*Sample Safety Program*

General Safety ProgramPrepared By:

Midwest Builders’ Casualty Group

Safety programs are most effective when they are designed to meet the specific and individual needs of each company. This safety program does not constitute a complete and comprehensive safety program. The intent of this safety program is to encourage the development of individual company specific programs by providing a sample format and suggested wording for program components.

This safety program is not intended to be an exhaustive treatment of the subject, and should not be interpreted as precluding other procedures, which would enhance the safety and health of your place of work or project sites.

Midwest Builders’ Casualty makes no guarantee, warranty or assurance, expressed or implied, that these procedures will insure compliance or are in compliance with requirements of any OSHA regulations or any other laws or regulations dealing with safety and health as it pertains to employees, or the safety and health regulations as it pertains to hazardous substances and/or the work environment.

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IntroductionSafety programs are most effective when they are designed to meet the specific and individual needs of each company. This safety program does not constitute a complete and comprehensive safety program. The intent of this safety program is to encourage the development of individual, “company specific,” programs by providing an outline or basis to begin a suitable and adaptable program that is designed specifically for the type of work your company performs. Samples of more in depth programs are available through the Midwest Builders’ Casualty and by logging into the secure portal at www.MWBC.com.

Midwest Builders’ Casualty requires the procedures in this program to be followed to provide a safe and healthful working environment at every worksite. This safety program is intended to be a guideline that should be used to supplement a more comprehensive program. It may be necessary to adapt your program to specific project sites depending on the hazards that change with each site.

It is the responsibility of management at your company to ensure that these policies are implemented. Therefore, it is the responsibility of management to provide the correct materials, information, and training in order for the employees of the company to implement all applicable safety procedures on the project sites.

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(Company Name) Safety Policy Acknowledgement

I hereby acknowledge receipt of (Company Name)’s Safety Program. I have read or had read to me the Safety Program and I understand the information that it contains. I agree to abide by its provisions, and furthermore I promise to maintain a safe workplace and to follow any additional safety rules as given to me.

___________________________________ __________Employee Signature Date

___________________________________ Print

___________________________________ __________Witness Signature Date

___________________________________ Print

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Safety Policy Statement

It is the policy of ________________________, to comply with all Federal, State, and Municipal laws to provide a safe working environment for our employees. People are the most important asset and we consider the safety of our employees as primary concern.

The following workplace rules are in-place to ensure our employees well being. Every employee must work in a safe manner and follow the workplace rules. The success of our Safety Program is directly related to the performance of every individual in our company.

As a condition of continued employment with _____________________, you will be expected to know and comply with your responsibilities outlined in this manual.

____________________________President

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(Insert Table of Contents Here)

ContentsIntroduction...........................................................................................................................................................................................................2

1 General Safety Rules....................................................................................................................................................................................7

1.1 Supervisor’s Responsibilities.................................................................................................................................................................7

1.2 Employee’s Responsibilities...................................................................................................................................................................7

2 Disciplinary Policy..........................................................................................................................................................................................8

2.1 Policy.....................................................................................................................................................................................................8

2.2 Disciplinary Actions................................................................................................................................................................................8

2.3 Warning Procedures..............................................................................................................................................................................8

2.3.1 Gross Misconduct........................................................................................................................................................................8

3 Substance Abuse Policy................................................................................................................................................................................8

4 Hazard Communication Program (GHS) (29 CFR (1910.1200)....................................................................................................................9

5 Electrical (1926.400)......................................................................................................................................................................................9

6 Lockout/Tagout (29 CFR 1926.417)..............................................................................................................................................................9

6.1 Lockout Procedure.................................................................................................................................................................................9

6.2 Tagout Procedure................................................................................................................................................................................10

6.3 Startup Procedure................................................................................................................................................................................10

7 Assured Equipment Grounding/GFCI (29 CFR 1926.404)...........................................................................................................................10

7.1 Sample Color Marking Scheme...........................................................................................................................................................11

8 Fall Protection (29 CFR 1926.500)..............................................................................................................................................................11

8.1 Steel Erection.......................................................................................................................................................................................12

9 Scaffolding Safety (Subpart L of 29 CFR 1926)...........................................................................................................................................12

10 Ladders and Stairways (Subpart X 29 CFR 1926)...............................................................................................................................13

11 Excavation and Trenching (Subpart P, 29 CFR 1926.650,651,652)....................................................................................................13

12 Underground Utilities (Subpart S 29 CFR 1926)..................................................................................................................................16

13 Confined Space Entry (29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(6))...................................................................................................................................16

14 Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134)..........................................................................................................................................17

15 Compressed Gas Safety (29CFR 1926.153).......................................................................................................................................17

16 Lead Exposure in Construction (29 CFR 1926.62)...............................................................................................................................17

17 Laser Safety (29CFR 1926.102 (b)(2)).................................................................................................................................................18

18 Working Near Water (29 CFR 1926.106).............................................................................................................................................18

19 Welding and Cutting Safety (29CFR 1926.350-.354)...........................................................................................................................18

20 Aerial and Scissors Lifts (29CFR 1926.453)........................................................................................................................................19

20.1 General Rules.................................................................................................................................................................................19

20.2 Operating Safety Procedures..........................................................................................................................................................20

21 Fire Safety (1926.150).........................................................................................................................................................................20

21.1 Portable Fire Extinguishers.............................................................................................................................................................20

21.1.1 The P.A.S.S. Method.................................................................................................................................................................20

21.1.2 Types of Fire Extinguishers........................................................................................................................................................21

22 Hand and Power Tools (1926.300)......................................................................................................................................................21

23 Personal Protective Equipment (1926.95)............................................................................................................................................21

23.1 Head Protection..............................................................................................................................................................................21

23.2 Eye & Face Protection....................................................................................................................................................................21

23.3 Hand Protection..............................................................................................................................................................................22

23.4 Foot Protection................................................................................................................................................................................22

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23.5 Hearing Protection..........................................................................................................................................................................22

23.6 Work Clothing.................................................................................................................................................................................22

23.7 Reflective & High Visibility Clothing.................................................................................................................................................22

24 Traffic Control......................................................................................................................................................................................22

25 Material Handling, Storage, and Disposal (1926.250)..........................................................................................................................23

26 Back Safety..........................................................................................................................................................................................24

27 Motor Vehicle and Heavy Equipment (1926.600).................................................................................................................................25

28 Rigging (1926.251)..............................................................................................................................................................................26

29 Cranes (1926.550)...............................................................................................................................................................................27

29.1 Standard Crane Signals..................................................................................................................................................................28

30 Housekeeping......................................................................................................................................................................................29

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1 General Safety RulesThe following rules are necessary in order to provide employees with the most safe and healthful work environment. The following programs and rules do not go into specific detail and there are often other guidelines and laws that will govern your work practices and/or work environment.

1.1 Supervisor’s Responsibilities Safety meetings shall be held once a week and should be attended by all employees on the site.

All applicable federal and state laws, and company policies must be followed and upheld during time spent on the jobsite.

Required jobsite posters, (OSHA, work comp, minimum wage, etc.) should be posted in plain view in an area where employees regularly congregate.

Do not allow an employee to operate any machinery, equipment, or tool unless the employee has been properly instructed in its use and is thoroughly familiar with all details of its operation.

The employer shall provide training or require that his/her employees are knowledgeable in procedures involving emergency situations and first-aid fundamentals.

Self-Inspections of jobsites shall be done on a daily basis in order to ensure compliance with OSHA, MSHA, and other government regulations.

Accident reports shall be filled out immediately, inform necessary contact immediately, and if the accident is severe, take pictures and witness statements.

1.2 Employee’s Responsibilities All accidents and injuries, no matter how minor, must be reported to supervisory personnel

immediately.

Report any unsafe activity, equipment, condition, or situation to the job-site supervisor immediately.

Good housekeeping is a vital tool in the prevention of accidents. It is essential to keep the work environment free from obstructions and debris. Place materials in their proper place.

Use all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and all safety devices provided by the company for your designated work area at all times.

Horseplay and/or fighting will not be tolerated on the jobsite. Any employee observed doing so would be subject to a company’s disciplinary policy.

Know the locations of fire extinguishers and first aid kits on your jobsite.

The most common cause of accidents is unsafe acts never sacrifice safety for production.

Do not perform a job without the correct training and/or certification.

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2 Disciplinary Policy

2.1 PolicyIt is company policy to discourage employee misconduct and control poor performance through progressive disciplinary action.

2.2 Disciplinary ActionsActions on part of the employee that may warrant the use of disciplinary action include but not limited to:

Violation of safety or drug and alcohol policy

Insubordination

Fighting or horseplay

Careless driving of vehicles or equipment

Falsifying information

Harassment

2.3 Warning ProceduresThe following progressive disciplinary steps apply to employee negligence, misconduct, poor performance, substance abuse, and safety infractions.

Stage 1: Verbal warning (documentation personnel file)

Stage 2: Written warning (documentation personnel file)

Stage 3: Disciplinary Action (will result in a suspension from work from 1 day to 6 months)

2.3.1 Gross Misconduct

When an employee is involved in a case of serious or gross misconduct progressive disciplinary action will not be invoked. Penalties for gross misconduct may be either a six-month suspension or immediate termination for causes.

3 Substance Abuse Policy**A Sample Substance Abuse Policy is available to policyholders by accessing the Portal**

Contact Midwest Builders’ Casualty for additional information regarding implementation of a Substance Abuse Policy.

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4 Hazard Communication Program (GHS) (29 CFR (1910.1200) A copy of the HAZ-COM Program and Global Harmonization System will be made available to all

employees.

Label and mark all containers.

All employees should be trained on how to recognize and interpret labels, warnings, color-coding, and signs affixed to containers that they might handle according to the Global Harmonization System.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS’s) shall be maintained, and any shipments that are received with hazardous chemicals must be checked to ensure that all correct SDS’s were included.

Employees should always read and follow the labels on the chemical’s packaging and the SDS’s before use and follow the instructions recommended by the manufacturer.

Storage of the container should be in conjunction with the manufacturers’ handling and storage requirements. Look for directions such as “cool environment, approved safety cans, special cabinets, etc.” If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer of the chemical.

5 Electrical (1926.400)All employees potentially subjected to arc flash hazards must be provided appropriate training as per NFPA 70E and the proper arc flash protective clothing and equipment.

All extension cords and temporary wiring must be 3-wire conductor and connected only to a properly grounded outlet connection.

Do not make electrical repairs, connections, or installations unless you are qualified to do so.

All extension cords must be inspected before use, damaged cords are not to be used, and they must be taken out of service and tagged.

Extensions cords must be designed for hard or extra hard usage (examples include S, ST, STO, SO, SJ, SJO, and SJTO)

Protect extension cords and wiring from physical damage.

Do not use any electrical power tools that are not properly grounded or double insulated. Do not use any electrical tool that has the ground prong missing.

All temporary power circuits shall have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI).

Temporary lighting will be equipped with guards to prevent accidental contact with the bulb.

Temporary lights will not be hung by the wiring unless designed to do so.

6 Lockout/Tagout (29 CFR 1926.417)All employees must attend lockout/tagout training.

6.1 Lockout Procedure The project superintendent will obtain clearance from the owner to determine de-energization effects

and timing.

The job foreman will receive approval for de-energization from the project manager.

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The job foreman and employee will identify and will be in agreement that the correct control point and method has been selected.

The person performing the work will then de-energize and place their lock(s), lockout device(s), and identification tag(s). NOTE: If there are two or more employees working on the piece of equipment, each employee must fix his/her own lock on the locking device.

After lockout is complete, verify that all equipment is at zero energy. This can be accomplished by using voltage meter checks and by operation control mechanisms such as circuits and switches in all modes.

Each employee is to keep his/her key in his or her possession during the duration of the work being performed.

6.2 Tagout Procedure The TAGOUT procedure follows the same steps and has the same requirements for ensuring de-

energization as the LOCKOUT procedure.

TAGOUT does not provide the same protection as LOCKOUT; therefore these extra conditions must be met.

Tagout shall only be implemented when there is no physical engineered accommodation for lockout and the employee performing the work can maintain continuous line of sight monitoring of the tag location.

Tagout requires the use of completed “DANGER-DO NOT OPERATE” tags.

6.3 Startup Procedure Each Lockout or Tagout device shall be removed from each energy-isolating device by the employee

who applied it.

Supervisors shall be notified before tags or locks are removed and equipment is energized.

Before lockout or tagout devices are removed and energy is restored, the work area shall be checked to ensure that all nonessential items and all personnel are removed or safely positioned.

Always inform all affected employees before lockout or tagout devices are removed and power is restored.

7 Assured Equipment Grounding/GFCI (29 CFR 1926.404) All 120 volt, single phase, 15 and 20 ampere receptacle outlets on construction sites, which are not a

part of the permanent wiring of the building or structure and which are in use by employees, shall have approved ground-fault circuit interrupters for personnel protection.

All 120-volt cord sets shall have an equipment-grounding conductor, which shall be connected to the grounding contacts of the connector(s) on each end of the cord.

Employees will visually inspect receptacles, flexible cord sets (extension cords), electrical equipment and electrical tools before each day’s use for external defects such as deformed or missing pins for insulation damage and for indication of possible internal damage. Where there is evidence of damage, the item shall be taken out of service until tests and any required repairs have been made.

Cords should be checked at three-month intervals unless they are fixed and not exposed to damage. Fixed cords shall be inspected no less than once every six months. Verification of these tests shall be by means of numeric or color-coded marking tape on the receptacle, cord set, or equipment to identify that it has passed the test and to indicate the date month or quarter.

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7.1 Sample Color Marking SchemeColor SeasonWhite WinterGreen SpringRed SummerOrange AutumnBrown Damage/Repair/Incident

8 Fall Protection (29 CFR 1926.500) As a general rule, all employees that are exposed to falls of 6 feet or more should be protected with

some form of fall protection. For instance: guardrail systems, mobile carts, retractable lifelines, nets, and rope grab systems, etc. Fall protection training must be provided for all employees involved with purchasing, assembling, using, maintaining, and overseeing the fall protection program.

Guardrails shall be at a height of 42 inches plus or minus 3 inches; midrails shall be installed at a height midway between the top edge and the walking/working level.

The maximum deflection of perimeter guardrails is 3 inches.

For roofing contractors, warning line systems must be in place at least 6 feet from the edge of the roof parallel to the direction of travel and 10 feet from the edge perpendicular to the direction of travel. Warning lines should be marked with high visibility material at 6-foot intervals. Midwest Builders’ Casualty (MWBC) requires all trades to utilize fall protection 100% of the time when working above 6-feet in height.

Warning lines can consist of rope, wire, or chains. The height of warning lines must be between 34 to 39 inches. Flag warning lines with a high visibility material at 6-foot intervals. Warning lines are to be used only for demarcation zones; meaning anyone outside the warning lines must be protected by fall protection systems.

A body harness and a lanyard should limit the fall arrest to 1800 lbs.; unless, the employee and tool weight exceeds 310 lbs. then a body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard must be used.

Warning when using retractable lifelines: a leading edge retractable lifeline must be used if the fall could occur over a sharp edge or object. A leading edge retractable is designed for this type of usage where as a non-leading edge retractable will fail if submitted to a leading edge type of fall.

Anchorage points for Personal Fall Arrest Systems must be able to support 5,000 pounds per employee. Anchorage points must also be independent from anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms.

All floor holes must be protected at any elevation. A hole is a gap or void that is 2 inches or greater in its least dimension. The cover must be able to support 2x the load imposed and be marked “Hole or Cover”.

When there is a change in elevation of 19 inches or more, ladders, stairs, or ramps must be used when traversing the elevation change.

If a wall opening has more than a 6-foot drop fall protection is required, provided that the bottom of the opening is less than 39 inches above the working surface. Also, at this height, fall protection is required for all open-sided floors.

8.1 Steel Erection *MWBC requires all trades to utilize fall protection 100% of the time when working above 6-feet

in height.*

According to OSHA, see the following:11 | P a g e

Each employee engaged in a steel erection activity who is on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 15 feet above a lower level shall be protected from fall hazards by guardrail system, safety net system, personal fall arrest systems, positioning device system or fall restraint systems. This excludes employees who are connecting or currently working in a Controlled Decking Zone (CDZ)

Employees working in a CDZ must have completed CDZ training in accordance with 29CFR 1926.761. Only employees who have completed this training will be allowed to perform work inside the CDZ.

All employees working at a height of 30 feet or more must be protected from fall hazards.

For Non-Steel erection work the following rules apply, Fall protection equipment is required when working over 6 feet for:

Lintels Stairs Railings Curtainwalls Windows Arch. Metalwork Catwalks Other non-skeletal items

Control Lines will be utilized to prevent unauthorized entry.

9 Scaffolding Safety (Subpart L of 29 CFR 1926) A competent person before each shift shall inspect scaffolds and components for visible defects.

Guardrails and toe boards shall be installed when scaffold is higher than 10 feet off the ground.

Frames and panels shall be braced by cross, horizontal, or vertical braces, which secure vertical members together laterally. The cross braces shall be such length to align vertical members so the erected scaffold is always plumb, level, and square.

Where uplift can occur frames or panels shall be locked together vertically by pins.

Supported scaffolds with height to base width ratio of more than four to one (4:1) shall be restrained from tipping by guying, tying, bracing, or equivalent means. Guys, ties, and braces shall be installed every 20 ft. vertically and 30 ft. horizontal to prevent scaffold from tipping.

When the point of access is more than 2-feet off the ground, ladders or other means of access shall be used. Never use cross braces as a means to access the scaffold.

Each platform on all working levels must be fully planked.

Each platform 10 ft or less in length must extend at least 6” past the support but not more than 12”. Each platform 10ft or more in length must extend not more than 18” past the support unless supported to prevent tipping.

Scaffold components manufactured by different manufacturers shall not be intermixed.

Each scaffold and component must be able to support 4 times the maximum intended load.

The front edge of all platforms shall not be more than 14 inches from the face of the work, unless guardrails or personal fall arrest system is used. For plastering and lathing operations a maximum of 18” is allowed.

Most scaffolds shall be supported by anchors or ties every 26-ft vertical and every 30-ft horizontal.

Supported scaffold legs must have a base plate and mudsill or other adequate firm foundation.

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Footings shall be level, sound, and capable of supporting the load without settling or displacement.

Unstable objects shall not be used to support the scaffold.

See 1926 subpart L for specific type of scaffolding requirements.

10 Ladders and Stairways (Subpart X 29 CFR 1926) Ladders shall be inspected prior to use and if found to be defective it will be removed from service and

tagged “Do Not Use”.

A stairway or ladder shall be provided at all personnel points of access where there is a break in elevation of 19 inches or more.

Two ladders or a double-cleated ladder must be provided when ladders are the only means of access or egress from a working area for 25 or more employees.

Stairways that have four or more risers or have an elevation change of more than 30 inches, whichever is less must be equipped with at least one handrail and one stair rail system along each unprotected side or edge. Rails should be 36 inches in height.

Rungs, Cleats, and Steps shall be not less than 10 inches or more than 14 inches apart.

When portable ladders are used for access to an upper landing surface, the ladder side rails shall extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface to which the ladder is used to gain access. The ladder must also be secured to prevent accidental displacement.

For every 4 feet of vertical rise the ladder should extend horizontal 1 foot.

The area around the top and bottom of the ladder shall be kept clear.

The top and top step of a stepladder shall not be used as a step.

Stepladders when in use must be locked opened.

Ladders shall not be moved, shifted, or extended while occupied.

11 Excavation and Trenching (Subpart P, 29 CFR 1926.650,651,652)

A competent person must ensure that employees and sub-contractors will not be exposed to danger that results from excavation or trench cave-in.

An “Excavation Checklist” should be completed daily by a competent person to document inspections of excavations, the adjacent areas, and all protective systems for evidence of a situation that could result in possible cave-ins or other hazardous conditions.

Always provide adequate physical protection at all open excavations. All wells, pits, shafts, and other like excavations shall be barricaded or covered.

The sides of excavations that are greater than 5 feet in depth or less than 5 feet in depth with poor soil conditions will be sloped, braced, or shored or otherwise supported by means of sufficient strength to protect the employees within them.

All spoil piles and other debris shall be kept at a 2-foot minimum from the edge of the trench.

A stairway, ladder, or other safe means of egress shall be located in an excavation or trench that is 4 feet or more in depth so as to require no more than 25 feet of lateral travel for employees.

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Hardhats shall be worn at all times while working in trenches in order to provide protection from falling debris.

Trench boxes are one form of protection. When using these boxes, ensure that the top of the box is greater than 18 inches above the top of the soil and the bottom of the box is not more than 2-feet from the bottom of the floor.

Contact One-Call Services by dialing 811 or your state’s specific contact number . Contact numbers and specific state requirements can be found by visiting https://call811.com/. One-call services are available that will notify utilities that are in the area of our intention to excavate. Upon contact with this service, you will be provided a confirmation number that shall be documented, along with the time, date, and the name of the contact person. It is important that you ask the one-call service if there are any utilities in the area that they do not represent. If there are utilities not represented by the one-call service, these utilities shall also be contacted.

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Diagram 1

pp

Soil or Rock Type

Maximum allowable Slopes (Horizontal to Vertical)

For excavations less than 20 feet

Stable Rock Vertical (90 degrees) Type A ¾ : 1 (53 degrees)

Type B 1 : 1 (45 degrees) Type C 11/2 : 1 (34 degrees)

10ft

Type C=35ft

Type A=20ft

Type B=25ft

5 ft.

Pipe

Calculations to determine slope of trench A= (.75) x (10) = 7.5ft B= (1) x (10) = 10ft C= (1.5) x (10) = 15ft 7.5 + 7.5 + 5 = 20ft 10 + 10 + 5 = 25ft 15 + 15 + 5 = 35ft 7.5ft out on each side of trench =15 feet 10ft out on each side of trench=20ft 30ft out on each side of trench=30ft 5ft- across bottom of trench = 5 feet 5ft- across bottom of trench= 5ft 5ft - across the bottom of trench=5 Total length across trench =20 feet Total length across trench = 25ft Total length across trench = 35

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12 Underground Utilities (Subpart S 29 CFR 1926) Before any excavations take place on site, all utilities in the area must be located. The Superintendent

is responsible for ensuring that all responsible parties in the area are called.

Underground lines will be marked with the standard color codes as follows:

Red – Electric Yellow – Gas/Oil Orange – Communications Blue – Water Green – Sewer Pink – Temporary Survey Marks

Always make every attempt to locate the line before any type of mechanical digging is done. This can be accomplished by probing, hand digging, or other methods.

Call 811 for assistance with locating underground utility lines.

13 Confined Space Entry (29 CFR 1926.21 (b)(6)) A qualified person shall test all confined spaces before entry to determine whether the confined space

atmosphere is safe for entry. Tests will be made using a direct readout instrument. Minimum tests shall include oxygen, combustible gases, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide.

Fresh air ventilation shall be pumped into the space at all times before and during confined space entry.

Whenever possible, all piping, duct work, lines, etc., that could carry toxic materials, vapor, gases, etc., into the confined space should be blocked or blanked off.

The confined space entry checklist shall be completed and signed by the superintendent on site before entering the area.

A toolbox talk shall be held with all parties entering the space to discuss real and anticipated hazards associated with the space. Testing, ventilation, and emergency exit procedures shall be discussed at that time.

There must be some form of retrieval available (life line & winch) before an employee enters the confined space.

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14 Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134) No employee will use a respirator without having completed a fit test and medical evaluation.

Daily inspection of respirators is required and should be done before each use. Any respirators that are found to be defective shall be replaced.

No worker will wear a respirator when existing conditions prevent a good face seal. These conditions may include: The growth of a beard, sideburns, the absence of one or both dentures, a skull cap that projects under the facepiece, or temple pieces on eye glasses.

The correct respirator shall be specified for each job. A qualified individual supervising the respiratory protective program usually specifies the respirator type in the work procedures.

A competent person shall instruct both the supervisors and workers before they enter a work environment where respirators are required. The employer must designate this person who is qualified by suitable training or experience to oversee the program and conduct the required evaluations of the program.

15 Compressed Gas Safety (29CFR 1926.153) Secure empty/full cylinders to a fixed support by use of chains, or other substantial restraining devices.

Oxygen & flammable gas cylinders must be separated by 20ft or a 5ft. high 30-minute firewall.

If a cylinder is damaged, in poor condition, leaking, or the contents are unknown, contact your cylinder vendor. Have the vendor return the damaged cylinder to the manufacturer.

Acetylene tanks should never be stored or transported in a horizontal nature. If this occurs allow the tank to stand vertical for at least one hour before using.

Proper personal protective clothing and equipment should be worn. Wear appropriate foot protection when engaged in moving or transporting cylinders.

Cylinders should be stored in compatible groups. Examples are: flammables from oxidizers, corrosives from flammables, full cylinders from empties, all cylinders from corrosive vapors.

16 Lead Exposure in Construction (29 CFR 1926.62) Superintendents must be consulted immediately after exposure to lead is suspected.

Implement housekeeping practices to prevent accumulation of lead dust.

Ensure that no employee is exposed to concentrations of lead in excess of OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 micrograms per cubic meter or air space, over an eight-hour period.

Conduct periodic exposure monitoring, blood testing, and, in certain instances, medical surveillance when employees are exposed to concentration of lead at or above the Action Level (AL).

Basic hygiene facilities and training should be provided for each employee. This includes making sure no food or drink are consumed and that no cosmetics are applied in areas that are at or above the Action Level (AL).

Employees should be made aware that the hazards involved with lead could follow them home and affect their family’s health and safety.

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17 Laser Safety (29CFR 1926.102 (b)(2)) Only qualified and trained employees shall be assigned to install, adjust, and operate laser equipment

Employees, when working in areas in which a potential exposure to direct or reflected laser light greater or equal to 0.005 watts exists, shall be provided with anti-laser eye protection devices.

Areas in which lasers are used shall be posted with standard laser warning placards.

Always turn lasers off when the laser is not going to be utilized for an extended period of time such as lunch hour, overnight, or at change of shifts. Beam shutters can also be used for short periods of time.

Never direct the laser beam at employees.

Laser use is prohibited when it is raining or snowing or when there happens to be a high concentration of dust in the air.

Be sure that the laser equipment bears the correct labeling in order to indicate maximum output.

Employees shall not be exposed to light intensities above: 1) direct staring, 1 microwatt per square centimeter, 2) incidental observing, 1 milliwatt per square centimeter, 3) diffused reflected light, 2 ½ watts per square centimeter.

Laser units in operation should be set up above the heads of the employees when possible.

18 Working Near Water (29 CFR 1926.106) U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets or buoyant work vests shall be provided while working on or

near water where the hazard of drowning exists.

At least one U.S. Coast Guard approved 30-inch life ring with at least 90 feet of line attached should be provided and readily available on each vessel. The distance between the ring buoys should not exceed 200 ft.

At least one lifesaving skiff should be immediately available at locations where employees are working over or adjacent to water. All lifesaving boats must have the maximum allowed persons and weight load posted in a well-viewed area.

At least one rescue ladder, capable of reaching from the surface of the water to the deck or apron of barges, should be guarded at all times and appropriately lighted.

Housekeeping is very important when working above water. Pay attention to where you step and keep walking areas free of clutter and debris.

Proper confined space procedures should be followed in manholes, barge compartments, pipelines, tunnels, or other locations as necessary.

19 Welding and Cutting Safety (29CFR 1926.350-.354) Face shields or helmets and goggles shall always be worn to protect from debris and UV light.

In order to avoid electrical hazards, dry gloves should always be worn to protect against electric shock. The welder should also wear rubber-soled shoes, and use an insulating layer, such as a dry board or a rubber mat.

Welding and cutting should only be performed in areas that are free of combustible materials, including trash, wood, paper, textiles, plastics, chemicals, and flammable dusts, liquids and gases, in order to keep fire and explosion hazards to a minimum.

Never weld or cut on containers that have held a flammable or combustible material.

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All cylinders should have caps pressure regulators that are designed for the gas that is to be used.

Never weld on painted or coated parts.

Position yourself while welding or cutting so that your head is not in the fumes.

Arc welding should never be performed within 200 feet of degreasing equipment or solvents.

A fire extinguisher must be immediately available when welding or cutting.

Only cables free from repair or splices for a minimum distance of 10ft from the cable end shall be used.

Cables in need of repair shall not be used.

Whenever practicable, screens should be used when welding or cutting.

20 Aerial and Scissors Lifts (29CFR 1926.453)

20.1General Rules Check the work area above and on the ground for hazards that might cause a tip over such as a step,

hole or debris.

Maintain specified distances from electric power lines. The standard rule is to maintain a distance of at least 10ft. Greater distance is needed when working near power lines over 50KV.

Keep everyone clear of the working area.

Wear approved personal fall protection devices.

Keep all protective and safety devices in place and in working order.

The aerial platform must be in the stowed position and the power turned off before fueling begins.

Always use three-point contact when entering or leaving the machine.

Never attach wire, cables, or hoses to the platform. They can become tangled and cause the machine to tip over.

Never use ladders, planks, steps or other devices to gain greater height.

Always keep both feet on the platform floor. Do not climb or stand on rails.

Never tie-off to an adjacent structure.

When operating in an enclosed space, make sure there is adequate ventilation.

Do not carry overhanging loads or install a wind break unless approved by themanufacturer.

Keep working platform free from unnecessary debris.

Assure that personnel or equipment do not exceed the weight limit of the lift.

20.2Operating Safety Procedures Unqualified, untrained employees must not be allowed to operate aerial platforms.

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Always consult the owner’s manual for the correct operating procedures for the particular machine you are operating.

Daily inspections must be done before initial use.

When traveling, the machine should be in the stowed position or slightly raised.

Travel only at speeds that conditions allow.

Know how to operate controls, read gauges, load capacity, etc.

After starting, always test the controls.

Always check clearances above, below, and on all sides before raising, lowering, or rotating the platform.

Operators must always keep their attention in the directions of travel.

Never use the machine to push or pull another object.

21 Fire Safety (1926.150) Smoking is permitted only in designated areas. Please note that certain job sites have a 100% ban on

smoking and use of tobacco products.

When welding, cutting, etc. flammable and combustible materials must be removed.

All trash and debris containers will be emptied a least daily.

Practice good housekeeping and do not let combustible scrap or useless materials accumulate.

Flammable and combustible liquids must be handled and stored in approved and properly labeled safety cans.

Store oily rags and other flammable wastes in a sealed, metal container for safe disposal.

Always know where the nearest fire extinguisher is located and how to use it.

Do not fight a fire that is too large or dangerous.

21.1Portable Fire Extinguishers All fire extinguishers should be ABC type.

Access to fire extinguishers shall not be blocked by materials.

Use the PASS method for operating a fire extinguisher. (after breaking the seal)

21.1.1 The P.A.S.S. Method

P = Pull the pinA = Aim at the base of the fireS = Squeeze the trigger mechanismS = Sweep in a back and forth motion

21.1.2 Types of Fire Extinguishers

Type Material

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A for wood, paper and similar combustibles

B flammable liquids

C electrical fire

D burning metals

22 Hand and Power Tools (1926.300) All hand tools shall be kept in good repair and safe condition, including tools and equipment, which

may be furnished by employees

Moving tools form one location to another shall be done in a manner so as not to jeopardize safety. Dropping tools from overhead to the ground, and throwing tools from one employee to another is forbidden. Employees should use ropes to raise and lower tools and materials from one level to the next.

Any damaged or malfunctioning tool will be removed from service when discovered and not returned to service until repaired or replace.

Never carry, raise or lower electric power tools by the cord.

All tools shall be operated with the guards in place.

Only qualified operators are permitted to use power tools.

Wrenches shall not be altered by the addition of handle-extensions or cheaters.

Disconnect tools and machines from their power source before making adjustments or attachment changes.

All air-powered tools must have safety clips or retainers on all connections.

Screwdrivers shall not be used a chisel.

Only employees possessing valid and current certifications are allowed to use powder-actuated tools.

Gasoline driven power tools shall not be used in unventilated areas.

23 Personal Protective Equipment (1926.95)

23.1Head Protection MWBC requires hard hats are required at all times.

Employees are prohibited from modifying the shell or suspension of a hard hat in any manner.

23.2Eye & Face Protection MWBC normally requires eye protection to be worn 100% of the time.

Employees must use eye protection where eye hazards are encountered. (i.e. cutting, grinding, welding, chipping, sawing, doing over head work, etc.)

Prescription glasses must have impact resistant lenses that meet ANSI Z87.1 and fastening side shields.

Face shields should also be worn when performing work with potential of flying particles, splashes, hot material, etc.

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23.3Hand Protection For most work task MWBC requires hand protection to be worn 100% of the time.

Employees must wear gloves when handling sharp, hot or toxic materials.

Appropriate gloves shall be worn when performing any task that may be a hazard to hands.

Jersey and cotton gloves do not provide chemical protection.

23.4Foot Protection For most work task MWBC requires steel toed leather boots to be worn 100% of the time.

Employee foot protection shall consist of hard-sole, rubber-heeled, well fitting, leatherwork boots that are in good condition. Some jobs may require steel-toed work boots.

Employees must wear rubber boots when working in wet cement.

23.5Hearing Protection Employees will be required to wear hearing protection when they are exposed to an 8 hr. time

weighted average that is higher than 85 dBA.

23.6Work Clothing Employees must wear long pants and sleeved shirts with a sleeve length of at least 4”.

Employees performing high voltage electrical work will wear arc flash protective clothing.

Do not wear loose-fitting, torn, clothing on the job.

Necklaces, large earrings, or any loose jewelry are not to be worn while working.

23.7Reflective & High Visibility Clothing For most work task MWBC requires reflective apparel to be worn 100% of the time.

When working around vehicles/equipment traffic a high visibility vest or shirt must be worn.

24 Traffic Control Flaggers must have appropriate training as per OSHA, DOT, State, and company requirements

Good traffic control practices are in the best interest of the work crew and the public in general

Works crews must have adequate supply of signs, barricades, traffic cones, etc.

Warning devices and equipment shall be removed as soon as the hazard is eliminated.

A flagger will be used when there is doubt that signs, signals, and barricades will not be sufficient.

Flaggers shall wear a high visibility vest or shirt.

Hand signaling equipment shall be such size and color to provide sufficient warning to protect the work site.

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When flagging at both ends of a jobsite, there must be constant communication with each flagger either visually or through radio contact.

Flaggers shall face the traffic flow when giving signals.

A protected position that will reduce the chance of personal injury will be provided for the flaggers.

Warning signs/board shall be placed according to Federal, State and local requirements.

25 Material Handling, Storage, and Disposal (1926.250) Make sure that all materials stored in tiers are secured to prevent sliding.

Do not block exits with stored material.

When storing materials inside a building during construction, do not place it within 6ft of any hoist way or floor opening, or within 10 ft of an unfinished exterior wall.

Keep aisles, and work areas clear of unnecessary material

Whenever trash is dropped more than 20 ft. from the exterior of a building, an enclosed trash chute must be used.

When debris is dropped through holes in the floor without the use of chutes, the area must be barricaded with a guardrail system at least 6ft back from the projected edge of the opening above. Signs shall be posted warning of falling material.

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26 Back Safety Get help when lifting loads that are too heavy.

When lifting employees should do the following:

Tuck your pelvis-this will keep your back in balance with your lift.

Bend your knees-lets the strong muscles in your legs to the lifting.

Hug the load-hold object as close to your body as possible. Gradually straighten your legs to a standing position.

Avoid Twisting Motions-twisting can overload your spine and lead to serious injury.

In addition to these techniques, make sure your footing is firm and your path is clear. Be sure to use the same techniques when you set your load down. It does not take more time to do a safe lift than it does to do an unsafe lift.

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27 Motor Vehicle and Heavy Equipment (1926.600) Do not operate any equipment unless qualified to do so.

Do not transport other employees unless the vehicle is designed to do so. The vehicle/equipment must have a seat with a seat belt.

The driver and all passengers shall use seatbelts when the vehicle is in motion.

Be sure that parking brakes are set when vehicles or mobile equipment are stopped or parked.

Equipment on inclines shall have wheels chocked and the parking brake set.

Walk around the vehicle/equipment before moving it, to make sure that it is in safe operating condition and that there are no obstacles to prevent movement.

All safety and warning devices must be in good working order to operate the equipment.

All vehicles with an obstructed view to the rear shall have a backup alarm or the use of a spotter is required.

Know the specifications and limitations of the equipment you use. Do not exceed limits and do not use any equipment for other than its intended use.

Make for sure that all steps, grab rails and the floor is clean to minimize the danger of slipping. Always use 3-point contact when entering and exiting the vehicle/equipment. Never jump off of any piece of equipment.

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28 Rigging (1926.251) All rigging equipment shall be of sufficient strength, proper type, and safe for its intended use.

Rigging equipment shall not be loaded beyond its rated capacity.

Before each use, a qualified person shall inspect all slings and rigging hardware for damage or defects. Damaged or defective equipment shall be immediately removed from service.

Slings shall not be shortened with knots, bolts, or other makeshift devices.

Unless used in a basket configuration, slings shall be securely attached to the load by the use of hooks with retaining devices or the use of shackles or other positive latching devices.

Shackle pins shall never be replaced with bolts or other non-approved devices.

Slings shall be protected from sharp edges.

A sling should never be pulled from under a load when the load is resting on the sling.

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29 Cranes (1926.550) Only an authorized person shall be permitted in the cab or on the equipment.

No person shall be permitted to ride the hook, sling, or load.

Load limits as specified by the manufacturer shall not be exceeded under any circumstances. No load shall be lifted until its weight has been determined.

A competent person shall inspect the equipment prior to use, and during use, to make sure it is in safe operating condition. A thorough, documented annual inspection on all hoisting equipment will be conducted.

Only one trained person shall give signals to the crane operator.

No employee shall be under a suspended load.

Tag lines shall be used when hoisting materials.

Operators shall not leave their position at the controls while a load is suspended.

Operators shall exercise caution when working around energized power lines and shall not get within 10ft of the power line of less than 50 kV and for line over 50 kV 10ft plus .4 inch for each 1 kV over 50 kV.

The swing radius of the crane shall be barricaded.

Cranes equipped with outriggers shall have the outriggers fully deployed with the tires raised off the ground. Outriggers pads designed for the cranes capacity shall be used.

**Please see Standard Crane Signals on next page**

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29.1Standard Crane Signals

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30 Housekeeping Deposit all trash and debris in proper containers

Keep your immediate work area clean and orderly.

Any protruding nails or wire ties must be removed or hammered down. Lumber must be stacked neatly.

Keep all walkways, stairways and ladder landings clear of debris, cords, equipment and all other tripping hazards.

Route cords and hoses so they don’t create a tripping hazard.

Clean up oil and liquid spills immediately.

Store materials and equipment in a safe, orderly manner and out of aisles and walkways.

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