Helpful tips for preventing injuries on the construction site from the Arnold Insurance Agency

Objects falling from above pose a serious hazard on a construction site, and you are at increased risk when you are beneath cranes or scaffolds, or when others are working above you. The following case is an example of how dangerous a job site can be.

A carpenter was attempting to anchor a plywood form with an exposed actuated fastening tool before pouring a concrete wall. The nail passed through the hollow wall, traveled 8 meters (26 feet), and struck another employee in the head. As a result of this accident, the employee died. In this instance, the carpenter had not been successfully trained on how to use the tool, and the victim was not wearing a hard hat.

To help prevent disasters when working around falling and flying hazards, take the following precautions:

Cranes, Hoists, and Scaffolds

Always wear a hard hat.
Stack materials to prevent sliding, falling, or collapse.
Avoid working underneath cranes, hoists, and moving loads.
Do not exceed the loading capacity of cranes and hoists.
Secure tools and materials to prevent them from falling on co-workers below.
Use toe boards, screens, and guardrails on scaffolds to prevent objects from falling.
Use debris nets, catch platforms, and canopies to catch or deflect falling objects.
Do not deliberately throw material from above, even if the worker below is ready to catch the item.
Do not enter worksites that are restricted due to unsafe conditions.
Inspect wire ropes, lifting hooks, and chains for damage before use.

Power Tools

Wear safety goggles, glasses, or a face shield when using tools that cause particles to fly.
Inspect tools to ensure that their protective guards are in good working condition before each use.
Do not use tools unless you are properly trained on how to do so.

Air Compressors

Reduce the amount of compressed air used for cleaning to 30 PSI.
Only use this machine with the appropriate guarding and protective equipment. Blown objects can injure you.

Did you know: Excessive exposure to paint, chemical agents, sunlight, and heat can weaken your hard hat. Rinse it off regularly and never store it in a hot place or in direct sunlight.