don’t do so, not only are employees harmed during work, but organizations are also heavily fined by regulatory agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). As a result, the topic of workplace safety is a concern for all employers and is discussed quite frequently, as is how it can be improved. With that out of the way, let’s take a look at some safety ideas for the workplace that can be used by safety professionals and responsible organizations.These ideas can serve as valuable safety talk topics to raise awareness and promote a culture of safety in the workplaceSeven Safety Ideas for the WorkplaceHere are seven safety suggestions examples for workplace: Provide effective and engaging training regularlyYes, this is one of the oldest tricks in the book, While training is often touted as key, many overlook a crucial aspect: the need to make training sessions engaging, fun, and interactive. One of the biggest complaints employees have about training is that it can be tedious and often boring. Make sure that the ones you provide are short, concise, and engaging. State serious facts, but also highlight the benefits of being responsible for their own safety. Provide regular and short training sessions where employees can share their stories as to how they experienced a near miss and how they ensure their own safety, for example. Also, ensure that whenever new materials, equipment, or processes are used, training is provided at the earliest opportunity.HAZWOPER OSHA LLC provides many OSHA-compliant online training programs - from the 40 hour- and 24-hour HAZWOPER training courses to safety training for workers in the construction industry such as fall protection, scaffolding safety, lead awareness, asbestos awareness, and excavations and trenching safety. Explore our website to discover the full range of OSHA-compliant online training programs covering essential safety topics. Reward responsible employeesOne of the more effective safety ideas for the workplace, rewarding those who are responsible can go a long way. One of the biggest benefits is that others get inspired and follow the footsteps of responsible employees. For instance, you can single out the responsible employee(s) with an appreciation post, provide them meaningful rewards, etc. Keeping everything cleanYes, keeping surfaces, platforms, and workspaces clean can reduce workplace injuries significantly. In fact, a lot of injuries occur because of spills, tangled wiring, messy floors, and debris. While some of the injuries from these situations might not be significant, an organization is still accountable for ensuring workplace safety. Keep everything clean, and when not possible, simply place signs around the messy surfaces or environments to attract attention to the dangers they pose.Encouraging employees to share safety ideas and best practices can also help foster a culture of safety awareness and collaboration. Ensure employees take small breaksWorking constantly can cause a significant amount of stress, leading to injuries, and also causing illnesses down the line. One of the most common complaints is back pain, which arises from sitting in one position at the workplace for long periods. One of the newer safety ideas for the workplace is encouraging employees to take short breaks. Even ten-minute long breaks can not only break the monotony but also help employees stretch their muscles, something that can alleviate the effects of sitting in a single place for a long time. Hire experienced safety professionalsWorkplace safety is extremely crucial for any organization, and the rising popularity of safety professionals is proof of that. Hire professionals who are well-versed with OSHA regulations and can help improve workplace safety. Not only can they come up with effective safety protocols that fit your organization’s needs, but they also continuously monitor to detect any areas for improvement while ensuring OSHA compliance.Inspect the workplace regularlyOne common misconception organizations have is that ensuring workplace safety is a non-recurring activity. In fact, it is a continuous process that might need changes down the line. New processes, equipment, materials, and machinery might be introduced to employees, and this might make the previous efforts obsolete. Thus, periodically inspect the workplace to see if there are new or existing gaps that might lead to workplace injuries or illnesses. Moreover, encourage employees to report any incidents, even if they are near misses. One single incident can lead to a plethora of problems down the line - loss of life, reputation, OSHA violations, and unwanted publicity are just some such consequences. Implement a solution that fits your needs and helps streamline complianceSafety Assure is a simple but powerful OSHA recordkeeping software that helps organizations and safety professionals streamline OSHA compliance and reduce the administrative burden of using their smartphones. With a host of useful modules, Safety Assure can help reduce workplace incidents, improve compliance efforts, and boost the bottom lines. It helps conduct training sessions, reduces paperwork, and keeps everything in a centralized location. Employees can help reduce workplace incidents, accidents, and near misses by using the application’s incident reporting tool right from their smartphones. Safety Assure helps reduce response times, identify common areas or scenarios that generate injuries, and help the management implement corrective actions. Streamline OSHA compliance, reduce unnecessary costs, and minimize workplace injuries with Safety Assure.

Scaffolding Hazards and Safety MeasuresLast week, our blog focused on the types of scaffolds. We also defined what a scaffold is and briefly touched on scaffolding safety. Today’s article is dedicated to the various types of scaffolding hazards that construction workers and other workers who use, assemble, dismantle, repair, maintain, move, or inspect scaffolds may face. Besides, workers working close to, below, or around scaffolding must also be trained and given knowledge of the scaffolding hazards that they may face.Consequently, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) provides extensive guidance on scaffolding safety.Importance of Scaffolding SafetyScaffolding safety is critical as working on scaffolds results in workers working at heights. When working at heights, there are many dangers that workers may face. According to OSHA, nearly 65 percent of construction workers equivalent to 2.3 million people work on scaffolds (n.d.). With proper preventive measures, as many as 4,500 scaffolding-related injuries could be averted (n.d.). According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), between 2003 and 2004, as many as 4,500 people working on scaffolding were injured, while more than 60 were killed annually. Even more interesting is that the majority of these scaffolding accidents are attributed to workers falling from scaffolds or being struck by falling objects, or due to scaffolding collapses due to improper planking.The data above highlights the importance of employers and employees both taking scaffolding safety seriously. As such employers should provide employees with adequate training constituting online and/or classroom training, as well as on-site/on-the-job training to ensure that workers who work on scaffolds as part of their work tasks are well-aware of the myriad scaffolding hazards and are knowledgeable on how to best avoid and prevent such scaffolding hazards from occurring.Four Major Types of Scaffolding HazardsThere are four major types of scaffolding hazards that workers should be mindful of. These are falling, struck by, electrocution, and scaffold collapse.Falling from ScaffoldsWorking on scaffolding requires workers to work at heights. As a result, there is ample opportunity for workers to fall off a scaffolding. Workers can fall off a scaffold due to many reasons, from lack of guardrails to slipping or tripping on slippery substances, wearing inappropriate footwear, or even due to tools or other debris lying on scaffolding surfaces. Workers can also fall from scaffolding when they are entering or getting off scaffolding if the access being used is not according to OSHA specifications.Another way in which a person can fall from scaffolding is when working on a scaffold in winter, in wet weather conditions, or in unfavorable weather conditions. The risk to workers is increased mainly due to ice formation, snow turning to sludge, water puddles, or high wind conditions that may result in fall, slip, and trip hazards.Struck by Falling ObjectsWhen working on scaffolding workers must also take care that they are not struck-by falling objects or materials from a higher level. Not only are workers on lower levels at risk from this type of scaffolding hazard, but other construction personnel working in proximity to scaffolding are also in danger of getting hit by a falling object such as a tool, a paint can, or even a brick.ElectrocutionElectrical hazards are prevalent when working on scaffolds as workers may have to undertake welding, cutting, or other hot work while being stationed on a scaffold. Hence, workers must ensure to follow the guidelines given by OSHA’s Scaffolding Standard for electrical work on scaffolding and beware of electrocution hazards that can occur on the different types of scaffolds depending on the type of work being carried out. When scaffolds are built of metal, electrocution hazards are more imminent! Also note, that building scaffolds close to energized powerlines are frowned upon. OSHA has a set of rules for maintaining appropriate clearance distances between scaffolds and powerlines to ensure worker safety and avoid electrocution hazards.Scaffolding CollapsesWhen scaffolds are not built to specifications there is a danger that the scaffold can collapse. There are different regulations for different types of scaffolds that OSHA recommends. A suspended scaffold should use strong ropes and be securely attached to a permanent structure. The tiebacks,  wire rope clips, counterweights, hoists, and locking system should be inspected by a competent person as recommended by OSHA regulations to ensure that using such scaffolds will not endanger workers’ lives.When erecting supported scaffolds, OSHA provides detailed guidance on how to construct platforms including:the type of planking to be used – wood, metal, fabricated planks;the condition of the wood and the type of wood to use for wooden planks;Lumber grading requirements;the spacing between planks;how the planks should be laid to form a strong platform;the allowable spans - meaning the distance allowed between supports;the allowable deflection – meaning the bend of the work platform;the gaps between supports and planks;how to restrain scaffolding with guys, ties, and braces;the width and length of platforms;types of finishes to be used on wood platforms; andthe compatibility of components used in scaffolding, among others.For both suspension scaffolds and supported scaffolds, following the recommended load capacity is imperative as overloaded scaffolds can collapse or tilt.Safety MeasuresNow that we have got a good idea as to the main hazards associated with working on and using scaffolding, let us see what scaffolding safety measures are available to safeguard the safety and health of employees. Note that most of these are derived from OSHA’s Scaffolding Standard, which is the best way to protect workers' health and safety from all types of scaffolding hazards.Fall ProtectionUsing personal fall arrest systemsInstalling guardrails, mid-rails, and top rails in both suspended and supported scaffolds on all open sidesUsing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hardhats, anti-slip boots, etc.Not working on scaffolds that are covered in snow piles, or have been iced over in winter before clearing has taken placeNot working on scaffolds during snowstorms, thunderstorms, or high wind conditionsFalling Objects ProtectionUsing PPE such as hardhatsInstalling toe-boards or screens so that materials and objects do not slide off the scaffolding platformEnsuring the guardrail systems maintain small openings to prevent objects from slipping offErecting debris nets, catch platforms, or canopies to stop or redirect the falling objectsEnsuring that hand tools and other objects are kept away from the edge of the scaffoldElectrocution ProtectionFollowing OSHA recommendations regarding:Maintaining distances between a scaffold and insulated powerlinesUndertaking welding and other types of electrical work on the different types of scaffoldingWearing PPE such as rubber glovesNot working on scaffolds in bad weather conditions, especially electrical or thunderstormsSafeguards Against Scaffolds CollapsingFollowing OSHA’s Scaffolding Safety Standard recommendations and guidelines:on building scaffoldson using scaffoldson dismantling scaffoldsEnsuring the scaffold is designed by a qualified personEnsuring the scaffold is inspected by a competent person daily before work beginsWorker TrainingAs mentioned at the start of this article, worker training is an important element of scaffolding safety. Make sure workers who are expected to use or work on scaffolding have adequate knowledge about the types of scaffolds, the general requirements for scaffolding, how to safely access scaffolding, fall protection and other hazards of scaffolding, scaffolding safety measures to use, and the requirements for specific types of scaffolds should be part of the overall worker training program.Our OSHA Scaffolding Safety course for construction workers is developed based on OSHA’s Scaffolding Regulations as codified in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L.Take this opportunity and enroll in our program to work safely and securely on scaffolds and avoid being exposed to scaffolding hazards.  References:OSHA. (n.d.). Scaffolding. Website. [PDF]. https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/notes.pdf

Types of Scaffolds What is a Scaffold? Scaffolds are temporary structures built to help reach work areas that are well above ground level. Scaffolds can also be constructed as access platforms. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA); a scaffold is “an elevated, temporary work platform” (n.d). There are two major categories of scaffolds as explained below. Suspended Scaffolds – these are platforms that are hung from a permanent solid structure such as a roof and are supported by the use of strong rope, wire, or other similar flexible materials. Supported Scaffolds – these are platforms that are built with strong rigid ground supports such as brackets, poles, posts, legs, frames, outriggers, etc. These types of scaffolds can hold substantial weight. However, when designed and built, it important to ensure the structural supports are braced to avoid tilting, wobbling, or other movements. Modern times have revolutionized and added to the types of supported scaffolds. Thus, specialized equipment such as aerial lifts and scissor lifts are now considered to be types of supported scaffolds. Most of us have seen supported scaffolds in use, as these are commonly utilized by the construction industry to reach very high work areas and beyond the reach of construction workers standing at ground level. And, with the numerous high-rise buildings around, the sighting of the two-point suspended scaffold is not an unusual occurrence. Think of the window cleaner, or those workers cleaning the exterior of high-rise towers and buildings in any part of the world! What is Scaffolding? Isn’t a scaffold and scaffolding the same? Yes, it is often used interchangeably and as befitting the context requirements of a sentence. However, scaffolding also refers to the different parts such as platforms, poles, ropes, wires, ties, guys, connectors, etc.; that are put together to make a scaffold. Hence, when we speak of scaffolding, it can also mean all the components of a scaffold. Scaffolding Safety People who work at heights will often talk about and hear about scaffolding safety. This is because OSHA has developed regulations and recommendations that employers (who expect employees to work on scaffolds) must follow. The aim is to provide detailed guidance on the safe and secure use of scaffolds to minimize the hazards associated with scaffold use. It must also be noted that the regulations aim to protect the safety and health of employees involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, maintaining, or inspecting scaffolds. The major hazards associated with scaffolds are falling, being struck by, electrocution, and scaffold collapse. Using guardrail systems, toe boards, fall arrest systems, ensuring scaffolds used are designed and build according to specifications, using recommended lumber and other platform materials, ensuring to maintain load capacity limits, undertaking regular inspections, and adopting other recommended safety measures will aid in protecting workers who use scaffolds to complete their work tasks, especially in the construction industry. However, the subject of scaffolding hazards and safety measures to be adopted is a topic for another article. The rest of this article will focus on the different types of suspended and supported scaffolds available for use in various work environments and unique purposes. For a complete understanding of the scaffolding safety requirements, enroll in our OSHA Scaffolding Safety Training online course developed to meet the criteria set out by OSHA’s scaffolding standard 29 CFR Subpart L. Type of Suspended Scaffolds Here are some of the more popular types of suspended scaffolds used today. Two-Point Adjustable Suspension Scaffold The scaffold platform is suspended by two cables that are connected to hangers at both ends. The hangers are usually attached to a permanent structure such as a tall building, and the scaffold can be adjusted for different heights. Single-Point Adjustable Suspension Scaffold This scaffold is also known as the boatswain's chair. This scaffold uses only one cable connected to a hook that is attached from above to a strong structure. This scaffold can also be moved easily to reach different heights. Catenary Scaffold A catenary scaffold is supported by several horizontal, parallel, and vertical ropes that are attached to another structure at the top. Float Scaffold A float scaffold is also referred to as a ship scaffold. It is hung from above, using ropes of a fixed length. The braced platform is placed on two parallel bearers. This platform cannot be adjusted for different heights. Interior Hung Scaffold This scaffold is attached to the roof or ceiling of a building. An interior hung scaffold cannot be adjusted for height and is of a fixed-length. Multi-level Scaffold A multi-level adjustable scaffold can be either a two-point or multi-point scaffold. This scaffold has several platforms at different heights and is attached to an overhead structure. Multi-Point Adjustable Scaffold A multi-point adjustable scaffold is attached to many overhead ropes. It is adjustable for use at different heights. Needle Beam Scaffold This is a simple scaffold platform attached to needle beams by two overhead ropes. It is fixed on a permanent structural base.     Image Source: OSHA. (n.d). Scaffolding eTool. Suspended Scaffolds. Website. https://www.osha.gov/etools/scaffolding Supported Scaffolds Here are some types of conventional supported scaffolds used for different purposes. The Frame or Fabricated Frame Scaffold Frame scaffolds fabricated frame scaffolds are build using fabricated end frames. The integrity of the scaffold platform is due to the use of posts, horizontal supports, and other connecting elements. Fabricated frame scaffolds are usually built at one or two levels, but platforms can be added on for different heights. This is a popularly used scaffold as it is easy to use, can be used for different purposes, and is also cost-effective to build. Ladder Jack Scaffold This is a simple scaffold built using one platform which rests to brackets that are supported on ladders at either end. This is a low cost, easy to assemble scaffold; that can be moved easily. It is also best used with lightweight loads to carry out simple tasks. Mast Climber Scaffold A mast climber supported scaffold is mainly used when tasks must be done at great heights with a requirement to carry heavier loads to the top. This scaffold is built as a free-standing structure or can be attached intermittently using a beam to a permanent structure for better stability. The mast of the scaffold is constructed on a stationary base, while the platform is movable to reach different elevations. However, when used for tasks carried out at lower levels this scaffold may also be built on a mobile base. Mobile Scaffold This scaffold is built on wheels or casters and used when work tasks require constant movements; for example, when painting. The scaffold can be moved manually or propelled around. Adequate horizontal, vertical, and cross supports must be used to ensure the stability and strength of the scaffold to hold people, materials, and equipment. Pump Jack Scaffold A pump jack scaffold is a platform supported by moveable brackets on vertical poles. The mechanism used to move the scaffold up and down is similar to that of a vehicle jack – hence, the name! This scaffold is very economical to build and can be easily adjusted for different heights. Tube and Coupler Scaffold A tube and coupler scaffold is constructed by using tubing and coupling devices. It is a heavy-duty scaffold with several constructed levels to reach higher work levels. It also supports the carrying of heavy loads. While this scaffold is difficult to build due to the precise requirements, it is also a flexible type of scaffold that can be adapted for any work requirements. Pole or Wood Pole Scaffold This scaffold is made completely of wood. All parts from posts, poles, braces to bearers should be securely connected at fixed levels. This type of scaffold can rarely be reused, and not surprisingly, it is considered to be an outdated model and hardly used today. Specialty Supported Scaffolds There are also other various types of supported scaffolds used for specific purposes, such as in very narrow spaces, larger areas, or on slopes. These are: Plasterers', Decorators', and Large-Area Scaffolds Bricklayers' Square Scaffolds Horse Scaffolds Form Scaffolds and Carpenters' Bracket Scaffolds Roof Bracket Scaffolds Outrigger Scaffolds Window Jack Scaffolds Crawling Boards (Chicken Ladders) Step, Platform, and Trestle Ladder Scaffolds Stilts Refer to this link for more details on specialty scaffolds. Image Source: OSHA. (n.d). Scaffolding eTool. Supported Scaffolds. Website. https://www.osha.gov/etools/scaffolding Scissor Lifts Scissor lifts are a form of powered mobile scaffolds. It has one platform with guardrails fixed on cross beams attached to a motored base. Scissor lifts can be raised and lowered using the powered mechanism and can also be driven short distances to transport workers to different locations. It is a safe way for workers to reach heights. Scissor lifts are often used in warehousing operations, the construction industry, retail trade, and the entertainment industry. Read more about scissor lifts here. Aerial Lifts An aerial lift is a platform that is mounted on a vehicle and used to elevate people, materials, and equipment to work at heights. The platform must be made of metal, fiberglass reinforced plastic, or any other strong materials. Aerial lifts can be either manually or mechanically operated, making them mobile and flexible for a variety of uses. Read more about aerial lifts here.   Reference OSHA. (n.d). Scaffolding eTool. Website. https://www.osha.gov/etools/scaffolding

Winter Safety for Construction WorkersAs winter approaches, the hazards faced by workers in the construction industry increase due to prevailing wet and cold weather conditions adding a new layer of danger to everyday work tasks. So, what are these added dangers faced by workers during the winter season? And why is winter safety an important consideration in the construction industry?Importance of Winter SafetyWinter weather brings us snowfall, low temperatures, winter storms, and ice buildup in worksurfaces and equipment. While there is a feel of a ‘winter wonderland’ with towns, buildings, gardens, and trees covered in clean white snow, there is also an inherent danger. These dangers, which include snowstorms, blizzards, the buildup of snowdrifts, ice formation, wetness seeping through clothes, and melting snow causing flooding and water puddles in unexpected places are a cause of hazardous work conditions, especially for people employed in the construction industry. These construction industry workers will be faced with icy roads and pathways, snow piled on worksites and partly completed buildings, frozen pipes, downed powerlines, snow or ice on equipment and work surfaces, scaffolding being covered in snow and ice, and many other similar problems that could not only increase the risks to health and safety while carrying out their work tasks but result in creating new types of safety and health hazards such as frostbite. Working in the cold can also be more physically hindering for workers who must wear bulkier and added protective clothing to protect against freezing temperatures and cold winds. Thus, winter safety for workers becomes very important, and employers must plan and prepare to protect employees during cold weather conditions.Cold Weather HazardsConstruction workers may be exposed to the following hazards from winter weather conditions.Slipping, skidding, crashing, and falling due to frozen surfaces and black iceFrostbiteCold Stress – This is the result of skin and body temperature decreasing due to either long-term exposure to cold temperatures or even short-term exposure to severe cold weather conditions.HypothermiaLoss of dexterity – Cold weather can make hands, especially fingers stiff which will impair workers' ability to properly handle construction tools and equipment reducing their productivity.Loss of alertness – If workers become uncomfortable due to the cold temperature, they can be distracted from concentrating fully on their work tasks, which can cause accidents, especially if they are using power tools or other heavy equipment.These hazards will not only cause injury to workers directly impacted but can also risk the safety of co-workers and other people around construction sites.Safeguarding Workers in WinterEmployers should have in place a winter health and safety preparedness plan to proactively manage the hazards and hazardous conditions that can occur due to the winter season and improve the winter safety of workers. Conducting a hazard analysis of the worksite and the work tasks of different occupations of workers employed would also help to eliminate dangers caused by sleet and ice and develop and manage appropriate winter safety procedures. Using the Hierarchy of Controls to decide on appropriate measures can make the difference between life and death for employees.Below are some practices that employers can implement to ensure workers’ safety and health during the winter season, while proactively managing winter safety practices.Train Workers on Best PracticesTraining always plays an important role in employee safety and health. Train workers to be able to identify the hazards that can emerge during cold weather and ensure they have the knowledge required to avoid dangers or eliminate dangerous situations before accidents occur.Check and Clear Worksites RegularlyThe construction site including any scaffolding should be checked before work begins. This will ensure that there are no snowdrifts, ice, fallen trees, or other objects and debris scattered which can delay work or inadvertently create worksite hazards for workers. The worksite should also be inspected to ensure there are no downed powerlines or any other damage that harms workers when they start work. Such inspections are critical, especially after a snowfall or a snowstorm. Work surfaces must also be checked to ensure there are no ice formations that can cause worker injuries.To remove any hazards, some tried and tested practices used include plowing roads inside construction sites; sprinkling salt or laying sand on icy patches on walkways and paths; putting up warning signs to inform workers to beware of ice or snow damage, drive or walk slowly, or avoid the use of electronic tools; and demarcating areas that workers should avoid on the construction site.Check Machinery, Equipment, and ToolsThe machinery, tools, and equipment used to carry out work should also be checked regularly during the winter season, especially after a snowfall and in instances of a sudden or extreme drop in temperature to ensure that the equipment is not rendered unusable due to damage due to ice formation or snowfall. Vehicles used on the construction site should be outfitted with snow tires and checked regularly to ensure that the cold temperatures have not jammed the radiator or other mechanisms. Manufacturers may also provide best practices to implement for machinery and equipment in cold weather and employees should be trained to follow these instructions.Implement Engineering and Administrative Control MeasuresSlipping on ice and snow-covered walkways, ladders, steps, and even scaffolding is a winter hazard that is common during the winter. Thus, employers should put in place appropriate engineering and administrative controls to improve the winter safety of workers. Controls such as placing heaters at intervals, regularly plowing snow and ice from the ground before work begins and at the end of the workday, and other measures would reduce the probability of winter hazard occurrences and the risk of injury faced by workers.Wearing Warm ClothingWorkers should wear warm clothing to protect against the cold and maintain proper levels of body heat. Wearing mufflers, gloves, and footwear will not only protect you from normal worksite hazards but also help to keep body temperatures up when working outdoors in a cold environment. Furthermore, wearing appropriate outer clothing to ensure their clothes do not get wet from the snow, would shield workers from being exposed to frostbite, cold stress, and hypothermia.Ensure Workers Wear and Use Appropriate PPEWe always consider personal protective equipment (PPE) as gear used to protect workers against very dangerous situations and toxicities, and other riskier work tasks such as working at heights but wearing proper PPE in the cold is twice as important for workers' safety. This is because PPE such as hard hats, work gloves, safety shoes, goggles, and earmuffs would increase the safety of workers protecting them from extreme cold weather hazards such as the increased probability of falling materials and tools; and tripping due to wet or frozen ground conditions. Also, if workers are working on elevated surfaces such as scaffolding, ladders, or high platforms, appropriate fall protection PPE would protect them against falls from heights in case of sudden strong winds and black-ice formation that may cause a slipping hazard.Provide Adequate HeatingWhile providing heating on open construction sites and roadwork operations will be difficult, employers should set up a segregated covered heated area where workers can take frequent breaks and stay warm. Workers too should be made to realize the need for taking regular breaks and indulging in a warm drinks to ensure their body temperatures do not drop and they do not suffer from illnesses related to cold stress. If workers show signs of hypothermia or cold stress have them immediately consult either on-site medical personnel or take them to the nearest hospital. Adding antifreeze to HVAC systems and solar water heaters would also help ensure workers' comfort at the worksite when using washroom and breakroom facilities.Emergency and First Aid KitsEmployers should have in place emergency and first aid kits at strategic locations on the worksite so that in case of accidents workers can easily use them to help their co-workers until emergency services arrive to provide professional medical treatment as required. Emergency kits should also contain flashlights as power outages are possible in severe winter weather.Proper CommunicationCommunication is important at any time. However, having proper two-way communications with workers during the winter can help ensure that workers' views and needs are being addressed so that their health and safety remain a priority at all times while they continue to give their best to their occupation and ensure productivity even while work becomes more arduous when working outdoors in winter.Remain Alert to Weather ForecastsThe safety officer or site supervisors must remain alert to changing weather patterns such as winter storm warnings, blizzard warnings, ice storms, and increasing wind-chill factors. The best method is to check the national weather forecast every morning and several times as the day progresses. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a good source to get timely weather reports on unpredictable changes in weather conditions. This will ensure workers are given enough time and adequate warning to secure work areas, vacate the worksite, and drive home in relatively safe road conditions.Build Up Emergency SheltersIn open workspaces, employers should consider setting up safety shelters to protect workers against sudden severe winter storms and equip these shelters with non-perishable food items, first aid, and other items required during emergencies.Bonus!For additional information on winter safety for the workforce, check out OSHA’s winter weather preparedness resources.

The Hazards of Lead ExposureWhat is Lead?Lead is a naturally occurring element that has been used since ancient times due to its intrinsic properties. Lead is a pliable heavy metal known to be denser than other metals with a relatively low melting point. It is also characterized as relatively unreactive, meaning it does not corrode and does not conduct electricity easily. Lead can be used as a pure metal, as an alloy, and as a chemical compound.All these properties combine to make lead an ideal material for diverse industrial uses and the production of various types of goods. Today, we have seen lead being used widely in the construction industry in roofing sheets, paints, pipes, and taps, as well as in products such as gasoline. Despite these positive characteristics and widespread use of lead, we also know that lead causes extensive health and environmental damage. Hence, workers whose occupations may expose them to lead must be safeguarded from lead poisoning. As a result, organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have proclaimed lead to be a human health hazard and has developed a lead standard for the general industry in 1978 and an interim lead standard for the construction industry in 1993, to encourage employers to protect their employees from lead exposure.Worker Exposure to LeadAs lead is used in the production of a range of products and to carry out different work processes, workers across industries are invariably faced with the possibility of lead exposure. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has a list of occupations, industries, and work tasks that may result in lead exposure and resultantly lead poisoning. Some of these jobs include lead miners, lead workers, plumbers, painters, pipefitters, and welders.Workers whose occupations may not involve direct exposure to lead can also still suffer from lead poisoning if their workplace uses products that contain lead. For example, due to the use of lead pipes or lead-based paints.The adverse impacts of lead are quite severe, and lead exposure can be either acute – due to worker exposure to high levels of lead in the short-term, or chronic – due to long-term lead exposure. It must be noted that the effects of lead exposure can be carried from the worker directly exposed to lead particles to other people, including co-workers, family members, and children. Hence, the requirements to have in place proper and segregated decontamination procedures for workers who may be exposed to lead.Health Hazards of Lead ExposureToday, while lead continues to be used in both its organic and inorganic forms, there is a greater understanding of the hazards related to lead exposure and the need for lead safety processes. The negative impact of lead exposure varies from person to person as the absorption of lead in the human body depends on several personal factors including age, individual health status, and intake of healthy food, as well as the nature of the lead poisoning such as the route of lead exposure, length of exposure, and form of exposure.The health-related hazards caused by prolonged lead exposure can be mild or severe; and even fatal. Some symptoms of chronic lead exposure include loss of appetite, headaches, constipation, a feeling of anxiety, nausea, dizziness, joint, and muscle pain, and even insomnia. Furthermore, lead exposure can also damage critical parts and organs of the human biological system. When organic or inorganic lead enters the bloodstream, there is a higher probability of a person’s central nervous system, brain, heart, kidneys, and reproductive organs being contaminated by lead. Thus, lead poisoning can also cause reproductive issues in both males and females, have an impact on the normal development progress of a fetus, and lead to negative pregnancy outcomes. Overexposure to lead can cause decreased hemoglobin levels which can have far-reaching impacts on a healthy human body. Therefore, workers exposed to lead over a longer period can develop a range of health problems and long-term illnesses ranging from brain damage, heart disease, kidney disease, anemia, and seizures; and may even cause paralysis, memory loss, and an overall decrease in the quality of life.When working with lead or lead-containing products, workers should regularly test for lead poisoning. A good method to identify lead poisoning is by doing a blood test that tests for blood lead levels. While this test may not indicate the level of lead contamination in the organs of the body, the blood lead levels will guide you on the probability of contracting lead-related diseases in the future.Protecting Workers from Lead ExposureTo protect workers from lead exposure, employers must have in place appropriate control and prevention procedures as part of their worker protection safety and health program. This is mainly applicable when worker exposure to lead exceeds the OSHA-approved maximum exposure levels. The OSHA Lead Standard for the construction industry determines maximum lead exposure levels for employees who could be exposed to lead while completing job tasks. According to OSHA, the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for lead is 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air and the action level (AL) for lead is 30 micrograms per cubic meter of air. For occupations where lead exposure of workers exceeds 8 hours a day, OSHA has a formula for calculating the workers' allowable exposure known as a time-weighted average (TWA) for that day.If employers determine that workers' exposure will be greater than those specified by OSHA, then they must also conduct a hazard analysis, provide medical surveillance programs, develop job-specific compliance programs, and use the Hierarchy of Controls to put in place protective measures for worker health and safety. Good housekeeping and hygiene practices; proper hazard communication by posting signs, demarcating lead contamination areas, and giving workers information on the dangers of lead poisoning; as well as providing adequate training, and maintaining workplace activity records are also part of the employer’s responsibilities for safeguarding their employees from the dangers of lead exposure.Training ProgramsOSHA requires employers to provide employees working in and around lead or lead-containing materials for the first time, employees who may possibly be exposed to lead while doing their jobs at or above the AL, or those employees who show symptoms of exposure to lead compounds in the form of skin or eye irritation adequate training and information on the health hazards of lead exposure and the impacts of lead poisoning. Workers must undergo both initial and repeated annual training depending on the changing situation at a worksite.As a dedicated safety training organization, we offer a comprehensive OSHA Lead Awareness Training online course for the construction industry providing general information and guidelines related to lead exposure in work operations on a construction worksite in compliance with OSHA’s Lead Standard for the Construction Industry. Our online OSHA Lead Awareness training program is aimed at workers who work around lead or lead-containing materials in several industries including the construction industry. Hence, workers, foremen, and supervisors engaged in lead-related work operations on a construction worksite can benefit from our training course.Enroll Today!

Defining and Classifying Occupational Hazards Occupational hazards are a common occurrence in most today’s workplaces. Although, some professions and occupations, are more dangerous to employees’ safety and wellness than others. OSHA identifies falling from heights, slipping and tripping, fire and explosions, working in confined spaces, and vehicle and transportation-related accidents as some of the more common forms of occupational hazards faced by today’s workforce. Hence, due emphasis must be given to concerns of hazard exposure by these workers. So, how should employers proceed with identifying and classifying workplace hazards? Before we dive in, let us first define a hazard. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the noun hazard as “a source of danger; the effect of unpredictable and unanalyzable forces in determining events: Chance, Risk; or a chance event: Accident” (n.d.). Now, we must be clear on our meaning of workplace or occupational hazards. By using the above definition for a hazard, we can interpret that an occupational hazard is an accident or an unexpected event that may possibly cause an illness or injury to a person while at the workplace, or while carrying out his/her job duties.Here are three examples. Exposure to harmful chemicals: Workers in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, or healthcare may be exposed to hazardous chemicals that can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, or other health problems. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): Jobs that require repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or awkward postures can lead to MSDs like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or lower back pain. Workplace violence: Employees in certain occupations, such as healthcare, social services, or retail, may face the risk of workplace violence, which can result in physical or psychological harm.  Identifying and Assessing Hazards So, what is the process of identifying and assessing these hazards? How would employers set up safety measures to ensure worker safety? Following OSHA recommendations, employers must conduct a comprehensive worksite analysis to identify the existence of potential hazards. This can be done through a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A JHA is also often referred to as a Job Safety Analysis (JSA). Using a JHA, employers will be able to identify the possible occurrence of hazards for different work tasks and the distinct steps in them. The idea behind undertaking a JHA is to first help identify uncontrolled hazards, and then control them to reduce risk levels and make the work task safer, which will result in increasing the safety and health of workers in the workplace. These are the three main steps of a JHA: Breaking down a job into the series of steps involved; Identifying the potential hazards associated with each step; and Formulating protective measures to overcome each identified hazard. If you are working in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) sites, then enrolling in our online OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Training course, developed by expert trainers, will help you better understand the steps involved in undertaking a proper JHA and obtain a detailed explanation of physical hazards, including occupational hazards at a HAZWOPER site. You can also refer to the OSHA website to obtain more detailed guidance on hazard identification here. Hazard Classification There are several ways to classify hazards. In general, OSHA classifies workplace hazards within one of these categories: Physical hazards caused by falls, falling objects, frostbite, heat or cold stress Biological hazards from exposure to a virus or a bacterial infection Chemical hazards resulting from the inhalation or contact with a chemical toxic substance Psychosocial hazards refer to mental health and personal well-being Ergonomic hazards relating to efficiency and comfort in the workplace According to OSHA’s A Guide to The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) publication, “the term ‘hazard classification’ is used to indicate that only the intrinsic hazardous properties of substances and mixtures are considered and involves the following 3 steps: Identification of relevant data regarding the hazards of a substance or mixture; Reviewing the collected data to determine the hazards associated with the substance or mixture; and A decision on whether the substance or mixture will be classified as a hazardous substance or mixture and the degree of hazard, where appropriate, by comparison of the data with agreed hazard classification criteria” (2005). As such, the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) classifies hazards into three distinct categories: Physical hazards Health hazards Environmental hazards The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), however, is mainly concerned with physical and health hazards, as the aim of this organization is to “ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance” (OSHA, n.d.). Thus, OSHA’s safety and health standards consider physical and health hazards that workers are exposed to from different viewpoints—fall protection, excavation and trenching safety, awareness of hazards associated with HAZWOPER operations, and the awareness of hazards associated with chemical substances and chemical mixtures among many others. The increasing emphasis on chemical exposure causing physical and health hazards is due to the increasing use of chemicals used in today’s workplaces. Thus, OSHA focuses on safeguarding employees against hazards arising from chemical exposure in its Hazard Communication Standard (HSC). The HCS guides on hazard classification, labeling, and hazard communication to safeguard employees through information sharing and adequate training. Thus, the HCS provides specific definitions for chemical substances and mixtures as well as health and physical hazards caused due to chemical exposure. In fact, the HCS hazard classification process is more in-depth, analyzing chemicals from a scientific perspective to ascertain the harmfulness of a chemical, and the seriousness of the hazardous effect. It must also be noted that OSHA revised the HCS to align it to the GHS to offer a uniform approach to hazard classification. (OSHA, 2016) Here is a video on Hazard Classification that gives an overview of the many hazards that can exist in a workplace and that workers, especially those working in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) operations, may be exposed to. Online Training Programs Classification of occupational hazards is crucial for identifying specific risks in various industries like construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and others. Employers must provide relevant OSHA-aligned training to workers in these industries to ensure their safety. OSHA considers worker training critical for implementing workplace safety regulations. HAZWOPER OSHA LLC has a range of online training programs that you can enroll in today. At HAZWOPER OSHA, we develop training courses to fulfill the requirements set out by OSHA standards and regulations. We offer dedicated training programs under the HAZWOPER series, OSHA Construction Series, and the OSHA General Series. We also offer the RCRA Waste Generator training courses, the NFPA 70E electrical and arc flash training courses, and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Hazmat Transportation by air, vessel, highway, and rail training courses. These training programs are suitable for workers employed by HAZWOPER operations, in the construction industry, and those working in other professions to fulfill part of their training requirements as recommended by OSHA, the EPA, and the DOT. Our safety training courses can be taken online or conducted for large groups on-site.    Reference Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Hazard. Website. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hazard OSHA. (n.d.). About OSHA. Website. https://www.osha.gov/aboutosha OSHA. (2005, October). A Guide to The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Website. https://www.osha.gov/hazcom OSHA. (2016). Hazard Communication: Hazard Classification Guidance for Manufacturers, Importers, and Employers [PDF]. Website. https://media.hazwoper-osha.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/13192653/OSHA3844.pdf

The OSHA 10 Hour Outreach Training ProgramsThe Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates a range of industry-related and job-specific training that employers must provide employees. OSHA’s requirements range from online training, classroom training, to on-the-job training requirements that employees must fulfill, and employers must provide. Often, such training programs are required to be completed annually and certification obtained.However, OSHA has also put in place Outreach Training Programs. These are voluntary training programs to encourage occupational health and safety procedures and promote increased worker safety and health awareness in the workplace. These outreach training programs do not, however, fulfill any training requirements as required by OSHA standards.OSHA’s outreach training programs are developed for the construction industry, general industry, maritime industry, and disaster site workers. These outreach training programs are 10-hour, or 30-hour training programs offered by OSHA authorized outreach training partners. However, the training course for disaster site workers is 15 hours.Purpose of the OSHA 10 Hour Outreach Training ProgramThe primary purpose of the OSHA 10 hour outreach training program is to promote workplace safety and health by making workers more knowledgeable about the common job-related hazards and the best practices to prevent or minimize them. These OSHA 10 hour outreach training courses also highlight the importance of workplace safety training. Hence, the focus of the program is to help workers to recognize, avoid, reduce, and prevent health and safety hazards in the workplace—be it at a construction site, a shipyard, a manufacturing facility, a laboratory, a warehouse/storage facility, or a mechanic or electronic equipment workshop. This OSHA 10 hour outreach training can be useful for workers in diverse industries and various professions as well. Furthermore, the OSHA 10 hour outreach training program also provides information about employer responsibilities, workers' rights, and how to file a complaint.Key Features of the OSHA 10 Hour Training ProgramThe following are some of the key features of the OSHA 10 hour outreach training program.Participatory training with activities and case studies.Training topics (electives and optional) can be customized to meet the needs of different groups of workers.Covers a wide range of topics that workers must be aware of to recognize, avoid, reduce, and prevent safety and health hazards.The OSHA 10 hour outreach training is available in many different languages.The OSHA 10 hour outreach training brings to the forefront the value of safety and health of workers, especially first-time and young workers.Drives the importance of a safety culture in the workplace.Topics Covered under the OSHA 10 Hour Training ProgramsOSHA gives detailed guidelines for developing the OSHA 10 Hour training programs, going so far as to giving guidelines as well as learning objectives in some instances. Trainers are required to follow these set standards and offer personnel training programs that cover all aspects as per OSHA requirements. Below is an overview of the pertinent information regarding the OSHA 10 hour construction industry and the OSHA 10 hour general industry outreach training program topics.OSHA 10 Hour Construction Industry Outreach Training ProgramAccording to OSHA’s outreach training requirements, the OSHA 10 hour construction industry outreach training program must cover 6 hours of mandatory training, 2 hours of elective training, and two hours of optional training. The topics to be covered under the three different categories are details below.Topics Under the Mandatory 6 Hours of TrainingIntroduction to OSHA – 1 hourOSHA Focus Four Hazards – 4 hours divided as follows:Falls – 1.5 hours (minimum);Electrocution – 30 minutes (minimum);Struck-By (e.g., falling objects, trucks, cranes) – 30 minutes (minimum); andCaught-In or Between (e.g., trench hazards, equipment) – 30 minutes (minimum).Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment – 30 minutesHealth Hazards in Construction – 30 minutesTopics of Choice for the 2-hour Elective TrainingAny two topics from the below must be covered by the training.Cranes, derricks, hoists, elevators, and conveyorsExcavationsMaterials handling, storage, use, and disposalScaffoldsStairways and laddersTools - hand and powerTopics Under the 2-hour Optional TrainingOSHA allows for the training course to either expand on the elective topics mentioned above or educate workers on the other hazards or policies in the construction industry. OSHA allows for a minimum of 30 minutes to be allocated per topic.For complete details read the OSHA Construction Industry Outreach Training Program processes and procedures.OSHA 10 Hour General Industry Outreach Training ProgramOSHA has also specified the training requirements for the OSHA 10-hour general industry outreach training program. Like the OSHA 10 hour construction industry training, the course must cover 6 hours of mandatory training, 2 hours of elective training, and two hours of optional training. Here are the topics that trainers must provide students.Topics Under the Mandatory 6 Hours of TrainingIntroduction to OSHA – 1 hourWalking and Working Surfaces, including fall protection – 1 hourExit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention Plans, and Fire Protection – 1 hourElectrical – 1 hourPersonal Protective Equipment (PPE) – 1 hourHazard Communication – 1 hourTopics of Choice for the 2-hour Elective TrainingAny two topics from the below must be covered in the training.Hazardous MaterialsMaterials HandlingMachine GuardingIntroduction to Industrial HygieneBloodborne PathogensErgonomicsSafety and Health ProgramFall ProtectionTopics Under the 2-hour Optional TrainingAgain, like the OSHA 10 hour construction outreach training course, OSHA allows for the OSHA 10 hour general industry training course to either expand on the elective topics mentioned above or educate workers on the other hazards or policies in the construction industry. A minimum of 30 minutes may be allocated per topic.For complete details read the OSHA General Industry Outreach Training Program processes and procedures.Who can offer these 10 Hour Outreach Training Programs?It must be noted that only OSHA-authorized trainers are allowed to deliver the 10-hour training programs. These OSHA-authorized trainers are not certified by OSHA nor are they employed by OSHA. Trainers must obtain the OSHA Trainer Card. This trainer card should include the name of the authorizing OTI Education Center and the card’s expiration date. Workers planning on enrolling in the OSHA 10 Hour outreach training course can find and verify the status of an authorized outreach trainer here.To be eligible to deliver the OSHA 10 Hour Outreach training programs, OSHA requires trainers to meet experience and training criteria as detailed in these two publications:OSHA Construction Industry Outreach Training ProgramOSHA General Industry Outreach Training ProgramEnroll to obtain the OSHA 10 Hour Construction Industry Training ProgramNow, that you know the importance of taking the OSHA 10 hour outreach training, depending on the industry you are working for, and the work tasks that you undertake, do not hesitate to enroll in an appropriate online safety training. Sign up today for either the OSHA 10: Construction Industry Outreach Training or the OSHA 10: General  Industry Outreach Training here provided by HAZWOPER OSHA’s outreach programs training Partner, UL EHS Sustainability.Read our blog titled OSHA Outreach Training Programs – Know the Facts, to ensure you enroll with an authorized trainer. ReferenceOSHA. (2019, January 1, revised). OSHA outreach training program: Construction industry procedures. Website. https://www.osha.gov/training/outreach/constructionOSHA. (2019, January 1, revised). OSHA outreach training program: General industry procedures. Website. https://www.osha.gov/training/outreach/general-industryOSHA. (n.d.) Outreach Training Program (OSHA 10-Hour & 30-Hour Cards). Website. https://www.osha.gov/training/outreach

Protecting Workers in Bad Weather Conditions Raging hurricanes, storms, and generally unfavorably windy and wet weather conditions are occurring more and more each year. These extreme weather conditions pose a threat to not only the public but to businesses necessitating employers to provide a safe working environment to employees. As such, employers should prepare for the hazards associated with adverse weather conditions that may require special facilities and safety equipment being provided to employees, or in some instances, work stoppage to ensure the safety and health of workers. Wet weather and high wind conditions can pose a greater threat to employees working in the construction, mining, oil and gas, and shipbuilding industries. For instance, workers in the construction industry are bound to work in open spaces, at heights, with electrical equipment and metals, in excavation areas and trenches, and also handle hazardous materials as part of their work tasks, thereby exposing them to a myriad of safety hazards. Protecting workers must, therefore, be a priority for employers who must adhere to the guidelines as set out by OSHA regulations and ensure a safe and healthy workplace for employees. Hazards Associated with Unfavorable Weather Conditions There are many adverse weather condition hazards associated with bad weather that depend on the work task of the workers. Most of these hazards would result in health hazards to workers and can also lead to workplace fatalities. Let us quickly review a few hazards that workers would be exposed to. Being struck by lightning Electrocution Slipping and Tripping Floods Drowning Loss of balance Being unable to leave a job site Falls and related injuries Falling objects Cold Stress Below are several situations that require employers to protect workers and safeguard them against the hazards associated with windy and stormy weather. Working on Scaffolds Enroll Now Many construction workers are bound to work on scaffolds while carrying out their job tasks. This exposes them to many of the hazards listed above, making the employer responsible for providing safe working conditions for employees. It is worth noting that the OSHA standard on scaffolding prohibits workers from working on scaffolds during high wind conditions and in wet weather. However, the standard does provide some leeway by allowing workers to do so if a competent person has deemed it safe to work on a scaffold, and workers are protected by a personal fall arrest system or windscreens. Working at Heights / Fall Protection Enroll Now Workers working at heights are endangered due to the adverse weather elements. They can be struck by lightning or lose balance due to raging winds. Thus, protecting workers who work at heights should be a priority for employers.   Working in Open Spaces Often work tasks require employees to work in open spaces. This is especially true for workers in the construction industry and those involved in roadworks, and even window cleaners of high-rise buildings. Business organizations involved in such operations must have in place adequate worker protections to ensure their health and safety during adverse weather conditions ensuring they are protected from falls, falling objects, and even electrocution if in proximity to metals. Working with Electrical Equipment Enroll Now Workers must be made aware of the dangers of working with electrical equipment during storms. If required, equip workers with equipment that is suitable for use in wet weather conditions. More importantly, protect workers by requiring them to wear rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes that do not conduct electricity. Ensure workers keep the required distances from powerlines and open electrical equipment. Working with Heavy Equipment and Machinery During bad weather, visibility is an issue. Hence, using heavy equipment and machinery can be dangerous as this may increase the possibility of accidents occurring, thereby raising the risks to worker safety.   Working in Excavations and Trenches Enroll Now When it is raining, excavations and trenches must be safeguarded against the threat of flooding and soil erosion. In the case of deep excavation, a landslide could also be a threat. Workers must be trained to know the different hazards they are exposed to and what to do to overcome such hazards. Working in Confined Spaces Enroll Now Workers working in confined spaces would also be at risk during bad weather as entry points may become wet and slippery, or water may seep through into the confined space causing increased danger when working in such areas. If these confined spaces contain electronic equipment, powerlines, live wires, or even have water or sewerage pipelines passing through, there would be additional risks to workers' health and safety during storms. Risk assessments must also be made on the possibility of the confined space atmospheres becoming toxic or oxygen levels reducing.We offer a comprehensive array of OSHA-compliant safety training courses that are designed to equip workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate hazardous waste operations and emergency response situations safely, including adverse weather condition hazards. With a focus on compliance with OSHA regulations,  How to Protect Workers? An employer must identify the relevant workplace hazards that can take place due to weather-related emergencies by undertaking a hazard assessment and then making sure to implement relevant worker protections as and when required as weather conditions deteriorate. Using the Hierarchy of Controls, to determine the best methods to protect workers, employers can establish workplace emergency procedures to suit each worksite's requirements. Employers are free to choose a combination of elimination, substitution, workplace practices, engineering controls, administrative control, or personal protective equipment to protect workers against the hazards posed by high winds, storms, and other wet weather conditions. An Emergency Action Plan The most important aspect of protecting workers during adverse weather is for employers to be prepared with relevant preparedness, emergency, and response plans. According to 29 CFR 1910.38 standard, OSHA requires all employers to have in place a written emergency action plan that includes emergencies caused by bad weather. However, employers employing equal to or less than 10 workers can verbally communicate the emergency action plan. OSHA also offers dedicated guidance to employers to be prepared for adverse weather situations such as Hurricane Preparedness and Response and Tornado Preparedness and Response. Tips for Protecting Workers During Adverse Weather Conditions Daily weather forecast monitoring. Being aware of approaching hurricanes and storms. Training workers to identify signs of approaching bad weather conditions – such as thunder in the distance, dark clouds, increasing wind speeds, etc. Securing loose objects and other materials at the worksite. Ensuring workers wear proper protective clothing such as rain gear, anti-slip soled shoes, ribbed gloves, etc. Ensuring workers are equipped with proper personal fall protection systems. Securing worksites with adverse weather safeguards. Providing areas for safe shelter at open worksites. Temporary cessation of work at heights or on scaffolding. Rescheduling or rearranging work tasks so that workers are not exposed to the elements. Temporary stoppage of electrical work and the use of heavy machinery. Securing excavation areas and trenches. Gathering workers for a quick review of safety protocols and emergency procedures and exits. Wearing bright and reflective safety jackets or outer clothing to ensure being visible when carrying-out work tasks. Using equipment and tools that are designed to be used in wet weather conditions. Ensuring employees are trained to identify and safeguard against cold stress. Finally, the Need for Training Programs Bad weather and sudden changes in weather conditions are becoming a regular occurrence often attributed to climate change! As with most situations, knowledge and information are key in protecting workers' safety. Thus, employers should ensure that employees are trained to understand the prevalence of hazards, how to avoid such hazards, workplace safety policies, and safety procedures such as first aid that can be enacted in emergencies. Training programs, as reiterated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, are and will remain a critical aspect of protecting workers from hazards irrespective of their occurrence—due to accidental release of chemical substances, falls, or emergencies resulting from unfavorable weather conditions.Working in adverse weather conditions toolbox talk is essential for employees to understand the risks associated with such conditions and how to mitigate them.

Excavation and Trenching - Hazards and Safeguards Excavation and trenching are cited by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) as being amongst the most hazardous work tasks undertaken in construction operations (OSHA, 2015). In fact, excavation work is attributed to having a 112% higher fatality rate than general construction work (OSHA, n.d.). So, what is the difference between excavation and trenching, and what hazards should construction industry workers be aware of and protected against? Definition of an Excavation and a Trench Any crater, hole, ditch, or gutter deliberately made by digging and removing soil or sand using tools, machinery, or explosives below the surface of the ground is defined as an excavation. A trench is an excavation that is narrow compared to its length. According to OSHA, “the depth of a trench is greater than its width, but the width of a trench (measured at the bottom) is not greater than 15 feet” (2015, p.1). Excavations and trenching are most often carried out during building construction projects, in road repair work, when installing underground power lines, tanks, sewerage systems, etc. Hazards Associated with Excavation and Trenching There are several hazards that workers must be aware of, and where employers must provide relevant precautions to safeguard employees working in and around excavations and trenching operations. These are: Cave-ins – meaning the collapse of an excavation or a trench. This is a very common excavation hazard that can cause severe injuries and often result in fatalities at a job site; Asphyxiation – caused by a lack of oxygen due to a cave-in or the nature of a confined space; Hazardous atmospheres - due to toxic fume inhalation from underground gas pockets or even damage to underground gas pipes; Falling into excavations or trenches – especially if they are very deep; Falling objects; Falling loads - displacement of rocks, soil, and other materials from the excavation site edge falling on workers working at lower levels; Drowning; Incidents involving mobile equipment; Electrocution – due to underground power lines and underground utilities such as natural gas; and Explosions or fires. Safeguarding Workers Against Excavation and Trenching Hazards OSHA has identified deficiency in the use of appropriate protective systems, failure to inspect trench and protective systems, unsafe spoil-pile placement, and unacceptable and insecure access and egress to excavation and trenches used by workers as the most common reasons for the accidents and deaths caused by excavation hazards (OSHA, n.d.). Employers must adhere to the requirements of OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P or comparable OSHA-approved state plans to safeguard employees undertaking excavation and trenching work in the construction industry. Excavation Safety Methods In general, OSHA recommends a trench that is deeper than 5 feet be outfitted with a protective system unless the excavation is made entirely in stable rock. For a trench that is less than 5 feet deep, a competent person may decide the need for a protective system. However, for a trench that is equal to or more than 20 feet deep, the protective system must be designed by a registered professional engineer or be aligned to the specification given by a registered professional engineer under OSHA standards 1926.652(b) and 1926.652(c). OSHA also recommends the below methods to be used by employers to protect employees’ health and safety when they are engaged in excavation and trenching tasks. Competent Person Inspection All excavations and trenches must be inspected by a competent person before workers are allowed to enter such worksites. These inspections must be done daily, and any changes required to excavation hazard prevention methods should be executed to eliminate the threat of these excavation hazards to workers before they enter the excavation and trench site. A competent person is also required to inspect excavation sites after a rainstorm or flood to ensure the stability of the excavation before workers can begin work again. Adequate and Clear Entry and Exits Referred to as access and egress by OSHA, workers working in trenches and excavations must be given free and clear access to trenches by ensuring no blockage of entries and exists by materials, soil-pilling, or other tools and machinery. Workers working in trench excavations that are equal to or greater than 4 feet in depth must be provided with a ladder, a stairway, a ramp, or any other similar means to exit the excavation site. Exposure to Falling Loads and Falling Objects To safeguard workers against such dangers, heavy excavation equipment and materials should be kept away from the edges of excavation and trench sites. Excavated soil, stones, and other materials should also be kept at least 2 feet from trench edges to ensure such material does not slide and fall on workers who are working below. Employees should also be made aware to not work under suspended materials and loads. Atmosphere Testing and Controls for Trenches and Excavation Areas To ensure that workers are safeguarded against hazards such as explosions, fires, toxic emission inhalation, or asphyxiation excavations and trenches that are deeper than 4 feet must be tested for hazardous fumes, toxic gases, flammable gases, and low oxygen levels before workers enter the excavation area. Precautions such as respiratory systems and proper ventilation systems must be used when trenches and excavations deeper than 4 feet contain less than 19.5 percent of oxygen or the air is contaminated with poisonous gases. Protective Systems to Prevent Cave-ins When deciding on a protective system, several factors including soil types, depth of excavation, the water content in the soil, adjustments for changing weather conditions, and use of materials and other equipment in the trench or excavation process must be considered. OSHA recommends one of the below protective systems to be used to safeguard workers against soil movement and cave-ins when they work in trenches and excavations. Benching trench walls – This involves shaping the excavation sides to resemble steps to prevent soil erosion and cave-ins. Sloping trench walls – The excavation sidewalls must be dug or cut at an angle inclined away from the base of the trench or excavation site. Shoring trench walls – Using external supports or other shoring systems made from aluminum or other strong material to brace excavation walls to prevent soil movement and cave-ins. Shielding trench walls – This involves supporting the excavation area sidewalls with trench boxes and other materials so that workers are safeguarded against cave-ins. Worker Training Training workers to understand the hazards and safeguards required when working at excavation and trench worksites is also important to ensure their occupational safety and health. OSHA recommends a combination of online training and on-site training that must be given to protect workers who are expected to work in and around excavations and trenches. Our OSHA Competent Person For Excavation, Trenching, and Shoring online training course for individuals seeking certification for work in compliance with OSHA’s excavations regulations specified in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P. Enroll in this course today! This is your opportunity to learn more about excavation hazards and the safeguards that must be implemented when working in and around excavations and trenches. Our online training program comprises five lessons, and 8+ multimedia elements, and uses the innovative HAZWOPER media player (OSHA accepted) ensuring students stay engaged, are challenged, and obtain adequate knowledge. References OSHA. (2011). OSHA Fact Sheet. Trenching and Excavations Safety [PDF]. Website. https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/osha2226.pdf OSHA. (2015). Trenching and Excavation Safety [PDF]. Website. https://media.hazwoper-osha.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/13193515/osha2226.pdf OSHA. (2018). OSHA Fact Sheet. Working Safely in Trenches [PDF). Website. https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/trench_safety_tips_card.pdf OSHA. (n.d.). Trenching and Excavation eTools. Website. https://www.osha.gov/etools/construction/trenching