Alachua Habitat Construction Safety Manual
Text copied from http://www.alachuahabitat.org/Construction/Practices/Chapter%201.html.
Chapter 1: SAFETY
Table of Contents
Introduction
Guidelines for a safe attitude
Proper safety equipment
Power tools and other electrical equipment
Hand tools
Ladders
Scaffolding
Clean work site
Poisons and toxic substances
Emergency medical care
Heat Emergencies
Lifting and Moving Skills
Electrical Safety
Construction Safety Checklist
Daily Safety Briefing
Introduction
Safety is everybody's concern and is always an important consideration at any construction site. Building construction can be one of the most dangerous occupations. Since Habitat work crews normally have a high proportion of inexperienced people, everyone must pay particular attention to safety. Try to be conscious of the safety of others as well as yourself. An observer can often see danger better than the worker involved in the project. Be cautious at all times and ask questions. Do not go ahead with a task if your are uncertain how it is done, or if you are unable to do it.
Safety is based on knowledge, skill and an attitude of care and concern. Supervisors should instruct each worker about the correct and proper procedures for performing each task. This should familiarize the worker with the potential hazards of doing the tasks and advise him or her as to how such hazards can be minimized or eliminated. It is very important that we at Habitat know about safe work practices and follow them.
Guidelines for a safe attitude
1. THINK before you do your work or task.
2. If you are uncertain about how to do a task or how to operate a power tool ASK A SUPERVISOR.
3. Concentrate on your task and eliminate distractions.
4. Know where the first-aid kit is located and how to get emergency help.
5. Inspect all power tools, hand tools, ladders and scaffolding on a daily basis.
6. Advise your supervisor IMMEDIATELY of any unsafe or hazardous tool or condition.
Proper safety equipment
Proper clothing is as essential to safety as the proper selection and use of tools. Wear clothes and gloves that are appropriate for the work and weather conditions. Loose clothing is dangerous around power tools.
Workers shall wear work boots and thick-soled shoes at all times when on a construction site. Any worker wearing sandals or other types of inappropriate footwear shall not be permitted to remain at a construction site.
Hard hats are to be worn while doing demolition work, during the framing phase of construction, or when required by a supervisor, and are to be made available to workers on each job site at all times.
Protective glasses will be available for every construction worker. A worker must wear protective glasses any time he or she is operating a power tool or when instructed by a supervisor.
Each worker must wear a dust mask when installing insulation, sanding or when instructed by a supervisor.
Earplugs must be worn when using a power tool for a prolonged period of time or when instructed by a supervisor. Earplugs are to be made available to workers on each job site at all times.
Power tools and other electrical equipment
Tools are such a common part of our lives that it is difficult to remember that they may pose hazards. All tools are manufactured with safety in mind but, tragically, a serious accident often occurs before steps are taken to search out and avoid or eliiminate tool-related hazards.
In the process of removing or avoiding hazards, workers must learn to recognize the hazards associated with the different types of tools and the safety precautions necessary to prevent those hazards.
A power tool should not be used without proper instruction on its use and on what can happen if the tool is not used properly. The instruction should be done by a qualified person and should be given to all workers; even experienced do-it-yourselfers should receive instruction. The trainee should use the power tool in the presence of the instructor, until the instructor is satisfied that the trainee knows how to use the power tool properly.
Never lower or carry a power tool by its cord. Clean tools daily. Power tools should be checked for defective switches, cords, plugs and proper grounding. Defective tools should not either be reported to the supervisor or labeled and brought to the tool room for repair immediately. (Do not wait until the end of the day.)
Power tools can be dangerous when improperly used. There are several types of power tools, based on the power source that they use: electric, pneumatic, liquid fuel, hydraulic and powder-actuated. Volunteers should be trained in the use of all tools, not just power tools. They should understand the potential hazards as well as the safety precautions to prevent those hazards from occurring.
The following general precautions should be observed by power-tool users:
- Never carry a tool by the cord or hose.
- Never yank the cord or hose to disconnect it.
- Keep cords and hoses away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
- Disconnect tools when not in use, before servicing, and when changing accessories such as blades, bits and cutters.
- All observers should be kept at a safe distance from the work area.
- When appropriate, secure work with clamps or a vise, freeing both hands to operate the tool.
- Avoid accidental starting. Never hold a finger on the switch while carrying a plugged-in tool.
- Tools should be maintained with care, kept sharp and clean and properly lubricated according to the user's manual.
- Keep a good footing and maintain good balance.
- Proper apparel should be worn. Loose clothing or jewelry can be caught in moving parts.
- All portable tools that are damaged should be removed from use and tagged "Do Not Use".
- Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
- Use the right tool for the job.
- Examine each tool for damage before use.
- Operate according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Use proper protective equipment.
- If a hazardous situation is encountered or observed, bring it to the supervisor's attention immediately.
Hazardous moving parts need to be safeguarded. Any moving part must have a guard if exposed to contact by the user. Safety guards must never be removed when a tool is being used. For example, portable circular saws must be equipped with guards. An upper guard must cover the entire blade of the saw. A retractable lower guard must cover the teeth of the saw except where it makes contact with the work material. The lower guard must automatically return to the covering position when the tool is withdrawn from the work. Any saw with an inoperative guard must be removed from work.
- Electric tools should be operated within their design limitations.
- Gloves and safety footwear are recommended when using electric tools.
- When not in use, tools should be stored in a dry place.
- Electric tools should not be used in damp or wet areas.
- Work areas should be well lighted.
Before an abrasive grinding wheel is mounted, it should be inspected closely to ensure it is free from cracks or defects. To test, wheels should be tapped gently with a light nonmetallic instrument. If the wheel sounds cracked or dead, it could fly apart in operation so must not be used. A sound, undamaged wheel will give a clear, metallic tone or "ring". To prevent the wheel from cracking, it should fit freely on the spindle. The spindle nut must be tightened enough to hold the wheel in place without di
Hand tools
Hand tools are non-powered. They include anything from axes to wrenches. The greatest hazards posed by hand tools result from misuse and improper maintenance. Some examples are:
- Using a screwdriver as a chisel may cause the tip of the screwdriver to break and fly, hitting the user or another (as well as destroying the screwdriver).
- If the wooden handle on a tool such as a hammer or an axe is loose, splintered or cracked, the head of the tool may fly off and strike the user or another.
- A spring wrench (e.g. Vise-Grips) with sprung jaws can slip, causing a hand injury.
- Impact tools, such as chisels and wedges are unsafe if they have mushroomed heads. The head may shatter on impact, sending sharp fragments flying.
The volunteers have the responsibility for properly using and maintaining tools. Saw blades, knives or other tools be directed away from walk areas and others working in close proximity. Knives and scissors must be kept sharp since dull tools can be more hazardous than sharp ones. Appropriate personal safety equipment (e.g. safely goggles, gloves, etc.) should be worn. Floors should be kept as clean and dry as possible to prevent slips. Materials, such as bent nails, wire insulation, and wood scraps should not be left on the floor. Around flammable substances, sparks produced by hand tools can be a dangerous ignition source.
Always select the correct type and size of tool for your work and be sure it is sharp and properly adjusted. Guard against using any tool if the handle is loose or in poor condition. Dull tools are hazardous to use because excessive force must be used to make them cut. Oil or dirt on a tool may cause it to slip and cause an injury. When using tools, hold them correctly. Most edged tools should be held in both hands with the cutting action away from yourself. Avoid using your hand or fingers as a guide to
Ladders
Inspect a ladder before you use it. If the ladder is unsafe, don't use it. Look for wear and tear, loose rungs and defects.
Use a ladder that will reach the work. An extension ladder should reach three feet above the work level. Move your ladder with your work. If both of your shoulders are extended outside the ladder while you are working, you are reaching too far. When using an extension ladder, use the "4-to-1" rule: For every four feet of height, move the bottom of the ladder one foot away from the wall. A ladder is pitched at the proper, safe angle if you can grasp a rung at should height.
Place your ladder on solid footing. If there is a danger of the ladder moving while you work, tie it down. If there is a danger that the ladder will be hit, barricade it. If the feet of the ladder are not level, dig the ground out under one foot with the claw of a hammer rather than one foot with blocks. If plywood or OSB is available, place a sheet under the feet of the ladder. If necessary, use 2x4s under the sheet to level it.
Never use an aluminum ladder in the vicinity of electrical lines and never use a ladder outdoors during inclement weather or on very windy days.
Carry tools and materials in proper carrying devices and keep your hands free for climbing. When climbing, always face the ladder.
If the ladder is being used in one place for an extended period, such as when providing access to the roof during shingling, it should be nailed off by running a 16d nail into the subfascia on either side of the ladder, preventing it from sliding to the side.
Scaffolding
All scaffolding that is elevated 10 feet or more must be equipped with a safety railing. All scaffolds must be equipped with a toeboard to eliminate the possibility that tools or debris will be kicked or pushed onto people below. A scaffold must be designed to support four times the weight of the workers and the materials resting on it. Scaffolding components that are not designed to be compatible should be mixed.
Inspect all scaffolding each day before using it. Never use damaged or defective equipment and avoid rusted parts since their strength is unknown. When erecting scaffolding, provide adequate sills for the scaffold posts and use base plates. Use adjusting screws, not blocks, when on an uneven grade. Make sure to plumb and level scaffolding and do not force end braces when constructing the scaffolding.
Many scaffolding accidents are caused by defective planking. Use only properly graded and inspected lumber for planking. Inspect planking daily for splits and knots, and remove defective or damaged planking.
Clean work site
A clean work place is a safe work place. This refers to the neatness and good order of the construction site. Maintaining good housekeeping contributes to the efficiency of the worker and is important in preventing accidents.
Position building materials and supplies in carefully laid out piles to allow adequate aisles and walkways. Clean up all rubbish and scrap materials on a daily basis. Do not permit blocks of wood, nails, bolts, empty cans, pipe, wire or other materials to accumulate on the work site. They interfere with work and can constitute a hazard. Keep tools and equipment that are not being used in chests, panels or tool boxes. This protects the tools and the workers. Never leave a work site unguarded unless all to
On hot, humid days with no breeze, anyone may be affected by the heat. They may suffer heat stroke, heat exhaustion or heat cramps.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is life-threatening. The victim's temperature-control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly. Help must be fast. Quickly cool the victim's body. Heat stroke requires medical attention.
Signs and symptoms of heat stroke are hot, red skin; very small pupils; and very high body temperature- sometimes as high as 105 degrees. If the victim was sweating from heavy work or exercise, his or her skin may be wet; otherwise, it will feel dry.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening situation. Call EMS. Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place. Cool the victim fast. Immerse him or her in a cool bath or wrap wet sheets around the body and fan it. Care for shock while waiting for EMS to arrive. Give nothing by mouth.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is less dangerous than heat stroke. It typically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a warm, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. Fluid loss causes blood flow to decrease in the vital organs, resulting in a form of shock. With heat exhaustion, sweat does not evaporate as it should, possibly because of high humidity or too many layers of clothing. As a result, the body is not cooled effectively.
The usual signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are cool, pale, and moist skin; heavy sweating; dilated pupils; headache; nausea; dizziness; and vomiting. Body temperature will be nearly normal.
Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place. Place him or her in the shock position, lying on the back, with feet up. Either remove or loosen the victim's clothing. Cool him or her by fanning and applying cold packs (putting a cloth between the pack and the victim's skin) or wet towels or sheets. Care for shock. Give the victim one-half glassful of water to drink every 15 minutes, if he or she is fully conscious and can tolerate it. These steps should bring improvement within a half hour.If you do repeated lifting or moving, take frequent breaks. Your back needs a chance to relax and recover from strain.
How you carry and lower an object is nearly as important as how you lift or move it. Here are a few tips:
- Take small steps and go slowly.
- Move your feet in the direction you want to go and let your entire body follow. Turn around, don't twist around.
- Use your lifting skills to set an object down as carefully as you lifted it up.
- Sometimes an object that is too heavy or bulky to be lifted can be pushed. (Pushing is less strenuous than pulling.) Get a good grip on the object. Use the weight of your body for maximum leg power, bending your knees and keep your back as straight as possible.
Electrical Safety
Proper insulation saves lives. Electrical equipment does have built-in safety features. The insulation around wires and cables protects you from direct contact with electric current. But, the insulation has to be adequate for the voltage and the temperature and moisture conditions. And it can't protect you if it is worn or frayed. So check the insulation on the wires before you start any job involving electricity. It's probably marked or coded using different colors to tell you how much insulatistill connected and effective. Grounding helps protect against shock, but it can't totally prevent it.
Enclosing electrical equipment is another form of protection. It means that live electrical parts and equipment that could produce sparks - control panels, circuit breakers, switch boxes, etc. - are enclosed in some way. If they are 50 volts or more, they have to be kept in separate rooms or enclosures or behind partitions or at least 8 feet off the ground. You'll usually see warning signs on these areas. Sometimes they are locked or guarded. If you are not authorized to work on the equipment, keep out!nd equipment you should be wearing. Don't wear metal jewelry that could turn you into a conductor.
To avoid electrical shock, the following rules must be obeyed:
- A three-pronged plug must be used on all electric power tools.
- Extension cords must not have frayed insulation or be fastened with staples, hung from nails or suspended from wires.
- All temporary lights must be equipped with non-conductive guards.
Construction Safety Checklist
Housekeeping and Sanitation:
__General condition of work areas
__Adequate trash removal
__Floor openings covered or guarded
__Stair and walkways cleared of debris and materials
__Note any slip, trip or fall hazards
__Adequate lighting
__Adequate ventilation
__Toilet facilities adequate
__Drinking water and cups provided
__Protective glasses and goggles
__Gloves
__Respirators or dust masks
__Hard hats
__Proper shoes worn by all workers
__Ear plugs
Ladders and Scaffolding:
__In good serviceable condition
__Properly positioned and secured at the top
__Extended 36" above roof or platform, if used for access
__Doors blocked open, locked or guarded off if in front of ladder
__Stepladders fully open when used
__Metal ladders not used for work in electrical areas
__Sound rigid footing for all scaffolds
__Safe access to all working levels
__Equipped with standard guard rails, midrails, and toeboards
__Protection provided where persons are required to work or pass under scaffolding in use
__No accumulation of tools or materials on platforms
Portable Power and Hand Tools:
__General conditions of tools
__Proper tools being used for the job being performed
__All users informed on proper uses of tools
__Guards and safety devices are operable and in place
__Electrical tools inspected and marked according to the Assured Equipment Grounding Program
__Proper personal protection equipment available to users
Material Handling and Storage:
__Materials properly stacked and firmly secured
__Fire protection adequate
__All rigging and lifting equipment properly maintained
__Employees picking up and handling loads properly
__Flammable liquids stored only in approved containers
__Adequate security measures
__Poisonous or hazardous material properly marked
Fall Protection:
__Guardrails where necessary
__Personal Fall Arrest System provided
__Fall Protection Plan Implemented where PFAS is not used
First Aid Kits:
__Kits provided
__Kits replenished and inspected when necessary
Daily Safety Briefing
Brief volunteers and others concerning site hazards and safety procedures:- General site safety and hazard awareness (open holes, moving equipment, workers overhead, etc.)
- Common sense. Look out for each other (ladder safety, trip and fall hazards, safe nailing practices and any dangerous materials.
- Description of equipment to be used and its safe use (including scaffolding)
- Power tool hazards, safe use and postioning.
- General rules for handling heavy or awkward materials (long boards, sheetrock, concrete)
- Personal safety (head, ear, eye and hand protection)
- Sharp tool hazards and proper use of chisels, utility knives and other sharp tools.
- Ask if any volunteer has any allergies or other medical condition that might limit their activity.
- Explain emergency procedure including location of emergency phone, first aid kit and a fire evacuation plan, if appropriate.
