06.01 awards and recognition...awards and recognition for first level supervisors, work crews and/or...
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06.01 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Awards and recognition will be administered by the Division Safety Director. These programs may vary
from Division to Division. Each Division will establish its own programs and methods for utilizing their
awards and recognition for first level Supervisors, Work Crews and/or individual Employees within the
parameters listed below. These procedures will allow for an accurate accounting of our programs on a
divisional level.
1. Recognition should be given to those individuals or groups of individuals, and their first level
supervisors that create a positive safety culture and work environment for all workers on their
project. This culture can be measured and rewarded in many ways including the following:
Attendance at all safety related training, including general safety meetings held off site for first
level supervisors.
A. Identifying, reporting or correcting unsafe acts or conditions.
B. Participating in the New Employee Training program as a new employee, or as a trainer,
for first level supervisors.
C. Reporting and participating in the investigation of incidents that did not result in injury
or damage, but could have had the potential for same.
D. Reporting work related injuries to supervisors.
E. Following all safety rules and watching out for themselves and those co-workers around
them.
Results from a positive safety culture on a project or in a division result in low incidents
and the statistics recognized in the construction industry to measure these low incidents
should be recognized as well, individually, by crew, project or division.
2. Purchase and distribution of awards must be made by the Safety Department or their assigned
designee. Employees are prohibited from purchasing safety award gift cards and charging them
to their project unless approved by the Divisional Safety Director and Vice President of
Operations.
A. Projects will provide a list of employee names and employee numbers for each
individual that is eligible for an award to the safety department. This is to be retained
for reference.
B. The projects will acknowledge receipt of received awards.
C. These awards are for the individuals on the team that have earned them and the
practice of exchanging the cards for cash among employees should be discouraged.
D. Employees found to be abusing the intent of the safety awards and recognition
programs will subject to disciplinary action.
E. Accounting audits will be performed periodically to confirm compliance with this policy.
06.02 DISCIPLINARY POLICY
1. INTRODUCTION
It is McCarthy's Policy that all Employees comply with McCarthy's Safety Guidelines. Employees
will be provided with additional training and information, or retraining, as required by regulation
or as dictated by McCarthy Policy.
McCarthy 's Disciplinary Policy, as outlined below, requires Employee compliance with safe work
practices. Employees found performing work in an unsafe manner would endanger the
Employee or another Employee and/or material or equipment shall be subject to discipline or
termination by Management.
Enforcement of the McCarthy Disciplinary Policy is a responsibility of all Management
Employees (Company Officer, Project Director, Safety Director, Project Manager, Project
Superintendent, and Project Engineer). An Employee observed by Management Employees
committing a safety violation is to be issued a Safety Warning Form (Spanish form) or MCI form
(MCI Spanish) by the respective Manager. The Employee is to be given the original of the Safety
Warning Form, with a copy sent to the Division Safety Director for monitoring.
Management Employees are expected to enforce this Program with fairness and equality. This
Disciplinary Policy should not be viewed as a "penalty" type process. It should be viewed as a
very positive means to remove from our Projects those individuals who will not follow safe work
practices and rules.
2. POLICY ENFORCEMENT
A. A violation of any safe work practice or rule counts toward the receipt of a written
Safety Warning and subsequent employment action as detailed in Section B of this
policy. The violations do not need to be of the same safe work practice in order to move
to a subsequent offense. Violation of three different safety work rules could result in a
third offence with a written Safety Warning and Termination.
B. Employment actions as a result of a written Safety Warning are as follows:
First Offense: Employee given written Safety Warning. (Repeat Project Safety Orientation).
Second Offense: If within a 12 month period, the Employee is suspended two work days from all
McCarthy projects without pay. Suspension to begin upon issuance of second written Safety Warning,
and will include two full work days; exclude and part of actual day Safety Warning is issued. Repeat
Project Safety Orientation.
Third Offense: If within a 12 month period, terminate, not for rehire on McCarthy Projects for one year.
C. This Program is the minimum performance standard.
D. Imminent danger type safety violations shall result in an accelerated employment action by
moving directly to a second offense or third offense action as described in Section B of this
policy section.
Imminent danger type safety violations include but are not limited to those violations that put the
employee and/or other individuals at risk of serious injury or death. The project staff will determine
imminent danger type safety violations on a case by case basis and may solicit additional interpretation
from the divisional safety director.
A fall protection violation is one example of an imminent danger type safety violation.
6.03 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
It is McCarthy's Policy that everyone (i.e., Employees, Subcontractor's Employees, material suppliers,
visitors, inspectors, etc.) on every Project, and in and around shops and yards, wear an approved hard
hat, safety glasses with a Z87.1 rating, an article of high visibility clothing and proper footwear as a
minimum.
1. HARD HATS
Hard hats must meet OSHA standards and for McCarthy employees; be included on the list of
manufacturers in Section 06.04 – Safety Equipment Manufacturers, in the Safety Guidelines. The hard
hats must be unaltered. If an employee has the need to wear a face shield, welding or cutting shields or
other such devices then models should be used that attach to the hard hat so that the hard hat may be
worn 100% of the time. Hard hats are required at all times but may be temporarily removed in break
areas, project offices, or canteens.
2. HIGH VISIBILITY CLOTHING
A high visibility outer garment is required at all times.
3. PROTECTIVE FOOTWEAR
Construction footwear is required at all times. Tennis shoes, track shoes, sandals, thin soled dress shoes,
loafers, and high heels are not proper work shoes and should not be worn on the project. See Section
06.64 - Proper Protective Footwear for more details.
4. CLOTHING
Tank tops, low-cut shirts or sleeveless shirts are prohibited. Long pants are required at all times.
5. HEARING AND RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
OSHA acceptable hearing and respiratory equipment shall be worn when required.
6. EYE AND FACE PROTECTION
Safety glasses are required at all times. In addition a full face shield must be worn where a danger of
flying debris or splashing exists. McCarthy will provide safety eye wear to their employees as follows:
A.
A. Salaried Personnel
Salaried personnel who work on or visit McCarthy projects will wear one of the following types of eye
protection, as a minimum, while in actual construction areas:
1.
1.
1. Prescription safety eyewear with permanent side shields.
2. Their own personal prescription eyewear with impact resistant lenses and
removable side shields.
3. Standard safety glasses.
McCarthy will provide prescription safety eyewear (as defined below) for those salaried personnel that
wear prescription eyewear, and require that eyewear to transverse the construction project. For further
clarification or eligibility contact your Divisional Safety Director.
Prescription Safety Eyewear Standard
1.
B.
1. There is a $125 maximum allowance for prescription safety eyewear.
2. The $125 allowance includes eye examination if needed. Your current
optometrist should be contacted for a copy of your current prescription.
3. The cost of lenses will be reimbursed annually and frames every 24 months.
4. Any costs in addition to those listed above will be the responsibility of the
employee. Those costs covered by McCarthy will be billed directly to the
projects. The employee shall determine if the Division Safety Director has set up
a special clinic for purchase of this prescription eyewear. If the Division has no
program in place the employee should purchase the eyewear and submit an
expense report for reimbursement.
B. Hourly Trade Personnel
McCarthy will provide standard safety glasses, safety goggles and removable side shields. McCarthy will
reimburse those hourly employees, with tenure of 2 years, up to $45 annually toward the cost of
prescription safety eyewear.
This is provided that the hourly employee wears prescription eyewear, and requires that eyewear to
perform their job. The employee should purchase the eyewear, present the receipt to the project staff
who will in turn submit and expense report for the employee for reimbursement. Replacement of
glasses will be governed by the policy above, lenses annually and frames every 24 months. For further
clarification or eligibility contact your Divisional Safety Director.
06.04 SAFETY EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS
It is imperative that the safety equipment purchased for our employees be of the highest quality. The
following manufacturers meet this intent:
1. FALL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
Miller
DBI/SALA
Klein
Rose
Protecta
MSA (Mine Safety Equipment)
Guardian Fall Protection
SafeWaze
Note: All harnesses and lanyards must be matched sets.
2. HARDHATS
North – 410
MSA – V-Guard
Fibre Metal – Any Model
If you have any questions contact your Divisional Safety Director.
06.05 CRANES AND HOISTING
1. INTRODUCTION
It is essential that Project Supervisors be familiar with the general characteristics and capabilities of
cranes in order to prevent accidents with cranes and lifting equipment.
This policy Section 06.05 is intended to cover McCarthy employees and crane operations where
McCarthy provides the hoisting by providing a crane we own, rent or lease (a McCarthy crane).
For crane that are owned, rented or leased and operated by a subcontractor, or lower tier
subcontractor, certain provisions of this policy may also apply to these operations. These provisions will
be identified in the specific section/part to define this intent.
2. PROJECT SITE SUPERVISION
Safe operation of a crane can be improved when all parties involved have their responsibilities clearly
outlined.
A. Project supervision shall obtain training in general crane/hoisting and rigging
safety. This supervisory crane training should be completed every 2 years. This training
should be conducted by a third party specializing in crane safety training and should be
a minimum of 8 hours. Additional information can be found in Section 04.01 - Employee
Safety Training and Orientation in the Safety Guidelines.
Project Directors, General Foremen and Foremen should be considered for this training,
consult your Divisional Safety Director.
B. Reference material should be kept on the Project Site, including a General Crane Safety
Manual, a Rigging Handbook and a copy of ASME/ANSI B30.5. (Check with your safety
director for the correct version). Sample publications would include:
1. Safe Manual for Users, Operators and Maintenance Personnel, published by
Construction Industry Manufacturer Association ("CIMA").
2. Crane and Rigging Handbook, published by IPT Publishing and Training Ltd.
C. Project Supervision should be familiar with the responsibilities of the Operator (Refer to
the Crane Operator Qualifying Procedure, Section 4, attached).
D. Project Supervision should participate in planning lift operations including that the
Project Site has been prepared properly for the crane to travel on and for the location
where it will be in its static lift position. The soil should be reviewed to determine if
bearing capacity is adequate to support the maximum load imposed on the soil by the
crane; and if not, that proper blocking / mats are utilized to assure that the bearing
capacity of the soil and blocking/mats combination is greater than the load imposed by
the crane. If cranes will be traveling frequently and engineered path should be
constructed that will support the loads of the moving crane. Third party software,
manufacturer's expertise, and soil engineering firms are available to aid in determining
soil bearing capacity, required additional support and a cranes imposed load.
The Crane Lift Calculation Form, attached, will assist in this endeavor, and should be completed for
every lift with every crane that is anticipated to be in excess of 75% of its rated capacity at a given
radius, boom angle and length. It is also required for hoisting without the use of outriggers, "on
rubber" as well as "pick and carry" operations. For repetitive lifts (concrete buckets, forms, precast,
etc.), the form can be used to establish the range of lifts/operating radius. Subcontractors should use
the Crane Lift Calculation Form, or one of similar design and content, for any lifts that meet the above
criteria which they will be performing.
E. Project Supervision should determine the correct weight and center of gravity of all
anticipated loads, as well as the actual operating radius of the cranes.
F. Project Supervision should complete the Crane Operator Qualifying Procedure and the
Operator Training Acknowledgement, for operators operating McCarthy cranes. A
certification, CCO for example, can be substituted for this requirement, see Crane
Operator Qualifying Procedure document. They should also be observed during
operations after they are working on site.
G. Project Supervision should review the Subcontractor's crane setup with its onsite
management. The Subcontractor Crane Safety Review Checklist, attached, is to be used
to aid in this review.
H. Project Supervision should oversee the unloading, loading, assembly, disassembly,
rigging, operation and maintenance of all McCarthy cranes on site, along with the
appropriate technical assistance from the lessor or manufacturer. See Section V. for
additional details. This oversight could also be assigned/contracted to a third party firm.
All McCarthy and subcontractor owned cranes shall be equipped with a working,
Positive type, Anti-Two Block device, ATBD. For all crane rentals regardless of duration,
the rental company shall be required to supply a crane outfitted with a Positive Anti-
Two Block device. It should be noted that if there are multiple load lines they all must be
protected with ATBD protection.
I. Project Supervision should see that the operator is provided with clear signals and that
proper directions are communicated.
J. When a crane is leased or rented from an outside vendor, Project Supervision should
require the operator, or other appointed staff personnel, to receive instruction on safe
operations of that particular crane from the lessor or manufacturer. That includes all
appropriate manuals, load charts, and the latest annual inspection.
K. Cranes shall not be operated when the wind speed is in excess of what the
manufacturer recommends for safe operation. When wind speeds are below the
manufacturer’s recommendations for safe operation, project supervision will determine
if the operation should be halted due to the conditions as well as what is being
hoisted. All tower cranes shall be equipped with a working anemometer (wind speed
indicator). For all cranes it is recommended to check FAA regulations which may require
the use of an aviation flag or beacon affixed to the boom tip. This section II.K also
applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
L. For projects with multiple tower cranes that have overlapping zones of lifting, a tower
crane anti-collision control system should be considered for collision and zone
protection.
M. Other common safety rules to observe include:
1. A crane should not be moved without having a signal person direct the
operator.
2. No personnel baskets are to be used without first reviewing with the Division
Safety Director.
3. No loads should be left suspended while unattended, without having secured,
lockable covers in place.
McCARTHY OPERATOR
A. Operators must be certified on the type of crane they are operating. The method of certification
must meet the requirements published in OSHA in 29CFR 1926.1427. (CCO for example). This
also applies to subcontractor operators and operators of rented cranes.
B. Each Operator must satisfactorily complete the Crane Operator Qualifying Procedure, attached,
and complete the Operator Training Acknowledgement, attached. A certification, as referenced
in Part A above, can be substituted for this requirement, see Crane Operator Qualifying
Procedure document.
C. Each Operator must be experienced in the operation and maintenance of the machine.
D. Each Operator must be safety conscious, responsible, and reliable.
E. Each Operator shall make a thorough visual inspection of the machine at the start of each
shift. See Section 2.12 of this Manual.
F. Each Operator will consult with the Supervisor on any picks for which he/she thinks could
possibly be a problem for whatever reasons, and will offer his suggestions.
G. Each Operator must be aware of overhead problems and take appropriate action.
OVERHEAD POWER LINES
A. Working with, assembling, and dismantling cranes in proximity to overhead power lines can be
present safety concerns. Your Divisional Safety Director should be contacted for direction.
B. Assume all power lines are energized unless confirmed by the utility owner.
C. Precautions should be taken for all crane operations, assembly, traveling, working and
disassembly.
D. When working around power lines use non-conductive tag lines.
E. If there are power lines that are within the work zone of a crane, several issues should be
addressed. The work zone can be defined as the area 360 degrees around the equipment up
the equipment's maximum working radius or more precisely defined by demarcating the
boundaries with flags or other high visibility markings, discernible by the crane operator.
F. A determination should be made as to whether any part of the equipment, load line, or load
(including rigging and lifting accessories) if operated up to the equipment's maximum working
radius in the work zone, could get closer than 20' to a power line. Note: This 20' distance is only
good for voltages up to 350kV.
G. If any part of the equipment, load line, or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) if
operated up to the equipment's maximum working radius in the work zone, could get closer
that 20' to a power line, there are three options:
1. Option 1: De-energize and ground at the worksite. This must be confirmed by the
utility operator.
2. Option 2: Keep a 20' clearance. This option also includes planning meetings,
maintaining an elevated warning line, and one additional measure from a list contained
in the Federal OSHA Regulation Subpart CC, including but not limited to proximity,
alarms, dedicated spotter, automatic warning systems, automatic limit switches, or an
insulating link.
3. Option 3: Determine the power line voltage and then apply the minimum distances
allowed under Table A contained in Federal OSHA Regulations Subpart CC. This option
may allow you to get closer than 20', depending on the voltage of the line. It will also
require a greater distance if the line voltage is over 350kV. This option also includes
planning meetings, maintaining an elevated warning line, and one additional measure
from a list contained in the Federal OSHA Regulation Subpart CC, including but not
limited to proximity alarms, dedicated spotters, automatic warning systems, automatic
limit switches, or an insulating link.
CRANE ASSEMBLY AND DISASSEMBLY
A. General Requirements for Assembly and Disassembly Operations
Crane assembly and disassembly is defined as the process of putting together or taking apart the
pieces of a crane that must be transported separately due to their size or design. This usually
includes boom and jib sections, counter weights or tracks. For purposes of this part, it does not
include the setup of a crane which is the positioning of an assembled crane in position to lift a
load.
On all crane assembly and disassembly operations, whether performed by or for McCarthy, the
following safety issues shall be addressed:
1. Assembly/disassembly must be supervised by a person (A/D supervisor) who is capable
of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the working conditions which are
hazardous or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt
corrective measures to eliminate them. This person must also, by possession of a
recognized degree, certificate, professional standing, or by extensive knowledge training
and experience, demonstrate the ability to solve/resolve problems relating to the
assembly/disassembly of the crane, or be assisted by someone carrying this
qualification. Documentation of this qualification shall be provided to McCarthy upon
request. This section V.A.1 also applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
2. A pre-assembly/disassembly meeting shall be held with all stakeholders prior to the
operation.
3. A member of McCarthy’s Project Supervision shall be present on site while the
assembly/disassembly takes place. This section V.A.3 also applies to subcontractor
controlled cranes.
4. The assembly and disassembly shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s written
instructions and a copy shall be present during the operation. This section V.A.4 also
applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
5. Cranes shall not be operated when the wind speed is in excess of what the
manufacturer recommends for safe operation. When wind speeds are below the
manufacturer’s recommendations for safe operation, the A/D supervisor will determine
if the operation should be halted due to the conditions as well as what is being
hoisted. This section V.A.5 also applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
6. No one is allowed, other than those engaged in the assembly or disassembly of the
crane, in the area below any part or portion of the project where the crane may pass
over during assembly/disassembly. This may also include any area where any portion of
a crane may fall into, or on to, in the event of a catastrophic failure.
7. Post assembly inspections shall be performed as required by the manufacturer,
including a load test. This section V.A.8 also applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
B. Assembly and Disassembly of Conventional Cranes:
1. When pins or similar devices are being removed employees must not be under the
boom, jib or other components that are not properly blocked.
2. A preassembly/disassembly meeting shall be held with all stakeholders prior to the
operation. This should include McCarthy Project Supervision, the crane owner, those
responsible for assembly/disassembly and those providing manufacturer’s expertise.
The meeting should include discussions on items listed on the Conventional Crane
Preassembly/Disassembly Meeting.
This section V.B.2 also applies to subcontractor controlled cranes. In addition:
a. The subcontractor shall present the minutes of the Conventional Crane
Preassembly/Disassembly Meeting in the form of a Conventional Crane
Preassembly/Disassembly plan, to McCarthy, upon request.
b. For conventional cranes rated to lift 100 tons or greater McCarthy should
monitor the assembly/disassembly performed by subcontractors for their
cranes by periodically check adherence to their written Conventional Crane
Preassembly/Disassembly plan as referenced in this section. This monitoring
may also be assigned/contracted to a third party firm.
3. The size, amount, condition and method of stacking blocking must be sufficient to
sustain the loads and maintain stability.
4. When blocking is used to support lattice booms or components, it must be
appropriately placed to protect the structural integrity of the equipment and prevent
dangerous movement or collapse.
5. Upon completion of assembly, the equipment must be inspected to ensure compliance
with the manufacturer’s erection criteria, specifications and limitations.
6. All support cranes fall under the same requirements as outlined in this section; including
the crane lift calculation form.
C. Assembly, Disassembly and Climbing/Jumping of Tower Cranes. This section V.C also applies to
subcontractor controlled cranes.
1. A written project site specific assembly/disassembly plan shall be prepared that
addresses the manufacturer’s requirements relative to the assembly, disassembly or
climbing operation about to take place for the specific model of the crane, tailored to
the site conditions of the project. Rules and responsibilities shall also be explained. The
plan shall be reviewed by the Project Director and Safety Director before execution of
the plan.
This project site specific plan shall be kept on-site and filed with the project records. A
sample Tower Crane Assembly/Disassembly Project Site Specific Plan is attached:
2. A pre-assembly/disassembly/climbing meeting shall be held a minimum of one week
prior to the date of assembly/disassembly/climbing with all those involved, including
project supervision, crane owner, those responsible for the
assembly/disassembly/climbing and those providing manufacturer’s expertise. The
purpose of this meeting is to review and understand the project site specific plan
established as referenced in Part V.C.1. of this section.
3. Workers shall not be in or under the tower, jib, or rotating portion of the crane during
assembly/disassembly/climbing operations until the crane is secured in a locked
position and the A/D supervisor indicates it is safe to enter this area; unless the
manufacturer’s instructions direct otherwise and then only the necessary personnel are
permitted in this area.
4. After assembly or climbing an inspection shall be conducted in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. It should include a load test using certified weights.
All the limit switches shall be tested as well, including all brakes, locking devices,
deceleration devices, two block devices or other operational aids.
5. The size and location of signs installed on tower cranes shall be in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Rigging shall be checked before each shift when performing
assembly/disassembly/climbing. When utilizing nylon chokers, care shall be taken to
assure softening mechanisms have been applied to all sharp edges.
6. RIGGING AND SIGNALING
A successful lifting operation is the result of planning and teamwork. All crane lifting operations
require a qualified rigger and signal person. The following list of guidelines will aid in defining
the roles, requirements, and responsibilities.
A. General
1. The rigger is responsible for verifying the correct weight of the load, and
selecting the proper rigging and method of attaching and detaching the
load/rigging from the crane.
2. The signal person is responsible for initiating and directing the safe movement
of the crane and load, as well as landing the load.
3. Depending on the size, complexity and associated risk of the lifting operation,
one person can undertake both roles; in addition, there may be multiple
individuals in either one or both roles on a particular site.
4. Horns and/or whistles will be blown by the operator, rigger or signal person
anytime a load has the potential to be swung over workers.
5. Subcontractors that are hoisting material on any McCarthy project will provide
qualified riggers and signal persons that will be designated by name along with
appropriate documentation provided to McCarthy before their work starts. Use
Exhibit 6.05 VI-C (MCC) (MCI) to request from the subcontractors the names of
their designated employees.
6. To be a McCarthy qualified evaluator for rigging or signaling, one must
successfully complete a third party training program established to train
instructors on how to evaluate others relative to the particular subject matter.
7. If a subcontractor will be signaling audibly to a crane they shall provide their
own means of communication approved by and compatible with the
communication means McCarthy utilizes. This may not be applicable when the
subcontractor provides their own crane.
B. Rigging - this section VI.B also applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
1. The rigger shall be qualified in the fundamentals of rigging. This qualification
shall include training on at least the following subjects; basic rigging plan,
inspection of hardware, inspection of slings, the rigging triangle, application of
hardware, application of slings and load control basics, at a minimum. For
McCarthy employees this can be accomplished through a third party, similar to
the Crosby Group Inc. training, or a McCarthy qualified evaluator (see VI.A.6).
For McCarthy and subcontract employees the training should include a verbal or
written test and a practical exam; a record of said successful training completion
shall be kept on file by the employer. For McCarthy employees use Exhibit 6.05
VI-A. (MCC) (MCI) (ANSWER KEY)
2. The McCarthy rigger should have a rigger’s quick reference pocket guide for
reference similar to the product distributed by the Crosby Group Inc.
3. All rigging shall be inspected each shift before use.
4. The rigger who rigs the load shall inspect the load once the rigging has been
tightened to ensure the load is stable and there are no loose parts being flown.
5. Taglines shall be used to control loads. The qualified rigger may make an
exception to this rule on specific cases where the qualified rigger determines
that a tag line will create a hazard. It is important to review each load and the
length of the tag line.
6. Synthetic slings/rigging should only be used when there is no danger of sharp
edges, on the load to be hoisted, cutting the material. If there are sharp edges,
corner softeners can be used as directed by the manufacturer or another type
rigging can be utilized that is resistant to cutting.
7. Due to the inspection requirements for chain slings, they should not be used
unless their specific use has been reviewed and agreed to by the divisional
safety director.
8. It is important that rigging and rigging hardware be of the highest quality and
meets all applicable safety standards. For these reasons, slings shall have
manufacturer’s identification that is legible, if it does not it shall be taken out of
service and destroyed or inspected by a certified party and re-
tagged. Identification should include, at a minimum, loading rating and/or size,
manufacturer’s name, and some means of traceability.
Rigging hardware, shackles, eyehooks, turnbuckles, and eyebolts shall have
identification including manufacturer’s load rating and/or size. If the hardware
does not have this forged into the component the project must have the
manufacturer’s load chart that shows working load limits.
Rigging hardware should be “heat treated”. Non-heat treated products will fail
with little or no warning, a catastrophic failure, because of their brittleness.
Rigging hardware from Crosby Group Inc., or equal, shall be used to insure
quality “heat treated” rigging hardware.
9. When not in use, rigging and rigging hardware shall be stored to protect it from
damage.
C. Signaling - this section VI.C also applies to subcontractor controlled cranes.
1. The signal person shall be qualified in the fundamentals of signaling. This
qualification shall include training on at least the following subjects; hand
signals, voice signals, basic crane operation and limitations, boom deflection
and the dynamics of swinging and stopping loads. For McCarthy employees this
can be accomplished through a third party or a McCarthy qualified evaluator
(see VI.A.6). For McCarthy and subcontract employees the training should
include a verbal or written test and practical exam; a record of said successful
training completion shall be kept on file by the employer. For McCarthy
employees use Exhibit 6.05 VI-B. (MCC) (MCI) (ANSWER KEY)
2. The signal person giving hand signals shall be clearly discernable from the other
workers in order to make him/her more visible to the operator.
3. Only one person at a time shall give signals to a crane operator.
4. During crane operations requiring signals, the ability to transmit signals
between the crane operator and signal person shall be maintained. If that
ability is interrupted the operator shall stop operations requiring signals until
communication is reestablished.
5. Devices used to transmit audible signals shall be tested on-site before beginning
operations to assure that the signal transmission is clear and reliable.
6. Signal transmission must be through a dedicated channel.
7. Operator’s receipt of signals must be by a hands free system.
8. Standard audible signals shall be agreed to by all signal persons and operators
before an operation is started.
9. The operator and signal person must be able to effectively communicate in the
language used.
10. Each voice signal shall contain the following three elements, given in the
following order:
a. function (such as hoist, boom, etc.) direction
b. distance and/or speed
c. function, stop command
11. Hand signal charts must be posted on the equipment or readily available at the
site.
7. CRANE MAINTENANCE
Crane maintenance has specific hazards that should be reviewed prior to performing same. See
the attached Exhibit 06.05.VII for a checklist of reminders for the crew that will perform the
maintenance.
06.06 OSHA INSPECTIONS
An OSHA or Regulatory Agency Compliance Officer may visit the Project at any time.
Legally, the Project Staff may require the Compliance Officer to produce a search warrant to inspect the
construction site for violations. Generally this is not McCarthy's policy. The staff should be cooperative
and should immediately contact the Divisional Safety Director for instruction.
The Safety Director shall be consulted at the start of the Project to determine the Policy toward OSHA or
Regulatory Agency Inspections for a particular area. We may be in an OSHA Partnership Agreement
which provides certain rights during certain type inspections.
Should an OSHA or Regulatory Agency Inspector appear for an inspection, the following procedures
should be followed:
1. Welcome the Inspector and determine then if the inspection is a result of a complaint, accident
or just a programmed inspection. If you know that your project is covered by an OSHA
Partnership Agreement this should be mentioned to the Compliance Officer.
2. If the Inspection is a result of a complaint, request a copy of the complaint. If the Inspection is in
response to a complaint, the Inspection should be limited to the complaint only. Obtain the
Inspector's name, badge #, and contact phone number.
3. Advise all Project Site Employees and the Owner that an OSHA compliance officer is on site.
4. Notify the Division Safety Director and/or the Project Director of the Inspection. The Safety
Director and/or Project Director should evaluate their attendance at this inspection.
5. Accompany the Inspector on the inspection of the Project Site. Be sure to take notes and
pictures of the same items the Inspector photographs during the inspection. If the inspector is
using a video camera we should as well. Be cooperative with the Inspector at all times.
6. Provide copies of all findings to the Division Safety Director.
7. Do not provide copies of any documents to the inspector without approval of the Divisional
Safety Director.
06.07 FALL PROTECTION
The Fall Protection Plan is a minimum Guideline for all Employees exposed to a fall hazard of 6.0 feet or
greater to achieve 100% fall protection. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action.
This Plan is to be maintained on all Projects.
06.08 McCARTHY RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
Respirators shall be provided by McCarthy when such equipment is necessary to protect the health of
the Employee. McCarthy shall provide the respirators which are applicable and suitable for the purpose
intended. In such instances, the Project Staff shall be responsible for the written Respiratory Protective
Program which shall be established with the assistance of the Division Safety Director.
1. PURPOSE
To establish a Respirator Program in accordance with OSHA Respirator Standard (29 CFR 1910.134).
Control of airborne contaminants is accomplished, when feasible, by accepted engineering controls.
When effective engineering controls are not feasible or while they are being implemented, approved
respirators are used.
2. GENERAL
A. The Respiratory Protection Program is designed to protect Employees from airborne
contaminants.
B. A Respirator Coordinator is assigned to coordinate the program.
3. PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
A. Each Project that is going to use respirators shall appoint a Respirator Coordinator to be
responsible for implementing the Respirator Program in an effective manner.
The Respirator Coordinator must maintain written procedures.
B. The Respirator Coordinator must complete the Worksite Specific Respiratory Protection
Plan prior to the start of any work requiring respiratory protection.
C. Personnel must only wear respirator equipment approved by the Respirator
Coordinator.
D. Personnel must be issued their own respirators when practical.
E. Respirators must be kept in a clean, sanitary condition.
F. The Respirator Coordinator must provide convenient, sanitary storage for each
respirator.
G. All respirators must be periodically inspected, cleaned and sanitized in accordance with
standards and this program.
H. All respirator users must be trained and fit tested, except as follows: If disposable dust
masks are approved and used only at the desire of workers when exposure levels are
below permissible limits, the Respirator Coordinator may allow optional use without
implementing the entire program procedures.
I. Approval must be obtained from the Jobsite Health Service Consultant(s) for any
Employee to use a respirator. The Health Service Consultant must be established prior
to Project start-up. This is to be coordinated with the Division Safety Director.
J. The Respirator Protection Program must be evaluated annually by the Division Safety
Director to determine its effectiveness.
4. RESPIRATOR COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITY
A. The Respirator Coordinator is responsible for administration of the Respiratory
Protection Program as described below:
1. Provide a site summary of locations or job descriptions where Employees must
wear respirators and under what conditions (normal or emergency).
2. Maintain facilities and procedures for fit testing.
3. Coordinate training for both new and experienced Employees.
4. Establish care and maintenance requirements for individually assigned
respirators.
5. Establish procedures for Health Service Consultants' approval of Employee use
of respirators.
6. Audit care and use of respirators.
7. Consult with the McCarthy Project Manager or Industrial Hygienist Consultant
to:
a. Determine if airborne contaminant levels have changed, which would
require a change in respirator use or type used.
b. Provide guidance on types of respirators to be used.
c. Approve types of filters, canisters and cartridges used with respirators.
B. Maintaining fit test, training and medical approval records.
5. RESPIRATOR SELECTION
The Respirator Coordinator will select all respiratory protection devices and maintain a listing of
approved respirators for existing applications. Only those respirators approved by the Respirator
Coordinator may be used.
6. TRAINING
A. The Respirator Coordinator is responsible for the training of Employees in the Respirator
Program relative to their responsibilities. This consists of classroom sessions with visual
aids as well as hands on training.
B. The Respirator Coordinator shall ensure each Employee can demonstrate knowledge of
the following:
1. Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or maintenance
can compromise the protective effect of the respirator.
2. The limitations and capabilities of a respirator.
3. How to inspect, put on and remove, use and check the seals of a respirator.
4. What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the respirator.
5. How to recognize the medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the
effective use of respirators.
C. Retraining shall be conducted annually, and when the following situations occur:
1. Changes in the workplace that renders previous training obsolete.
2. Inadequacies in the Employee's knowledge or use of the respirator.
D. Training shall be documented. Copies of all fit testing, training and inspections shall be
maintained on site and will be available upon request (Refer to Respirator Training
Program Attendance Roster and Air Purifying Respirator Checklist).
7. MEDICAL EVALUATION AND FIT TESTING
A. Every Employee who is being considered for inclusion in the Respirator Protection
Program must participate in a medical evaluation. A determination is made initially
upon employment, or change into a job classification requiring respiratory protection,
and every 24 months thereafter.
B. The Employee will fill out the Medical Questionnaire for Respirator Users which will be
reviewed by a physician. If the physician deems it necessary, the Employee will receive
an examination. The purpose of the questionnaire and the examination is to assure that
the Employee is physically and psychologically able to perform their work while wearing
respiratory equipment. If the physician denies approval, the Employee will not be able
to participate in the Respiratory Program.
C. Each respirator user and potential user is fit tested by the Health Service Consultant to
assure proper face to face piece seal. The Employee must be fit tested with the name
make, model, style and size of respirator that will be used.
D. Qualitative fit testing may only be used to fit test negative pressure respirators that
must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.
E. Quantitative fit testing must be used for tight fitting half face pieces when the fit factor
is equal to or greater than 100 and equal to or greater than 500 for tight fitting full face
pieces.
F. Respirator users are to be fit tested annually. In the case of any facial structure change,
such as surgery or dental changes, the user must then be refitted.
G. Each time a respirator is donned, the user must:
1. Check to see that it is properly sealed and will not loosen during use.
2. Leak test the respirator according to established procedures. (Positive and
negative pressure fit check).
H. Respirators must not be worn when conditions prevent face piece to face seal.
1. Employees required to use a respirator are not allowed to have a beard,
sideburns, or mustache that passes between the face and the sealing surface of
the respirator.
2. Any Employee with a facial condition that prevents a proper seal (missing
dentures, growths, severe acne, one day beard, etc.) must not be allowed to
perform duties that require the use of a respirator until that facial condition is
corrected.
(Note: Acceptable fit testing methods are outlined in OSHA 1910.134, Appendix A. Your Health Service
Consultant should be familiar with these).
8. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
A. Respirators must be inspected as follows:
1. All respirators used must be inspected by the user before and after use, and
during cleaning.
Emergency respirators must be inspected at least once a month, as well as after each use, with records
maintained of inspection dates and findings.
All Employees using air-purifying respirators must complete the Air Purifying Respirator Checklist
weekly.
B. Respirator inspections must include the following:
1. Check condition of face piece, headbands, valves, connection tabs and
cartridges. Replace defective parts or take respirator out of service.
2. Gently stretch rubber or elastomer parts to detect cracks or deterioration.
3. Check tightness of connections.
4. Check cleanliness.
C. Only trained persons may make repairs with parts supplied for that respirator. Only
those repairs recommended by the manufacturer may be made.
D. The user will change cartridges on air purifying type respirators. Check the
manufacturer recommendations for different filter life guidelines. Industry accepted
guidelines suggest changing the cartridge when breathing becomes difficult or when
chemical odor is detected, both indicate that the cartridge is at the end of its useful life.
9. CLEANING
A. Respirators shall be maintained in a clean, sanitary condition. Individually assigned
respirators shall be cleaned after each day's use. Respirators issued to more than on
Employee shall be cleaned and disinfected before being worn by different individuals.
B. During cleaning, the respirator is disassembled, inspected, repaired (if necessary),
thoroughly washed and disinfected.
C. Respirators are to be cleaned in warm water not to exceed 110 degrees F (110°F), using
a mild detergent and disinfecting agent, and air dried.
10. STORAGE OF RESPIRATORS AND CARTRIDGES
A. Respirators must be stored so that no pressure is placed on the face piece and
exhalation valve. Improper storage can deform the face piece and create a poor sealing
surface. The straps must not be stored inside the face piece. Respirators must be
protected against dust, sunlight, hot, extreme cold, excessive moisture, and damaging
chemicals.
B. Organic Vapor Cartridges may be left installed in the face piece, if desired, and stored in
the storage container. There is low potential for contamination of the face piece and
the storage container because the cartridge filtering media absorbs the contaminant.
C. Dust/Fiber Cartridges may be returned to the cleaned face piece as long as they are
covered with protective cartridge covers. If protective covers are not used, the
cartridges must be removed from the face piece and stored in plastic bags. The face
piece and the bagged cartridges should be stored together in the storage
container. This step is recommended because of some potential for contamination if
the face piece is stored with cartridge installed.
11. OPTIONAL USE
If the use of filtering face pieces (dust masks) are provided at the Employee's request when exposure
levels are below permissible limits, all phases of the Respirator Program do not have to be
followed. Dust mask (filtering face piece) use will be allowed on approved job descriptions where
respirator use is not required.
(Note: Appendix D of OSHA 1910.134 is mandatory information for Employees using respirators when
not required under the standard).
12. DEFINITIONS
A. Respirator Coordinator: Designated McCarthy Employee responsible for administering
on-site Respiratory Program.
B. Health Service Consultant: Third Party Consultant responsible for administrating the
Pulmonary Function Test and Respirator Evaluation Questionnaire and fit testing, as
requested.
C. Industrial Hygienist Consultant: Third Party Consultant responsible for determining on-
site atmosphere hazards.
06.09 CONFINED SPACES
All confined space conditions shall be reviewed with the Division Safety Director. A competent person
should be reviewing the project to determine if a confined space is present on site.
IDENTIFICATION OF A CONFINED SPACE
1. OSHA defines a confined space as:
1926.1202:
Confined Space means a space that:
A. Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter it;
B. Has limited or restricted means for entry and exit; and
C. Is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.
Non-Permit Confined Space means:
A confined space that meets the definition of a confined space but does not meet the requirements for
a permit-required confined space. as defined in this subpart.
Permit-Required Confined Space (permit space) means a confined space that has one or more of the
following characteristics:
A. Contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere;
B. Contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant;
C. Has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by
inwardly converging walls or by a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller
cross-section; or
D. Contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
2. The Regulation 1926.1200 Confined Spaces in Construction does not cover excavations.
Hazardous atmospheres in excavations is covered in the Regulation 1926.651(g) Excavations
which states:
Where oxygen deficiency (atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen) or a hazardous
atmosphere exists or could reasonably be expected to exist, such as in excavations in landfill areas or
excavations in areas where hazardous substances are stored nearby, the atmospheres in the excavation
shall be tested before employees enter excavations greater than 4 feet (1.22m) in depth.
3. Several other definitions are important to know when reviewing confined spaces on a project,
they are:
A. Controlling Contractor is the employer that has overall responsibility for construction at
the worksite.
B. Entry Employer means any employer who decides that an employee it directs will enter
a permit space.
C. Entry Supervisor means a qualified person responsible for determining if acceptable
entry conditions are present at a permit space where entry is planned, for authorizing
entry and overseeing entry operations, and for terminating entry as required. An Entry
Supervisor also may serve as an attendant or as an authorized entrant, as long as that
person is trained and equipped as required for each role. Duties may be passed from
one individual to another during the course of the operation.
D. Qualified Person means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or
professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, has
successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject
matter, the work, or the project.
E. Competent Person means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable
hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are hazardous or dangerous to
employees, and who has the authorization to take prompt corrective measures to
eliminate them.
F. Host Employer means the employer that owns or manages the property where the
construction work is taking place.
G. Hazardous Atmosphere means an atmosphere that may expose employees to the risk
of death, incapacitation, impairment of ability of self-rescue (that is, escape unaided
from a permit space), injury, or acute illness from one or more of the following causes:
a. Flammable gas, vapor, or mist in excess of 10 percent of its lower flammable
limit (LFL);
b. Airborne combustible dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its LFL;
Note to paragraph (2) of the definition of "Hazardous Atmosphere". This concentration may be
approximate as a condition in which the combustible dust obscures vision at a distance of 5 feet (1.52
meters) or less.
c. Atmospheric oxygen concentration below 19.5 percent or above 23.5 percent;
d. Atmospheric concentration of any substance for which a dose or a permissible exposure
limit is published in subpart D of this (Occupational Health and Environmental Control),
or in subpart Z of this part (Toxic and Hazardous Substances), and which could result in
employee exposure in excess of its dose or permissible exposure limit;
Note to paragraph (4) of the definition of "Hazardous Atmosphere". An atmospheric concentration of
any substance that is not capable of causing death, incapacitation, impairment of ability to self-rescue,
injury, or acute illness due to its health effects is not covered by this definition.
e. Any other atmospheric condition that is immediately dangerous to life or health;
Note to paragraph (5) of the definition of "Hazardous Atmosphere". For air contaminants for which
OSHA has not determined a dose or permissible exposure limit, other sources of information, such as
Safety Data Sheets that comply with the Hazard Communication Standard §1926.59, published
information, and internal documents can provide guidance in establishing acceptable atmospheric
conditions.
4. If there is a permit space identified on the project then all employers on the site must be
notified and the space shall be posed as same. If an employer will direct their employees into
the space they must have a written permit space program and all employees trained on the
program.
5. If a permit space is identified it may be possible for employees to enter IF all of the following
conditions are met:
1926.1203(e)(1)(i) The employer can demonstrate that all physical hazards in the space are eliminated
or isolated through engineering controls so that the only hazard posed by the permit space is an actual
or potential hazardous atmosphere.
1926.1203(e)(1)(ii) The employer can demonstrate that continuous forced air ventilation alone is
sufficient to maintain that permit space safe for entry, and in the event the ventilation system stops
working, entrants can exit the space safely;
1926.1203(e)(1)(iii) The employer develops monitoring and inspection data that supports the
demonstrations required by paragraphs (e)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section.
1926.1203(e)(1)(iv) If an initial entry of the permit space is necessary to obtain the data required by
paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section, the entry is performed in compliance with §§ 1926.1204 through
1926.1211;
1926.1203(e)(1)(v) The determinations and supporting data required by paragraphs (e)(1)(i), (ii), and (iii)
of this section are documented by the employer and are made available to each employee who enters
the permit space under the terms of paragraph (e) of this section or to that employee's authorized
representative; and
1926.1203(e)(1)(vi) Entry into the permit space under the terms of paragraph (e)(1) of this section is
performed in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (e)(2) of this section (put up a rail) test the
atmosphere, no hazardous atmosphere can be present when workers are in the space, a worker cannot
enter until the space is eliminated from hazardous atmosphere with forced air ventilation. The forced air
ventilation must continue until everyone has left the space, and the source must be clean air.
6. All confined spaces shall be considered a permit required space until the Entry Permit Checklist
is completed, and it is determined to be a non-hazard, non-permit confined space.
7. At no time will a McCarthy Employee be allowed into a confined space where the atmosphere
cannot be maintained below the maximum allowed flammable/explosive limit, the maximum
allowed toxic limit, or an oxygen content within the range, as described in the definition 3.d
above.
8. If we are working in an existing facility, the Host or Owner must provide McCarthy the location
of each know permit space, the hazards associated with same, and a list of precautions taken
from that space in the past. This information must be passed on to any subsequent
subcontractor that may have to enter that permitted space.
9. Before a subcontractor enters a permit space, they must inform McCarthy of their permit
required confined space program including any hazards likely to be found in the space.
10. Permit and Non-Permit Confined Spaces.
A. All confined spaces shall be considered a permit required confined space until the Entry
Permit Checklist is completed, and it is determined to be a non-hazard, non-permit
confined space.
B. At no time will a McCarthy Employee be allowed into a confined space where the
atmosphere cannot be maintained below the maximum allowed flammable/explosive
limit, the maximum allowed toxic limit, or an oxygen content within the range, as
described in 11 below.
11. Confined Space Entry
Prior to entry, the Confined Space Entry Permit Checklist must be completed to determine if the
confined space is safe to enter, and that the following necessary precautions have been taken:
A. Air monitoring before a confined space is entered shall include one or more of the following
tests, dependent on the type of atmosphere suspected, and using the noted equipment.
a. Oxygen (02) level/combustible vapors (LEL).
b. Toxic vapors (solvents/hydrocarbons/H2S).
Each piece of equipment must be examined daily to verify that it is in good condition and ready for use.
Exact procedures for calibrating and checking the testing equipment for air flow are contained in the
instrument manufacturer's instructions.
Provide the opportunity for each authorized entrant to observe the pre-entry testing.
B. Tests shall be taken continuously during each work shift. These tests must be supervised by an
Entry Supervisor with training in the proper operation of the air monitoring equipment.
Readings are to be taken at all levels of the confined space where authorized entrants are
working.
C. The criteria for determining if a confined space atmosphere is safe to enter (non-hazardous) is
as follows:
a. Oxygen (02) content is between 19.5% and 23.5%.
b. Combustible vapors are less than or equal to 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL).
c. Toxic levels are below the maximum allowed PPM for the substance being tested.
D. Check electrical and mechanical equipment and lock and tag them out of service, if required.
E. A trained attendee positioned outside of the confined space shall, at all times, be in visual or
voice contact with the workers inside the confined space.
F. Ventilation/exhaust systems shall be properly designed and of the positive flow type. Solvents
and atomized coating particles are generally heavier than air, and will tend to settle and
concentrate on the lowest parts of a confined space. When designing a ventilation system for
these areas, particular attention should be paid to the lowest, most remote spots.
12. Safety Equipment and Emergency Rescue
The Project Staff, with the assistance from the Division Safety Director, shall evaluate the Project Site for
rescue procedures from a confined space. The Project Staff and Division Safety Director shall develop a
Project Site specific rescue program. The following items shall be addressed at a minimum:
A. Procedures for rescue of entrants.
B. Rescue team, Company Employees or outside agency.
C. Procedures for first aid training, annual practice and CPR training of rescue team.
D. Safety Equipment should include:
a. Mechanical device for retrieval of personnel.
b. Full body harness allowing retrieval line attachment to the center of the entrants back.
c. Retrieval line.
d. Tripod, if needed.
e. Portable hand lights.
f. Ventilation equipment, if needed.
g. Barriers, guardrails, locks, barricades, etc.
13. Employee Training
All Employees involved in the confined space entry process shall be trained. The training should follow
the Confined Space Entry Employee Training Record Form and be recorded on the Confined Space
Training Attendance Roster.
06.10 CONFINED SPACE - PROJECT SPECIFIC SAFETY AND HEALTH PLAN
All Contractors shall have a competent person identify, label, and communicate any confined spaces
they anticipate working in.
All Contractors shall develop an entry procedure to be used when employees are required to enter
confined areas or spaces. Employees involved with such activities must have appropriate training. The
procedures and training records shall be submitted to the CCIP Project Safety Coordinator. Confined
space permits must be filled out and completed prior to any point required confined space work (See
Appendix).
The Contractor is responsible for testing the atmosphere of confined spaces where their employees
must work. No one should enter any confined space without proper procedures, training, and testing
being performed. See Section 6.18, Air Testing.
The Contractor personnel must be trained in the hazards of confined space work, including operating
and rescue procedures, the use of respiratory equipment, and instructions as to the hazards they may
encounter.
The Contractor shall develop a written, understandable confined space operating and rescue procedure
which must be made available to all affected employees.
The Contractor is required to provide all necessary entry-rescue equipment required for all entries into
confined spaces (tripod, full body harness and lifeline or equivalent, etc.).
The Contractor shall provide a trained standby employee on the outside of the confined space ready to
give assistance in case of an emergency. The standby employee shall have appropriate, approved
respiratory protective equipment.
The standby employee must have a valid certificate in first aid and CPR training from the American Red
Cross, or equivalent training verified by documentary evidence.
Visual contact or two-way radio communication must be available at all times. The Contractor shall
provide radios.
1. Utilitly Holes (Manholes and Vaults)
Contractor work in utility holes may expose employees to potential injury due to a lack of oxygen, or the
presence of toxic or combustible gas.
Employees entering utility holes (manholes and vaults) shall receive training in accordance with OSHA.
Only trained and qualified employees can test, purge and enter a utility hole.
Do not take propane or other compressed gases into a utility hole.
Do not permit open flames in a utility hole.
Continuously ventilate occupied utility holes.
Use a ladder to exit/enter utility holes more than 4 feet deep. Secure and test ladder for slippage.
Employees must immediately exit hole if blower stops or has abnormal air flow.
Secure all equipment and replace utility hole cover upon completion ow work.
06.11 EXCAVATIONS
All excavations are subject to OSHA and other Regulatory Agency requirements.
1. COMPETENT PERSON
OSHA and other Regulatory Agencies require that a designated Competent Person be on site during all
excavation and backfill work. The term "Competent Person" means one who is capable of identifying
existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working conditions which are unsanitary,
hazardous, or dangerous to Employees, and who has authorization to take prompt, corrective measures
to eliminate them.
The Competent Person should:
A. Make daily inspections of excavations, the adjacent areas, and protective systems for
evidence of situations that could result in cave-ins, indications of failure of protective
systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions. An inspection should
be conducted by the Competent Person prior to the start of work, and as needed
throughout the shift. Inspections shall also be made after every rain storm or other
hazard increasing occurrence. These inspections are only required when Employee
exposure can be reasonably anticipated.
B. When the Competent Person finds evidence of a hazardous situation as noted above,
exposed Employees shall be removed from the area until the necessary precautions
have been taken.
C. The Competent Person is responsible for classifying soil and rock deposits based on site
and environmental conditions, and on the structure and composition of the earth
deposits as outlined in OSHA and other Regulatory Agency Regulations. Soil
classifications shall determine the maximum allowable slopes in excavation work.
2. SHORING
Shoring systems shall be designed by a Registered Engineer meeting regulatory requirements.
The shoring system shall be inspected each day by a Competent Person to identify potential
hazardous situations.
3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A. In order to provide a safe footing at the edge of the excavation, and to prevent spoil and
materials falling into an excavation, a clear space at least 2 feet wide shall be
maintained on all sides.
B. Where there is a likelihood of persons, vehicles or equipment falling into an excavation,
suitable barriers shall be erected. If people or vehicles are in the vicinity after dark,
warning lights shall be used to mark the limits of the work.
06.12 TOOLS
1. SELECTION
Many accidents are caused by not selecting the correct tool for the job. It is, therefore, essential
that the correct type, size, and weight of tools should be decided upon before any work is
carried out.
2. ALL TOOLS
All tools shall be operated utilizing all factory installed guards and shields.
3. CARTRIDGE OPERATED TOOLS
Cartridge-operated tools shall be operated only by certified Employees.
06.13 LADDER POLICY
1. GENERAL
A. Employees should be trained in ladder safety using the Annual McCarthy Tool Box Talk
entitled Ladders.
B. Use the correct height ladder for the job.
C. Read and follow all labels and markings on ladders. All labels must be legible.
D. Do not move or shift ladders while someone is on ladder.
E. A ladder placed in any location where it can be displaced by other work activities must
be secured to prevent displacement or a barricade must be erected to keep traffic away
from the ladder.
F. Ladders shall be inspected on a regular basis.
G. Broken or defective ladders must be tagged and immediately removed from service
until repaired.
H. All manufactured straight ladders shall have safety shoes with non-slip bottoms and
step ladders shall have non-slip feet.
I. No ladder shall be built on a job unless the design is specifically reviewed by McCarthy
first. See OSHA requirements.
J. Due to electrical concerns, aluminum ladders are not allowed at any time.
K. Ladders should be set on a firm level base.
L. Pay attention when descending a ladder to make sure you do not miss the last
rung/step.
2. WORKING FROM LADDERS
A. Employees should be trained in safe ladder usage by reviewing the McCarthy Tool Box
Talk, Ladders.
B. Step ladders shall be inspected before each use by the user.
C. Straddling or sitting on the top of a step ladder is prohibited.
D. Employee’s waist/belt buckle must stay within the side rails of the ladder.
E. Three-point contact must be used while ascending and descending.
F. The top or top step of a step ladder shall not be used as a step unless it has been
designed to be so used by the manufacturer.
G. Step ladders should be fully opened and locked while in use. Never lean a closed step
ladder against a wall to work from.
H. No work requiring lifting of heavy materials or substantial exertion shall be done from
ladders.
I. Work must be performed while facing the ladder.
J. OSHA regulations relating to ladders as well as the manufacturer’s instructions shall be
followed.
K. Step ladders cannot be used to gain access to upper or lower working surfaces.
L. If an employee needs to access a work area that will put their feet above 6’ they will
review the work area and specific conditions to determine how they will safely access
the work operation. Before the use of a ladder all other methods of reaching the work
area for that operation must be considered. Scissor lifts, rolling Bakers scaffold, portable
single person lifts, or other alternatives to ladders should be considered.
If a ladder is to be used the following conditions must be met:
1. If an employee will be working above an adjacent guardrail and/or there is an exposure to a fall
to a level lower than the level the ladders feet are on, as in a deck edge, floor opening, or shaft opening,
employees must be tied off to a support that meets OSHA requirements as a secure anchorage point.
When installing OSHA compliant anchorage points all applicable fall protection requirements shall be
followed.
2. When working from a ladder the employee must maintain three points of contact. Three points
of contact include two feet and one hand or two feet and belt buckle or midline of body. Examples of
this are:
a. For an extension ladder both feet firmly on the same rung and one hand
firmly holding the ladder, or both feet firmly on the same rung and the
legs/midline (belt buckle) leaning against the rungs of the ladder. The
employee’s body must be between the upright rails of the ladder and
the shoulders must remain below the top rung.
b. For a step ladder both feet firmly on the same step and one hand firmly
holding the ladder, or both feet firmly on the same step and the
legs/midline (belt buckle) leaning against the steps of the ladder. The
employee’s body must be between the upright rails of the ladder and
the midline/belt buckle must remain below the top step.
3. USING LADDERS FOR ACCESS
A. Straight ladders, extension, or job built, shall be secured at the top. The bottom must be
placed on firm footing. In order to secure the top of the ladder that has no protected
access to the top of the ladder the following procedure must be followed. The
employee, wearing a harness and lanyard, climbs the ladder to the point at which the
ladder is to be tied off. Until the ladder is tied off, the ladder must be braced securely by
a second worker holding the ladder. Do not tie off to a portable ladder. Once the
employee’s fall protection is secured the ladder can be tied off. Unless three-point
contact can be maintained tools and equipment needed for the job will be hoisted by
rope.
B. Areas at the top and bottom of ladders should be clear of all tools, cords, material, and
debris. A 6 foot diameter from the center of the ladder is recommended.
C. Ladders used to gain access to an elevated platform or another floor shall extend a
minimum of three feet above the floor level.
D. If simultaneous two way traffic is expected, gang ladders can be used if they meet OSHA
standards.
E. Step ladders cannot be used to gain access to upper or lower working surfaces.
F. Employee’s midline/belt buckle must stay within the side rails of the ladder.
G. Three-point contact must be used while ascending and descending.
H. Generally, the proper angle for setting up a straight ladder is to place its base a quarter
of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface.
I. Due to the OSHA required construction specifications, maintenance, and inspection
procedures, stair towers should also be considered as an alternate means of access.
4. REFERENCE
A. The following are definitions applicable to this part:
1. A step ladder, a frame ladder, and folding ladder are the same.
2. A straight ladder is also considered an extension ladder or job built ladder.
3. A gang ladder or double cleat ladder is a job built ladder that is capable of
allowing two-way traffic.
4. A portable ladder is a ladder that can be readily moved or carried.
5. The Extension Trestle Ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder that is
adjustable in length, consisting of a Trestle Ladder base and a vertically
adjustable Extension section with a means for locking the ladders together. All
rules outlined in this section apply to these type ladders as well.
B. Use ANSI 14.4 for the requirements/specifications of job built ladders. This can be
acquired from your divisional safety director.
06.14 OSHA REQUIRED COMPETENT PERSONS
In many of the CFR 1926 Construction Safety Standards OSHA requires a “Competent Person” be present
when performing certain tasks.
OSHA defines a “Competent Person” as:
“One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working
conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to
take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.”
McCarthy must have a competent person on site, as required by the OSHA Regulations, for those areas
and for those work items where we self perform the labor. A log of the persons fulfilling these tasks
should be completed and sent to the Divisional Safety Director. See the Designation of Competent
Persons form.
In addition, all contractors having labor on-site, including all tiers of subcontractors, shall submit to
McCarthy information concerning competent persons as defined and required by the OSHA regulations.
Utilize the Designation of Competent Persons form for this purpose. These forms shall be collected and
kept in the project files.
The Competent Person Status Log is to be completed to summarize receipt of the subcontractor’s
forms. This log shall be maintained on the project and updated when individuals change.
If McCarthy becomes aware that an individual assigned the responsibility of being a subcontractor’s
competent person does not demonstrate adequate knowledge to fulfill their responsibilities, McCarthy
may request that the subcontractor replace the assigned competent person or request they receive
additional training to bring their performance up to appropriate standards.
06.15 HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM
1. INTRODUCTION
The Hazard Communication Standards have been designed to "enhance Employer and Employee
awareness of the safety and health hazards associated with chemical substances". Federal standards
were promulgated November 1983 with compliance dates of November 25, 1985 for manufacturers and
suppliers and May 23, 1988 for the construction industry. McCarthy will be implementing a Hazard
Communication Program as described in this document. Specific items to be covered are as follows:
A. Labels and Other Forms of Warning
B. Material Safety Data Sheets
C. Training
D. List of Hazardous Chemicals
E. Hazards of Non-routine Tasks
F. On-site Contractors
2. LABELS AND OTHER FORMS OF WARNING
A. The Hazard Communication Program requires that workers be made aware of the
hazards associated with containers of chemicals in use or stored at a Project Site or
work area. In order to effectively communicate this information, containers must be
labeled and workers must follow some basic rules concerning container usage. The
following guidelines will be implemented at all McCarthy Project Sites:
1. All chemicals on site will be stored in their original or approved containers with
a proper label attached. Any container not properly labeled should be given to
the Project Safety Officer for labeling or proper disposal.
2. Workers may dispense chemicals from original containers only in small
quantities intended for immediate use. Any chemical left after work is
completed must be returned to the original container or the Project Safety
Officer for proper handling.
3. No unmarked containers of any size are to be left unattended in the work area
4. McCarthy will rely on manufacturer applied labels whenever possible, and will
ensure that these labels are maintained. Containers that are not labeled or on
which the manufacturer label has been removed will be relabeled.
5. The Hazard Communications Program should be posted on the Project Site
bulletin board.
B. The majority of shipments to McCarthy and the Project Sites will be labeled or will not
require labeling under the Hazard Communication Standard. If a condition arises where
this is not the case, please review the following:
1. Persons Responsible for Ensuring Labeling of Project Site Containers:
Direct responsibility to effect implementation of the prescribed labeling
program at Division Offices is with the Yard and Shop Managers. On specific
Project Sites, the designated Project Safety Officer will be responsible for the
labeling program at the site.
2. Persons Responsible for Ensuring Labeling on Shipped Containers:
McCarthy will not generally be shipping materials requiring labeling under the
requirements of the Hazard Communication Guidelines. Should situations arise
where it is required to label outgoing shipment, responsibility will be with the
Corporate Safety Director to coordinate proper labeling requirements.
3. Description of Labeling Systems:
The intent of the Project Site labeling system is to provide "immediate, visual
warning about the hazards of the chemical in the container", as well as an
identity of the material contained therein. This identity shall likewise be
indicated on the MSDS for that particular material. Labeling of containers within
the main facility and at Project Sites will be in accordance with the HMIS
(Hazardous Materials Identification System) system developed under the
National Paint and Coatings Association.
In addition to the above described labeling system, additional labels may be
provided by the manufacturer or supplier in accordance with their
responsibilities under the regulations. Additional labeling may include the
following:
a. Expanded Product and Safety Information
Emergency Telephone Numbers
Directions for Mixing
Recommended Use
Storage Considerations
Container Disposal
Dangers
Precautionary Measures
First Aid
b. DOT Shipping Labels
Flammable Liquid
Flammable Gas
Corrosive
Oxidizer
Poison
Etc.
Other labels such as the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) label.
4. Alternatives to Individual Container Labeling may include the following:
a. Placarding
b. Process Sheets
c. Batch Tickets
d. Operating Procedures
Such methods shall comply with requirements under 29 CFR 1926.59 (f) (i.e., containers shall be
identified respective to the specific chemical contained in them; specific chemical hazards shall be listed
for each chemical). This information shall be readily accessible to the Employees in their work area
throughout each work shift. Employees on Project Sites may review the Material Safety Data Sheets to
obtain information that the HMIS label conveys.
Such methods shall comply with requirements under 29 CFR 1926.59 (f) (i.e., containers shall be
identified respective to the specific chemical contained in them; specific chemical hazards shall be listed
for each chemical). This information shall be readily accessible to the Employees in their work area
throughout each work shift. Employees on Project Sites may review the Material Safety Data Sheets to
obtain information that the HMIS label conveys.
5. Procedures to Review and Update Label Information When Necessary:
All Material Safety Data Sheets will be reviewed for adequacy and assignment of
HMIS coding where appropriate. Existing labeling protocol for a material will be
revised to accommodate additional knowledge regarding hazards of that
specific chemical.
In addition, any new information regarding a chemical brought to the attention
of the Project Safety Officer will be reviewed respective to the existing labeling
system. Should such review warrant, appropriate revision of the labeling system
will proceed within three (3) months.
In addition, any new information regarding a chemical brought to the attention
of the Project Safety Officer will be reviewed respective to the existing labeling
system. Should such review warrant, appropriate revision of the labeling system
will proceed within three (3) months.
3. MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS
A. Persons Responsible For Obtaining/Maintaining Material Safety Data Sheets
The Project Safety Officer is responsible for managing Material Safety Data Sheets.
B. Material Safety Data Sheet Maintenance Program
1. Obtaining MSDS:
Requests for MSDS should be sent to all chemical vendors for hazardous
chemicals used at the Project Sites. Follow-up requests will be made as
necessary. (See the MSDS Supplier Request Form.)
In establishing future accounts with either new vendors or new products from
existing vendors, MSDS acquisition prior to use is mandatory. This should be
accomplished through Purchase Order Agreements and Subcontract
Agreements.
To effectively manage this procedure, a routine is to be installed by the Project
Safety Officer to record the following information relative to individual
chemicals:
a. Trade Name
b. Chemical Name or Family
c. Synonym
d. Type of Hazard
e. CAS No.
f. UN or NA No.
g. Vendor
h. Phone Number
MSDS:
i. Date Requested
j. Date Received
k. Date of MSDS
l. Department
This record will be checked prior to placing an order. Should a Material Safety Data Sheet not be on file,
a request will be made to send a MSDS with the first shipment. Refer to Section III, C. for procedures to
follow when the MSDS is not received at time of first shipment.
Procedures for ultimately receiving Material Safety Data Sheets should be incorporated within
purchasing. Upon receiving an invoice from a chemical supplier, the chemical inventory is to be checked
to assure that a MSDS is on file. If the required MSDS is not on file, a request for MSDS is sent to the
vendor in lieu of payment.
2. Maintaining MSDS:
All Material Safety Data Sheets, upon receipt, shall be reviewed by the Project
Safety Officer for completeness. Upon his or her approval, the MSDS will be filed
according to the following procedure:
a. Filing
Originals and copies of all Material Safety Data Sheets will be kept on
file within the Project Office. The MSDS will be filed alphabetically by CSI
number with a master cross referencing log as follows:
1. Trade Name
2. Chemical Name or Family
3. Synonym
4. Type of Hazard
5. CAS No.
6. NA /UN Number
7. Vendor
8. MSDS Date Received
9. Department
In addition, a notebook containing MSDS sheets with assigned HMIS codes, shall be readily accessible in
the Project trailer to Employees when they are on the Project Site. This notebook will be maintained at
the Yard and Shop and at the Project Site trailer.
The identity (trade name) on the MSDS shall correspond with the chemical name of the container label,
placard, process sheet, etc., as applicable.
b. Employee Copies
Employees may obtain copies of Material Safety Data Sheets by
completing a MSDS Copy Request - Employees Form provided by the
Project Safety Officer. This Form provides for the:
1. Date of Request
2. Trade Name of MSDS Requested
3. Employee's Name and Department
4. Employee's Signature upon Request
5. Employee's Acknowledgment of Request
6. Employee's Signature upon Receipt
C. Procedures To Follow When MSDS Is Not Received At Time Of First Shipment.
Should material arrive where a MSDS is not on file, the Division Safety Director is to be
notified. The Division Safety Director will make the decision to:
1. Not receive the material
2. Receive the material and place it in storage
3. Receive the material and complete a blank MSDS form in accordance with
known hazards, and request a complete MSDS from the vendor.
D. Procedures For Updating The MSDS When New And Significant Health Information Is
Found
When information is available indicating that an existing MSDS sheet needs to be
updated, the Division Safety Director is to be notified.
For MSDS supplied by vendors, the Project Safety Officer will request an updated MSDS
from the vendor.
4. TRAINING
A. Designated Person Responsible For Conducting Training
Training of all Supervisory Employees will be conducted by the Division Safety Director.
He will also have the responsibility for all continuing education on this subject.
B. Format Of The Training Program
The format for training all Supervisory Employees will include classroom
instruction. Refer to the Hazard Communication Training Program. As the program
continues, it will be supplemented by audio-visual aids and handouts.
McCarthy will also provide training to those personnel hired only to provide services at
specific Project Sites. OSHA Hazard Communication Program Project Site Training
Summary and Certification or Spanish version.
C. Elements Of The Training Program
Training will be in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.59 (h) - Employer Information and
Training. Specifically, on-site supervisors (Superintendents or Project Safety Officers) will
"provide Employees with information in their work area at the time of their initial
assignment, and whenever a new hazard is introduced into their work area". The
requirements apply to operations at the Yard and Shop and Project Sites.
Employees shall be informed of:
1. The requirements of Section "h" of 29 CFR 1926.59.
2. Any operations in their work area at the Yard, Shop or on Project Sites where
hazardous chemicals are present.
3. The location and availability of the written Hazard Communication Program,
including the required list(s) of hazardous chemicals, and Material Safety Data
Sheets required by this section.
Employee training shall include:
4. Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release
of a hazardous chemical in the work area (such as monitoring conducted by the
Employer, continuous monitoring devices, visual appearance or odor of
hazardous chemicals when being released, etc.).
5. The physical and health hazards of the chemicals in the work area.
6. The measures Employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards,
including specific procedures the Employer has implemented to protect
Employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as appropriate work
practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be
used.
7. The details of the Hazard Communication Program developed by the Employer,
including an explanation of the labeling system and the Material Safety Data
Sheet, and how Employees can obtain and use appropriate hazard information.
8. Refer to the Hazard Communication Training Program.
D. Procedures to train new Employees at the time of their initial assignment to work with a
hazardous chemical, and to train Employees when a new hazard is introduced into the
work place.
It is imperative that new Employees be trained pursuant to the hazards associated with
chemicals in the work place. New Employees will undergo initial instruction to describe
the Hazard Communication Program. Additional Project Site training will follow directed
toward specific work assignments through "Tool Box Talks". The OSHA Hazard
Communication Program Project Site Training Summary & Certification (or Spanish
version) provides copies of Training Records to be retained by McCarthy.
Employees hired solely for specific Project Sites will be trained by McCarthy Supervisory
Employees, as to the specific hazards of the chemicals in use at the Project Site. See
Summary and Certification (Spanish) of training for such Employees.
When a new hazardous material or new information relative to existing chemicals is
introduced into the work place, affected Employees will be trained as to the new
hazard. Specific training will include:
1. Review of the Material Safety Data Sheet
2. Review of container labeling and information
3. Review of specific safety precautions
5. LIST OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS
A chemical inventory will be maintained on file in the Division Office.
The inventory will be as follows:
A. Trade Name
B. Chemical Name or Family
C. Synonym
D. Type of Hazard
E. CAS No.
F. NA /UN Number
G. Vendor
H. MSDS Date Received
I. Department
Material Safety Data Sheets will be filed with the chemical inventory.
6. HAZARDS OF NON-ROUTINE TASKS
Employees will be trained regarding the potential hazards associated with non-routine tasks.
7. METHODS TO INFORM ON-SITE SUBCONTRACTORS OF HAZARDS THEIR EMPLOYEES MAY BE
EXPOSED TO WHILE PERFORMING THEIR WORK
A. The Project Safety Officer shall inform all on-site Subcontractors of the chemical hazards
to which the Subcontractors' Employees may be routinely exposed. Applicable Material
Safety Data Sheets will be supplied to the Subcontractor, and the use of appropriate
protective devices will be required.
B. A Purchase Order or Subcontract Agreement with the Subcontractor will require
compliance by the Subcontractor to the following items:
1. Project Site Safety Rules
2. Company Hazard Communication Program
3. Notification of Safety Officer of usage of any toxic substance while on McCarthy
Project Sites. In addition, Material Safety Data Sheets for aforementioned
substance must be supplied.
4. Providing training and information by Subcontractor to its Employees for any
toxic substances which they may be routinely exposed to while working at
McCarthy Project Sites.
8. PROGRAM MANAGEMENT (PROJECT SITE)
A. Employee Hazard Communication
As previously mentioned, all McCarthy Employees are to receive training regarding the
specific chemical hazards associated with their work area. When those hazards are
encountered at a Project Site, a book of Material Safety Data Sheets is to be available to
all Employees of McCarthy during all work shifts. The MSDS book will provide
information about chemical hazards that might be encountered on the job, and the
appropriate protective measures to be taken.
Employees hired on a temporary basis to work a specific Project Site be required to be
trained by McCarthy Project Supervision before commencing work.
B. Contractor/Owner Hazard Communication
McCarthy will, when working on a Project Site, notify the Owner/Operator, HAZCOM
Owner Notification, of the property as to the hazardous substances being used by
McCarthy's Employees while on site. In turn, McCarthy requires that it be notified of any
hazardous substances in use by other Subcontractors, HAZCOM Subcontractor
Notification, or by personnel of the Owner/Operator at the facility.
6.16 LEAD EXPOSURE PROGRAM
Employee exposure to lead in the construction industry is always a possibility. Exposure may be chronic,
small doses over a long period of time; or acute, exposure to large doses in a short period of time. If the
Pre-Job Investigation identifies the potential of lead exposure, or if lead exposure is identified anytime
during construction, the Project Staff shall contact the Division Safety Director to analyze the need for a
Project Site specific Lead Exposure Compliance Program. The following is a Guideline for preparation of
such a Program:
INTRODUCTION: This Lead Exposure Compliance Program was prepared for the protection of Employees
as required by OSHA in 29CFR 1926.62 and equivalent State Standards. The applicable standards must
be referenced for additional details of regulatory requirements.
1. HAZARDS OF LEAD EXPOSURE
Lead is a soft, heavy metal, used for various applications in the construction industry. It is found in small
amounts in the environment. Generally it is used with other products to enhance their performance,
such as paint that is corrosion-resistant, or pipes needing the same protection properties. Lead is found
in everyday products, such as ammunition, batteries, chemical compounds, explosives, glassware and
petroleum projects. Whether the exposure is acute or chronic and the magnitudes of the exposure are
the key to the negative impact of lead on the human body.
A. Acute exposure (extremely high short-term exposure) – though very uncommon, could
be fatal in a matter of days. This could happen in a lead particle enriched environment,
in which a person was required to work for several days in a row without a break.
B. Chronic exposure (elevated long-term exposure) - A more common situation, where the
body absorbs minute amounts of lead over a long period of time. Overexposure to lead
can result in a variety of symptoms; the symptoms may include some or all of the
following:
1. Anxiety
2. Constipation
3. Dizziness
4. Headaches
5. Insomnia
6. Loss of appetite
7. Nausea
8. Weakness
9. Excessive fatigue
10. Hyperactivity
11. Numbness
12. Metallic taste in the mouth
13. Soreness in the muscles and joints
Both acute and chronic exposure to lead can lead to serious health problems, such as high blood
pressure, anemia, birth defects, nervous, urinary and reproductive system disorders. Damage to the
central nervous system is one of the most severe forms of lead poisoning. Kidney disease happens over
a long period of time, with few, if any, symptoms until extensive and most likely permanent damage are
done to the kidneys.
2. Both acute and chronic exposure to lead can lead to serious health problems, such as high blood
pressure, anemia, birth defects, nervous, urinary and reproductive system disorders. Damage to the
central nervous system is one of the most severe forms of lead poisoning. Kidney disease happens over
a long period of time, with few, if any, symptoms until extensive and most likely permanent damage are
done to the kidneys.
2. HOW EXPOSURE TO LEAD OCCURS
Exposure to lead occurs much the same way any other hazardous material would enter the
body. Lead particles may enter the body by:
A. Through the lungs - breathing in lead particles if they are in the air.
B. Through the digestive system - when eating and drinking facilities are located too close
to lead exposure areas, or there are a lack of facilities for personal hygiene; lead
particles can be ingested by accidentally swallowing them when food or drink is
contaminated with lead particles in the air, or transferred from the hands to the food.
C. Absorption through the skin - when protective clothes are worn improperly or not worn
at all, the results can be absorption through the skin.
3. EXPOSURE ASSESSMENTS
Assessments regarding the exposure of Employees to airborne lead in the work place are
evaluated through monitoring of "breathing zone" air and laboratory analysis of air samples for
lead content.
A. Air monitoring will be performed by collecting personal samples representative of a full
shift including at least one sample for each job classification in each work area, either
for each shift or for the shift with the highest exposure level.
Full shift personal samples shall be representative of the monitored employee's regular,
daily exposure to lead.
B. The results of air monitoring are compared to OSHA exposure limits, as follows:
Action level - the air is monitored to determine if the level of lead particles in the air has
reached the action level. The action level for Employee exposure (without the use of a
respirator) is 30 micrograms of airborne lead per cubic meter of air in the work
environment. Exposure above the action level triggers certain requirements under OSHA
Lead Standards.
Permissible Exposure Limit - (PEL) - no Employee shall be exposed to concentrations of
lead greater than 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air 50 ug/m(3) averaged over an
eight-hour period.
C. Additional Exposure Assessment – whenever there has been a change of equipment,
process, control, personnel or a new task has been initiated that may result in additional
employees being exposed to lead at or above the action level or may result in
employees already exposed at or above the action level being exposed above the PEL,
"additional monitoring" will be conducted to confirm that exposure does not exceed the
permissible exposure level.
4. MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE
A. Medical surveillance will be required if exposure is above the action level for more than
thirty days in any consecutive twelve month period. The medical surveillance program
will provide to all exposed employees biological monitoring and medical examinations,
by or under the direction of a licensed physician, as required by OSHA Standards.
Each new Employee that will be exposed to lead hazards will undergo "blood sampling
and analysis" to determine initial blood levels. Once exposed, the Employee will
undergo "blood sampling and analysis" at least every two months for the first six
months and once every six months thereafter until exposure ends. If an Employee's level
of lead in their blood reaches or exceeds 40 ug/dl (micrograms lead per deciliter of
blood), sampling will continue to be every two months (except in the case of medical
removal, during which sampling will be performed every month). Once it returns to less
than 40 ug/dl monitoring once every six months will once again be the cycle until
exposure ends.
B. Medical removal protection - temporary removal for levels of lead in the blood sample
at or above 50 ug/dl will be accomplished until the Employee's level of lead in the blood
is at or below 40 ug/dl. That is, the Employee will be assigned duties, where exposure to
lead is not expected, until blood lead levels are lowered and confirmed to be below
acceptable levels, via two (2) consecutive readings. New hires that have an initial blood
level greater or equal to 50 ug/dl shall not be exposed to lead hazards.
C. In addition, medical examinations will be provided to employees with elevated blood
lead levels and/or symptoms of overexposure to lead, as required by the OSHA
Standard.
D. Also, where respirators are required, employees must undergo and pass a medical
qualification examination prior to being assigned a respirator.
5. METHODS OF COMPLIANCE
Engineering, work and practice administrative controls must be used to the extent feasible to
control employee exposures to below "PEL". During exposure assessment and where
engineering and work practice controls are not sufficient, respirators are required.
Engineering controls may be needed to protect the Employees during exposure assessment and
during the course of the Work. See Engineering Controls Required Determined By Lead Exposure
Levels for a summary of these controls.
A. Written plans for the site-specific compliance program shall include:
A description of each activity in which lead is emitted; e.g. equipment used, material
involved, controls in place, crew size, employee job responsibilities, operating
procedures and maintenance practices.
A description of the specific means that will be employed to achieve compliance and,
where engineering controls are required engineering plans and studies used to
determine methods selected for controlling exposure to lead;
Air monitoring data, which documents the source of lead emissions;
A detailed schedule for implementation of the program, including documentation such
as copies of purchase orders for equipment, construction contracts, etc., and other
relevant information.
Other information, where applicable and relevant, as required by the OSHA Standard.
B. The compliance program shall provide for frequent and regular inspections of job sites,
materials, and equipment to be made by a competent person.
6. PROTECTION DURING EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT
A. The possibility of Exposure ABOVE the PEL – While assessment of the exposure level is
being conducted, employees shall be protected by respiratory protection, which would
protect them as if they were exposed by up to as much as ten times the "PEL"
(permissible Exposure Level) that is 500 ug/m3 . The tasks covered by this requirement
are:
1. Where lead containing coatings or paint are present, manual demolition of
structures (e.g. drywall), manual scraping, manual sanding, heat gun
applications and power tool cleaning with dust collection systems.
2. Excavation and backfilling of contaminated soil. Once assessment has been
completed and documented, if the exposure level is shown to be lower than 50
ug/m3, respiratory protection may be discontinued.
B. For Levels in Excess of the PEL - When we believe that the Employee in all probability
may be exposed above the PEL and possibly above 500 ug/m3, and while performing the
following tasks, the protection level shall be for levels in excess of 500 ug/m3 during the
assessment of exposure:
1. Using mortar containing lead; lead burning;
2. Where lead containing coatings or paint are present: rivet busting; power tool
cleaning without dust collection systems; cleanup activities where dry
expendable abrasive is used; and abrasive blasting enclosures movement and
removal.
Once assessment has been completed and documented, if the exposure level is shown to be lower than
500 ug/m3, respiratory protection may be selected for the lower level.
C. Protection for Levels Above 2500 ug/m3 - For the following tasks, until assessment has
proven the level of exposure to be below 2500 ug/m3, Employees shall be protected as
if the level were above 2500 ug/m3:
1. Abrasive blasting
2. Welding
3. Cutting
4. Torch burning
Once assessment has been completed and the level shown to be lower than 2500 ug/m3, the respirator
may be changed for one adequate for the lower exposure level, once the readings have been
documented.
D. Accuracy of Measurement of Exposure - The method used to measure monitoring and
analysis shall have an accuracy level of ninety-five percent (95%) of not less than plus or
minus thirty-five percent (35%) for airborne concentrations of lead equal to or greater
than 30 ug/m3. The testing will be performed by an outside testing agency with
experience in this type of monitoring.
E. Employee Notification of Exposure Assessment Results - Within five working days of
exposure assessment, (i.e., receipt of air monitoring results) each affected Employee will
be notified of their exposure level in writing. Whenever the results indicate the
exposure level is at or above the PEL, the written notice of exposure level must include
the level it was at and a description of the corrective action that will be taken to reduce
the exposure below the PEL.
7. RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
Where respirators are used under this program, the employee shall select the appropriate
respirator or combination of respirators as outlined in the OSHA Standard for respiratory
protection (29 CFR 1910.134) and the Company Respiratory Protection Program.
NOTE: Disposable dust-mask respirators DO NOT provide enough protection from airborne lead
particles, and shall not be used when working with any concentration of lead, which exceed the
'PEL". The minimum acceptable respirator for exposures to lead above the PEL is a re-usable,
half-mask air-purifying respirator equipped with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cartridges.
8. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
A. McCarthy will provide and expect Employees to use appropriate protective work
clothing and equipment. Clothing and equipment provided may include the following:
1. Coveralls or similar full-body work clothing
2. Gloves, hats, and shoes or disposable shoe coverlets, and;
3. Face shields, vented goggles, or other appropriate protective equipment.
The purpose of protective clothing is to avoid contamination of workers' clothing, shoes, vehicles and
areas outside the work area.
B. Cleaning and replacement - McCarthy shall provide the protective clothing required, in a
clean and dry condition at least weekly, and daily to Employees whose exposure levels
without regard to a respirator are over 200 ug/m(3) of lead as an eight hour TWA.
McCarthy will provide for the cleaning, laundering, and disposal of protective clothing
and equipment, as well as any repair or replacement to maintain their effectiveness.
C. Control of lead contaminated clothing - Lead contaminated clothing will be removed in a
designated change area. Contaminated clothing shall be placed in a closed container in
the designated change area.
D. Labeling of containers with lead contaminated clothing - All designated containers shall
be labeled with the following:
CAUTION
CLOTHING CONTAMINATED WITH LEAD
DO NOT
REMOVE DUST BY BLOWING OR SHAKING
DISPOSE OF LEAD-CONTAMINATED WASH WATER IN ACCORDANCE
WITH APPLICABLE LOCAL, STATE OR FEDERAL REGULATIONS
9. HYGIENE FACILITIES AND PRACTICES
A. Before entering the work area -
1. Change into the proper protective clothing in a designated changing area. Any
clothing not worn under protective clothing should be stored in separate
storage areas inside the changing area.
2. Put on the correct respirator and perform the proper fit checks. The purpose of
these checks is to make sure the mask forms a good seal to the face. Fit checks
shall be done every time an Employee uses a respirator, before entering a
hazardous area.
B. In the work area -
1. Eating, drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or gum, and applying cosmetics is
PROHIBITED !! Signs stating this shall be posted at entrances to and within the
work area.
2. Before leaving the work area, remove all surface dust from the protective
clothing and equipment. Use a vacuum equipped with a high efficiency
particulate filter or other cleaning method that does not cause an uncontrolled
release of lead.
C. After leaving the work area -
1. Remove protective clothing and equipment in a designated dirty area of the
changing facility. The last piece of equipment removed is the respirator.
2. To remove protective coveralls, carefully roll down the suit while turning inside
out. Place the contaminated clothing in the proper closed container for cleaning
or disposal.
3. Never leave the work place wearing any clothing or equipment worn during the
work shift.
4. After removing all protective clothing and equipment, wash hands and face
thoroughly to remove lead particles from the skin, at the designated wash area.
5. Clean protective equipment, including the respirator, according to proper
manufacturer's procedures.
6. Advise Employees to shower As Soon As Possible.
10. HOUSEKEEPING
Housekeeping Guidelines are as follows:
A. All surfaces shall be maintained as free as practicable of accumulations of lead.
B. Clean-up of floors and other surfaces where lead accumulates shall be cleaned by
vacuuming or other methods that minimize the likelihood of lead becoming airborne.
C. Shoveling, dry or wet sweeping and brushing shall be used only where vacuuming or
other equally effective methods have been tried and found not to be effective.
D. Where vacuuming methods are selected, the vacuums shall be equipped with HEPA
filters and used and emptied in a manner that minimizes the re-entry of lead into the
work place.
E. Compressed air shall not be used to remove lead from any surface unless the
compressed air is used in conjunction with a ventilation system designed to capture the
airborne dust created.
11. EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING
The Project Site Safety Officer shall train employees in the "Lead Exposure Program". Employees
will be trained and evaluated medically by the guidelines set forth in the Respiratory Protection
Program and Confined Space Program, if applicable.
Training will be provided in accordance with the Hazard Communication Program for all
Employees who are subject to lead exposure at or above the action level. Retraining will be
accomplished annually for all Employees who are subject to lead exposure. The attached Lead
Exposure Training Record shall be used as a training record and shall be completed by the
Employee. All training will be in accordance with the following:
A. Training Program Contents -
1. Employees shall be trained in the contents of the lead standard and all of the
appendices.
2. The specific nature of the operations that could result in exposure to lead above
the action level.
3. The purpose, proper selection, fitting, use, and limitations of respirators.
4. The purpose and a description of the medical surveillance program, and the
medical removal protection program, including information concerning the
adverse health effects associated with excessive exposure to lead (with
particular attention to the adverse reproductive effects on both males and
females and hazards to the fetus and additional precautions for Employees who
are pregnant).
5. The engineering controls and work practices associated with the Employee's job
assignment, including training Employees to follow relevant good work
practices.
6. Instructions to Employees that chelating agents should not routinely be used to
remove lead from their bodies and should not be used at all except under the
direction of a licensed physician.
7. The Employee's rights of access to exposure records.
B. Access to Information and Training Materials -
1. Copies of the lead standard and its appendices will be made available to
employees upon request.
12. SIGNS
The following warning sign shall be posted in each work area where an employee's exposure to
lead is above the "PEL": WARNING-LEAD WORK AREA-POISON - NO SMOKING OR EATING.
13. RECORD KEEPING
A. Exposure Assessment - McCarthy shall maintain an accurate record of all monitoring and
other data used in conducting Employee Exposure Assessments. Exposure monitoring
records shall include:
1. The date(s), number, duration, location and results of each of the samples
taken, including a description of the sampling procedure used to determine
representative Employee exposure where applicable.
2. A description of the sampling and analytical methods used and evidence of their
accuracy.
3. The type of respiratory devices worn, if any.
4. Exposure records shall be maintained in accordance with applicable regulations.
B. Medical Surveillance -
1. McCarthy shall establish and maintain an accurate record for each Employee
subject to medical surveillance as required by the program. (Refer to the Lead
Medical Surveillance Record). This record will include:
a. The name, social security number, and description of duties of the
Employee.
b. A copy of the physician's written opinions.
c. Results of any airborne exposure monitoring done on or for that
Employee and provided to the physician.
d. Any medical complaints related to the exposure to lead.
2. McCarthy shall keep or require that the examining physician keep the following
medical records:
a. A copy of the medical examination results including medical and work
history.
b. A description of the laboratory procedures and a copy of any standards
or guidelines used to interpret the test results or references to that
information.
c. A copy of the results of biological monitoring.
3. McCarthy shall maintain or require that the physician maintain medical records
in accordance with applicable regulations.
C. Medical Removal - McCarthy shall establish and maintain an accurate record for each
Employee removed from current exposure to lead, with each record including the
following information (Refer to the Lead Removal Record):
1. The name and social security number of the Employee.
2. The date of each occasion that the Employee was removed from current
exposure to lead as well as the corresponding date on which the Employee was
returned to their former job status.
3. A brief description of how each removal was or is being accomplished.
4. A statement with respect to each removal indicating whether or not the reason
for the removal was an elevated blood lead level.
5. McCarthy will maintain each medical removal record for at least the duration of
an Employee's employment.
D. Objective Data for Exemption from Requirement for Initial Monitoring -
For purposes of this section, objective data or information demonstrating that a
particular product or material containing lead or a specific process, operation, or activity
involving lead cannot release dust or fumes in concentrations at or above the action
level under any unexpected conditions of use. Objective data can be obtained from an
industry-wide study or from laboratory product test results from manufacturers of lead
containing projects or materials. The data used from an industry-wide survey will be
obtained under work place conditions closely resembling the processes, types of
material, control methods, work practices and environmental conditions in current
operations.
A copy of any objective data, which McCarthy has relied upon, must be provided to the
Corporate Safety Department, who will maintain the required records.
6.17 LOCKOUT/TAGOUT PROCEDURE
1. PURPOSE
This procedure is used to protect Employees from injury while working on, maintaining or making
modifications to systems or equipment that has been energized.
Affected by this Procedure is any and all electric circuits, electric power, mechanical, hydraulic,
pneumatic, chemical, thermal or any other form of energy.
A process of surveying, isolating, de-energizing and disabling any system will be followed whenever
work modification or maintenance must be performed after energy sources have been applied.
This Procedure specifically requires the use of a lockout and tagout system.
2. IDENTIFICATION TAGS
Identification tags must warn against hazardous conditions that exist and include a legend such as: DO
NOT START, DO NOT OPEN, DO NOT CLOSE, DO NOT ENERGIZE, DO NOT OPERATE. Further, the tag must
include company name, date of installation and full complete name of person placing the lock/tag on
the system.
A Lockout/Tagout Log will be kept in the McCarthy jobsite trailer. The log will identify the company,
equipment to be locked out, location of the equipment, date of lock on and lock off, and the person who
applied the lock.
3. LOCKS
Only specific lockout locks will be used. The locks will be individually keyed. Only one master key
is allowed. The master key will be labeled by company name and one responsible party. All
master keys will be kept in a lock box in the sole care, custody and control of the Project
Manager in the McCarthy jobsite trailer. This master key will only be accessible in any
emergency situation.
To gain access to the master key, a written request stating the reason will be delivered in person
to the Project Manager. Together, they will make an inspection of the area and complete the
emergency task needed.
All locks to be used for this program will be color coded by the responsible company.
I. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY
LOCKS/TAGS BE CUT OFF
4. TRAINING
Cooperative efforts by McCarthy, the Owner and their subcontractors, vendors, and agents will
be used to train and educate their employees in the lockout/tagout procedure. Training must
consist of a) what systems are energized, b) the different types of energy that may be
encountered at this Project, c) the hazards of the types of energy, and d) how to protect from
energy. All Employees must be instructed that all energized systems, machinery, equipment,
etc., must be locked out and tagged out prior to commencing work activity. Written
documentation of all Employee training is to be forwarded to McCarthy before any
Subcontractor's Employee engages in this Procedure.
IV. ANY EMPLOYEE FOUND NOT COMPLYING WILL BE
REMOVED FROM THE PROJECT
5. COMPANY REPRESENTATIVE
Each company will submit, in writing, to McCarthy and the Owner the name and title of their
competent person and an alternate who will be on site, responsible for, and will initiate and
maintain the lockout/tagout procedures for their respective company.
6. NOTIFICATION OF LIVE ENERGY SOURCE
All final energy producing connections of any type must be scheduled/coordinated in advance with
McCarthy and the Owner. Once it is scheduled and coordinated, that system then falls under the
direction of this lockout tag procedure. Any and all future work to that system, process or machinery will
only be allowed after it is locked out and tagged out.
7. ADMINISTRATING LOCKOUTS/TAGOUTS
Upon notification to McCarthy and the Owner that an energized system is in need of work, modification,
maintenance or inspection, the assigned McCarthy representative in conjunction with the company
representative and other effective representatives will make the initial survey. This initial survey will
identify the type and magnitude of the energy that the system uses. They shall describe the hazards of
the energy and must identify and know the methods to control the energy.
If the machine or equipment is operating, it will be shut down and cycled by normal stopping procedure.
Deactivate the energy isolating device(s) so that the equipment or machine is totally isolated from the
energy source. This is known as zero energy. Once zero energy is achieved, the lock and tag must be
applied.
Stored or residual energy (capacitors, springs, elevated machine members, rotating flywheels, hydraulic
systems, air, gas, steam, water pressure, etc.) must be dissipated or restrained and otherwise rendered
safe (grounding, repositioning, blocking, bleeding down, etc.).
Make a final inspection of the area. Once assured it is clear, ensure that the equipment process is, in
fact, de-energized, isolated and disabled by operating the normal operating controls. After ensuring that
the system will not operate, return all controls to the neutral or off position and commence work.
When multiple companies must work on the same system simultaneously, each company must
complete the above requirements and install their own lock/tag on a gang lock hasp. Each individual
Employee must use their own individual tag/lock.
8. RE-ENERGIZING
When the work is complete and the machine and equipment process is ready to be returned to an
energized state, the following steps will be taken in order:
The person removing the last lock will, in conjunction with the assigned McCarthy and Owner's
representatives, check the machine or equipment to ensure that all non essential items have been
removed and that the machine or equipment components are operationally intact.
They will check the work area to ensure all Employees have been removed from the area.
Verify that operational controls are still in the neutral/off position.
Remove the lock and tag from the isolating systems.
Re-energize the machine, process or system.
Notify affected Employees that the machine, process and system is again energized.
Following these procedures will ensure the safety of all Employees involved in the work of energized
systems. If you are not absolutely sure that the system is de-energized DO NOT initiate your work
activity.
6.18 FORKLIFT OPERATION, INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE AND OPERATOR TRAINING
1. INTRODUCTION
For purposes of this policy, forklifts shall include fork trucks, tow motors, powered industrial
trucks, telehandlers and rough terrain forklifts.
These types of lifting devices must be operated and maintained in a safe manner. The following
sections will apply to all pieces of this type equipment under McCarthy’s control.
2. OPERATIONS - GENERAL RULES
1. Only employees trained as outlined in this policy shall be allowed to operate
forklifts. They shall have a sticker on their hardhat identifying them as competent to
operate the forklift. The date of the training shall be put on the sticker. These can be
obtained from your divisional safety director.
2. Free rigging or using slings or other rigging hardware to suspend loads beneath the fork
is prohibited. Only attachments approved by the forklift manufacturer that include load
charts or an apparatus designed and sealed by a registered professional engineer shall
be used. The registered professional engineer must approve the application of the
apparatus for the forklift. The apparatus must be used as designed for its intended
purpose. Check with your divisional safety director for clarification.
3. Seat belts shall be worn at all times. The equipment must also have roll over protection
(ROPS).
4. These rules are covered in the general safety orientation and shall be emphasized as
needed.
3. INSPECTION
Each operator shall make a thorough visual inspection of their machine at the start of each shift. See
Section 02.15 – Daily Forklift Checklist of the Safety Guidelines Manual.
4. MAINTENANCE
Each forklift whether owned, leased or rented by McCarthy shall be properly maintained. No forklift
should be put into service that does not have an operator’s manual and load chart that is physically
stored on the piece of equipment for the operator to use.
McCarthy owned equipment shall have a master copy of the operator’s manual and load chart in the
shop/yard or where ever service records are kept.
The equipment shall be serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and a copy of the
service records shall be kept for the life of the equipment while owned by McCarthy.
5. TRAINING
Prior to permitting an Employee to operate a forklift (except for training purposes), the project
supervision shall ensure that each operator has successfully completed the training required by this
Guideline. This training can be received from a third party or by McCarthy using a designated person
who has requisite knowledge, training and experience to train operators and determine their
competency.
Training shall consist of the following Parts A and B.
1.
A. Formal Instruction (e.g., lecture, discussion, videotape, and or written material), and
practical training (demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises
performed by the trainee). These topics are generic in nature and can be done
classroom style.
Operators shall receive initial training in the following topics, except for topics which the
Employer can demonstrate are not applicable to safe operation of the forklift in the
Employer's workplace.
1. Forklift-Related Topics:
a. Operating instructions, warnings, and precautions for the types of
forklift the operator will be authorized to operate;
b. Mandatory use of seat belt on all forklifts with roll over protection
structures;
c. Differences between the forklift and the automobile;
d. Forklift controls and instrumentation: where they are located, what
they do, and how they work;
e. Engine or motor operation;
f. Steering and maneuvering;
g. Visibility (including restrictions due to loading);
h. Fork and attachment adaptation, operation, and use limitations;
i. Equipment capacity;
j. Equipment stability;
k. Equipment inspection and maintenance the operator will be required to
perform. See Section 02.15 – Daily Forklift Checklist for more details;
l. Refueling and/or charging and recharging of batteries;
m. Operating limitations;
Any other operating instructions, warnings, or precautions listed in the Operator's Manual for the types
of forklift that the Employee is being trained to operate.
2. Workplace-Related Topics:
a. Surface conditions where the forklift will be operated and should not be
operated;
b. Composition of loads to be carried and load stability;
c. Load manipulation, stacking, and unstacking;
d. Pedestrian traffic in areas where the forklift will be operated;
e. Narrow aisles and other restricted places where the forklift will be
operated;
f. Hazardous (classified) locations where the forklift will be operated;
g. Ramps and other sloped surfaces that could affect the forklift’s stability;
h. Closed environments and other areas where insufficient ventilation or
poor forklift maintenance could cause a buildup of carbon monoxide or
diesel exhaust;
i. Other unique or potentially hazardous environmental conditions in the
workplace that could affect safe operation.
3. Safety and Forklift Operations
a. Mandatory use of seatbelt on all forklifts. The equipment must also
have roll over protection (ROPS).
b. Free rigging or using slings or other rigging hardware to suspend loads
beneath the fork is prohibited. Only attachments approved by the
forklift manufacturer that include load charts or an apparatus designed
and sealed by a registered professional engineer shall be used. The
apparatus must be used as designed for its intended purpose. Check
with your division safety director for clarification.
c. Forklifts shall not be driven up to anyone standing in front of a bench or
other fixed object.
d. No person shall be allowed to stand or pass under the elevated portion
of any forklift whether loaded or empty.
e. Unauthorized personnel shall not be permitted to ride on forklifts. A
safe place to ride shall be provided where riding of forklifts is
authorized.
f. The Employer shall prohibit arms or legs from being placed between the
uprights of the mast or outside the running lines of the forklift.
g. When a forklift is left unattended, load-engaging means shall be fully
lowered, controls shall be neutralized, power shall be shut off, and
brakes set. Wheels shall be blocked if the forklift is parked on an incline.
h. A forklift is unattended when the operator is 25 ft. or more away from
the forklift which remains in his view or whenever the operator leaves
the forklift and it is not in his view.
i. When the operator of a forklift is dismounted and within 25 ft. of the
forklift still in his view, the load engaging means shall be fully lowered,
controls neutralized, and the brakes set to prevent movement.
j. A safe distance shall be maintained from the edge of ramps or platforms
while on any elevated dock or platform, or freight car. Forklifts shall not
be used for opening or closing freight doors.
k. Only approved forklifts shall be used in hazardous locations.
l. Using the lifting carriage or forks for lifting personnel is prohibited.
m. All traffic regulations shall be observed, including authorized plant
speed limits. A safe distance shall be maintained approximately three
forklift lengths from the forklift ahead, and the forklift shall be kept
under control at all times.
n. The driver shall be required to slow down and sound the horn at cross
aisles and other locations where vision is obstructed. If the load being
carried obstructs forward view, the driver shall be required to travel
with the load trailing.
o. The driver shall be required to look in the direction of, and keep a clear
view of the path of travel.
p. Grades shall be ascended or descended slowly.
q. When ascending or descending grades in excess of 10 percent; loaded
forklifts shall be driven with the load upgrade. Under all travel
conditions the forklift shall be operated at a speed that will permit it to
be brought to a stop in a safe manner.
r. Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted.
s. Only loads within the rated capacity of the forklift shall be handled.
t. Fuel tanks shall not be filled while the engine is running. Spillage shall
be avoided.
u. Open flames shall not be used for checking electrolyte level in storage
batteries or gasoline level in fuel tanks.
v. Forklifts shall not be altered so that the relative positions of the various
parts are different from what they were when originally received from
the manufacturer, nor shall they be altered either by the addition of
extra parts not provided or approved by the manufacturer or by the
elimination of any parts. Additional counterweighting of forklifts shall
not be done unless approved by the forklift truck manufacturer.
w. Operators shall do a visual inspection prior to using the forklift each
shift. Any problems or concerns shall be brought up to project
supervision.
Avoidance of duplicative training
If an operator has previously received training in a topic specified in Section A of this section, and such
training is appropriate to the forklift and working conditions encountered, additional training in that
topic is not required if the operator has been evaluated and found competent to operate the forklift
safely. This includes union operators that pass training verification from a third party.
B. Evaluation Of The Operator's Performance In The Work Place
The designated person assigned to determine the operator's competency shall use the
Forklift Operator Qualification and check each item for the operator. This check should
be specific to the equipment the Employee will be operating.
After completion of Part A and B above, the operator can be allowed to operate the
forklift for which they have been checked out on.
An executed Forklift Operator Qualification shall be kept in the Employee's file for
reference. In the case of an employee that has verification from a third party, a copy of
this verification will be kept in the employee’s file.
Each operator that has been through the training, as outlined in this policy, shall be
given a sticker for their hard hat identifying them as competent to operate the
forklift. The date of the training shall be put on the sticker. These can be obtained from
your divisional safety director.
Refresher training in relevant topics shall be provided to the operator when:
a. The operator has been observed to operate the forklift in an unsafe manner;
b. The operator has been involved in an accident or near-miss incident;
c. The operator has received an evaluation that reveals that the operator is not operating the
forklift safely;
d. The operator is assigned to drive a different type of forklift; or
e. A condition in the workplace changes in a manner that may present an unsafe operation of the
forklift.
An evaluation of each forklift operator's performance shall be conducted at least once every three years.
6.19 BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN
No Employee at this establishment is required, as part of their job duties, to come in contact with blood
and/or other potentially hazardous bodily fluids. In the event an Employee voluntarily elects to perform
a "Good Samaritan" act such as administering minor first aid to a fellow co-worker, they will use the
proper personal protective equipment (goggles, gloves and face mask which are available at McCarthy's
offices and jobsites) to eliminate the chance of contact with potentially infectious materials. This
personal protective equipment must then be decontaminated or disposed of properly.
1. Following are directions of clean-up of any such potentially hazardous substance:
A. Put on the disposable apron, disposable goggles, disposable shoe covers, and disposable
facemask.
B. Take the clean-up absorbent pack and sprinkle it over the spill.
C. Take the 8-oz. pour bottle with the chlorine concentrate and fill with water to the fill
line. NOTE: Read the precautionary statements on the bottle before opening.
D. Put on latex disposable gloves.
E. Take the scoop and the scraper and scrape up the absorbent.
F. Put the above items in a red plastic bag and tie it shut. DO NOT discard latex disposable
gloves, disposable apron, disposable goggles, disposable shoe covers or disposable face
mask.
G. Pour diluted chlorine solution over the spill area and let set for ten (10) minutes.
H. Use the disposable towels to wipe up the solution.
I. Place all items, including latex disposable gloves, disposable apron, disposable goggles,
disposable shoe covers, and disposable face mask, and the first red plastic bag into the
second red plastic bag.
J. Use the chlorhezidine towlette to clean your hands and discard into the red plastic bag.
K. Tie the red plastic bag securely to prevent leakage. Dispose according to local
regulations.
L. Use the second chlorhezidine towlette to re-clean hands.
M. Disposal will be made through the proper channels such as a waste disposal company or
clinic.
2. Bodily fluid disposal kits are available through your first aid supplier. (Zee Medical has a kit that
costs approximately $12.00.) Every Project Site needs to have one of these, or similar
equipment, on site in the event there is a request to clean up any contaminated areas. Local
emergency services are prepared to perform this task and should be asked to do so.
All first aid kits should be equipped with the proper personal protective equipment (i.e., goggles,
gloves, CPR facemask, etc.) required by the standard to protect these "Good Samaritans" that
voluntarily elect to administer minor first aid to a co-worker.
6.19-A PLAN DE CONTROL DE EXPOSICIÓN A PATÓGENOS TRANSMITIDOS POR LA SANGRE
A ningún empleado en el sitio se le requiere estar en contacto con sangre y/u otros líquidos corporales
que sean potencialmente peligrosos como parte de sus tareas laborales.
En el caso de que un empleado voluntariamente decida realizar un acto de “Buen Samaritano” como por
ejemplo administrarle primeros auxilios básicos a un compañero de trabajo, deberá usar el equipo de
protección personal apropiado (gafas, guantes y mascarilla, que están disponibles en las oficinas y sitios
de trabajo de McCarthy) con el fin de eliminar la posibilidad de contacto con materiales que sean
posiblemente infecciosos. Después, este equipo de protección personal deberá esterilizarse o
desecharse apropiadamente.
A. Las siguientes instrucciones son instrucciones direcciones para limpiar cualquier sustancia
posiblemente peligrosa:
1. Póngase el delantal desechable, las gafas desechables, los cubre zapatos desechables y
la mascarilla desechable
2. Tome el paquete de materiales de limpieza absorbente para limpiar y rocíelo sobre el
derrame.
3. Tome la botella de cloro concentrado de 8 oz. y llénela de agua hasta la raya. NOTA: Lea
las indicaciones de precaución en la botella antes de abrirla. NOTA: Lea las indicaciones
de precaución en la botella antes de abrirla.
4. Póngase guantes de látex desechables.
5. Tome la pala y el raspador, y recoja el material absorbente.
6. Ponga los elementos en una bolsa de plástico roja y amárrela bien. NO deseche los
guantes desechables de látex, el delantal desechable, las gafas desechables, los cubre
zapatos desechables o la mascarilla desechable.
7. Eche la solución de cloro diluido sobre el área de derrame y déjelo así durante (10)
minutos.
8. Use las toallas desechables para limpiar la solución.
9. Coloque todos los artículos, incluyendo los guantes de látex desechables, el delantal
desechable, las gafas desechables, los cubre zapatos desechables y la mascarilla
desechable y la bolsa de plástico roja en la segunda bolsa de plástico roja.
10. Use las toallitas de clorexhidina para limpiarse las manos y deséchelas en la bolsa de
plástico roja.
11. Amarre bien la bolsa de plástico para prevenir fugas. Deseche según las normas locales.
12. Use la otra toallita de clorexhidina para limpiarse nuevamente las manos.
13. La eliminación se hará por medio de los canales apropiados, como alguna compañía o
clínica de eliminación de residuos.
B. Los juegos para desechar líquidos corporales están disponibles por medio de su proveedor de
primeros auxilios. (Zee Medical tiene un juego que cuesta aproximadamente $12.00.) Toda
obra necesita tener uno de estos juegos o equipo similar en el sitio en caso de que se solicite la
limpieza de cualquier área contaminada. Los servicios de emergencia locales están listos para
llevar esta tarea y se les debe de pedir que ellos la realicen. Los servicios locales de emergencia
están preparados para desarrollar esta tares y se les deberá pedir que los hagan.
Todos los equipos de primeros auxilios deberán estar equipados con el equipo de protección
personal apropiado (Ej. gafas, guantes, mascarilla de reanimación cardiopulmonar, etc.)
requerido por los estándares destinados a proteger a estos “Buenos Samaritanos" que
voluntariamente eligen administrar primeros auxilios básicos a un compañero de trabajo.
6.20 MATERIAL UNLOADING PROCEDURES
The removal or off-loading of material from delivery trucks may present certain safety hazards. Whether
removing the material manually or using mechanical equipment (crane, forklift, etc.), special
consideration should be given to make sure the material has been delivered properly, that adequate
resources are available to remove the material, and that the involved employees are properly trained to
avoid unnecessary dangers including the ‘danger zone’. To ensure a safe work environment is provided,
the following items shall be considered whenever material is off-loaded at a project site.
1. PRE-PLAN MATERIAL DELIVERIES
A. Every project will involve the delivery of material and equipment to the project site.
Larger items such as reinforcing steel, formwork, structural steel will be scheduled for
delivery well in advance of the delivery date and should be anticipated. Smaller, more
routine deliveries may not be as easily anticipated. In either case, however, steps must
be taken to make certain provisions are in place to unload the material safely.
B. At the start of each project, the Project Staff, including Foremen, should identify the
major material deliveries. For each type of material, the method of delivery and removal
should be discussed. The following factors should be considered for each item and the
appropriate equipment and training provided to the employees involved. The Project
Manager shall ensure this preplanning is accomplished.
C. Deliveries of larger material such as structural steel, reinforcing steel and precast
concrete must be loaded properly at the point of origin to be offloaded safely. For
example, when loading structural steel beams or columns, the larger material should be
on the bottom, and different length pieces should be separated by dunnage. Material
may be "nested" so long as they are of typical length and size. Smaller material nested
within larger items creates an unsafe condition and is not allowed. Coordination with
the material supplier should begin early in the procurement process. Ask your supplier
for standard loading practices.
2. PROVIDE SAFE ACCESS
A. It is imperative that workers involved in the offloading of material have a safe means of
access and egress to and from the delivery truck bed. Many deliveries require multiple
picks and workers typically find themselves under the load in the ‘danger zone’.
Accordingly, the worker’s involved in the rigging should be directed to exit the delivery
truck bed each time a pick is made. The point of access/egress must be away from the
direction of the load swing.
B. Refer to the Access for Off Loading Flatbed Trailers diagram for examples of work
platforms and access systems. Make certain the system provided is capable of
supporting any temporary loads imposed upon it. If movement of the platform or stair
system is to be accomplished using mechanical means (e.g., forklift or crane), make
certain the assembly is positively connected to allow safe transportation.
3. PROPER RIGGING
A. Only workers trained in the proper methods to rig material are permitted to offload
material by mechanical means. Rigging hardware should be inspected prior to each pick
to make sure it is sound and free of defect. Where a crane is being utilized, one person
should be designated at the signal person for the crane operator.
B. The selection of rigging material must be based not only on the strength capacity of the
hardware, but also according the type of material being offloaded. For instance, in some
cases it may not be appropriate to use nylon straps to pick sharp-edged structural steel
members that may cut the webbing of the rigging. Some deliveries may require multiple
rigging arrangements.
C. Never use "shake-out" hooks to unload a truck. Use a tag line on loads that may swing
uncontrollably.
4. EMPLOYEE & THIRD PARTY AWARENESS
A. A Daily Job Hazard Analysis meeting shall be held each day that material is to be
offloaded from a delivery truck. Employees involved in the operation must be advised to
always avoid the ‘danger zone’. This includes the area beneath the swing radius of the
material being lifted, and the area between the equipment being used to offload the
material and the delivery truck. (e.g., a forklift). In addition, because material can shift
during transportation, the entire perimeter of a tractor-trailer should be barricaded to
prevent workers not involved in the unloading from unknowingly entering a danger
area. Be alert to any drift of the load when it is picked from the truck, especially around
fixed structures or traffic.
B. Workers who are not directly involved in the offloading operation but who may be
subject to the ‘danger zone’ must be warned prior to hoisting material. Every possible
step should be taken so that material is offloaded in a manner that does not expose
others to the ‘danger zone’.
C. If unloading from a street traveled by pedestrians and motor vehicle traffic, make
certain the unloading area is properly marked and barricaded to prevent unauthorized
entry. Employees directing traffic shall wear high-visibility vests and use paddle signs.
6.21 ASBESTOS AWARENESS
ASBESTOS INTRODUCTION:
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous stone. In appearance, asbestos-containing materials range from
soft and cottony to hard and brittle.
There are in excess of 3,800 different asbestos-containing materials that have been fabricated for
construction, industrial, and manufacturing products, serving both interior and exterior functions. Most
uses fall into the following categories:
1. Thermal system insulation, i.e. pipe and HVAC wrap
2. Resilient floor coverings and mastics, i.e. tile and vinyl
3. Structural fireproofing and decorative coatings
4. Asphalt-based roofing
5. Roofing felts and papers
6. Heat deflective material, i.e. fire stopping
7. Cement asbestos board, i.e. siding, soffits, shingles
These materials are usually composite materials of mineral wool, gypsum, and other plasters mixed with
varying amounts of asbestos fiber. Asbestos was added to these materials to add heat resistance,
insulation, acoustical properties, chemical resistance and binding and reinforcement properties.
Generally, most buildings constructed, renovated, remodeled, or altered between 1900 and the late
1970's are likely to have asbestos containing building materials.
Asbestos containing materials that are in their original untouched product form are usually not a health
threat. When these products must be disturbed they should be give special consideration.
Health Hazards
Asbestos is dangerous when it becomes airborne. When it is in the air, the fibers are so small that they
cannot be seen. Asbestos fibers can enter your body through your nose and mouth by breathing or
swallowing them. You cannot see, feel or taste asbestos. It simply does not let you know it is there.
Breathing asbestos fibers could cause the following diseases:
1. Asbestosis: A disease that causes scarring of the lungs
2. Mesothelioma: A cancer of the lining of the lungs or belly
3. Lung Cancer: A cancer of the lungs
4. Other Cancers: Cancers of the digestive system
Asbestos Identification:
Before authorizing or allowing any construction, renovation, remodeling, maintenance, repair or
demolition on buildings built prior to 1980, the owner is required to conduct, or have an environmental
firm conduct a "Good Faith Inspection" of the materials to be worked on or removed. The "Good Faith
Inspection" will determine:
1. The location of asbestos containing materials
2. The quantity of asbestos containing materials
3. The type of asbestos in the materials
The McCarthy Project Manager shall request, from the owner, a copy of the "Good Faith Inspection" and
will not authorize any work that will disturb asbestos-containing materials until a certified asbestos
abatement contractor removes it and the abatement contractor deems the area safe for workers.
McCarthy will maintain a copy of the survey onsite for review and/or inspection. Work will not
commence until the survey is in McCarthy's possession. In the event that there may be the need for
formal asbestos awareness training, contact your Divisional Safety Director.
Procedures after discovering potential Asbestos containing material.
If an employee discovers material that they suspect may contain asbestos, they will stop work
immediately, secure the area from unauthorized entry, and notify the project management staff. To
determine if the suspected material contains asbestos, an asbestos abatement contractor or
environmental firm shall be contacted to sample and analyze the material. Sampling will be performed
by a certified AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) abatement contractor or
environmental firm.
Building Demolition
Prior to the demolition of any structure, the demolition contractor must obtain a permit from the local
air pollution control agency, if applicable.
6.22 REPORTING UNSAFE CONDITIONS & WORK PRACTICES
The ability to detect and correct unsafe conditions and practices is a fundamental component of any
effective safety program. Care must be taken to evaluate each reported hazard and take the necessary
corrective action to prevent the possibility of personal injury or property/equipment damage.
Each McCarthy employee must understand that he/she has the right and obligation to stop an unsafe
act, work practice, or condition. They are also encouraged to correct unsafe conditions that are within
their capabilities.
At the beginning of each project, the jobsite staff personnel shall establish site-specific procedures that
will enable each McCarthy employee to report unsafe conditions and practices. Hazards can be reported
verbally to any McCarthy supervisor at any time. Supervisors should address each issue, to the individual
who brought it to their attention, and explain what action is going to be taken. If no action is to be taken
this too should be explained to the individual.
6.23 STEEL ERECTION
1. INTRODUCTION
Project supervision should be familiar with the process of steel erection as it pertains to safety on the
project. Many entities are involved in design, fabrication, erection and managing this process. OSHA has
adopted requirements to protect employees from hazards associated with steel erection activities. Steel
erection is defined in the OSHA regulation as:
"Steel erection means the construction, alteration or repair of steel buildings, bridges and other
structures, including the installation of metal decking and all planking used during the process of
erection."
2. STEEL ERECTION PLANNING AND ERECTION
The following Matrix for Federal Regulations should be used along with the applicable
federal/state regulations to aid in the management, training, coordinating and performance of
all those involved in the steel erection process. It should be reviewed during Preconstruction
and prior to actual construction. The main provisions of the steel erection standard include as
follows:
A. Site Layout and Construction Sequence - Open Web Steel Joists
B. Site Specific Erection Plans - Falling Object Protection
C. Hoisting and Rigging - Fall Protection
D. Structural Steel Assembly - Training
E. Column Anchorage - Engineered Metal Buildings
F. Beams and Columns
3. STEEL ERECTION COORDINATION
A. Special attention should be paid to the coordination and communication issues stated in
the applicable regulation between the controlling contractor, steel erector and designer.
Specific issues relative to the OSHA regulations are listed by entity referenced on the
Matrix for Federal Regulations.
B. Notification provisions to specific entities included in the regulation may be
accomplished by use of the attached exhibit letter.
C. Steel Erection Subcontractor Field Conditions Notification is a notification from
McCarthy to the steel erection subcontractor pursuant to Federal Regulations 29 CFR
Part 1926.752 (a).
D. There are several "component" requirements to the OSHA steel erection standard that
dictate certain design criterion be maintained. Four anchor bolts per column, and
special connections for double beam/column connections are just an example. Special
consideration during Preconstruction and the planning stages of the project should be
given to these design issues. Although the Engineer of Record and Fabricator should be
cognizant of these regulations, a reminder, to alleviate project delays, should be
forwarded. This can be accomplished with the attached letter.
The attached is a sample letter to notify the steel designer and fabricator of the OSHA regulations
applicable to steel erection.
6.24 FLOOR OPENINGS
Falls through unprotected holes or openings present a fall hazard, which could result in severe injury, or
even death.
The following program is designed to help prevent those accidents from happening by providing a safe,
consistent, practical and cost effective guideline for all Projects.
1. Covers may be used on all openrings 6.25 square feet or less in area and if one dimension is 2.5
feet or less. All other openings shall be barricaded with standard guardrails or decked with the
following considerations:
A. If the holes are to be used for access or to pass material through, they should then be
barricaded with a handrail, complete with gates, removable guardrails or chains.
B. All holes used for access or material handling shall be designated, and locations
disseminated to all individuals working on the Project Site, including Subcontractors.
C. If the opening is decked, aluminum joists or equivalent shall be used, it must be solid
with no openings, and no material storage shall be permitted on the deck
surface. Personnel access should be under special circumstances.
2. Holes with a maximum horizontal dimension of 2" through 12" must be protected so materials
cannot fall to levels below. If an engineered cover such as Paragon Product's "Hole in One
Cover", (phone 800-776-0385) is not used, 3/4" plywood, at a minimum, must be used. Covers
must be secured from displacement, orange in color, and capable of withstanding the maximum
intended load.
3. Unless guardrails or decking are used, holes with a maximum horizontal dimension of greater
than 12", up to the maximum size allowed by Paragraph 1 above, shall be covered with
expanded metal grating, as detailed on the attached Exhibit 06.24-A.
1. The grating shall be painted fluorescent orange.
2. The grating shall be securely fastened as detailed, or with hinges and lockable.
3. All extra grating material shall be maintained for use on future Projects. For purposes of reuse,
DO NOT CUT expanded metal grating for use on smaller holes.
4. Plywood shall not be used to cover holes greater than 12" in the maximum horizontal
dimension.
4. Subcontractors have the responsibility to protect all floor openings created by their work
activities per this policy. Please reference the Subcontract Exhibit 3A, "Safety Addendum to
McCarthy Subcontract".
6.25 TASK HAZARD ANALYSIS PROGRAM
It is imperative to continuously improve safety awareness on every task to be performed, and to provide
for a safer work environment for our employees. The following Program is not a new procedure. It is a
way to document discussions that already take place prior to starting a specific task. Utilize the Task
Hazard Analysis Form (located inside the Safety Planning Book) during the pre-planning with each Crew.
Prior to the start of each workday and when the crew’s task changes, every Foreman shall meet with all
members of the Foreman’s assigned Crew to identify, evaluate, discuss and/or revisit each task they will
be performing during that day. In order to properly visualize the task and hazards in the area of the
work, the T.H.A. is best done at the place where the task is to be performed. The purpose of this
meeting shall be to identify, evaluate, and analyze what safety hazards and danger zones exist in the
performance of each task. Once the safety hazards and danger zones have been analyzed, the Foreman
and the Crew will recommend what safe work procedures need to be implemented.
There will obviously be times when the task being performed will be the same from day-to-day, but
because Members of a Crew will change, previously unknown, unsafe conditions become apparent, the
weather changes, etc., it shall still be necessary for the Task Hazard Analysis to be performed at the start
of each day, and if the task of the crew changes, prior to the start of any new work activity. It is very
important to understand that when unplanned tasks or deviations from the day’s planned events arise,
history shows an increase in the likelihood of an injury while performing these jobs.
The Task Hazard Analysis Form in the Safety Planning Book shall be completed for each task by the Crew
Foreman in a legible manner, and available to the Project Manager and Superintendent for review.
Additional reviews should be conducted by the Project Director and the Division Safety Director.
Completed books should be given to the project office for filing. At the project’s completion, these
booklets should be discarded.
Due to the limited writing space in the booklet, the Foreman should abbreviate the conversations taking
place, while noting the important points. Keep in mind that these forms will be reviewed, and the
reviewer must be able to understand the main points of discussion.
TRAINING:
To ensure the quality of our Task Hazard Analysis (T.H.A.) utilization in the field and increase our ability
to provide a safe work environment, the following training will be completed.
1. PROJECT STAFF MEMBER T.H.A. TRAINING
A. All Project Managers, Superintendents, Foremen, and Engineers are to be trained, when
hired, on how to prepare an effective Task Hazard Analysis.
B. This training shall include the subrject matter as provided by the Task Hazard Analysis
instruction video. It includes performing sample T.H.A.’s to confirm understanding.
C. The Divisional Safety Director is to administer the initial training for the Project
Managers, Superintendents, and Engineers, as well as all new hire Project Managers,
Superintendents, and Project Engineers.
D. The Project Manager and/or Superintendent shall administer the initial and new hire
training for the Foremen.
2. ANNUAL PROJECT STAFF T.H.A. TRAINING
Each Project Manager, Superintendent, Foreman, and Project Engineer is to participate in an
annual review of the proper way in which to complete the T.H.A., as outlined above. This review
should coincide with the Annual Employee Safety Orientation, and coordinated by the Project
Manager.
3. EMPLOYEE TRAINING
All Employees who direct field labor shall be trained. The training should follow the Task Hazard
Analysis Employee Training Record Form.
STAFF PARTICIPATION, MENTORING AND TRACKING COMPLIANCE:
To ensure that the T.H.A. process is performed properly, the following management commitment will be
required.
1. PROJECT STAFF PARTICIPATION
Each foreman will be mentored by a member of the supervisory staff by their active
participation in at least one T.H.A. per week. The manager will schedule this process so that
every member of the supervisory staff participates; including themselves. The staff member
providing the participation and mentoring will make a copy of the page out of the T.H.A. book,
sign it and will be responsible for transmitting a copy to the Safety Director for tracking.
The T.H.A. Supervisory Staff Participation Tracking form should be used to track compliance on
the project and should be sent to the Safety Director monthly with the T.H.A. copies. It also can
be useful in scheduling the staff.
The mentoring by staff on the T.H.A. process is intended to improve the quality of the T.H.A.’s
by helping identify tasks and breaking them into individual steps, effectively communicating the
hazards of each step and assuring the proper amount of time is spent preparing a quality T.H.A.
2. PERIODIC REVIEW AND DISCUSSION IN THE FIELD
The Divisional Safety Director will meet with the Foreman on a Project during periodic Project
visits. The purpose of this meeting is to ensure the T.H.A. is being used effectively on the
Project.
3. PROJECT STAFF DISCUSSION
In addition to the Project Manager and Superintendent routinely reviewing the Task Hazard
Analysis forms, the Manager or Superintendent should randomly select a Task Hazard Analysis
to discuss at each weekly project staff meeting. This will allow the project team to offer
comments regarding the quality and content of the THA.
6.26 DANGER ZONE AWARENESS
The “Danger Zone” in construction is that area in which an Employee is exposed to the hazard of being
struck by or caught in between if something goes wrong with the planned operation or process. This
includes those workers who operate and work around or near equipment, and those working on open
decks where overhead loads are being hoisted nearby.
In order to increase the visibility of workers, high visibility vests or shirts shall be worn at all times except
in break areas, construction offices or canteens.
We are going to utilize the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) process to help inform our Employees of the
hazards associated with danger zones. See the Danger Zone Awareness, Daily Job Hazard Analysis
Meeting Form.
In addition, a toolbox talk has been developed, Danger Zone, to be used on each Project where danger
zones exist.
6.27 WARNING SIGNS, BARRICADES AND BARRICADE TAPE
Introduction
Signs, barricades, and barricade tape can be useful in informing workers and the public of potential
hazards. In some instances barricades can be used to limit access to certain areas. In general terms
warnings shall be erected to warn of specific hazards and removed when the hazards no longer exist.
Several general methods of informing employees and the public are listed below.
Bilingual signage and warnings must be used on projects with non-English speaking employees.
1. Warning Signs
Contractors responsible for creating a hazard shall post site access and warning signage including
emergency contact information.
Many of the standard McCarthy safety signs are listed in the Pre-Job Site Planning Checklist in this
guideline, Section 2.05.
Employees shall be instructed to obey all warning signs.
All installed warning signs and barricades shall be removed when the hazard no longer exists.
2. Barricades
Barricades are required around vertical excavations where fall protection is required, holes or openings
in a floor or roof area, edges of roofs and elevated platforms, around certain types of overhead work
and wherever necessary to warn or protect people against falling in, through or off. The project site
specific Fall Protection Plan should be referenced when deciding on the proper barricades. See Section
6.07 Fall Protection. The Project Site Specific Falling Object Prevention Plan should also be reviewed, see
Section 6.71 Falling Object Prevention and Protection.
To ensure the safety of the general public, maintain adequate protection, such as chain link fences,
gates and barricades to separate work areas from areas outside jobsite limits. Chain link fencing shall be
free from barbs icicles and other projections.
Barricades must be suitable for the area of use (i.e. blinker type barricade or protective barricade to
provide physical protection from falling). Barricades, fences, or in some instances, barricade tape (i.e.
when fall protection is required) should be placed around all construction trenches.
Portable fencing should be considered around construction work areas, contractor storage areas, and
contractor's heavy equipment staging areas. Fencing must be in good repair and installed to ensure
stability of the fencing from being knocked over by employees, or the general public.
Portable fencing shall be installed/braced to prevent it from being blown over during windy conditions.
Base supports for portable fencing shall be installed/placed to eliminate tripping hazards when fencing is
placed adjacent to sidewalks and walkways.
Drilled piers shall be barricaded to keep employees from accidently falling in the excavation.
3. Barricade Tape
Barricade tape with tags shall be used, where appropriate, to warn of existing hazards. It should not be
used to guard open-sided floors, holes or excavations where fall protection is required, temporary
barricades shall be used for this. When planning for hazard avoidance, take into consideration other
methods to protect from the hazard and do not rely just on barricade tape as the only option. Examples
would include debris netting on upper levels, toe boards, secured materials and equipment to avoid
falling objects to levels below. Removing tripping hazards and placing barricades around floor holes.
There are two standard types of barricade tape that are commonly used:
CAUTION tape: Yellow tape indicating a "CAUTION" warning. CAUTION tape is used to warn of a hazard
in a certain work area.
DANGER tape: Red tape indicating a "DANGER" hazard. DANGER tape is to be used only when an
immediate hazard exits inside the work area that is barricaded off.
If other types of barricade tape are suggested for use, they should be approved by the project
supervision. Other types of barricade tape maybe as follows:
ASBESTOS tape: Red tape with the words "Do Not Enter Asbestos Hazard", written continuously across
the tape.
ELECTRICAL LINES 220v and above, as well as ROAD CLOSURE tape; Rope with triangular shaped
pennants or flags.
4. Installation
When barricading off an area, effort should be made to provide an alternate safe route for those not
associated with the work within the barricade area.
A barricade tag must be hung from all CAUTION and DANGER barricade tape. This tag must include the
date, name of the company who erected the tape, the supervisor's name, as well as a list of the hazards
that are present. It must be legibly written so it can be read.
Proper installation of the tape and tags must be communicated to each member of the crew performing
the work activities associated with the barricade tape.
The tags should be placed at a location where persons other than the work crew inside the barricaded
area will most likely see them. This may take more than one tag.
5. Working Rules
If it is necessary to enter an area barricaded with CAUTION tape, all of the hazards present must be
understood before proceeding past the tape.
Only those workers that have been trained and authorized to work in an area with DANGER tape
protecting it shall enter. NEVER go into an area barricaded with DANGER tape without permission from
the supervisor responsible for erecting the DANGER tape.
Anyone crossing DANGER or removing DANGER tape without authorization is subject to disciplinary
action.
Employees should never remove barricade tape or tags without the permission from an authorized
member of the crew performing the work activities associated with the barricade tape.
Barricade tape should be removed as soon as possible when the work or hazards are no longer present.
6.28 SCAFFOLDS
Introduction. Scaffolds are used on many of our projects to facilitate access to the work being
performed. There are many different types of scaffolds used in the construction industry. The OSHA
regulations cover all the different types of scaffolding in detail and in addition it also provides a general
set of requirements that employers must abide by for every type of scaffold.
Responsibility for the worker using the scaffold falls to the employer directing them to do so.
There are several relationships relative to scaffold use that we may encounter on one of our projects.
a. McCarthy erects scaffold for our employees to use.
An example of this may be a stair tower, carpenters form bracket scaffold, mobile or Perry scaffolds.
b. McCarthy erects scaffold for all employers to use.
An example of this is a stair tower.
c. A subcontractor erects a scaffold to perform their work and other employers use it as well.
This would include McCarthy employees inspecting the work for quality. An example of this would be
masons or fabricated frame scaffolds.
General. There are several general requirements that are worth noting for all scaffold operations.
a. Scaffolds shall be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and
direction of a competent person qualified in scaffold erection, moving, dismantling or alteration.
b. Scaffold must be designed by a qualified person and loaded in accordance with that design. This
type of work shall be performed only by experienced and trained employees selected for such
work by the competent person.
c. By no means shall scaffold be loaded in excess of its maximum load.
d. Scaffold shall not be erected close to exposed and energized power lines. The minimum
distances are shown in the OSHA regulations 1926.451(f)(6).
e. When welding, cutting or performing other hot work operations on structural steel, from a
temporary suspended/hanging scaffold, the scaffold shall be designed by a qualified person and
constructed and loaded according to that design. They shall be made of metal, and include
handrails. Employees working in this type of scaffold shall have a secondary means of fall
protection utilizing harnesses and lanyards capable of withstanding the hot work being
performed. This is also mentioned in Fall Protection Section 6.07 of these Safety Guidelines.
f. Workers shall use fall protection when erecting or dismantling scaffold. Personal fall arrest
systems used on scaffolds shall be attached by lanyard to a vertical lifeline, horizontal lifeline, or
scaffold structure member.
Training. The responsibility for the worker using the scaffold defaults to the employer that directs tem
to use it. This would include training, Amy employer directing workers to access and work from a
scaffold should be providing scaffold users training by a person qualified in the subject matter.
This training should include reorganizing the hardards associated with the type of scaffold being used
and to understand the procedure of how to control or minimize those hazards.
This includes electrical hazards, proper use and handling of material, fall protection, maintenance, falling
object projection, and maximum intended loads.
If McCarthy employees are to access a scaffold for any reason, they shall have Scaffold Users Training.
Utilizing the competent person responsible for the scaffold and/or the OSHA eTool, for the type of
scaffold being trained on, this training can be documented on the Scaffold Users Training Record, Exhibit
6.28A. A link to the OSHA eTool is on this exhibit.
Inspection. If a company erected a scaffold they are responsible to have it inspected according to the
regulations, by a competent person before each work shift, and after any occurrence which could affect
the scaffolds structural integrity.
Standard practice is to place a "tag" on the access area of the scaffold showing that it has been
inspected as required. A green tag allowing for is use, and red tag restricting its use, and a yellow tag for
special issues.
If multiple companies are accessing a scaffold it would be allowable that one competent person, agreed
to by all parties, inspect the scaffold for all parties, and tag it.
6.30 REINFORCING STEEL BENDING PROGRAM
Everyone has seen the rebar caps used to protect employees from impalement on reinforcing steel
adjacent to their work area. While they are adequate for the purpose intended they can cause
continuous maintenance to maximize their effectiveness.
The attached details, outlined below, have been reviewed by the Federal Department of Labor and were
found to meet the requirements of 29 CFR 1926.701(b) eliminating an impalement hazard.
Projects should notify the Project Architect, as early as possible, that these details should be
incorporated into the contract documents.
A letter outlining OSHA’s position is available from your Divisional Safety Director.
The attachments are as follows:
Exhibit 6.30.1 – Continuous Footing Details
Exhibit 6.30.2 – Drilled Pier Detail
Exhibit 6.30.3 – Drilled Column Detail
Exhibit 6.30.4 – Spread Footing Detail
Exhibit 6.30.5 – Grade Beam Detail
Exhibit 6.30.6 – Thickened Slab Detail
Exhibit 6.30.7 – Wall Construction Joint Details
6.31 PROTECTING EMPLOYEES FROM CONCRETE BURNS
1. GENERAL
Employees working with uncured (wet) concrete or dry Portland cement mixes are susceptible to
chemical burns. The high PH alkalis in these products can cause burns when it contacts a worker’s skin
and is not promptly removed and the affected areas of contact neutralized.
Portland cement is a component in concrete, mortar, plaster, stucco, terrazzo and grouts. McCarthy
trades that are potentially exposed include concrete finishers, carpenters, and laborers.
Workers exposed to wet concrete include those that are finishing, placing, vibrating, handling pump
hoses, and concrete buckets, etc..
Workers exposed to cement dust include those that are cleaning forms, saw cutting, concrete grinding,
dry packing, patching and rubbing, and chipping and hammering operations.
2. MEDICAL
Skin disorders related to concrete and cement fall under the term “Cement Contact Dermatitis”. They
include the following:
A.
A. Chronic Dermatitis – This disorder is caused by daily exposure to cement
products. Symptoms can include redness, itching, stinging, swelling, cracking, blisters,
and bleeding.
B. Allergies – Allergic reactions to wet cement are normally caused by Hexavalent
Chromium which is found in all cement and is a known allergen to some people. Wet
cement is corrosive and destroys skin surfaces. Once you become allergic, exposure to
even a small amount of cement can trigger a severe reaction.
C. Cement Burns – Cement burns can occur within a matter of minutes or after several
hours of continuous exposure to cement. The burning process is accelerated when
clothing, boots or gloves are saturated with wet cement and/or bleed water and are
rubbing against skin. Cement burns (caustic burns) are actually alkali burns. Cement
burns are known to progress, this means they get worse even without additional
exposure. Alkali damage causes no heat and no pain until it is too late to wash it off. By
the time pain is felt, the alkalis have soaked into the skin and much damage has already
been done and further damage is difficult to stop. Anyone who feels a cement burn
starting should go immediately for emergency treatment by our designated doctor or a
burn specialist.
3. PREVENTION
Medical experts recommend flushing the affected skin with lots of clean water. A neutralizing agent will
help neutralize the effects of the alkalis in cement. Spray the contact area of the skin with a neutralizer
similar to the product referenced below, and then rinse continuously with fresh water. Vinegar also
works as a neutralizing agent.
The following precautions are established to help prevent cement burns and should be included in the
standard job procedures and Job Hazard Analysis.
A.
A. Always follow the precautions listed on the Material Safety Data Sheet for concrete/
cement and have the necessary personal protective equipment available.
B. Long sleeved shirts should be worn to minimize exposure. But if the sleeves become
saturated with wet cement, the shirt must be changed immediately.
C. Rubber boots prevent contact with concrete. When pants are taped inside, concrete
will not enter the boots. Cement Masons or Concrete Finishers should use kneepads
and knee boards if they kneel on wet concrete.
D. Wear the correct type of gloves, consult the MSDS. Consider using disposable gloves or
glove liners. Clean reusable gloves daily.
E. Never let concrete remain on skin or clothing. When wet concrete gets on permeable
clothing, the concrete must be removed immediately to keep it from saturating the
material. When wet concrete gets on skin, it must be washed with clean water and a
neutralizing agent.
In addition to the above guidelines, each job site should provide a spray bottle of neutralizing agent
solution, and an adequate supply of water that is easily accessible for those who may come into contact
with cement containing materials including concrete. It is important that the concrete be washed off
the skin as soon as possible.
References:
http://www.cdc.gov/elcosh/docs/d0400/d000457/d000457.html
Neutralite Solution is a product that comes in a pre-measured container and is mixed with water to form
a neutralizing agent that is sprayed on a contact area. It has an extended shelf life in its dry form and at
least 1 year after adding water. It is available from:
Force Field Technologies
P.O. Box 5381
Granbury, TX 76049
800/850-3908
817/326-5304 Fax
http://www2.itexas.net/forcefield/default.htm
6.32 TRANSPORTING EMPLOYEES ON-SITE
Transporting employees from designated parking areas to work locations can present certain challenges
on geographically large projects or where employee parking is offsite or limited.
During pre-planning of the project’s logistics provisions should be made to provide a safe means of
transportation of employees, if the site conditions warrant same.
OSHA requirements for individual passenger seats with D.O.T. approved seat belts, awkward employee
egress/ingress, and no rollover protection are all valid reasons why pickup truck beds do not provide a
safe means of transporting employees and why this practice is prohibited.
Project planning should include strategic locations of parking lots to reduce travel distance, the
possibility of using a van or bus with a properly licensed driver, and multiple seated job trucks.
6.51 McCARTHY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
1. STATEMENT OF POLICY
McCarthy shall endeavor to comply with the environmental management practices as set forth in the
document and to make all contractors and subcontractors on the project aware of said practices, and
the consequences of failure to abide by them. All contractors and subcontractors shall supply a copy of
their environmental management practices to McCarthy before beginning work on the project.
2. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
The objective of this program is to establish procedures for preventing, responding to, and containing
spills, with the result being an immediate and effective response in the event of a spill.
3. CONSTRUCTION STORMWATER RUNOFF
A. Overview
Under the Federal Clean Water Act, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES)
permit program controls water pollution by regulating sources of pollution that discharge into waters of
the United States. Federal regulations relating to the NDPES Stormwater Permit Program require
operators of certain sized construction projects obtain authorization to discharge stormwater under a
NPDES construction stormwater permit.
If a project we are constructing will disturb the soil, and the project site is greater than one acre, we will
most probably fall into EPA’s required permit definition. This process dictates preparing the information
to obtain the permit as well as the job of installing and maintaining any physical controls put in place,
the extent of this is dictated by each project and each one is different.
It should be noted that the Owner may already have contracted with a third party to complete the
necessary paperwork.
The Building Permits, Licenses, Taxes and Fees Form in Section 01.03 – Permits of the Field Procedures
Manual is a valuable tool in determining responsibilities with regard to this issue.
The Building Permits, Licenses, Taxes and Fees Form, shall be used to identify and track the necessary
licenses, permits and taxes required for the Project. This form specifically lists the Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Permit. This form should be completed by the Preconstruction Representative
prior to the project estimate to ensure timely procurement of the necessary permits, and to ensure that
all appropriate taxes are considered in our estimates.
Once completed, this form should be distributed to the appropriate Team Members (Estimating) and
updated on a regular basis as additional information is obtained.
The local governing agencies should be consulted by the Preconstruction Representative to determine
which agencies have regulatory jurisdiction over the Project and to verify any fee or licensing changes.
A.
B. Requirements
The following information is required by the EPA to be in compliance with the water pollution
regulations. The Construction Industry Compliance Assistance website (www.cicacenter.org) maintains
a listing of all requirements and contacts for each state.
1. A permit application must be submitted. Each states permit is different, however generally
require similar information.
2. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must be developed and implemented on site
(some states require they be submitted with the application, some do not.)
3. Once final stabilization of the site has been achieved as defined in the permit, all temporary
erosion and sediment controls have been removed, and no potential remaining for construction-
related sediment discharge a notice of termination must be submitted.
C. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPP)
One option is to have the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP’s) prepared for a project by an
engineering consultant, that include hydraulic calculations, run off coefficients, analysis of soil
characteristics, sampling of water for solids, rainfall data analysis, etc. (some states require this, some
states do not require the SWPPP be submitted with their application.)
In some instances Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan’s (SWPPP’s) have been completed by our
project staff. The professionally prepared document has certain costs associated with it and the Best
Management Practice installation and maintenance in the field, has costs associated with it as well. The
actual cost of the permit varies from state to state, most are minimal, and some require annual
renewals.
Attached is a generic Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that can be modified for your
particular project. Please make note that this plan contains some generic examples for guidance. Your
Divisional Safety Director should be consulted when drafting this project specific plan.
4. HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL PREVENTION
A. Overview
Leaks and spills are always a concern. McCarthy has taken steps to prevent leaks and spills; using the
proper containers, inspecting them regularly to make sure they are in good condition, and following
proper guidelines when using and transferring substances. This program includes guidelines to be
followed in the event that there is a spill.
A.
B. General Hazards
A spill may present a number of hazards; the specific hazards depend on the substance or substances
involved. Among the possibilities are:
1.
1.
1. Fire
2. Explosion
3. Hazardous substances released in the air
4. Hazardous substances entering the water supply
5. Contamination of individuals who come in contact with the spilled substance
6. Ground/soil contamination
7. These guidelines are designed to minimize the risk of any of these hazards as a
result of a spill.
1.
C. Identifying Hazards
The hazards posed by a spill of a particular substance are detailed on the Material Safety Data Sheet
located in the Hazard Communication Plan. In some cases, the MSDS will tell you what to use, or not to
use, to contain or clean up the substance.
As with all work with hazardous materials, depend on the labels and material safety data sheets to keep
you informed about potential hazards and protective measures. When there’s a possibility of a spill, you
have to be especially alert to reactions; what could happen if the particular substance comes in contact
with another chemical or with soil or water.
A.
D. Practices
Contractors shall follow Best Management Practices (BMP) for spill prevention. BMP’s can be methods,
measures, and practices to prevent or reduce water and soil contamination. They can include, but are
not limited to, maintenance procedures, control-devices, operational procedures to prevent or control
the accidental introduction of contaminants into bodies of water or into the soil.
a.
a.
1. Prevention
Vehicles and heavy equipment leaking fuel, oil, antifreeze, or other fluids on the construction site are
common sources of stormwater pollution and soil contamination. Construction material spills can also
pose problems. Careful site planning, preventive maintenance and good materials handling practices
can eliminate most spills and leaks.
1.
1.
1.
a. Maintain all vehicles and heavy equipment. Inspect frequently for and
repair leaks.
b. Designate specific areas of the construction site, well away from creeks
or storm drain inlets, if possible, for auto and equipment parking and
routine vehicle and equipment maintenance.
c. Perform major maintenance, repair jobs and vehicle and equipment
washing off-site when feasible, or in designated and controlled areas
on-site.
d. If you must drain and replace motor oil, radiator coolant or other fluids
on-site, use drip pans or drop cloths to catch drips and spills. Collect all
spent fluids, store in labeled and separate containers, and recycle
whenever possible. Note that in order to be recyclable, such liquids
must not be mixed with other fluids. Non-recycled fluids generally must
be disposed of as hazardous wastes.
e. Secondary containment is required for potentially hazardous
materials. These would include, but may not be limited to, fuel, oils,
and raw materials stored in containers that are in excess of 55 gallons.
f. Be cognizant of local ordinances/laws that required special handling of
certain construction material and its waste product. For example, in
Washington State wash-out concrete from trucks must be contained
and recycled.
2. Erosion and Sediment Control
The following practices will help prevent erosion from occurring on the construction site:
1.
1.
1.
a. Plan the development to fit the topography, soils, drainage pattern and
natural vegetation of the site.
b. Delineate clearing limits, easements, setbacks, sensitive or critical areas,
trees, drainage courses, and buffer zones to prevent excessive or
unnecessary disturbances and exposure.
c. Phase grading operations to reduce disturbed areas and time of
exposure.
d. Limit on-site construction routes and stabilize construction entrance(s).
e. Remove existing vegetation only when absolutely necessary.
f. Construct diversion dikes and drainage swales to channel runoff around
the site.
g. Conduct routine inspections or erosion control measures especially
before and immediately after rainstorms, and repair if necessary.
3. General Practices
The following are some general principles that can significantly reduce pollution from construction
activity:
1.
5.
1.
a. Identify all storm drains, drainage swales and creeks located near the
construction site and make sure all subcontractors are aware of their
locations to prevent pollutants from entering them.
b. Clean up leaks, drips, and other spills immediately so they do not
contact stormwater.
c. Refuel vehicles and heavy equipment in one designated location on the
site and take care to clean up spills immediately.
d. Wash vehicles at an appropriate off-site facility. If equipment must be
washed on-site, do not use soaps, solvents, degreasers, or steam
cleaning equipment, and prevent wash water from entering the storm
drain. If possible, direct wash water to a low point where if can
evaporate and/or infiltrate.
e. Never wash down pavement or surfaces where materials have
spilled. Use dry cleanup methods whenever possible.
f. Protect all storm drain inlets using filter fabric cloth or other best
management practices to prevent sediments from entering the storm
drainage system during construction activities.
g. Keep pollutants off exposed surfaces. Place trash cans around the site
to reduce litter. Dispose of non-hazardous construction wastes in
covered dumpsters or recycling receptacles.
h. Dispose of all wastes properly. Materials that cannot be reused or
recycled must be taken to an appropriate landfill or disposed of as
hazardous waste. Never throw debris into channels, creeks or into
wetland areas. Never store or leave debris in the street or near a creek
where it may contact runoff.
i. Although many paint materials can and should be recycled, liquid
residues from paints, thinners, solvents, glues, and cleaning fluids are
hazardous wastes. When they are thoroughly dry, empty paint cans,
used brushes, rags, absorbent materials, and drop cloths are, in most
cases, no longer hazardous and may be disposed of as garbage.
j. Never clean brushes or rinse paint containers into a street, gutter, storm
drain, or creek.
k. For water-based paints, paint out brushes to the extent possible and
rinse to a drain leading to the sanitary sewer (i.e., indoor plumbing).
l. For oil-based paints, paint out brushes to the extent possible, and filter
and reuse thinners and solvents. Dispose of unusable thinners and
residue as hazardous waste.
m. Recycle, return to supplier or donate unwanted water-based (latex)
paint. You may be able to recycle clean empty paint cans as metal.
n. Dried latex paint may be disposed of in the garbage.
o. Unwanted paint (that is not recycled), thinners, and sludges must be
disposed of as hazardous waste.
4. Spill Containment
The definition of spill is considered:
a. Discharge of any potentially hazardous product into water
b. Discharge of at least one gallon of a potentially hazardous product into
the ground
Note that the definition of a spill may change by State, and therefore you will need to consult with the
appropriate State Regulatory Agency (EPA, DNR, etc.)
All employees should be familiar with this spill containment plan, and the following guidelines:
a.
a.
a.
a. Report the spill immediately to your supervisor. Supervisors (Project
Manager and/or Foreman) are then responsible for setting the Spill
Containment Plan into motion.
b. Don’t touch or walk in spilled material.
c. Evacuate the area of unnecessary employees and equipment.
d. Stay out of area until instructed by your supervisor to respond or
contain the spill, and given the proper personal protective equipment
(PPE).
At this point the Supervisor will set the Spill Containment Plan into effect by following these guidelines:
a. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that an adequate supply of absorbent booms, pads and
other spill containment materials are available for the respective project.
b. Control the spill.
Stop the source of the leak. Close the valves, pumps, or
whatever may be allowing the material out.
Cover drains or other possible escape routes.
Contain the spill by the best method. That might include
building a dike to keep spilled liquid from getting into water.
Repairing the damaged container.
Channel the spill to a place where it won’t spread and is away
from employees.
Place an empty container under the leak.
Rotating or shifting the container’s position to stop the leak.
Use absorbent materials to soak up the spill or to solidify it.
The choice of absorbent depends on the particular substance
spilled. When land spills occur, shovel contaminated material
onto a plastic sheet or place into a leak proof barrel. Always
cover material, thereby protecting it from the weather.
Dispose of cleaned up material according to all local and federal
laws.
Notify the Safety Department and Risk Management
Department immediately.
Inform the Owner, giving location of the spill, approximate
amount, and type of material.
6.52 MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION GUIDELINE
1. WATER INFILTRATION
Water infiltration can cause serious problems including schedule impacts, safety and health,
etc. Significant mold growth can begin within 48 hours of the materials sustaining water damage.
Reasons for Mold Growth on Building Materials
The primary reason for mold growth is moisture accumulation. This can be due to design or
construction flaws (e.g. improper vapor barriers, leaky roof) improper maintenance or subsequent
occurrences such as pipe leaks or water overflows. Installation of wet or damp building materials can
also lead to microbial growth. Modern, energy efficient buildings appear to be particularly susceptible
as their air-tight construction inhibits drafts and air flow that could otherwise help dry out damp
materials.
Water Damage
Generally there are 3 types of water damage:
A. Clean water
B. Gray water
C. Black water
While all 3 types can lead to mold infestation, gray and black water can be heavily infested with
pathogenic organisms (over 120 viruses can be found in human waste).
Other possible causes of moisture especially in existing facilities:
A. Wet Basements and Crawl Spaces
B. Poorly Vented Attics
C. Mold/mildew colonies develop in the winter from condensation, which then dries to a
powder during the hot season. This condition alone may create pervasive indoor
problems, and poor attic ventilation is largely to blame.
D. Long-Term Leakage in Flat Roofing. Persistent ponding that results from inadequate
taper or lack of crickets further contributes to potential leaks.
E. If roof repairs are not implemented quickly, insulation becomes wet and prompts
colonies to spread widely. This is especially a risk with non-fully adhered systems. When
entrapped water reaches the underside of the roof deck and framing members, fungal
colonies grew on those surfaces as well. An added risk may be infestation of insects that
feed on mold and pose a threat to infection control.
F. Vapor drive from concrete roof decks or from high humidity in the interior spaces
beneath can lead to mold in roofing systems containing organic components (i.e. paper
faced Polyiso insulation and wood fiber cover board). A vapor barrier may be necessary
to offset this condition.
G. Vapor drive from concrete slabs can lead to mold beneath flooring systems as well as
adhesive failure.
H. Spray-applied Fire Resistant Material with organic content may develop mold if not
properly ventilated during installation according to Manufacturer requirements.
I. Even ceiling materials can harbor mold and mildew. When ceiling tiles repeatedly
become wet, the moisture invites numerous types of fungal growth. Concerns about
indoor air quality can often be traced to this condition, particularly in a return air
plenum (an air-filled space in a structure that received air from a blower for
distribution).
J. HVAC Ducts, Chases, and Condensate Pans
K. Sheet metal surfaces in the HVAC devices are sure to sweat and, in the concealed
chases, the equipment becomes a breeding ground for mold. Then, when the
contaminated air is released into occupied spaces, it can create a number of health
concerns.
2. WATER CLEAN UP/REMOVAL OF WEST MATERIALS AND DRYOUT
A systemized approach to cleaning up water problems in buildings should take place immediately to
minimize impacts. In the event that a project suffers water infiltration into a building or, which
subsequently causes water to saturate interior finishes such as drywall, gypsum board partitions,
insulation, ceiling tiles, carpet, etc. The following list of considerations (if carried out quickly and
carefully within 48 hours) should prevent or greatly limit microbial growth.
1.
A. Find and eliminate water infiltration source to prevent further water damage. Infrared
Evaluation can prove a useful tool in pinpointing both the source and extent of water
damage. Refer to Field Procedures Manual Section 02.09-A.
B. The Project Manager shall refer to the McCarthy Field Procedures Manual Section 13.20
– Insurance Claims; for notification protocol.
C. Document the water infiltration cause and subsequent damage to the building using
photography. Be careful to investigate all areas that could have been affected. This
may include water that has moved underneath walls, soaked under cabinets, etc.,
flooring, drywall, etc. Walls containing fiberglass insulation should be removed. Check
the metal track for water accumulation. Water can flow a considerable distance on hard
ceilings. Thoroughly inspect hard ceilings that may be wet.
D. Mobilize to remove all water, all wet materials, and dry-out the building. Document the
removals. Commence a chronological log of all activities, communications, telecoms,
and correspondence.
E. Immediately draft a safety plan and commence activity hazard analysis for all
remediation activity. Give special attention to electrical considerations:
Consider all wet wiring, light fixtures, electrical outlets to be shock hazards until it has been checked by a
building inspector and/or electrician. Until then, turn the power off in the area of the water
damage. (Note: only persons knowledgeable about electrical shock hazards should shut the power
off.) All electrical conduit breakers, GFI’s (Ground Fault Interrupters) and fuses that have become wet
need replacing. Switches and outlets that were wet can be cleaned and reused but, when in doubt,
replace them.
All electrical motors, light fixtures, etc. that were wet need to be opened, cleaned and air-dried by a
qualified person. Before being put back into service, inspect the motors, light fixtures, etc. to ensure no
visible moisture/water droplets.
Clean up after water infiltration could be extensive requiring the contracting of a cleaning and
restoration contractor. (Cleaning will need to be coordinated through Corporate Risk Management for
payment by available insurance.) If a cleaning and restoration contractor performs the work – require
written submittals for safety plan, procedures, personnel training and PPE. References should also be
solicited. (See Section 6.52.IV.A for more information on selecting a contractor.) Whether or not a
cleaning and restoration contractor is utilized the following guidelines can be used to facilitate and
monitor the work.
3. General
McCarthy should inventory all water damaged areas, building materials and furnishings. Special
attention should be given to identify carpet under cabinets, furnishings, etc. Infrared Evaluation can be
an effective means to identify water damage. An alternative method is to use a moisture/multi meter to
measure the relative moisture content of material. (Each meter will have instructions on how to
calibrate and what reading is considered wet.)
Electrical circuits in the walls, under the floors, and in ceilings may be wet. A qualified electrician should
inspect these prior to use.
A qualified technician should inspect computers and other electronic equipment before they are re-
energized.
Good ventilation is essential to rapidly remove water vapor. Open windows and doors and/or adjust the
ventilation equipment to provide as much air exchange to the outside as possible or use blowers and
dehumidifiers until the carpet is dry. Use a dehumidifier to extract water from the air and maintain
relative humidity to less than 70 percent (less than 60% is desirable).
A. Ceiling Tile - Remove and dispose of all wet ceiling tiles within 24-48 hours of water
damage. The only exception would be if ceiling tile has become wet due to a small
steam leak and the shape of the tile has not been altered. In this situation the ceiling
tile can be air-dried and reused.
B. Drywall/Lathe Plaster - Remove and replace all water damaged drywall and insulation
within 24 hours. If the drywall is not removed within 24 hours or if previous water
damage has caused microbial growth, then extensive controls will be necessary for the
removal process. (See fungal contamination during construction or remodeling Section
6.52.III.A.) Use a moisture meter to define moisture limits then cut sheetrock at least
12” beyond the moisture mark.
Wet lathe and plaster may leach the minerals from the wall and form a chalky surface. The loose
material on the surface will need to be removed under controlled conditions and the surface allowed to
dry.
C. Furniture - Upholstered furniture that has become wet due to floods, roof leaks, sewage
backup and ground water infiltration should be disposed of, unless the cleaning and
restoration company believes it can be salvaged.
Hardwood furniture or laminate furniture whose laminate is intact should be air dried and
cleaned. Laminate furniture whose laminate has become delaminated should be disposed of because
the pressed wood under the laminate absorbs water readily and is hard to dry.
Furniture made of particleboard or pressed wafer board should be discarded. If any dried furniture
develops an odor, the furniture should be discarded.
D. Files/Papers - Remove and dispose of non-essential wet files and paperwork. The
exception again would be if the moisture were due to steam leaks; then these can be
dried. Essential wet paper from water-damaged area should be moved to a location
where it can be dried, photocopied and then discarded. Professional conservators
should be contacted for information on handling these types of wet products: American
Institute of Conservation.
If large amounts of files and paperwork cannot be dried within 24-48 hours, essential files/paperwork
may be rinsed with clean water and temporarily frozen until proper drying can be completed. Any paper
products that do develop mold will need to be discarded.
E. Carpet - Any carpet that has been contaminated over a large area with sewage backup
(gray water) should be discarded under controlled conditions and the entire area (bare
floor) disinfected with bleach and water (1 to 20 bleach to water solution).
Small areas of carpet contaminated with sewage backup may be cleaned using the procedure listed for
other sources of water.
Carpet that has become wet from floods, roof leaks, steam leaks, potable water leaks and ground water
can be treated as per the following:
1. Carpet wet LESS THAN 48 HOURS
1. Remove all materials (e.g. furniture, file cabinets) from the carpet.
2. Clean glued down carpet in place before attempting to pull it up. If the carpet is
not glued down, roll up the carpet and move it to another location for
cleaning. Remove and discard the carpet padding.
3. Extract as much water as possible from the carpet using wet vacuums.
4. Shampoo the carpet with a dilute surfactant (detergent).
5. It is preferable not to use a biocide (bleach). If a decision is made to use a
biocide consult a microbiologist. Reason: people may have reaction to
biocides. Often quaternary amine compounds will be used as a biocide/cleaning
compound. The compound may reduce levels of bacteria but is often ineffective
in killing fungal spores.
6. Rinse the carpet with clean water to remove detergent residues.
7. Commercial steam cleaning of carpeting is recommended. The vacuum system
is housed in a truck. The water is heated above the boiling point and is used to
clean the carpeting.
8. Dry the carpet within 12-24 hours of treatment. After work is completed,
increase the room temperature, and use commercial dehumidifiers, floor fans
or exhaust fans to aid in drying the carpet.
2. Carpet wet MORE THAN 48 HOURS
a. Wintertime:
If carpet becomes wet during winter with relatively clean water, the previous
protocol can be used to manage the carpet and salvage it.
b. Summertime:
Drying carpet is usually more difficult in the summertime than the winter if the
carpeting is not in an air-conditioned space or dehumidifiers are not
available. Water damaged carpets in humid environments often do not dry
adequately. Disposal of water damaged carpets in humid environments is often
the best option.
F. Roofing
1. Use IR to identify the extent of moisture.
2. Core to validate IR reading and verify the extent of damage.
3. Remove any material (including insulation and cover board) with moisture
beyond Manufacturer limits.
4. Have CIH evaluate impact of mold.
5. Use IR to verify absence of moisture.
4. FUNGAL CONTAMINATION DURING CONSTRUCTION OR RENOVATION
A. Mold Overview
Mold is everywhere on the planet. Molds can grow in cloth, carpet, wood, sheet rock – almost
anywhere moist conditions and a source of organic material (food) exists. Yeasts, mildew, mushrooms
and fungi that you see on dead trees are all in the same family. We are all continuously exposed to
mold or mold spores. Molds are necessary in the environment for “recycling” organic material from
future plant and animal use.
Health Threat
Mold impact on human health depends on numerous variables:
1. The species involved
2. Metabolic products produced by the species
3. Duration and intensity of exposure
4. Susceptibility of the person exposed
The adverse effects from exposure to these molds can range from runny nose, dermatitis and headaches
to aggravation of asthma, allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In general health effects
fall into one of three categories:
1. Allergy – probably the most common response to mold exposure. Thousands of
mold may contaminate indoor air. However, only a few of them can be tested
for by allergy challenge tests.
2. Irritation – Irritation is usually caused by exposure to fungal produced chemicals
that are released into the air.
3. Infection – Actual fungal infection (e.g. aspergillosis, histoplasmosis) is
rare. Most infected persons will have only minor symptoms and recover
naturally.
While molds are primarily an inhalation hazard, they can also be a skin contact hazard in some
situations.
Medical Tests
Current medical tests can only document that exposure to a fungi has occurred. They cannot determine
source, place, or time of exposure. Since exposure to fungi occurs naturally in both the indoor and
outdoor environments, these tests may be of limited use.
The following is a list of Fungal Organisms for reference only:
A.
Absidia – Opportunistic pathogen for humans. Can infect the lungs and other
organs. Can be fatal to immunosuppressed persons.
Acremonium – 100 difference species. Usually isolated from decaying plant,
food or soil materials. Extremely common in environment and not usually
associated with human disease. Several species may be opportunistic
pathogens. May cause allergic reactions in humans. Usually requires very wet
conditions to grow.
Aspergillus – Common. Several toxigenic species – A. flavus, fumigatus,
parasiticus, niger. Fumigatus and flavus are the most commonly isolated
Aspergillus species. Can cause asthma-like reactions with cough, runny nose,
wheezing. Niger is commonly found in air samples from flooded buildings.
Aureobasidium – Common indoors and outdoors. Typically found on bathroom
walls and shower curtains. Causes mildew. Has been associated with
hypersensitivity pneumonitis in some individuals.
Cladosporium – Over 500 species. Commonly found indoors and outdoors –
found everywhere. Poses little problem except in very high concentrations.
Coccidiodes Immitis – Fungus is endemic in SW United States. May cause
pulmonary infection or disseminated disease.
Curvularia – Not commonly found either indoors or outdoors. Known pathogen
suspected of being highly allergenic in humans.
Fusarium – Occasionally isolated from the air. Usually found in water towers or
other water collection points. Could cause allergenic reaction.
Helminthosprium – Non-pathogenic fungi. Can cause allergic reaction in some
people. Common airborne contaminant.
Penicillium Notatum – Common indoor organism – even in clean
environments. May cause occasional infection in humans. Pulmonary
infections are rare, but it can infect the ear or cornea. Can produce penicillin,
which some people are highly allergic to.
Stachybotrys Chartarum – Not easily measured in the air. Spores not easily
aerosolized. Has a high moisture requirement, so found often in roof leaks of
chronically wet areas.
B. What To Do If There Is Suspected Mold Present
The Project Manager shall refer to the McCarthy Field Procedures Manual Section 13.20 – Insurance
Claims – Builders risk claims for notification protocol. It should be noted that mold remediation may not
be a covered loss. In addition, the Safety Director and Project Director must be notified to assure proper
safety protocol is established. (See IV.C.2)
Fungal Assessment Guidelines
There are no current governmental or industrial regulations for acceptable levels of microorganisms in
the air. A visual inspection is the most important initial step in identifying a possible contamination
problem. The area in question must be carefully assessed to identify the affected areas. In most cases
visual inspection will be sufficient to identify areas that require remediation. It is important however to
be sure all contaminated areas are identified. In drywall material, mold growth may extend up to 3 feet
beyond what is visible. A moisture meter may be useful in assessing which materials may have been
contaminated and should be disposed of.
In addition to looking for mold itself, check for:
1. Earthy or musty odor
2. Signs of water damage
3. Discolored plaster, drywall or other building materials
If it appears mold is present, call the Divisional Safety Director and if in an existing building or hospital
the Infection Control Specialist for the facility may need to be notified as well. If this is an existing
condition these experts should typically be contracted directly by the Owner. It may be necessary to
contact a trained environmental health professional who can: 1) confirm whether abnormal levels of
mold are present; and (2) prepare a remediation plan if necessary.
If a report is necessary, the report must document the concentration, the type, and the current stage of
mold. These professionals customarily are also responsible for the preparation of a mold remediation
plan. Such experts (CIH or microbiologists) may also be valuable for opinions on the possible causes of
the moisture prompting the mold.
It is important to find trained environmental health professionals who have some sense of reason when
it comes to mold remediation. This type of reasoning is most valuable in the initial testing/remedial
planning.
Sampling
Bulk or surface sampling is not always required to undertake a remediation. Air sampling for fungi
should not be part of a routine assessment, decisions about appropriate remediation strategies can
usually be made on the basis of visual inspection.
Currently there are no occupational exposure limits for fungi in the work place. If bulk or air monitoring
is desired, an experienced consultant should be brought in. Samples should be collected by a trained
environmental health professional with experience in sampling for microorganisms. Samples should be
analyzed by a laboratory accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP).
If air samples are taken, outdoor samples and samples in non-affected areas must also be collected
simultaneously. Outdoor and non-affected area samples are critical in helping interpret indoor
microbial sample results by providing background data.
An air sampling provides a method to detect abnormal microbial amplification. It cannot prove sources
of health complaints or suggest any remediation procedures. Visible evidence of contamination is also a
critical piece of the overall assessment.
Surface Sampling
Surface sampling can be used for:
1. Determining if surface microbe levels are greater than “background”
2. Determine possible sources of contamination
3. Determining relative degrees of contamination
The two most common of sample methods are Tape Sampling and Swab Sampling.
1. Tape Sampling – A strip of tape 1-2 inches long is placed (sticky side down) on
surface to be sampled. Advantages are that method is simple, materials are
cheap, no special sample handling or shipping procedures and results can be
had in 1-2 days.
2. Swab Sampling – Can be used for a microscopic “screening” and fungal
identification. Sterile swabs must obviously be used.
Historically, surface sampling results have had poor correlation with inhalation exposure. Surface
sampling should only be used in conjunction with other investigation methods and be only one part of
the effort to investigate potential problem areas.
5. FUNGAL CONTAMINATION REMEDIATION GUIDELINES
A. Identification of Qualified Contractors
The best way to qualify mold remediation contractors is to seek assistance from trained environmental
health professionals. Contractors with remediation construction experience should be utilized.
Qualifications
1.
1.
1. Obtain a statement of qualifications.
2. Obtain a list of previous projects and the corresponding clients/references.
3. Request a certificate of insurance.
4. Inquire as to certification of workers and the company. Research the
certification and the certifying body.
5. Inquire which other companies the contractor is working for and obtain
contacts at those companies.
Procedures
1.
1.
1. Inquire about the company’s approach to inspection of water losses and mold
contamination claims in order to confirm the viability of the biological expert’s
remedial plan.
2. Ask about the types of containment procedures/guidelines that are in place.
3. Inquire about the company’s philosophy and approach to source control.
4. Inquire how the company will assure there will not be a reoccurrence of mold.
5. Inquire if they utilize ANSI/IICRC S500-2006 Standard and Reference Guide for
Professional Water Damage Restoration, for water related cleanup/restoration,
and the ANSI/IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold
Restoration for mold remediation. They can be found, for purchase, on the
following link:
www.iicrc.org/pdf/buydocs.pdf
Equipment/Materials Procedures
1.
1.
1. Ask the company to describe the performance capabilities of the equipment
being recommended.
2. Discuss how the restoration program incorporates available resources, such as
existing HVAC systems.
3. Obtain lists of which chemicals will be used on the project.
4. Obtain MSDS material safety data sheets for all chemicals to be used on the
project.
Communication/Responsiveness
1.
2.
1. Ask how progress of the contractor’s work will be communicated.
2. Inquire which documentation is routinely maintained and provided to property
owners and insurance carriers.
B. General Notes
Pourous materials (e.g. paper wallboard, carpet, ceiling tiles, air filters) should be discarded if
feasible. Decontamination is difficult at best and the probability of reinfestation is high.
Non-porous materials with mold growth (e.g. concrete, brick, plastic, glass) can be decontaminated
using the guidelines for Remediating Building Materials w/Mold Growth. Allow bleach solution to dry
naturally. Contact time between the mold and bleach solution is important. All labels and MSDS for
cleaners or disinfectants must be read carefully and directions followed. Provide fresh air (open
windows, fans) whenever using these materials. Do not mix cleaners and disinfectants together. Rinse
any surface thoroughly before using any other chemicals or cleaners. Mixing certain types of products
can produce toxic vapors or gases.
Moisture laden drywall, insulation, plaster and lath should be removed and replaced. Drywall should be
removed at least 3 feet past the edge of visible mold growth.
If remediation work is to be performed in an existing hospital refer to Infection Control Guidelines
(Section 06.53 of the Safety Guidelines) for more stringent containment requirements. Coordination
must take place with the Hospital’s Infection Control Officer and their Infection Control Guidelines.
Mold growth can eventually cause structural damage to wooden building structures, if a mold/ moisture
problem remains unaddressed for a long time. In the case of a long-term roof leak, for example, molds
can weaken floors and walls as the molds feed on wet wood. If you suspect that mold has damaged
building integrity, you should consult a structural engineer or other professional with expertise in this
area.
A.
C. Mold Remediation Guidelines
These remediation guidelines are based on the size of the affected area to make it easier for
remediators to select appropriate techniques, not on the basis of health effects or research showing
there is a specific method appropriate at a certain number of square feet. These guidelines have been
designed to help construct a remediation plan.
The attached Exhibit I lists the suggested cleanup method, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and
containment for different affected materials in differing sizes.
The methods, PPE, and containment listed in Exhibit I are explained in more detail below.
Note: McCarthy employees should only attempt to clean areas listed as level “small”, “less than 10
square feet”, only after reviewing the situation with the Division Safety Director, Project Director, and
after they have received training on proper clean-up methods, personal protective equipment and
potential health hazards. This 10 square foot area restriction may be increased to 30 square feet using
the “Medium” criteria, only after consultation with the Division Safety Director. All training should be
coordinated though the Division Safety Director.
1.
D. Cleanup Methods
Please note that professional remediators may use some methods not covered in these guidelines;
absence of a method in the guidelines does not necessarily mean that it is not useful.
A.
1. Method 1: Wet Vacuum
Wet vacuums are vacuum cleaners designed to collect water. They can be used to remove water from
floors, carpets, and hard surfaces where water has accumulated. They should not be used to vacuum
porous materials, such as gypsum board. They should be used only when materials are still wet – wet
vacuums may spread spores if sufficient liquid is not present. The tanks, hoses, and attachments of
these vacuums should be thoroughly cleaned and dried after use since mold and mold spores may stick
to the surfaces.
1.
2. Method 2: Damp Wipe
Whether dead or alive, mold is allergenic, and some molds may be toxic. Mold can generally be
removed from nonpourous (hard) surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water, or water and
detergent. Instructions for cleaning surfaces, as listed on product labels, should always be read and
followed. Porous materials that are wet and have mold growing on them may have to be
discarded. Since molds will infiltrate porous substances and grow on or fill in empty spaces or crevices,
the mold can be difficult or impossible to remove completely.
1.
3. Method 3: HEPA Vacuum
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuums are recommended for final cleanup of remediation areas
after materials have been thoroughly dried and contaminated materials removed. HEPA vacuums are
also recommended for cleanup of dust that may have settled on surfaces outside the remediation
area. Care must be taken to assure that the filter is properly seated in the vacuum so that all the air
must pass through the filter. When changing the vacuum filter, remediators should wear PPE to prevent
exposure to the mold that has been captured. The filter and contents of the HEPA vacuum must be
disposed of in well-sealed plastic bags.
1.
4. Method 4: Discard – Remove Damaged Materials and Seal in Plastic Bags
Building materials and furnishings that are contaminated with mold growth and are not salvageable
should be double-bagged using 6-mil polyethylene sheeting. These materials can then usually be
discarded as ordinary construction waste. It is important to package mold-contaminated materials in
sealed bags before removal from the containment area to minimize the dispersion of mold spores
throughout the building. Large items that have heavy mold growth should be covered with polyethylene
sheeting and sealed with duct tape before they are removed from the containment area.
Mold Remediation/Cleanup and Biocides
The purpose of mold remediation is to remove the mold to prevent human exposure and damage to
building materials and furnishings. It is necessary to clean up mold contamination, not just to kill the
mold. Dead mold is still allergenic, and some dead molds are potentially toxic. The use of a biocide,
such as chlorine bleach, is not recommended as a routine practice during mold remediation, although
there may be instances where professional judgment may indicate its use (for example, when immune-
comprised individuals are present). In most cases, it is not possible or desirable to sterilize an area; a
background level of mold spores will remain in the air (roughly equivalent to or lower than the level in
outside air). These spores will not grow if the moisture problem in the building has been resolved.
Some biocides can damage HVAC duct, equipment and interior finishes. Determine consequences of
biocide prior to using.
If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area. Outdoor air may need to be
brought in with fans. When using fans, take care not to distribute mold spores throughout unaffected
area. Biocides are toxic to humans, as well as to mold. You should also use appropriate PPE and read
and follow label precautions. Never mix chlorine bleach solution with cleaning solutions or detergents
that contain ammonia; toxic fumes could be produced.
Some biocides are considered pesticides, and some States require that only registered pesticide
applicators apply these products in schools. Make sure anyone applying a biocide is properly licensed, if
necessary. Fungicides are commonly applied to outdoor plants, soil, and grains as a dust or spray –
examples include hexaclorobenzene, organomercurials, pentachlorophenol, phthalimides, and
dithiocarbamates. Do not use fungicides developed for use outdoors for mold remediation or for any
other indoor situation.
A.
E. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
If the remediation job disturbs mold and mold spores become airborne, then the risk of respiratory
exposure goes up. Actions that are likely to stir up mold include: breakup of moldy porous materials
such as wallboard; invasive procedures used to examine or remediate mold growth in a wall cavity;
actively stripping or peeling wallpaper to remove it; and using fans to dry items.
The primary function of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to avoid inhaling mold and mold spores
and to avoid mold contact with the skin or eyes. The following sections discuss the different types of
PPE that can be using during remediation activities. Please note that all individuals using certain PPE
equipment, such as half-face or full-face respirators, must be trained, must have medical clearance, and
must be fit-tested by a trained professional. In addition, the use of respirators must follow the
respiratory protection program, Safety Guidelines Section 06.08.
Skin and Eye Protection
Gloves are required to protect the skin from contact with mold allergens (and in some cases mold
toxins) and from potentially irritating cleaning solutions. Long gloves that extend to the middle of the
forearm are recommended. The glove material should be selected based on the type of materials being
handled. If you are using a biocide (such as chlorine bleach) or a strong cleaning solution, you should
select gloves made from natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane, or PVC. If you are using a mild
detergent or plain water, ordinary household rubber gloves may be used. To protect your eyes, use
properly fitted goggles or a full-face respirator with HEPA filter. Goggles must be designed to prevent
the entry of dust and small particles. Safety glasses or goggles with open vent holes are not acceptable.
Respiratory Protection
Respirators protect cleanup workers from inhaling airborne mold, mold spores, and dust.
1. Minimum:
When cleaning up a small area affected by mold, you should use an N-95 respirator. This device covers
the nose and mouth, will filter out 95% of the .3 micron particulates in the air. In situations where a full-
face respirator is in use, additional eye protection is not required.
1.
1.
2. Limited:
Limited PPE includes use of a half-face or full-face air purifying respirator (APR) equipped with a N-100
filter cartridge. These respirators contain both inhalation and exhalation valves that filter the air and
ensure that it is free of mold particles. Note that half-face APRs do not provide eye protection. In
addition, the N-100 filters do not remove vapors or gases.
3. Full:
In situations in which high levels of airborne dust or mold spores are likely or when intense or long-term
exposures are expected (e.g., the cleanup of large areas or contamination), a full-face, powered air-
purifying respirator (PAPR) is recommended. Full-face PAPRs use a blower to force air through a N-100
filter. The N-100 filtered air is supplied to a mask that covers the entire face or a hood that covers the
entire head. The positive pressure within the hood prevents unfiltered air from entering through
penetrations or gaps. Individuals must be trained to use the respirators before they begin remediation.
Disposable Protective Clothing
Disposable clothing is recommended during a medium or large remediation project to prevent the
transfer and spread of mold to clothing and to eliminate skin contact with mold.
1. Limited: Disposable paper overalls can be used.
2. Full: Mold-impervious disposable head and foot coverings, and a body suit made of a breathable
material, such as TYVEK®, should be used. All gaps, such as those around ankles and wrists,
should be sealed (many remediators use duct tape to seal clothing).
F. Containment
The purpose of containment during remediation activities is to limit release of mold into the air and
surroundings, in order to minimize the exposure of remediators and building occupants to mold. Mold
and moldy debris should not be allowed to spread to areas in the building beyond the contaminated
site.
The two types of containment recommended in the guidelines Remediating Building Materials w/Mold
Growth are limited and full. The larger the area of moldy material, the greater the possibility of human
exposure and the greater the need for containment. In general, the size of the area helps determine the
level of containment. However, a heavy growth of mold in a relatively small area could release more
spores that a lighter growth of mold in a relatively large area. Choice of containment should be based
on professional judgment. The primary object of containment should be to prevent occupant and
remediator exposure to mold.
1. Limited Containment
Limited containment is generally recommended for areas involving between 10 and 100 square feet (ft²)
of mold contamination. The enclosure around the moldy area should consist of a single layer of 6-mil,
fire-retardant polyethylene sheeting. The containment should have a slit entry and covering flap on the
outside of the containment area. For small areas, the polyethylene sheeting can be affixed to floors and
ceilings with duct tape. For larger areas, a steel or wooden stud frame can be erected and polyethylene
sheeting attached to it. All supply and air vents, doors and chases, and risers within the containment
area must be sealed with polyethylene sheeting to minimize the migration of contaminants to other
parts of the building. Heavy mold growth on ceiling tiles may impact HVAC systems if the space above
the ceiling is used as a return air plenum. In this case, containment should be installed from the floor to
the ceiling deck, and the filters in the air handling units serving the affected area may have to be
replaced once remediation is finished. The containment area must be maintained under negative
pressure relative to surrounding areas. This will ensure that contaminated air does not flow into
adjacent areas. This can be done with a HEPA-filtered fan unit exhausted outside the building. For
small, easily contained areas, an exhaust fan ducted to the outdoors can also be used. The surfaces of
all objects removed from the containment area should be remediated/cleaned prior to removal. The
remediation guidelines outlined in Remediating Building Materials w/Mold Growth can be implemented
when the containment is completely sealed and is under negative pressure relative to the surrounding
area.
2. Full Containment
Full containment is recommended for the cleanup of mold-contaminated surface areas greater than 100
ft² or in any situation in which it appears likely that the occupant space would be further contaminated
without full containment. Double layers of polyethylene should be used to create a barrier between the
moldy area and other parts of the building. A decontamination chamber or airlock should be
constructed for entry into and exit from the remediation area. The entryways to the airlock from the
outside and from the airlock to the main containment area should consist of a slit entry with covering
flaps on the outside surface of each slit entry. The chamber should be large enough to hold a waste
container and allow a person to put on and remove PPE. All contaminated PPE, except respirators,
should be placed in a sealed bag while in this chamber. Respirators should be worn until remediators
are outside the decontamination chamber. PPE must be worn throughout the final stages of HEPA
vacuuming and damp-wiping of the contained area. PPE must also be worn during HEPA vacuum filter
changes or cleanup of the HEPA vacuum.
3. Containment Tips
a. Always maintain the containment area under negative pressure.
b. Exhaust fans to outdoors and ensure that adequate makeup air is provided.
c. If the containment is working, the polyethylene sheeting should billow inwards on all
surfaces. If it flutters or billows outward, containment has been lost, and you should
find and correct the problem before continuing your remediation activities.
4. Duct Cleaning
The EPA recommends ducts be cleaned only on an "as needed" basis such as:
a. If there is substantial visible mold grown inside sheet metal ducts or on other components of
the HVAC system.
b. If they are infested with vermin.
c. If they are clogged with excessive amounts of dust or debris.
Several considerations to keep in mind:
a. If the ducts are lined (internally insulated - typically with fiberglass batting) they can not be
effectively cleaned. The lining should be removed. Interior lining should not be replaced.
b. If the conditions causing the mold growth are not eliminated, the mold will reappear.
c. Cleaning has (as of 1997) not been shown to actually prevent health problems.
Recommended procedures:
a. Open access ports to allow entire system to be cleaned and inspected.
b. Use vacuum equipment that exhausts directly outdoors or has HEPA filtration.
c. Use well-controlled, bristled brushes in addition to vacuum cleaning to remove materials.
d. Application of biocides should be done with extreme caution and only to un-insulated ductwork
after proper cleaning.
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association has developed a set of recommended standards for duct
cleaning.
National Air Duct Cleaners Association
1518 K Street NW #503
Washington, DC 20005
202-737-2926
6.53DUST CONTROL GUIDELINE
1. CONSTRUCTION DUST CONTROL GUIDELINES FOR REMODEL / DEMOLITION / TIE-IN
The implementation of proper dust control measures are essential during all phases of existing hospital,
manufacturing, food processing plant, and laboratory construction/remodel/ demolition. Successful
program measures will ensure a safe environment for all office, plant or laboratory operations. For
healthcare it is essential that this process be coordinated with the Hospital’s Infectious Control Officer
and conform with their established policies, including our program in the Field Procedures Manual,
Section 01.97 Healthcare Infection Control Coordination. The following is a suggested minimum
guideline to assist in setting up a program. The project staff should contact the McCarthy Project
Director and Division Safety Director to develop a job specific plan. If mold is present Section 06.52, III.A
of the Safety Guidelines shall be reviewed prior to implementing a plan.
A.
A. Dust Minimization
1. Partitions will be installed prior to the start of any construction.
2. All partitions will be sealed from floor to ceiling and ceiling to structure.
Dust
0. At the end of each workday, all carpeted floors will be HEPA-vacuumed.
1. All work involving the moving of ceiling tile in isolated areas outside the temporary construction
partitions shall use a 10-1 water to bleach solution. This solution shall be misted directly on the ceiling
tile prior to displacement. After 10 seconds the sprayed ceiling tile may be removed and work shall
commence.
Barriers
0. McCarthy shall provide the necessary temporary drywall or plastic partitions/barriers as
specified. All plastic barriers will be sealed with duct tape.
1. Signs shall be posted at the construction entrance(s) stating that only authorized persons may
enter the area.
2. Where isolated mechanical/electrical/carpentry work will be performed, poly-enclosures will be
installed for protection.
3. All dampers and air returns located in the construction zone will be sealed or have pleated filters
installed during construction.
Debris
0. Debris will be removed through a predetermined route designated by the facility.
1. All debris resulting from construction will be removed daily from the construction zone(s).
2. No debris associated with the primary construction zone will be transported through active
plant process areas.
3. Remote construction “zones” shall transport debris in sealed containers through existing
corridors, or pathways.
4. A dumpster will be located at the loading dock or other agreed location. This dumpster shall be
designated for the specific project construction debris only and will be isolated from general pedestrian
traffic.
5. No trash chutes will be used, unless proper dust precautions are in place.
6. McCarthy will clean an additional 250 sq.ft. outside the construction limits at all points of egress.
7. Tacki-mats, or some other cleaning method for shoes, shall be used at each construction
entrance into occupied space.
HVAC
0. All vents will be either blocked or sealed or filtered prior to construction start-up and prior to
each shift.
1. The primary construction area may need to be continuously supplied with a negative air unit
that shall exhaust air at a rate 25% greater than the rate of the air supply unit and powered on the
emergency circuit or alternative backup power supply.
2. A secondary (back-up) negative air unit may need to be available and located onsite.
3. Air filters will be monitored daily with changes of the filters occurring as needed. Filters will be
disposed of in the designated dumpster.
4. A visual, or other type of confirmation, will be made from directly outside the “containment
area” indicating negative airflow.
5. The air exhaust will be located at a minimum of 75’ from the air intake unless HEPA filtered.
6. The air exhaust air duct shall be constructed with accordion style flex duct, and unless HEPA
filtered should be exhausted outside.
7. All new duct arriving onsite for the project shall be sealed at each open end until
installed. Upon installation, any open end(s) of the duct shall remain sealed until ready for use.
8. Upon completion, the newly installed duct systems shall be cleaned and balanced.
Education
Prior to commencing work, all construction employees shall attend an orientation specific to the project
in question. In addition to McCarthy’s general safety orientation about safety policies and procedures,
this additional orientation shall review the job specific construction dust control program. McCarthy
shall also conduct periodic updates to this training during the weekly safety meetings.
A.
G. Inspection
McCarthy shall conduct daily inspection of the work area to make sure the workers are following the
above required recommendations.
6.63 GLOVE USE GUIDELINE
1. POLICY TRAINING
A. All active McCarthy Trades people will receive a copy of the Glove Use Guideline 06.63.
B. A copy of the Glove Use Guideline 6.63 will be inserted into the New Hire Package.
C. Project supervisory personnel will be trained on what is included in the Glove Use Guideline
6.63. This will include what type of gloves to have on site and where to obtain them.
D. All project Trades people are to be trained using the Glove Use Guideline 6.63.
E. Subsequent training will be conducted on a regular basis using a combination of the Glove Use
Guideline 6.63 and:
1. McCarthy's Hand Injury Awareness Tool Box Talk.
2. McCarthy's Why We Use Gloves Tool Box Talk.
(Note these McCarthy Tool Box Talks are annual topics).
3. Other hand protection material sufficient for this purpose.
2. GLOVE USE GUIDELINE
In PPE required areas, all employees, including management personnel, shall wear gloves at all times.
Activities or tasks, in which gloves may be removed, must be reviewed and approved by McCarthy.
Employees shall wear the proper gloves that will protect their hands from injury, during the following
tasks. Jersey knot or cotton type gloves are not acceptable for hand protection.
(Note: Special care should be taken when working with any equipment or tool that has moving parts
that could catch gloves and cause them to become entangled. Tight fitting or no gloves should be worn
when operating an electric power drill, roto-hammer, or other tool with a spinning chuck.)
The jobsite should maintain an adequate supply of the proper gloves for the type of work they will
encounter.
A.
A. Concrete stripping operations
Suitable gloves for this operation should protect hands from splinters, cuts, and abrasions. These type
gloves include:
1. Heavy leather gloves
2. Heavy leather palmed gloves
3. Nitrile palmed nylon or Kevlar gloves (minimum cut 3 level.
While performing this operation one may encounter handling of rough, splintered wood, nails, and tie
wire.
A.
B. Demolition operations*
Suitable gloves for this operation should protect hands from cuts and abrasions. These type gloves
include:
1. Heavy leather gloves
2. Kevlar brand type cut resistant gloves can have Nitrile palms (minimum cut level 3) *Kevlar
sleeves that cover the wrist to the elbow should also be worn.
3. If working with metal studs and sharp metal pieces, a cut level 5 glove should be used.
While performing this operation, one may encounter handling of rough, splintered wood, nails, tie wire,
metal lathe, studs, etc.
C. Concrete Placement and Chemical handling operations
Suitable gloves for these operations should protect hands from possible contact with chemicals*. These
types of gloves include:
1. Coated rubber
2. Vinyl
3. Latex
4. PVC
5. Neoprene or Nitrile coated type gloves
* MSDS sheets should be reviewed for proper PPE
While performing these operations one may encounter caustics as in concrete placement, patching, or
acid washing and chemicals, such as solvents, fuels, and form oil.
A.
D. Hot or cold material handling operations
Suitable gloves for these operations should protect hands from burns or freezing. These type gloves
include:
1. Welding gloves
2. Heavy leather gloves
While performing this operation, one may encounter; handling of steel heated by welding, and cutting
operations, or frozen material.
E. Exposure to vibration
Suitable gloves for this situation should protect hands from the effects of prolonged exposure to
vibration. These type of gloves include:
1. Anti-vibration gloves.
One may encounter this condition while using tools such as rotary hammers, pneumatic jackhammers,
electric hammer drills, etc.
F. Material handling and general cleanup
Suitable gloves for this operation should protect hands from cuts and abrasions. These type of gloves
include:
1. Heavy leather gloves
2. Kevlar brand type cut resistant gloves, can have Nitrile palms (minimum cut level 3).
While performing this operation, one may encounter handling of rough, splintered wood, nails, tie wire,
metal studs, sheet metal, broken glass, screws, etc.
G. Using knives and razors
Suitable gloves for this operation should protect hands from cuts. These type of gloves include:
1. Kevlar brand type cut resistant gloves, can have Nitrile coated palms (minimum cut level 5).
While performing this operation, one may encounter sharp blades including folding knives and razor
knives.
H. Structural and reinforcing steel
Suitable gloves for this operation should protect hands from cuts and abrasions. These type of gloves
include:
1. Heavy full leather gloves.
2. Kevlar brand type cut resistant gloves, can have Nitrile coated palms (minimum cut level 3).
While performing these operations, one may encounter handling of steel pieces that have burrs, tie
wire, and encounter possible pinch points.
6.63-A DIRECTIVAS DEL USO DE GUANTES
Part 1 Policy Training is not included in this sheet.
2. Guia Para El Uso De Guantes
Los empleados deberán usar los guantes apropiados para proteger sus manos de lesiones al realizar las
siguientes tareas
Nota: Hay que tener cuidado en especial al trabajar con cualquier equipo o herramienta que tenga
partes móviles en las que se puedan atorar y enredarse los guantes. Se deben usar guantes ajustados o
simplemente no usarlos al operar perforadoras mecánicas, taladros u otra herramienta con plato o disco
giratorio.)
El sitio de trabajo deberá tener un surtido adecuado de los guantes apropiados para el tipo de trabajo
con el que se tiene que lidiar.
A.
A. Operaciones de desprendimiento de concreto.
Los guantes adecuados para ésta operación deben de proteger las manos de astillas, cortaduras y
rasguños.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
Guantes de cuero completos.
Guantes con palma de cuero.
Guantes con palma de nylon de nitrilo o guantes Kevlar.
Al realizar esta operación es posible que tenga que trabajar con madera áspera, con astillas, con clavos y
con alambre.
A.
B. Operaciones de demolición*.
Los guantes adecuados para ésta operación deben de proteger las manos de cortaduras y raspaduras.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
Guantes gruesos de cuero completos.
Guantes tipo marca Kevlar, resistentes a cortaduras, pueden tener palma de nitrilo. *Se deben
usar también mangas de marca Kevlar que cubren la muñeca y el codo.
Al realizar esta operación es posible que tenga que trabajar con madera áspera, con astillas, con clavos,
con alambre, etc.
A.
C. La colocacion de concreto y operaciones que requieren la manipulación de químicos.
Se deben de proteger las manos con guantes adecuados para estas operaciones de posible contacto con
químicos*.
Este tipo de guantes incluyen:
Hule cubierto
Vinyl
Látex
PVC
Guantes tipo neoprene o cubiertos con nitrilo
* Para el PPE apropiado (equipo de protección personal, por sus siglas en inglés) deberán consultarse las
hojas de referencia relacionadas con sustancias peligrosas (MSDS, por sus siglas en inglés).
Al realizar estas operaciones, es posible que tenga que trabajar con cáusticos como en el colocacion de
concreto, el parchado o el lavado con ácido, y con químicos como solventes, combustibles y aceite para
encofrados.
1.
D. Operaciones que requieren de manipulación de materiales fríos o calientes.
Se deben de proteger las manos con guantes adecuados para estas operaciones de posibles quemaduras
y congelación.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
Guantes para soldar
Guantes de cuero completos.
Al realizar esta operación, es posible que tenga que trabajar con acero caliente por el proceso de soldar
y operaciones de cortar o material congelado
1.
E. Exposición a vibraciones
Los guantes adecuados para esta situación deben de proteger las manos de los efectos por la exposición
prolongada a la vibración.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
Guantes antivibratorios
Esta condición se puede dar al usar herramientas como martillos rotatorios, martillos perforadores
neumáticos, perforadoras mecánicas, etc.
1.
F. Manejo de materiales y limpieza general
Los guantes adecuados para ésta operación deben de proteger las manos de cortaduras y raspaduras.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
Guantes gruesos de cuero completos.
Guantes tipo marca Kevlar, resistentes a cortaduras, pueden tener palma de
nitrilo.
Al realizar esta operación es posible que tenga que lidiar con madera áspera, con astillas, con clavos, con
alambre amarrado, pernos de metal, chapa de metal, vidrio roto, tornillos, etc.
1.
G. El uso de cuchillos y navajas.
Los guantes adecuados para ésta operación deben de proteger las manos de cortaduras.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
a. Guantes tipo marca Kevlar, resistentes a cortaduras, pueden tener palma de
nitrilo.
Al realizar esta operación, es posible que tenga que trabajar con hojas filosas incluyendo cuchillas
plegables y cortadoras de cartón.
A.
H. Metal estructural y de refuerzo
Los guantes adecuados para ésta operación deben de proteger las manos de cortaduras y raspaduras.
Estos tipos de guantes incluyen:
Guantes gruesos de cuero completos.
Guantes tipo marca Kevlar, resistentes a cortaduras, pueden tener palma de nitrilo.
Al realizar esta operación, es posible que tenga que trabajar con pedazos de metal con rebabas,
alambre, y con áreas en las cuales se puede pellizcar
6.64 PROPER PROTECTIVE FOOTWEAR
Construction projects can present several hazards with regard to moving around the jobsite; walking on
uneven ground, stepping over material and tools, slippery surfaces, foot fatigue, and sharp or pointed
objects.
The appropriate footwear can help protect our employees from these hazards. Proper quality work
boots should have the following characteristics:
1. Above Ankle Height : This prevents bruising caused by striking protruding objects, and provides
maximum support of the ankle reducing sprained ankles.
2. Heavy Soles: Prevents bruises to the sole and some nail punctures. It is McCarthy’s policy that
employees performing demolition and concrete formwork stripping operations wear work boots
with puncture resistant soles, those that withstand a minimum force of 270 pounds to
penetration. Safety insoles can also be worn to fulfill this requirement and will be provided by
McCarthy. Remember to advise our employees to be extremely cautious for stray electrical
current sources on the ground when wearing any metal type insert.
3. Steel Toe or Cap : Will help protect our employee’s toes from objects falling or rolling on to
them. When operating powered compaction equipment it is McCarthy policy that over the boot
toecaps be worn. These should meet the ANSI class 75 test Standard. Employees with work
boots that meet this standard may wear them in lieu of the toecaps.
Work boots should be maintained in good repair. Boots with worn out soles or uppers can lead to injury
and should not be worn on the jobsite.
6.70 BASIC SAFETY ISSUES FOR OFFICE EMPLOYEES VISITING JOBSITES
There are many safety rules to be aware of when on a jobsite. The following is a list of items to consider
before arriving on site. Your project host will inform you of other important safety procedures when
you arrive at the project.
1. Always walk the project with someone familiar with the project.
2. Be alert for trip hazards, in other words, watch where you are going! It is easy to get caught up
in watching things around the job and not where you are going.
3. Avoid the use of your phone, if at all possible. If you need to use your phone while out on the
Project, ask your guide to take you to a safe location and then use your phone.
4. Wear your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Hard hats, safety glasses (clear safety glasses
are preferred due to the possibility of being in a building with low light conditions), gloves and
vests at a minimum. Note if you wear prescription safety glasses to see you will need to put side
shields on your glasses or wear safety glasses over them. These things may be available at the
site, however check with the project staff first to see what they have available and make plans
accordingly.
5. Always wear long pants and hard-soled work boots. Boots should be above ankle height with
strong soles. Also note that some projects may require safety toes on the boots, check before
you go. Shirts cannot be sleeveless. The less jewelry worn the better. Tie up long hair.
6. Pay attention to signs and warning tape. They are there for a reason, never cross taped off
areas.
7. Never expose yourself to a fall! You should never approach an unprotected edge higher than 6’
that does not have a guardrail on it, without wearing a harness and lanyard and tying off.
8. Be on the look out for overhead loads and never walk under one.
9. Be alert for equipment and backup alarms.
10. If you are uncomfortable on ladders, do not use them.
11. Try not to get in the way and pay attention to what is going on around you.
12. Smoking is allowed in designated areas only.
13. The company discipline policy is in effect.
06.71 FALLING OBJECT PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
1. INTRODUCTION
The hazard of being struck by a falling object continues to be in the top four producers of fatalities in the
construction industry. This Falling Object Prevention and Protection Policy is intended to provide
Project Management with the necessary information to implement a program that will prevent
materials and tools from becoming falling object hazards, and in the event something does fall, to
protect workers below.
This policy is not intended to replace standard precautions during normal overhead hoisting or
construction activities, such as setting precast, setting overhead steel, flying form tables or stripping
form work.
Reviewing this policy in its entirety first, and then creating your project specific falling object prevention
plan, will provide for a more comprehensive plan.
2. DEFINITIONS
Falling Object Prevention- Falling Object Prevention involves the use of various methods such as toe
boards, fences, netting, tiebacks, lacing, and lanyards, to prevent objects from falling from a structure
and causing personal injury or death.
Falling Object Protection- Falling Object Protection involves the use of debris nets, overhead canopies,
restricting ingress/egress, and other systems to protect workers in the event an object falls from a
structure.
Falling Objects- Include, but are not limited to hand and power tools, debris and unrestrained materials
being handled or installed near the perimeter of an elevated structure. <">Other materials such as
precast, heavy formwork tables, and post shores will need to be secured/restrained to prevent initial
displacement.
3. SITE SPECIFIC FALLING OBJECT PREVENTION PLAN
Because each project presents its own set of unique circumstances a project specific Falling Object
Prevention Plan shall be created and maintained on each project following the outline provided below.
1.
A. Each phase must be reviewed prior to construction. A Project Site Specific Falling Object
Prevention Plan must be developed and reviewed. This template should be used.
B. Overall responsibility for the development of a Project Site Specific Falling Object
Prevention Plan lies with the Project Manager, and Project Site Superintendent. The
Project Director should be aware of the programs content.
C. The Division Safety Director will be consulted to assist in development of the Plan.
4. HAZARD CONSIDERATIONS
The following items shall be considered when formulating your job specific Falling Object Prevention
and Protection Plan. Your Divisional Safety Director has standard details of materials used in past
applications that may be of help when preparing your plan.
A. Maximum weight of falling object
B. Distance that overhead protection should extend out from the structure and its
relationship to the overall height of the structure.
C. Materials used to restrain.
D. Materials used to protect.
E. Protection at Outrigger Platforms.
F. Protection at Man/Material Hoists.
G. System Inspection Process.
H. List tasks and processes that could create a falling object condition methods to be used,
on levels above the ground, to prevent tools and materials from falling off the structure.
I. Is there enough room around the perimeter of the structure to create a no- access zone
that would prevent workers from being struck by falling objects?
J. On the first level of the structure, will standard guardrails with mesh material be used to
prevent access and egress from locations that are not protected?
K. Can materials be stored far enough away from the structure so as to prevent falling
objects from striking workers as they access the stored materials?
L. What type(s) of overhead protection will be used at points of access and egress?
M. How many access and egress locations will need to be protected?
N. Will additional protection be required below outrigger landing platforms?
O. When scaffolds are erected next to, or hung from the structure, how will the workers
working from the scaffolds be protected from falling objects?
P. If work will need to be performed below occupied scaffolds or aerial lifts, will workers
on the scaffolds and aerial lifts need to use tool lanyards to prevent tools from falling?
Q. In locations where form stripping operations are performed, how will materials be
prevented from falling off the structure?
R. Will a periodic “re-shore inspection log” be helpful?
5. FALLING OBJECT PREVENTION
A. Preventive measures must be put in place to protect workers from being struck by
construction tools, material, or debris that may fall or be blown from upper levels.
These measures shall be outlined in the project specific Falling Object Prevention Plan.
One of the most effective methods is to install a standard wood or cable guard rail
system with a solid or orange mesh material attached in such a way as to enclose the
area between the floor/ground and the top rail. The guard rail system shall be located at
the perimeter of the structure and shall not extend into any areas that are not
protected from above. When placed at the first floor or ground level of a structure, the
system is intended to prevent workers from entering/exiting the structure at locations
other that those that are protected from falling objects. See (Section VI).
If a solid or orange mesh material is not used then a method that provides an equivalent level of
protection shall be used and enforced.
Due to the uncontrollable exposure certain public areas adjacent to our projects present, the following
type projects shall be required to provide the solid or orange mesh material containment fencing to help
reduce those exposures.
1. All structures that have sufficient height wherein a line, which starting at a
specific finished floor elevation and extends from the vertical face of the
building at an angle 30 degrees, lands in an area that has unrestricted access by
the public. (See sample sketch below).
A. Toe boards shall be installed around all floor and roof openings, elevated work
platforms, scaffolds where tools, debris or equipment may fall onto persons below. Toe
boards must be strong enough to withstand a force of at least 50 lbs applied in any
downward or outward direction. Toe boards must be at least 3-1⁄2 inches high.
C. Work outside of the protected deck perimeter may require workers to tether hand and
power tools with the use of tool lanyards. Other forms of protection may be provided
for example the area below the working area can be barricaded and posted with proper
signage warning of the overhead hazard.
D. On elevated decks that are being stripped of formwork, the formwork contractor shall
have a written plan to keep material from falling off the building. In addition all exposed
areas below shall be properly barricaded and posted. Installing debris netting extending
from the floor above down to the toe board or floor of the level that is being stripped is
another option that could be considered. If used, the debris net shall remain in place
until all materials have either been removed or secured to a height less than the top of
the guardrail.
E. Floor holes, chases, shafts and sleeves shall be protected to prevent objects from falling
to lower levels (reference Safety Guidelines 6.24 – Floor Openings for details).
F. Post shores shall be laced, tethered or otherwise secured to prevent the possibility of
displacement. This is especially important on the perimeter of the structure where a
displaced shore may fall from the building to areas below. The contractor who installs
shores and reshores shall schedule a daily check to assure they are not loose.
6. FALLING OBJECT PROTECTION
A. Ingress/egress shall be in designated areas only. Areas not designated as ingress/egress
shall have effective barriers to prevent workers from entering and exiting the structure,
the orange mesh material mentioned in V.A is one option. All designated ingress/egress
locations shall have overhead falling object protection.
B. Not all structures will have identical systems of protection. The width of the controlled
access area will need to be determined on a site by site basis, or in some cases,
elevation by elevation. Some design considerations include work activity, height of the
structure and foot print of the property. The controlled access area shall be reviewed as
work progresses; to make sure it is adequate.
C. The ingress/egress access (canopy) shall be a walk-through style heavy duty scaffold
type frame that is used with standard sectional scaffold base plates, screw jacks and
cross braces. The canopy must be capable of withstanding the expected impact and
sustaining loads of 300 lb/ft². The height clearance shall be at least 7 foot and at least 5
foot in width. Adequate lighting is required, especially for areas being used during non-
daylight hours. Here is a list of considerations when building a canopy:
1. DECKING
Canopy decking must be strong enough to support 300 lb/ft². Double layers of decking are required or a
deck must be constructed using stringers with joists and then decking. The canopy support framework
and the decking must both be designed to meet the load requirements. If the canopy decking is used
for storage, it must be engineered.
1.
1.
2. WIND LOADS
Wind will not only impose horizontal forces on the canopy, but can also produce uplift forces on the
deck. Decking shall be secured to the canopy framework to prevent uplift. The canopy framework
structure must be anchored to the ground, adjacent structure or other method to ensure stability.
1.
1.
3. VEHICLE BARRIER
Canopies erected close to vehicular or equipment traffic must be protected by a concrete barriers.
1.
1.
4. ACCESS
Adequate clearance must be provided to satisfy Building Codes and Fire Marshal or Life Safety
Codes. Total egress must meet the applicable Life Safety Code.
1.
1.
5. EXAMPLES OF PROTECTION
Total Project Protection
Restricted Perimeter
Restricted Area
Overhead Protection at Entrance
Overhead Danger Signage
06.72 SOFT TISSUE INJURY AWARENESS
Soft tissue injuries (STI’s) are injuries to the body that affect the ligaments, tendons, muscles, and
nerves.
These injuries can result from common activities at home, during recreational activities or at
work. Training and education is paramount to help all employees understand the risk factors associated
with STI’s and how to control/minimize them in the workplace.
PROJECT SUPERVISION AWARENESS TRAINING
1. Supervision must understand the risk factors for STI’s and facilitate engineering these risk
factors out of their employee’s work.
All project supervision, Project Manager, Project Superintendent, Project Engineer, General Foremen
and Foremen will be trained utilizing the National AGC program “Soft Tissue Injury Prevention.” (Short
Program.) This one (1) hour training will be facilitated by the Divisional Safety Director using the AGC
Participant’s Guide, McCarthy Power Point Presentation, and AGC video tape.
1.
A. AGC’s Soft Tissue Injury Prevention program should also be made available for
presentation at divisional seminars as it contains many valuable prevention techniques
for use in everyday living and for the workplace.
B. Supervisors shall encourage, and make time available, for employees to warm up and
stretch before performing any work activities.
C. Because manual lifting is a potential source of serious injury, employees shall be
instructed to size up the job, look at the weight, size, shape and condition of the object
to be lifted. They should explore lifting options such as getting help from a co-worker or
utilizing mechanical assistance.
D. Workers shall be instructed to obtain help with any lift that will exceed their abilities to
lift. If the lift weight exceeds 50 pounds, using mechanical means or getting a co-worker
to help is recommended. When lifting with another person, the weight should be evenly
distributed, and movements coordinated.
2. PROJECT TRADESPEOPLE TRAINING
A. All project tradespeople are to view the National AGC Soft Tissue Injury Prevention
video tape on an annual basis. A graphic instructional card depicting correct stretching
form will be distributed at this showing. It will be up to the Divisional Safety Directors to
coordinate this in the field. One suggestion is to show it as part of a McCarthy safety
lunch program on each project.
B. Subsequent training will be conducted on a regular basis using a combination of the AGC
Soft Tissue Injury Prevention Program and:
1. McCarthy’s “Soft Tissue Awareness” Tool Box Talk
2. McCarthy’s “Benefits of Strengthening and Conditioning” Tool Box Talk
3. McCarthy’s “Proper Lifting” Tool Box Talk
(Note: These topics are on the Annual Tool Box Talk topic list.)
06.73 WEATHER SAFETY - THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING
Introduction. Lightning kills an average of 49 people per year in the United States and injures hundreds
more.
The National Weather Service (NWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) state
that the months of June, July and August are the most active for thunderstorms and that anytime you
can see lightning or hear thunder, it is possible that you are within the danger zone.
General. To protect our workforce, we will use the values of 5 miles and 30 minutes as a guideline for
when to suspend outdoor work when a storm is approaching.
When lightning is detected within 5 miles of an outdoor work activity, and is moving in the direction of
the work area, work shall be stopped and everyone will be directed to seek appropriate shelter. Work
may resume 30 minutes after the last thunder cap or lightning flash from the storm that prompted the
suspension.
Sheltered Area. The greatest danger is to those workers that are outside and in the open. Appropriate
shelter should be a hard structure or building. The areas of protected shelter will be located within
various structures at least one level below the active construction deck or in completed structures away
from the windows. The specific location of the protected areas will be identified by the project before
work is begun. Trees, fabric sun shades/tents, and motorized equipment without a hard top do not offer
adequate protection and should be avoided.
Planning. Certain activities, such as crane work, pumping concrete, working in scissor and aerial lifts,
using long handled bull floats, etc., increase the likelihood of a lightning strike.
When planning these activities, supervision should include a plan for evacuation and protection for
these workers in the event of a thunderstorm.
Each project is responsible for developing a protocol and assigning responsibility for the lightning
detection program as part of the Emergency Action Plan.
Responsibility may be assigned to a superintendent, assistant superintendent, safety staff, or crane
operator as necessary to ensure compliance. The plan should include guidance to effectively
communicate a storm warning and an actual evacuation in the event of a thunderstorm.
Each project shall use a weather application similar to WeatherBug, that has proven to be reliable, or
maintain at least one lightning detector which is commercially available and is capable of providing a
warning within a range of 0-40 miles and has an audible alarm.
Consult with your Divisional Safety Director for additional information, as needed.
06.76 POWERED SAW SAFETY
Improper saw use can cause serious injury. Accidents can be avoided by following some simple common
sense guidelines listed below.
The following rules apply to powered saws and include circular saws (Skil Saw), portable band saws
(Porta-Band), reciprocating saws (Sawz-All), table saws, radial-arm and, in some instances, chain saws.
1. Always inspect the saw before you operate it.
2. Always unplug the saw when changing the blade or adjusting the saw.
3. Keep work areas clean. Cluttered areas and benches invite accidents.
4. Never pin the guard open.
5. Always position yourself to protect yourself and others if the saw kicks back.
6. Keep work area well lit.
7. Don’t use power tools in damp or wet locations.
8. Always wear protective safety eyewear and hearing protection if needed.
9. No free hand cutting – cuts must be supported. Never cut while holding material in your
hand. Always use saw horses or some other substantial support.
10. Never cut off with your material lying on the ground or on your foot or leg.
11. Keep second hand on auxiliary handle whenever possible.
12. Certain items, wedges and hubs, for example, should not be made on the jobsite. These items
should be purchased or made in a controlled environment.
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This field procedures manual and its contents are the property of McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. The
contents of this manual are exclusive to McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. and may not be copied or
disseminated without the express written permission of McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.