Sling Inspection and Safe Use Sling inspection and safe use are essential to preventing dropped loads, equipment damage, and serious injuries during lifting operations. Slings, fastenings, and attachments must be inspected before use and used only within their rated capacities. Sling Inspection Before each use, inspect slings and all fastenings and attachments for...

Chainsaws Chainsaws are powerful cutting tools that can cause severe lacerations, amputations, and fatal injuries if improperly operated. Although chainsaws may be used only occasionally on construction projects, employees who operate them must understand their unique hazards and follow safe operating procedures. Before Operation Before using a chainsaw: Only trained and authorized employees...

Tree Trimming Safety Tree trimming safety requires careful planning, proper training, and the correct equipment. Workers may be exposed to falls, electrical hazards, falling limbs, chainsaws, wood chippers, traffic, and other hazards. Electrocution and falls are among the most serious hazards, making work near power lines and at heights especially dangerous. Guide...

Off-the-Job Safety - Safety Away From Work Off-the-job safety is just as important as workplace safety because hazards do not disappear when the workday ends. Safe habits while driving, at home, and during recreational activities can help prevent injuries and protect you, your family, and others. Driving Safety Whether driving a personal or...

Equipment Refueling - Safe Refueling Practices Equipment refueling involves flammable or combustible fuels that can create serious fire, explosion, exposure, and environmental hazards. Whether refueling heavy equipment, generators, trucks, or portable equipment, employees must follow established procedures and control all potential ignition sources. Before Refueling Before beginning refueling operations: Park equipment in an...

Assured Grounding Program An Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP) is one method used on construction sites to protect employees from electrical shock and electrocution hazards associated with temporary wiring, extension cords, and cord-and-plug-connected equipment. Where an AEGCP is used instead of required GFCI protection, OSHA requires the employer to maintain a...

Trenching Trenching operations expose workers to cave-ins, falling materials, hazardous atmospheres, underground utilities, water accumulation, and mobile equipment. Because trenches have restricted working space and limited means of escape, hazards must be identified and controlled before employees enter. Guide for Discussion Before Trenching Begins A competent person must evaluate the excavation and surrounding conditions...