Click for heavy construction safety

The ISEA recently went online with its Partnership for Worker Protection Website.

Aimed at helping contractors reduce injuries, illnesses and deaths related to heavy construction work, the site offers tips and guidance on work hazards and proper use of personal protective equipment. Simply go to www.safetyequipment.org and click on the “Partnership” icon.

OSHA withdraws highway safety rule

At the urging of various construction associations, OSHA has withdrawn its proposal to adopt the latest version of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, which governs the use of signs, signals, barricades and traffic control plans used on highway construction projects. The rule would have put the OSHA regulations and the Federal Highway Administration rules at odds, requiring contractors to meet two different sets of standards governing the same practices. OSHA must now proceed with a more formal rule-making process, reports the AGC of America.

Steps to take for a drug-free workplace

The U.S. Department of Labor suggests these steps for a drug- and alcohol-free workplace:

1. Put your policy in writing. State why it’s important to have a drug-free workplace, what activities are considered drug use and what are the employment consequences of drug use.

2. Train supervisors. Make sure they understand the policy and their responsibilities in administering it. Teach them how to recognize behaviors that may be drug- or alcohol-related.

3. Train employees. As an ongoing effort, share with all employees the effects of drug and alcohol use and how abusers can get help.

4. Offer assistance. Establish an employee assistance program for those seeking help.

5. Establish a testing program. Spell it out in the company’s drug-free workplace policy. Use the Drug-Free Workplace Advisor, a free, online interactive tool that helps employers create drug-free workplace programs. The Advisor is available at www.dol.gov/elaws/drugfree.htm.

Published in the September/October 2002 issue of Contractor Tools and Supplies magazine.

back to top