Why Hands-On Construction Safety Training is Critical for OSHA Compliance

 

When it comes to construction safety, there’s no room for shortcuts or guesswork. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict regulations in place to keep workers safe on job sites, and failure to comply can result in costly fines and serious injuries. That’s why hands-on construction safety training is critical for OSHA compliance. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of hands-on training, how it benefits both employers and employees, and what you need to know about implementing effective safety programs at your workplace. So buckle up your hard hat and get ready to learn why hands-on training is the key to creating a safer work environment in the construction industry!

Introduction to OSHA Requirements for Construction Safety Training

As a construction worker, it’s important to be aware of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) requirements for construction safety training. Construction workers are at a higher risk for injury than workers in other industries, so it’s crucial that they receive proper safety training.

OSHA requires that all construction workers receive safety training on a variety of topics, including fall protection, scaffolding, and electrical safety. Workers must also be trained on how to use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats and safety glasses. Some employers choose to provide this training themselves, while others hire outside trainers.

Construction workers must also be competent in first aid and CPR. In the event of an accident or injury, knowing how to properly administer first aid can mean the difference between life and death.

While construction work can be dangerous, following OSHA’s safety requirements can help keep workers safe. If you’re a construction worker, make sure you’re up-to-date on all of OSHA’s safety rules and regulations.

Benefits of Hands-On Construction Safety Training

There are many benefits of hands-on construction safety training. One of the most important benefits is that it helps to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations. OSHA compliant construction sites are much safer for workers, and this type of training can help to reduce accidents and injuries.

Another benefit of hands-on construction safety training is that it can help to improve communication between workers. This type of training can help workers to understand the importance of following safety procedures and can also help them to identify potential hazards on the job site. Good communication between workers can help to create a safer work environment overall.

Hands-on construction safety training can also help to improve morale among workers. When workers feel like they are being safe on the job, they are more likely to be productive and happy in their work. This type of training can also help workers to feel like they are part of a team and that their safety concerns are being taken seriously by their employer.

How Hands-On Training Improves OSHA Compliance

It is no secret that OSHA compliance is a top priority for construction companies. With the high stakes involved, it is essential that construction safety training be as effective as possible. Hands-on training is one of the most effective ways to improve OSHA compliance.

There are several reasons why hands-on training is so effective. First, it allows employees to see firsthand how to properly use safety equipment and follow safety procedures. Second, it gives employees the opportunity to practice these procedures in a safe environment. Third, it allows employees to ask questions and get feedback from experienced instructors.

Hands-on training is an essential part of any construction safety program. It is the best way to ensure that employees are properly trained and prepared to follow all OSHA regulations.

Tips for Implementing Hands-On Construction Safety Training

When it comes to construction safety, there is no substitute for hands-on training. OSHA compliance requires that all workers be trained in the hazards they may encounter on the job site. While online or classroom-based training can provide a foundation of knowledge, nothing can replace the experience of actually working with the tools and materials used in construction.

Here are some tips for implementing hands-on construction safety training:

1. Start with the basics. Before workers can be expected to safely use power tools or work with hazardous materials, they need to understand the basic principles of construction safety. This includes understanding personal protective equipment (PPE), how to identify and control potential hazards, and proper lifting techniques.

2. Make it interactive. The best way to learn is by doing. Rather than simply lecture workers on safety procedures, have them participate in hands-on activities that simulate real work tasks. For example, if you’re teaching ladder safety, have workers set up and climb a ladder while wearing PPE.

3. Use realistic scenarios. To really drive home the importance of following safety procedures, create realistic scenarios that could occur on a job site. For example, if you’re discussing fall protection, set up a mock scenario where a worker slips and falls off a roof. This will help workers understand the consequences of not following safety protocols.

4. Incorporate new technologies. Technology can be a great asset in construction safety training. There are now many simulations

Common Challenges with Implementation

One of the most common challenges with implementing safety training is getting employees on board. Many employees view safety training as a waste of time, especially if they have years of experience under their belt. It can be difficult to convince employees that taking the time to participate in safety training is worth it, but it’s essential for OSHA compliance.

Another challenge is making sure that the safety training is effective. There are a lot of ways to deliver safety training, but not all of them are equally effective. It’s important to find a delivery method that works well for your employees and your budget.

Another common challenge with implementing safety training is maintaining compliance over time. Once you’ve implemented a safety program, it’s important to stay on top of it and make sure that employees are still following the procedures that they learned. If you let your program lapse, you’ll quickly fall out of compliance with OSHA standards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hands-on construction safety training is a critical element in ensuring OSHA compliance. This type of training provides the opportunity for workers to apply their knowledge directly on the job site. When done correctly, this kind of instruction can help reduce workplace accidents and injuries while improving overall productivity. Employers should take the time to ensure that all employees are properly trained so they can work safely and confidently on any project or task at hand. If you would like more information about hands on construction training, or would like to register for one of the many hands on training courses Trivent Safety Consulting offers, follow the link below, or give us a call 800-819-6092!

 

 

Maximizing Safety: Understanding and Applying Sling Inspection Standards for Construction Cranes

Sling Inspection Standards for Construction Cranes

Construction cranes are essential for completing large-scale projects, but their operation comes with inherent risks. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that all components of the crane are in excellent working condition to minimize accidents and injuries. One such component is the sling, which plays a critical role in lifting heavy loads safely. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of understanding and applying proper inspection standards for slings on construction cranes to maximize safety on job sites.

Introduction to Sling Inspection Standards

Rigging slings need to be inspected prior to every use. In addition to the visual inspections the rigger may need to implement a hands on tactile inspection were they are actually using their hands to feel for disturbances or anomalies/inconsistencies in the rigging structure. It is important to note that the use of proper PPE such as gloves and safety glasses will be needed during this process.

The purpose of a sling inspection is to identify any damage or defects that could affect the safety of the lifting operation. When inspecting slings, look for cuts, frayed edges, open seams, broken or missing stitching, kinks, gouges, nicks, abrasions, chemical burns, embedded objects, or other signs of damage.

If any damage is found, the sling should be removed from service and destroyed. Do not attempt to repair damaged slings. In some cases, it may be possible to have a damaged sling repaired by a qualified professional; however, this must be done by someone who is specifically trained and certified to do so.

When performing a visual inspection, it is important to use both your eyes and your hands. Look closely at the entire length of the sling for any signs of damage. Feel along the entire length of the sling for any rough spots or sharp edges that could damage the load or cause personal injury.

In addition to inspecting the body of the sling for damage, also inspect all hardware (such as hooks and rings) for cracks, bends, distortion, missing parts, or other signs of damage. Make sure that all hardware is properly secured and will not come loose during use.

Types of Slings Used in Construction Cranes

There are three primary types of slings used in construction cranes: wire rope, synthetic web, and chain. Each type of sling has its own unique set of inspection standards that must be followed in order to ensure safety.

Wire rope slings are the most commonly used type of sling in construction cranes. They are made from high-strength steel wire strands that are twisted together to form a strong, flexible rope. Wire rope slings are available in a variety of sizes and lengths, and can be used for a variety of lifting applications.

Synthetic web slings are made from synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester. They are lighter weight than wire rope slings and have a lower profile, making them ideal for use in tight spaces. Synthetic web slings are also less likely to damage load surfaces than wire rope slings.

Chain slings are made from metal chains that are connected together with links or rings. They are the strongest type of sling available and can be used for heavy-duty lifting applications. However, chain slings require more maintenance than other types of slings and can be more difficult to inspect.

How to Inspect Slings for Safety

Sling inspection is a crucial component of any construction crane safety program. Slings are one of the most commonly used pieces of equipment on construction sites, and they also can be one of the most dangerous. Improper inspection and maintenance of slings can lead to serious accidents and injuries.

There are three main types of sling inspections: visual, functional, and destructive. Visual inspections should be conducted regularly, and should include a close examination of all sling components for signs of wear, damage, or other defects. Functional inspections should be conducted periodically, and involve testing the sling’s strength and durability by putting it under stress. Destructive inspections should only be conducted by qualified personnel, and involve actually breaking the sling in order to test its breaking strength.

When conducting a visual inspection, pay close attention to the following:

  • All stitching for signs of fraying or other damage
  • All webbing for signs of cuts, abrasions, or other damage
  • All hardware for cracks, rust, or other damage
  • All labels for legibility and accuracy

If any damage is found during a visual inspection, the sling should be removed from service immediately and replaced. If you are not sure whether a particular defect is serious enough to warrant removal from service, error on the side of caution and replace the sling. Better to be safe than sorry!

During a functional inspection, slings should be tested for proper strength and function. This can be done by suspending a known weight

Defects and Damage that Need to be Looked Out For

There are many different types of defects and damage that can occur to construction cranes, and it is important to be aware of them in order to maximize safety. Some of the most common problems include:

  • Wear and tear: Over time, all crane components will experience some degree of wear and tear. This can eventually lead to structural damage or failure if not properly monitored and repaired.
  • Corrosion: Corrosion is a major issue for any metal structure, and construction cranes are no exception. If left unchecked, corrosion can cause serious damage to the crane’s frame and other critical components.
  • Fatigue: Fatigue is a common problem for construction cranes due to the constant stress they are under. If not properly monitored, fatigue can eventually lead to structural failure.
  • Impact damage: Construction cranes are often hit by falling debris or other objects. This can cause serious damage to the crane’s structure and/or components.
  • Broken wires: Broken wires on a wire rope sling shall be assessed using the following criteria. 5-broken wires in a outer strand in one lay length, or  a total of  10- broken wires in one rope lay length. Please see video demonstration below for additional guidance.

OSHA Requirements and Regulations

When working with construction cranes, it is important to be aware of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements and regulations. OSHA has specific standards for the inspection of slings used with construction cranes. These standards are designed to protect workers from injuries caused by defective or damaged slings.

In order to ensure that slings are safe for use, employers must inspect them before each use. Slings should be inspected for damage such as cuts, abrasions, burns, chemical deterioration. If any damage is found, the sling should be removed from service and replaced.

In addition to inspecting slings before each use, employers must also keep records of all inspections. These records should include the date of the inspection, the name of the person who conducted the inspection, and a description of any damage found. Records must be kept for at least one year.

By following these OSHA requirements and regulations, employers can help protect their workers from injuries caused by defective or damaged slings.

Benefits of Proper Sling Inspection

There are many benefits to properly inspecting slings before using them. Doing so can help avoid costly repairs or replacements, and it can also help identify any potential safety hazards.

Inspecting slings prior to use can help ensure that they are in good working condition and free of any damage that could cause them to fail. It is also important to inspect slings for proper length and width, as well as the correct type of sling for the job at hand.

Inspecting slings on a regular basis can also help extend their lifespan, as early identification of problems can allow for quick and easy replacements as needed. Additionally, regular inspection can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger, more expensive problems down the line.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is clear that proper inspection and maintenance of construction cranes is essential for ensuring a safe working environment on the job site. Through understanding and applying sling inspection standards, crane operators can identify potential hazards early on and take steps to prevent accidents from occurring. By staying up-to-date with safety regulations, employers can help ensure that their worksites remain secure against any potential dangers. If you would like to learn more about this topic, you can do so by calling us at 800-819-6092, or by signing up for one of our comprehensive rigging training programs listed below.

Are Your Forklift Operators Certified?

Hilti Inc. is facing $164,802 in penalties after OSHA discovered numerous safety violations following a forklift accident. Investigators discovered the company exposed workers to struck-by hazards after an employee was injured while operating a forklift at a distribution center in Atlanta.  OSHA inspectors determined that Hilti failed to provide forklift operator training and instructions to employees operating the vehicles, and ensure that employees performed daily forklift inspections. Follow the link below to read the full story.

http://www.ehstoday.com/osha/hilti-inc-racks-osha-fines-after-forklift-accident?

OSHA estimates that 35,000 serious injuries and 62,000 non-serious injuries involving forklifts occur annually. Further, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that 96 U.S. workers were killed in incidents involving forklifts in 2015. OSHA’s Powered Industrial Trucks Standard – 29 CFR 1910.178 – establishes that “the employer shall ensure that each powered industrial truck operator is competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely, as demonstrated by the successful completion of the training and evaluation” outlined in the standard. So who should receive training when it comes to operating forklifts? Any person who will be operating the equipment no matter how long or simple a task may seem. The penalty for negligence in the event of an accident can be severe, as mentioned in a previous blog. https://www.triventsc.com/blog/business-owner-manager-charged-with-manslaughter/

Forklift Operators Certified - get osha safety training from Trivent Safety Consulting   Here are five accident statistics that should cause you to exercise extreme caution when operating a forklift:

  1. Forklifts account for around 85 deaths every year.
  2. Forklift accidents that result in serious injury total 34,900 annually.
  3. Non-serious injuries related to forklift accidents reach 61,800 each year.
  4. A forklift overturning is the most common incident, accounting for 24% of all forklift accidents.

If companies implemented more stringent training policies, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that about 70% of forklift accidents in the US could be prevented.                                                                                                                                                     

With that in mind here are a few items that should be addressed with a certified training program:

  • Understanding of operating instructions
  • Use of controls and instrumentation
  • Steering and maneuvering
  • Visibility
  • Vehicle Stability
  • Vehicle Capacity
  • Thorough understanding and ability to reference load charts
  • Fork attachments
  • Maintenance
  • Refueling safety

Trivent Safety Consulting certified forklift training consists of the following three parts:

1. Formal instruction can be given using lectures, discussions, interactive computer learning, videos, or written material.

2. Practical, hands-on training covers demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee.

  1. An evaluation of the operator’s ability to handle the truck safely in the workplace must be conducted by the trainer. Specific training topics to be covered are listed in the standards. All of the topics must be covered unless the employer can show that certain topics are not needed. Employers must certify that the training and evaluation has been done. Each operator’s performance must be evaluated every three years. Usually, the person doing the evaluation would first observe the operator to determine if he or she is performing safely, and then ask questions to ensure that the operator has the knowledge or experience needed.Refresher training is required whenever one of the following occurs:
  • the operator is involved in an accident or near-miss incident;
  • the operator has been observed operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner;
  • the operator has been determined in an evaluation to need more training;
  • there are changes in the workplace that could affect safe operation (such as a different type of paving, reconfigured storage racks, or new layouts with narrower aisles or restricted visibility); or
  • the operator is assigned to a different type of truck.

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Are you, or your staff in need of training? If so, contact us today 1-800-819-6092 and we can get one of our industry leading trainers out to your location as soon as possible! Remember luck is never considered a strategy, but proper training and policy development is. Let us help you achieve your goals!

Author: Scott Seppers

The Scary Reality of the Construction Worker

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Suicides in Construction Occur at Higher Rate than OSHA’s Fatal Four

Everyone is aware of the dangers of working in the construction field. Every day, workers go the job and are surrounded by hazardous conditions that could cause serious injury, or even death. Safety professionals around the world are tasked with helping ensure that workers go home each day to their friends and family, we take that responsibility seriously. But what happens when employees get home? Are they ok when they leave the job, or should we be concerned with what happens after they get home? Most people are not aware that suicides in construction occur at a higher rate than OSHA’S Fatal Four.

The construction industry is four times more likely than any other industry to lose an employee to suicide

The suicide rate in construction is 45.3/100,000 compared to the national average for other industries of 14.2/100,000. Based on these numbers, it is five times more likely that an employer will lose an employee to suicide than to what OSHA considers the fatal four: falls, electrocution, struck by, caught in/between.

Take time to educate employees about the contributing factors, signs, and prevention of suicide during National Suicide Prevention Week each year, but also throughout the year.

Suicide is the second biggest cause of death

For men between the ages of 25 and 54, suicide is the second biggest cause of death. Men in the construction industry face the additional hardship from physical activity paired with a ‘tough guy’ culture that can make it more difficult to reach out and seek help.

Stress is one of the main contributors to the decline in mental health, and it can manifest in five ways: physical, emotional, intellectual, and personal well-being. Physical symptoms can present itself as rapid weight gain or weight loss, difficulty sleeping or fatigue. Emotional stress symptoms can come from feeling incompetent and cause irritability. Intellectual symptoms are often shown through procrastination or difficulty concentrating, and personal well-being stressors can mean isolation from friends and family or a loss of sense of humor.

These types of stress can exacerbate mental health issues and lead to depression and suicidal thoughts. Often, individuals choose to self-medicate and abuse both drugs and alcohol instead of seeking professional help, due in part to the stigma associated with mental health.

Stress factors common in the construction industry that can contribute to a decline in mental health:

  • Periods of unsteady employment depending on seasons
  • Sleep disruption
  • Chronic pain caused by manual labor
  • Travel which may separate workers from families and friends
  • Pressure to finish projects
  • Difficult working conditions

What resources are available

In the workplace, it is important to know what resources are available to support employees’ psychological health, and where there are gaps in the system. Learn to recognize the signs of an at-risk employee and create a supportive environment where individuals are not afraid of being reprimanded.

[Best Practices]

  • Be aware of the signs and behaviors that tell us we may not be functioning at our best.
  • Help employees develop coping skills for life’s challenges such as, stress management, parenting, conflict resolution, and anger management.
  • Integrate psychological safety into overall health and wellness priorities.
  • Conduct Toolbox Talks on psychological safety topics.
  • Contact your work comp provider to see what resources are available.
  • Contact the National Suicide Prevention Line (800) 273-8255 if you or someone you know is struggling.
  • Make a commitment to your employees to establish and maintain a mentally healthy workplace.

[Resources]

National Suicide Prevention Hotline – (800) 273-8255

Recognizing Risk – 5 Rs of workplace mental health

Construction Company Case Study: Frank Talk about Mental Health

Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP)

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Suicide Awareness Voices of Education

Man Therapy

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

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Prepared by Trivent Safety Consulting

Benefits Of Safety Inspections Audits

There are roughly 150,000 construction site accident injuries each year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, the BLS reports companies in America pay $62 billion per year for workplace injuries — that’s more than $1 million per week. A medically consulted injury has an average cost of $39,000, while a death has an average cost of $1.15 million. It is no secret that working in the construction field is inherently dangerous, but did you know that out of every 5,000 private-industry worker fatalities, 20 percent are in construction? One out of every five worker deaths are construction-related! When taking all the above into consideration it might feel a little overwhelming, but there are safety methods that can help identify the issues that are most likely to develop into unsafe or unhealthy conditions. I am of course referring to the implementation of regular site safety inspections and audits. These are a great tool and resource that can be used to identify hazards as well as safety trends at the worksite.

 

Safety Inspection vs Audit

Safety inspections identify safety hazards and unsafe work practices in the workplace. They are typically conducted by a safety professional but can be a beneficial learning tool for anyone involved with the process. Companies can perform them internally or can choose to have outside organizations perform them like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or a independent safety entity like Trivent Safety Consulting.

 

Safety audits are similar in principal but have a slightly different focus. Audits are beneficial in determining whether your company is compliant with current safety regulations, as well as identifying potential weaknesses in a company’s safety program. At least one comprehensive safety audit should be scheduled every year. A different, but effective, approach is to schedule targeted safety audits throughout the year.

 

Benefits of a safety inspections and audits?

It is all in the name! The purpose of any safety inspection/audit is to identify and eliminate anything that could pose a hazard to the health and wellbeing of the worker. There are all sorts of catchy fun safety slogans, but at the end of the day the one that makes the most sense to me is “Safety Is No Accident.” Here are benefits to performing site safety inspections/audits:

  • To discover and identify potential hazards in the workplace.
  • To check the safety of your workplace.
  • To gain further understanding of jobs and tasks
  • To Listen to the concerns of workers and supervisors
  • To verify that your processes are following company policies and regulations.
  • To determine if you your Safety & Health programs and procedures are working.
  • To confirm that employees and management are following company or site safety programs.
  • To inspect safety equipment
  • To determine if you are documenting your safety and health program activities properly.
  • To verify compliance to OSHA regulations.
  • To evaluate the adequacy of your supervisors’ safety training and performance.
  • To evaluate the adequacy of your employees’ safety training and performance.

Colorado safety inspection

How often should I perform a site safety inspection?

Construction safety inspections, or self-inspections as OSHA refers to them, are recommended to cover the entire worksite and be done weekly. There are additional variables that should be considered when determining the frequency of conducting site safety inspections. Here are a few for consideration:

  • Company or project specific guidelines for safety inspections.
  • Number of workers per shift
  • High risk activities and imminent danger
  • Introduction of new workers, pieces of equipment, or work processes
  • Incidents, accidents, near misses

Who should perform the site safety audit?

With any inspection or audit, it is important that the person conducting it is competent and has the proper experience and knowledge to identify potential hazards. A good viable option for conducting audits/inspections are independent safety consulting companies. Third party safety inspectors at a worksitesafety inspectors can make a difference and shows OSHA that your company is operating in “Good Faith”. When OSHA sees a company, who is working hand in hand with an outside consulting company, it shows that a good faith effort is being put forth towards improving the safety of your employees. It can also be beneficial to get an assessment from someone who is completely independent of the project. At Trivent Safety Consulting we are a third-party safety resource that is committed to ensuring the safety of all construction working trades and have over 75 years of field time experience to draw from.

Summary

Jobsite and facility safety inspections are one of the most effective ways to identify unsafe conditions at your location.  Our team of trained professionals in onsite safety services will happily walk with you to identify OSHA compliance and general safety concerns for your company.  Through these inspections, we can work with your company to help establish a practical way to mitigate these deficiencies.  Whether it be through training your personnel, changing the procedures, or other methods, we believe in finding solutions to your problems.  By identifying hazardous situations through inspections, we can fix problems before they become a serious incident.

Trivent Safety Consulting is committed to helping solve your safety concerns, affording you more time to focus on other areas of your business.

Interested, Want More Information?

Contact us today to schedule a free site safety inspection & audit. (800) 819-6092 or www.triventsc.com

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Is The Crane Ready For Duty?

Perhaps one of the most impressive eye-catching pieces of equipment you will find on a construction site is a crane. These titans of the industry come in a variety of types and configurations, tower cranes, conventional crawler, rough terrain and truck mount are some the most common in use today. For the average person traveling down the road these pieces of equipment are the main identifier that reveals that there is construction under way. They also can be a physical indicator of how well an economy is doing, Denver recently was ranked third in the nation for having the most crane booms erected in the air. With this much activity and construction it is vital to ensure the safety of the workers along with the safety of the public. OSHA has measures and standards in place that require the inspection and documentation of cranes to insure they are in good safe working condition. Let’s take a look at and review three types of crane inspections. These are Frequent inspections, Periodic inspections, and Annual Inspections.

How often should a crane be inspected? 

To begin a Frequent inspection must be performed by the operator who is knowledgeable in the crane inspection 2operations of the equipment that he or she is working with. Frequent inspections are often referred as daily or shift inspections. Although not required, it is recommended to record the inspection in the equipment logbook. A crane that has not been used for more than a month, but less than six months requires all frequent inspections before being used. Items of inspection should include:

• Operational Controls
• Drives
• Air & Hydraulic Pressure Lines
• Hooks & Latches
• Wire Rope
• Tires (If Equipped)
• Ground Conditions
• Safety Devices

 

Periodic inspections or often referred as Monthly inspections are the next category of inspection, these are required to be performed by a competent person. The periodic inspection procedure is intended to determine the need for repair or replacement of parts. All cranes are designed and manufactured with a safety factor in place, but all machines begin to depreciate over time and repetitive use, The Periodic inspections are designed to identify and address these situations. They are similar to Frequent inspections but require a written record to be documented and maintained by the crane’s user/owner. The inspection and information must contain the name, date and signature of the person who performed the inspection.

One of the standards that are in place to ensure crane safety is the annual inspection, Annual comprehensive inspections are required to be performed at 12-month intervals by a qualified person.  OSHA requires that all active cranes must be inspected once a year at the minimum by a qualified person. However, depending on the crane’s usage, additional inspections will be required. Annual inspections are a vital component in ensuring the crane is in good working condition and safe for overhead lifts. These inspections are the most thorough of the three and provide a comprehensive look at the following:

  • Control mechanism operations
  • Control and drive mechanisms free of excessive wear or damage
  • Hooks and latches are free of deformation, cracks, excessive wear’ or damage
  • Wire Rope reeving complies with the manufacturer’s specifications
  • Wire rope condition and free from damage
  • Sheaves and drums do not have cracks or significant damage
  • Safety Devices- Crane level indicator, Anti-two block system, jib stops, boom stops, etc.
  • Equipment structure
  • Boom integrity Hydraulic or lattice
  • Hydraulic and Pneumatic Pumps & Motors
  • Tires (If Equipped)
  • Ground Conditions

crane safety servicesAt the end of the day following the inspection process and procedures for cranes is a critical component for ensuring worker and public safety at and around construction sites, as well as following the manufactures recommended maintenance program. Our crane inspection experts travel across the United States ensuring our clients equipment is safe for overhead lifts, and both have over 25 years’ experience. If you would like more information, the Colorado Crane Experts at Trivent Safety Consulting are available to help with any crane or rigging challenges that you may face at your project.

ANSI A92 How Will The New Standard Affect Training?

As we progress through 2020 and are neck deep in construction challenges such as job site safety, schedules, deliveries, man power etc., it is easy to overlook the fact that there will major upcoming changes before the end of this year in regards to the operating and safe use of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms “MEWPS”. ANSI is moving towards a new access equipment design standard, A92.20, which will broadly bring North American equipment into line with equipment currently in the EU marketplace, closing off most global variances. Standards for safe use (A92.22) and training (A92.24) go further in completing this objective. Under these new standards, the Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) terminology becomes Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs).

As mentioned above, the new ANSI A92 can be broken down to three sub-parts:

  • ANSI A92.20 (design)
  • ANSI A92.22 (safe use)                                A92.20 new standard affect on crane safety training
  • ANSI A92.24 (training)

Changes in design  A92.20:

Equipment classification can be broken down as follows:

A Group A machine has a design that does not allow the main platform to extend beyond the tipping line. In other words, the platform does not go outside of the drive chassis envelope. A perfect example of a Group A would be a scissor lift.

Conversely, a Group B machine has a design that allows the platform to extend beyond the tipping line. A great example of a Group B machine would be an articulating or telescopic boom.

A MEWP Type is in reference to the equipment’s ability to travel:

  • Type 1 – Traveling is allowed only with the MEWP in its stowed position
  • Type 2 – Traveling with the work platform in the elevated position is controlled from a point on the chassis
  • Type 3 – Traveling with the work platform in the elevated travel position is controlled from a point on the work platform

A92.22 affect on crane safety training

Moving forward training shall rely heavily on A92.22 (safe use) and A92.24 (training)

A92.22 (safe use):

  • Safe-use planning requires a plan specific to MEWPs to be developed by users to include tasks such as: a risk assessment,
  • the selection of the proper MEWP for application, and
  • access, preparation and maintenance of the work site prior to using the MEWP.
  • Supervisors are being held accountable for safe operations and developing risk assessments.
  • Included in a risk assessment is the user requirement to develop a rescue plan for workers who may require rescue from a platform in an elevated position.

A92.24 (training):

  • Training is required for each class of MEWP classification.
  • Training must be provided in a manner that trainees can understand.
  • Designation of a qualified person to monitor, supervise and evaluate operators on a regular basis to ensure proficiency.
  • Supervisors of MEWP operators shall receive supervisor training. This shall include:
  • Proper MEWP selection,
  • User and operator requirements,
  • How to identify known hazards and the means to manage risk.
  • How to follow the requirements of the operator’s manual.

Want more information? Give Trivent Safety Consulting a call today at 1-800-819-6092 and get connected to one of our industry leading trainers for more information and details on the standard!

Are Your Forklift Operators Certified?

Hilti Inc. is facing $164,802 in penalties after OSHA discovered numerous safety violations following a forklift accident. Investigators discovered the company exposed workers to struck-by hazards after an employee was injured while operating a forklift at a distribution center in Atlanta.  OSHA inspectors determined that Hilti failed to provide forklift operator training and instructions to employees operating the vehicles, and ensure that employees performed daily forklift inspections. Follow the link below to read the full story.

http://www.ehstoday.com/osha/hilti-inc-racks-osha-fines-after-forklift-accident?

OSHA estimates that 35,000 serious injuries and 62,000 non-serious injuries involving forklifts occur annually. Further, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that 96 U.S. workers were killed in incidents involving forklifts in 2015. OSHA’s Powered Industrial Trucks Standard – 29 CFR 1910.178 – establishes that “the employer shall ensure that each powered industrial truck operator is competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely, as demonstrated by the successful completion of the training and evaluation” outlined in the standard. So who should receive training when it comes to operating forklifts? Any person who will be operating the equipment no matter how long or simple a task may seem. The penalty for negligence in the event of an accident can be severe, as mentioned in a previous blog. https://www.triventsc.com/blog/business-owner-manager-charged-with-manslaughter/

Forklift Operators Certified - get training from Trivent Safety Consulting   Here are five accident statistics that should cause you to exercise extreme caution when operating a forklift:

  1. Forklifts account for around 85 deaths every year.
  2. Forklift accidents that result in serious injury total 34,900 annually.
  3. Non-serious injuries related to forklift accidents reach 61,800 each year.
  4. A forklift overturning is the most common incident, accounting for 24% of all forklift accidents.

If companies implemented more stringent training policies, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that about 70% of forklift accidents in the US could be prevented.                                                                                                                                                         

(OSHA) estimates that about 70% of forklift accidents in the US could be prevented.       

With that in mind here are a few items that should be addressed with a certified training program:

  • Understanding of operating instructions
  • Use of controls and instrumentation
  • Steering and maneuvering
  • Visibility
  • Vehicle Stability
  • Vehicle Capacity
  • Thorough understanding and ability to reference load charts
  • Fork attachments
  • Maintenance
  • Refueling safety

Trivent Safety Consulting certified forklift training consists of the following three parts:

1. Formal instruction can be given using lectures, discussions, interactive computer learning, videos, or written material.

2. Practical, hands-on training covers demonstrations performed by the trainer and practical exercises performed by the trainee.

  1. An evaluation of the operator’s ability to handle the truck safely in the workplace must be conducted by the trainer. Specific training topics to be covered are listed in the standards. All of the topics must be covered unless the employer can show that certain topics are not needed.Employers must certify that the training and evaluation has been done. Each operator’s performance must be evaluated every three years. Usually, the person doing the evaluation would first observe the operator to determine if he or she is performing safely, and then ask questions to ensure that the operator has the knowledge or experience needed.Refresher training is required whenever one of the following occurs:
  • the operator is involved in an accident or near-miss incident;
  • the operator has been observed operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner;
  • the operator has been determined in an evaluation to need more training;
  • there are changes in the workplace that could affect safe operation (such as a different type of paving, reconfigured storage racks, or new layouts with narrower aisles or restricted visibility); or
  • the operator is assigned to a different type of truck.

leading trainers

Are you, or your staff in need of training? If so, contact us today 1-800-819-6092 and we can get one of our industry leading trainers out to your location as soon as possible! Remember luck is never considered a strategy, but proper training and policy development is. Let us help you achieve your goals!

Author: Scott Seppers

Driving Towards Disaster!

No matter where you are, or where you are heading, you may have experienced our topic of discussion today and that is distracted driving. We’ve all seen it play out before, from the person sitting at the front of the traffic light who needs to be alerted from someone behind as they sit comfortably at the intersections pole position, to the more serious infraction of not being able to stay in one driving lane. One thing is for sure and that as technology continues to evolve so does the frequency of distracted driving issues. It would be nice to have all distracted driving issues come to end after taking a moment to address and discuss this ongoing epidemic, but the reality is there will be a high likelihood of this continuing to be an issue for the foreseeable future. So lets take a moment today and discuss one of the main distractions we see on a daily basis while driving…. Texting!

Driving Towards Disaster!

Texting is the Most Dangerous Type of Distracted Driving

According to the CDC there are 3 types of driving distractions:

  • Visual: a distraction that diverts your eyes from the road
  • Manual: something that causes you to take your hands off the wheel
  • Cognitive: anything that takes your mental focus off the road

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has determined that texting while driving is the most dangerous type of distracted driving. This is mostly because texting combines all 3 types of driving distractions at once: visual, manual and cognitive.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Pictured above is the fatal aftermath of a distracted driving incident in California, the driver was sentenced to a year in jail after the crash that killed two people. Scenes like the above are a grizzly reminder of what can potentially happen if we become complacent and allow ourselves to become distracted behind the wheel of an automobile.

According to a Cambridge Mobile Telematics survey, most drivers are more afraid of distracted drivers than drunk drivers, but curbing the problem isn’t easy.

Distracted driving has become an epidemic, but do people believe that it is even more dangerous than drunk driving? According to our recent survey of more than 700 drivers, the answer is yes; 63 percent of respondents noted they are more afraid of distracted drivers than drunk drivers.

Each day, roughly 9 people are killed in crashes caused by distracted drivers – equating to about 3,285 deaths a year. When compared to the number of people killed in drunk driving-related crashes in 2016 (10,497) that number is smaller, driving while distracted is actually more dangerous. Texting and driving at 55 miles per hour is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field with eyes closed. Even more, it takes the average sober driver .54 seconds to hit the brake. For a driver who’s been drinking, add four feet to their reaction time, but add 70 feet for someone who has been texting. Wanna read more? Click the link: www.cmtelematics.com/blog/distracted-driving-vs-drunk-driving-fear-solutions/

drunk driving

At the end of the day nobody wants to become part of a statistic, Trivent Safety Consulting understands the risks and inherit dangers of every day driving and has developed a defensive driving course to help bring awareness and discussion to the forefront of what most us take for granted  on a daily basis. Interested in learning more? Contact us today so we can heighten awareness and provide valuable training to your team. We can help inform and build a safety culture for you and your work force!

By: Scott Seppers

To Train Or Not To Train?

best time to plant

“The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago.  The second best time is today.”  This particular saying has stood out to me over time and I often think of it when I think about when the best time is to conduct training.  As a previous iron worker general foreman I can relate to the feeling of second guessing and thinking of possible scenarios that could have taken place prior to an accident ever occurring. The game of playing hind-site is never very productive and has yet to change the outcome of any incident I have ever known. The one thing that has always remained true, is the question one might ask him or herself “Could this have been prevented with better training?” After an accident you may feel that the best time for training, would have been prior to any accident ever occurring. I think it is safe to say that no one wants to see people get hurt on the job site and at the same time it has been very difficult to acquire experienced professionals. So what is the answer to this issue? At the end of the day, the solution to a lack of experience is a well informed and trained work force.

“The solution to a lack of experience is a well informed and trained work force.”

With that said, where should we begin?

trained work force

Fall Protection is a high priority for those who have workers that are exposed.

After a quick review of the statistic graph above it would seem that fall protection training would be a good place to start for those who have workers exposed to falls. Trivent Safety Consulting offers a variety of fall protection courses from a 4-hour fall protection awareness course, to the rigid standards of the EM-385 that encompasses three days of fall protection training and rescue. We also offer customized training courses for our clients and can develop specific training that can focus on sub-part topics. Some clients prefer to have a greater deal of emphasis placed on specific topics due to their employees exposure rates. Some examples of such courses that we have developed in the past are Sub-part P excavation competent person training, along with Sub-part AA confined space competent person training. At Trivent we pride ourselves on being able to create training that meets the requirements of each standard and the needs of our clients. A well informed work force in construction leads to a safer more productive work environment and in addition can lead to increased employee moral. “The proof is in the pudding” as they say, and the statistics are shown to confirm the end result.

best time to train your work force

So when is the best time to train your work force? If you can relate to the old  proverb it would be a considerable amount of time before there ever was an issue. The second best time is today! Contact us today and let Trivent Safety Consulting be a part in developing your work force and safety culture for your company. Remember luck is never considered a strategy, but proper training and policy development is. Let us help you achieve your goals!

Author: Scott Seppers