5.4: Summary

Struck-by objects are another leading cause of construction-related deaths. Approximately 75% of struck-by fatalities involve heavy equipment such as trucks or cranes.

Safety and health programs must take into account the many ways struck-by accidents can occur. The following related hazards cause the most struck-by injuries:

(1) Vehicles

If vehicle safety practices are not observed at your site, you risk being pinned between construction vehicles and walls, struck by swinging backhoes, crushed beneath overturned vehicles, you risk being struck by trucks or cars.

How Do I Avoid Hazards?

• Wear seat belts that meet OSHA standards, except on equipment that is designed only for standup operation, or that has no rollover protective structure.
• 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.
• Drive vehicles or equipment only on roadways or grades that are safely constructed and maintained.
• Make sure that you and all 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

(2) Falling/flying objects

You are at risk from falling objects when you are beneath cranes, scaffolds, etc., or where overhead work is being performed. There is a danger from flying objects when power tools, or activities like pushing, pulling, or prying, may cause objects to become airborne. Injuries can range from minor abrasions to concussions, blindness, or death.

How Do I Avoid Hazards?

General

• Wear hardhats.
• Stack materials to prevent sliding, falling, or collapse.
• Use protective measures such as toeboards and debris nets.

Power Tools, Machines, etc.

• Use safety glasses, goggles, face shields, etc., where machines or tools may cause flying particles.
• Inspect tools, such as saws and lathes, to insure that protective guards are in good condition.
• Make sure you are trained in the proper operation of powder actuated tools.

Cranes and Hoists

• Avoid working underneath loads being moved.
• Barricade hazard areas and post warning signs.
• Inspect cranes and hoists to see that all components, such as wire rope, lifting hooks, chains, etc., are in good condition.
• Do not exceed lifting capacity of cranes and hoists.

Overhead Work

• Secure tools and materials to prevent them from falling on people below.
• Barricade hazard areas and post warning signs.
• Use toeboards, screens, or guardrails on scaffolds to prevent falling objects, or,
• Use debris nets, catch platforms, or canopies to catch or deflect falling objects.

Compressed Air

• Reduce compressed air used for cleaning to 30 psi, and only use with appropriate guarding and protective equipment.
• Never clean clothing with compressed air.

(3) Constructing masonry walls

Constructing concrete and masonry walls is especially dangerous because of the tremendous loads that need to be supported. There are risks of major accidents, and even death, when jacks or lifting equipment are used to position slabs and walls, or when shoring is required until structures can support themselves.

How Do I Avoid Hazards?

• Do not place construction loads on a concrete structure until a qualified person indicates that it can support the load.
• Adequately shore or brace structures until permanent supporting elements are in place, or concrete has been tested to assure sufficient strength.
• Only allow those who are essential to and actively engaged in construction or lifting operations to enter the work area.
• Take measures to prevent unrolled wire mesh from recoiling, such as securing each end or turning the roll over.
• Do not load lifting devices beyond their capacity.
• Use automatic holding devices to support forms in case a lifting mechanism fails.