5.3: Protecting Yourself

How can I protect myself from Heavy equipment [cranes, excavators, etc.]?

• Stay away from heavy equipment when it’s operating – In fact, be alert to the location of all heavy equipment whether in use or not

• Stay clear of lifted loads and never work under a suspended load

• Beware of unbalanced loads

• Workers should confirm and receive acknowledgement from the heavy equipment operator that they are visible

• Be aware of the swing radius of cranes and backhoes and do not enter that zone

• Drive equipment [or vehicles] on grades or roadways that are safely constructed and maintained

• Make sure that all workers and other personnel are in the clear before using dumping or lifting devices

• Lower or block bulldozer and scraper blades, end-loader buckets, dump bodies, etc., when not in use, and leave all controls in neutral position.

• Haulage vehicles that are loaded by cranes, power shovels, loaders etc., must have a cab shield or canopy that protects the driver from falling materials

• Do not exceed a vehicle's rated load or lift capacity

• Do not carry personnel unless there is a safe place to ride

How can I protect myself from motor vehicles [trucks, cars, etc.]?

Vehicle safety practices must be observed at construction sites to limit worker exposure to struck-by hazards such as struck-by swinging backhoes, struck-by falling/overturning vehicles, and struck-by trucks or cars.

To avoid these types of hazards, workers should:

• Wear seat belts when provided

• Check vehicles before each shift to assure that all parts and accessories are in safe operating condition

• Do not drive a vehicle in reverse gear with an obstructed rear view, unless it has an audible reverse alarm, or another worker signals that it is safe

• Set parking brakes when vehicles and equipment are parked, and chock the wheels if they are on

an incline

• All vehicles must have adequate braking systems and other safety devices

• Use traffic signs, barricades or flaggers when construction takes place near public roadways

• Workers must be highly visible in all levels of light. Warning clothing, such as red or orange vests, are required; and if worn for night work, must be of reflective material

When working on or near any construction zone:

• Wear high-visibility reflective clothing

• Do not put yourself at risk of being struck by a vehicle and do not get caught in a situation where

there's no escape route

• Do not direct traffic unless you are the flagger

• Check that necessary warning signs are posted

• Never cross the path of a backing vehicle

• Follow “Exit” and “Entry” worksite traffic plan

General Safe Work Practices

When working with compressed air: ►Reduce air pressure to 30 psi if used for cleaning, and use only with appropriate guarding and proper protective equipment; and ►Never clean clothing with compressed air

• When working with hand tools: ►Do not use tools with loose, cracked or splintered handles; and ►Do not use impact tools with mushroomed heads

• When working with machines, such as jack hammers, pavement saws: ►Be sure to be trained on safe operation of machinery. Inspect machinery; ►Ensure all guards are in place and in working order; and ►Protect feet, eyes, ears and hands; wear hearing protection

• When performing overhead work: ►Secure all tools and materials; ►Use toeboards, screens, guardrails and debris nets. Barricade the area and post signs; and ►Be sure materials stored in buildings under construction are placed farther than 6 feet of hoist way / floor openings, and more than 10 feet from an exterior wall

• When working with powder-actuated tools:►Be sure to be trained and licensed to operate these tools if required

• When working with power tools, such as saws, drills, grinders: ►Be sure to be trained on how to safely use the power tool. Inspect tool(s) before each use; ►Wear safety goggles; ►Operate according to manufacturer’s instructions; and ►Ensure that all required guards are in place

• When pushing or pulling objects that may become airborne: ►Stack and secure materials to prevent sliding, falling or collapse; ►Keep work areas clear; and ►Secure material against wind gusts

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Eye and face protection:

• Use based on anticipated hazards

• Safety glasses or goggles should be worn any time work operations present an eye hazard – for example, during welding, cutting, grinding, nailing (or when working with concrete and/or harmful chemicals or when exposed to flying particles)

Head protection

• Wear hard hats where there is a potential for objects falling from above, bumps to the head from fixed objects

• Hard hats: Routinely inspect for dents, cracks or deterioration; replace after a heavy blow; maintain in good condition