SAFETY HANDBOOK

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

No employee is authorized to use aerial lifts without training.

Inspections

Formal inspections and maintenance of aerial platforms should be scheduled based on the environment and how often the machine is used. Before performing maintenance on an aerial platform, lower it to the full down position. Switch all controls to the off position. Apply the brakes and/or use chock blocks. Lock out the power and bleed the hydraulic lines. Never modify or alter your aerial platform without written permission from the manufacturer because changes could alter the structure and stability.

In addition to regular inspections and maintenance, inspect the platform each time before you use it. Look for proper function of the controls. Make sure that the emergency lowering mechanism works. Watch for wear and tear. Check for proper fluid levels and no leaks. Never use equipment if it is not working properly; tag it out of service until it can be repaired.

Operations

When you are planning your work, first ensure the platform is appropriate to the task.

• Make sure loads are within the capacity limit and are stowed properly for stability.
• Always use the outriggers and stabilizers required for the aerial platform and check for uneven surfaces and debris in the work area.
• Look for overhead obstructions and electrical lines.
• Avoid using aerial platforms outside in bad weather and high winds.
• Don’t use an aerial platform if it has to be stabilized against another building or object.
• Never use your aerial platform as a crane.
• Before working on an aerial platform, put on the appropriate fall protection gear.
• Consider a fall limiter so that you do not fall too far off of the platform.
• Make sure that guardrails are installed and access gates are closed before you raise the platform.
• Keep both feet on the platform at all times and do not reach too far out.
• Do not use lumber or ladders to get additional height on the platform.
• Do not step on guardrails or gate rungs and do not climb out of the platform for any reason.
• If you will travel with the aerial platform, go slowly in order to watch for overhead hazards and people down below.

SUMMARY OF FALL PROTECTION

Extended boom lift:

• • Tie off to approved anchor points; don’t tie off to the guardrail
  • 100% tie off while working in basket of the boom lift.

Scissor lift:

• Chains must be up
• No tie off as long as their feet are planted on the floor of the basket
• If they get up on the guardrail, tie off is required
• If they have to tie off, they must tie off to an approved anchor point (never a guardrail).

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

There can be physical and chemical hazards involved with the use of compressed gas cylinders, particularly so because cylinder contents are under high pressure (up to 2,500 pounds per square inch, or PSI).

Cylinders range in size from table-top lantern bottles to bottles that are almost five feet tall and weigh over 150 pounds. When in proper working order, cylinders are fitted with valves and regulators to control the release of the contents. When there is a failure of the valve or when the cylinder is damaged or punctured, the pressurized contents can release violently. This sudden release can propel a cylinder up into the air ¾ of a mile, or along the ground up to 30 miles per hour. The energy released may also cause the cylinder to spin, ricochet, or even crash through brick walls. Uncontrolled releases from gas cylinders can pose a severe physical hazard.

The contents of compressed gas cylinders can also pose a chemical hazard if they are accidentally released. Gases may be cryogenic, flammable, combustible, explosive, oxidizing, corrosive, toxic, poisonous, or inert. The sudden release of these materials can create fire and explosion dangers, worker exposure to toxic or poisonous gases, or even asphyxiation (suffocation) danger if the released gas displaces room air.

SAFE USE

In order to use compressed gas cylinders safely, workers should insure they have the necessary training and information on the proper storage, handling, usage and disposal of gas cylinders. Workers should also read the Safety Data Sheet, SDS, on the chemical components of the gas cylinders to:

• Understand the chemical properties
• The required personal protective equipment
• Any health hazards
• Appropriate first aid, and
• Proper cleanup procedures.

Gas cylinders should be properly labeled with their contents. The contents should be stenciled on the cylinder or printed on a label. The color of a cylinder is not an indication of what material is in it because color coding is not standardized. When cylinders are emptied, the valve should be closed and capped and the tank should be labeled “empty”.

Proper storage of gas cylinders is paramount to safety. Because unsecured cylinders can be easily knocked over, they should be individually secured to a stable object. Chains, straps, or cages should be used and should be fixed at approximately 2/3 the height of the cylinder. Cylinders should be stored in well-ventilated areas away from other incompatible materials, sources of flame or heat, or areas where they may receive damage. Empty and full cylinders should be stored separately. To prevent the main cylinder valve from being damaged or broken, the protective cap should be kept in place whenever the cylinder is not in use.

Cylinders should not be dragged, carried, rolled, or slid across the floor. When transporting cylinders, ensure they are not able to bump into each other. To move a large cylinder, a hand truck should be used. The cylinder should be moved individually and should be secured to the hand truck with the protective cap in place at all times.

USE

To use a gas cylinder:

• Valves should be cleared of any dust or dirt before attaching the regulator.
• Some regulators are intended for specific gases and should not be interchanged.
• Connection fittings should not be forced and safety devices in cylinder valves or regulators should not be altered.
• Cylinders should be placed with the valve accessible at all times.

When opening the valve to a cylinder, the worker should stand off to the side and open it slowly. Valves should never be left partly open—they should be opened all the way or closed. Leaking cylinders should be immediately removed from service and the work environment, if it is safe to do so. Cylinders should be serviced and refilled only by trained and authorized supply contractors.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

A confined space is defined as a place:

• That is partially or fully enclosed
• That is not both designed and constructed for continuous human occupancy, and
• Where atmospheric hazards may occur because of its construction, location, or contents, or because of work that is done in it.

We treat all confined spaces as “permit-required confined spaces” unless deemed otherwise by a member of the safety team.

Hazard Assessment

Before a worker enters a confined space, a person with adequate knowledge, training, and experience must perform a written hazard assessment. The name of the competent worker must appear on the assessment.

The hazard assessment must take into account:

• Hazards that may exist in the confined space
• Hazards that may develop while work is performed inside the confined space
• General safety hazards in the confined space.

Lighting

Confined spaces generally have poor lighting, which is why temporary lighting is often required. In potentially explosive atmospheres, use lighting designed for such situations.

Atmospheric Hazards

Confined spaces can present three kinds of atmospheric hazards:

• Flammable, combustible, or explosive atmosphere
• Oxygen-enriched or oxygen-deficient atmosphere
• Toxic contaminants.

Flammable, Combustible, or Explosive Atmospheres

Flammable atmospheres are generally caused by:

• Evaporation of flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline)
• By-products of chemical reactions (e.g., decomposition of organic matter to form methane).

Oxygen-Enriched and Oxygen-Deficient Atmospheres

Normal outside air contains about 21% oxygen. In some instances, air can become oxygen-enriched, which means that the concentration of oxygen exceeds 23%. The primary concern with oxygen-enriched atmospheres is the increased flammability of materials. Things that would only smoulder in normal air will burn vigorously in oxygen-enriched atmospheres (e.g., oil-soaked coveralls, which are difficult to burn in “normal” air, will burn vigorously in an oxygen-enriched environment).

Oxygen-enriched atmospheres are fairly rare in construction. On construction sites they are usually associated with pure oxygen escaping from leaking or ruptured oxyacetylene hoses.

Oxygen-deficient atmospheres, on the other hand, are fairly common. They may result from work being done (such as welding), bacterial action (which consumes oxygen), or from chemical reactions (such as rusting or oxidation). Oxygen may also be displaced by another gas or vapor (e.g., carbon dioxide or nitrogen used to purge tanks, pipe, and vessels).

Never use pure oxygen to ventilate a confined space. Use clean air.

EFFECTS OF OXYGEN CONCENTRATION

Atmospheric Contaminants

Because confined spaces are poorly ventilated, atmospheric contaminants can build up to hazardous levels very quickly. The types of airborne hazards that may be encountered on a jobsite will depend on the following factors:

• The products that are stored in the confined space
• The type of work tasks being performed in the confined space
• The type of work or processes being performed near the confined space.

The most common atmospheric contaminants in construction include hydrogen sulphide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, chlorine, and ammonia.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a very common toxic gas. It has no odor or taste and is clear and colorless. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be very subtle and may cause drowsiness and collapse followed by death.

EFFECTS OF CARBON MONOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS (CO)

Flammable Products

When using flammable materials in a confined space, take these precautions:

• Provide adequate ventilation
• Control sparks (use non-sparking tools) and control other potential ignition sources
• Extinguish all pilot lights
• Use specially protected lighting that will not explode
• Have fire extinguishers handy.

Contact cement is an example of a product with fire or explosion potential when used in a small area with poor ventilation. Workers have been killed from explosion and fire when they finished work and switched off the light in a room where solvent vapors from contact cement or adhesives had accumulated.

Accumulation of Contaminants

Trenches, manholes, and low-lying areas may become hazardous from leaking gases heavier than air, such as propane, or from gases such as carbon monoxide seeping through the soil and into the confined space.

Workers should be aware of these hazards. At the first sign of discomfort or disorientation, they should leave the area until it has been ventilated.

Workers feeling light-headed or experiencing headaches may be inhaling these pollutants. Drowsiness or disorientation can lead to falls. Again, leave the area until it has been ventilated.

Explosive or Flammable Substances

No worker is allowed to enter a confined space if airborne combustible dust or mist is present in a concentration sufficient for explosion. If an explosive or flammable atmosphere is detected, you can perform only certain types of work. The conditions for each type of work are specified below the following definitions.

1. Between 0% and 5% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL), you can perform hot work. The following conditions must also be met:
   • The oxygen content must be maintained below 23%.
   • The atmosphere must be continuously monitored.
   • The entry permit must include adequate provisions for hot work, and it must specify the appropriate measures to be taken.
   • An alarm and exit procedure must be in place to provide adequate warning and allow safe escape if the atmospheric concentration exceeds 5% of the LEL or if the oxygen content exceeds 23%.
2. Between 0% and 10% of the lel, you can perform cold work.
3. Between 0% and 25% of the lel, you can perform inspection work.

Alternatively, work may be carried out in the confined space if the worker is using supplied air and the explosive or flammable atmosphere is replaced by an inert gas (such as nitrogen, argon, helium, or carbon dioxide).
The atmosphere must be monitored continuously to ensure it remains inert. The worker in the confined space must use adequate respiratory equipment as well as adequate equipment to help people outside the confined space locate and rescue the worker if a problem occurs.

Ventilation and Purging

Confined spaces can be purged of dangerous atmospheres by blowing enough fresh air in, and/or by removing (or suction-venting) the bad air and allowing clean air in. The best results are obtained by blowing fresh air into a space close to the bottom. Check the efficiency of ventilation by re-testing the atmosphere with the gas detection equipment before entry.

Care should be taken that fresh air reaches into all areas of the confined space.

“Exhaust air” should not be discharged into another work area where it can endanger other workers.

For manholes without explosive gases you can use portable fans. These usually provide around 750-1,000 cubic feet of air per minute.

A typical manhole 10 feet deep and five feet wide contains 196 cubic feet. Blowing in 750 cubic feet per minute should provide an air change every 15 seconds and easily dilute or displace most dangerous atmospheres.

Worker Training

Workers must be trained before they enter a confined space. Hogan University’s Confined Spaces course is the training we do for all employees before they can enter a confined space.

That training includes:

• Recognizing the hazards (including potential hazards) in the confined space
• Safe work practices, including the use of all equipment such as ventilation equipment, air monitors, and personal protective equipment.

As recommended by OSHA, we do an evaluation procedure (a test) at the end of the course to ensure that workers have acquired the knowledge necessary to safely perform their duties

We also work to pair inexperienced workers with experienced workers.

The content of the training is reviewed annually. Hogan maintains a record of the names of trainers, trainees, and the date of training.

Entry Permits

Permits are used for planning, evaluating, and controlling confined space entries. A competent person must verify that the permit issued complies with the plan before every shift. The duration of an entry permit must not exceed the time required to complete the task. Entry permits should be understood by everyone involved in the job and must be readily available to every person entering the confined space.

At the very least, the entry permit must include:

• The location and description of the confined space
• A description of the work
• A description of the hazards and the corresponding controls
• The time period for which the entry permit applies
• The name of the attendant
• A record of each worker who enters and leaves
• A list of the equipment required for entry and rescue, and verification that the equipment is in good working order
• The results of the atmospheric testing
• Additional procedures and control measures if hot work is to be done.

The entry permit may also include:

• A record of the hazard assessment
• The hazard control plan
• The training records.

Rescue Procedures

Half of all deaths in confined spaces are of those attempting a rescue of someone in peril. For that reason, an adequate number of trained people must be available to carry out the rescue procedures immediately.

Rescuers must be trained in:

• The on-site rescue procedures
• First aid and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• How to use the rescue equipment necessary to carry out the rescue.

Rescue Equipment and Communications

The rescue equipment must be readily available, appropriate for the confined space, and inspected by a person with adequate knowledge, training, and experience. This person must keep a written record of the inspection. Examples of rescue equipment include harnesses and lifelines, hoist and retrieval systems, tripods, respirators, and other personal protective equipment.

Protective Clothing and Equipment

Protective clothing and equipment suitable for one situation may not be suitable for others. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic is resistant to most acids, but it can be softened or penetrated by many common solvents such as benzene, toluene, and xylene.

For this reason, a knowledgeable person should assess the protective clothing and equipment needed (e.g., gloves, boots, chemical suits, fire resistant coveralls—as well as hearing, respiratory, eye, and face protection). Don’t forget that if workers need personal protective equipment, they must be trained in its use.

Respiratory protective equipment should be used where ventilation is impractical or inadequate.

Certain basic rules apply to the equipment.

1. First of all, you need to select the proper type of respirator. Oxygen-deficient atmospheres require supplied-air respirators—either airline types with emergency reserves or SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus).
2. For pneumatic or hydraulic equipment, isolate the power source and depressurize the supply lines. Depressurize any components that may still be pressurized after the supply lines have been bled (e.g., hydraulic cylinders). You must disconnect and drain pipes carrying solids or liquids to or from a confined space, or insert blank flanges.
3. In toxic atmospheres, you must use supplied-air respirators if the concentration of the gas or vapor exceeds the level considered to be Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH), or if the concentration is unknown.
4. When the level of toxic gas or vapor is above the exposure limit but below the IDLH level, air-purifying respirators approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) may be used, provided the exposure conditions do not exceed the unit’s limitations.
5. Someone who is competent in respirator selection must determine the appropriate type of respirator.
6. Workers required to wear respirators must be instructed how to properly fit and maintain them.

Attendants

An attendant must be present whenever a worker enters a confined space. The attendant is not allowed to enter the confined space, unless he or she is replaced by another attendant in accordance with the plan.

Attendants must follow these requirements:

• Remain alert outside and near to the entrance
• Be in constant communication (visual or speech) with all workers in the confined space
• Monitor the safety of workers inside the confined space
• Provide assistance as necessary (except rescue)
• Have a device for summoning help in case of emergency (device must be provided)
• Initiate an adequate rescue procedure in case of an emergency.

Entry and Exit

The means of entry and exit can be evaluated before entry by checking drawings, by prior knowledge, or simply by inspection from outside the space.

Confined space openings are generally small and not well located. These small openings must be considered in the rescue plan since they restrict the movement of workers and equipment in and out of confined spaces.

Entry and exit for top-side openings may require ladders. Ladders must be well secured. Performing an emergency rescue on workers trapped in such areas requires careful planning and practice.

[UPDATED APRIL 7, 2021]

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS VIA TEXT

Hogan has implemented a company-wide texting capability. It will be used for important and urgent communications only. In order for it to be effective you need to be certain the cell phone number in your hh2 record is correct. To verify or change the number:

• Log into hogan.hh2.com
• Click on “Human Resources • My Records

• Verify your telephone numbers towards the bottom of the screen
• If needed, click on “Change Request” near the top and make any appropriate changes

ACTIVE SHOOTER

FOR the Field

Active shooter incidents at construction sites are rare, but that doesn’t mean they won’t ever occur. Proper planning on your part is a smart practice. It takes an average of four to five minutes for police to respond and how you and your co-workers respond in the meantime can—quite literally—make a life or death difference. Here are a few rules that will apply to active shooters:

• In case of an active shooter we will NOT sound the evacuation horn. We do NOT want employees to congregate at the job site trailer. Instead, we encourage our employees and subcontractors to run and hide. If you are in an enclosed area, do whatever you can to block the door. Slowing down the shooter could save lives.
• Once the shooter is subdued, call 911 immediately. Once law enforcement has been contacted, the jobsite Superintendent needs to contact Hogan’s Vice President of HR & Safety.
• Our priority will be to account for all Hogan employees, subcontractors, and visitors. To make sure we are able to accomplish this task, our jobsite Superintendent will account for all Hogan employees. Our jobsite Superintendent will coordinate with key personnel (usually the Foreman) from each of our subcontractors and account for each of our subcontractors’ on-site employees. In the weekly Owner-Architect-Contractor (OAC) meeting, it is the responsibility of the Project Engineer to keep the contact information of each of our subcontractors who are on site up to date. If there is a change in personnel, the Project Engineer is to make the change in the project directory in Procore.
• At this point, employees and subcontractors are encouraged to reach out to their family members.
• When it is safe to do so, provide first aid as needed.
• We have made it a priority to train all of our Superintendents and Foreman on a annual basis on first aid, CPR, and on the AED. In addition, we have purchased trauma kits for severe trauma and provide them to each of our jobsites.

Only Hogan’s President|CEO will have authority and responsibility to speak to any media. Any other person should respond, “I have no comment” and then pass the media representative to Hogan’s President|CEO.

For the office

We encourage our employees at the corporate office to run and hide, lock the doors to their offices, and fight. If our employees are in an enclosed area, do whatever they can to block the door. Slowing down the shooter could save lives.

Call 911 immediately.

Our priority will be to account for all Hogan employees at the corporate office. To make sure we are able to accomplish this task, Hogan’s Vice President of HR & Safety will account for every Hogan employee that works at the corporate office. Once every employee has been accounted for, they will be encouraged to reach out to their family members.

We have put in place the following precautions for active shooters:

• All the doors to the corporate office require a key fob. The doors are locked at all times except for the front door.
• If there is a threat by a current or former employee, we will contact the Centerville City police immediately. A “No Trespass Order,” may be issued to the current or former employee.
• We have cameras in all internal areas of our building, and outside at the entrances to our building.
• We have a “panic” button at the front desk our receptionist can push when there is an emergency. Centerville City police will be contacted when that panic button is pushed.
• We will provide first aid as needed. First aid and trauma kits are available at our corporate office.

Only Hogan’s President|CEO will have authority and responsibility to speak to any media. Any other person should respond, “I have no comment” and then pass the media representative to Hogan’s President|CEO.

NATURAL DISASTERS

[Tornadoes, flooding, earthquakes, severe snowstorms, man-caused disasters, etc.]

In Utah, natural disasters are rare. We don’t have hurricanes. Tornadoes rarely happen. A tsunami would be impressively newsworthy. Flooding from large rivers would be unusual (though not unheard of).

That said, we do have severe snow storms. We can have flooding. We do have earthquakes. There can also be man-caused disasters—chemical spills for example.

The following rules will apply to such disasters.

For the field

• If the disaster is local (surrounding only the job site such as flooding or a chemical spill) or if there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately.
• If the disaster is likely widespread (such as an earthquake), only call 911 if there are serious injuries.
• Attempt to make all other communications via texting to keep the limited cell tower capacities for emergency communications.
• Protect human life and safety. In an emergency, our priority is to account for all Hogan employees, subcontractors, and visitors. To make sure we are able to accomplish this task, our jobsite Superintendent will account for all Hogan employees. Our jobsite Superintendent will coordinate with key personnel (usually the Foreman) from each of our subcontractors and account for each of our subcontractors.

In the weekly Owner-Architect-Contractor (oac) meeting, it is the responsibility of the Project Engineer to keep the contact information of each of our subcontractors who are on site up to date. If there is a change in personnel, the Project Engineer is to make the change in the project directory in Procore.

• In case of an emergency evacuation of the job site, the Superintendent or a designated worker will sound a loud horn three times. That means all Hogan and subcontractor workers need to evacuate the area and, if safety permits, meet at the job site trailer. Do so quickly, but do so safely.
• Employees and subcontractors are encouraged at this point to reach out to their family members.

We have made it a priority to hold biannual training for our Superintendents and Foreman on first aid, CPR, and use of the AED. In addition, we have purchased trauma kits and provide them to each of our jobsites. Provide first aid as needed.

Only Hogan’s President|CEO will have authority and responsibility to speak to any media. Any other person should respond, “I have no comment” and then pass the media representative to Hogan’s President|CEO.

For the office

• If the disaster is local (only surrounding the office building such as flooding or a chemical spill) or if there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately.
• If the disaster is likely widespread (such as an earthquake), only call 911 if there are serious injuries.
• Attempt to make all other communications via texting to keep the limited cell tower capacities for emergency communications.
• Protect human life and safety. In an emergency, our priority is to account for all Hogan employees. To make sure we are able to accomplish this task, Hogan’s Vice President of HR & Safety will account for every Hogan employee working at the corporate office. Once every employee has been accounted for, they will be encouraged to reach out to their family members.

We have a supply of the following items on hand at our corporate office.

• Hand sanitizer
• Dust masks
• Toilet paper
• Clorox wipes
• Bottled water
• AEDs
• First aid kits
• Trauma kits

In addition, employees at our corporate office have been trained on the use of the AED and have been trained on first aid and CPR. We will provided first aid as necessary.

Only Hogan’s President|CEO will have authority and responsibility to speak to any media. Any other person should respond, “I have no comment” and then pass the media representative to Hogan’s President|CEO.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 2021]

Access and egress

Structural ramps that are used solely by employees as a means of access or egress from excavations shall be designed by a competent person. Structural ramps used for access or egress of equipment shall be designed by a competent person qualified in structural design, and shall be constructed in accordance with the design.

Structural ramps used in lieu of steps shall be provided with cleats or other surface treatments on the top surface to prevent slipping.

MEANS OF EGRESS FROM TRENCH EXCAVATIONS A stairway, ladder, ramp, or other safe means of egress shall be located in trench excavations that are four feet (1.22 m) or more in depth so as to require no more than 25 feet (7.62 m) of lateral travel for employees.

EXPOSURE TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC Employees exposed to public vehicular traffic shall be provided with and shall wear warning vests or other suitable garments marked with or made of reflectorized or high-visibility material.

EXPOSURE TO FALLING LOADS No employee shall be permitted underneath loads handled by lifting or digging equipment. Employees shall be required to stand away from any vehicle being loaded or unloaded to avoid being struck by any spillage or falling materials. Operators may remain in the cabs of vehicles being loaded or unloaded when the vehicles are equipped to provide adequate protection for the operator during loading and unloading operations.

Hazardous atmospheres

To prevent exposure to harmful levels of atmospheric contaminants and to assure acceptable atmospheric conditions, the following requirements shall apply:

• Where oxygen deficiency (atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen) or a hazardous atmosphere exists or could reasonably be expected to exist, such as in excavations in landfill areas or excavations in areas where hazardous substances are stored nearby, the atmospheres in the excavation shall be tested before employees enter excavations greater than 4 feet (1.22 m) in depth.
• Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent employee exposure to atmospheres containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen and other hazardous atmospheres. These precautions include providing proper respiratory protection or ventilation.
• Adequate precaution shall be taken such as providing ventilation, to prevent employee exposure to an atmosphere containing a concentration of a flammable gas in excess of 20 percent of the lower flammable limit of the gas.
• When controls are used that are intended to reduce the level of atmospheric contaminants to acceptable levels, testing shall be conducted as often as necessary to ensure that the atmosphere remains safe.

Emergency rescue equipment

Emergency rescue equipment, such as breathing apparatus, a safety harness and line, or a basket stretcher, shall be readily available where hazardous atmospheric conditions exist or may reasonably be expected to develop during work in an excavation. This equipment shall be attended when in use.

Employees entering bell-bottom pier holes, or other similar deep and confined footing excavations, shall wear a harness with a life-line securely attached to it. The lifeline shall be separate from any line used to handle materials, and shall be individually attended at all times while the employee wearing the lifeline is in the excavation.

Protection from hazards associated with water accumulation

Employees shall not work in excavations in which there is accumulated water, or in excavations in which water is accumulating, unless adequate precautions have been taken to protect employees against the hazards posed by water accumulation. The precautions necessary to protect employees adequately vary with each situation, but could include special support or shield systems to protect from cave-ins, water removal to control the level of accumulating water, or use of a safety harness and lifeline.

If water is controlled or prevented from accumulating by the use of water removal equipment, the water removal equipment and operations shall be monitored by a competent person to ensure proper operation.

If excavation work interrupts the natural drainage of surface water (such as streams), then diversion ditches, dikes, or other suitable means shall be used to prevent surface water from entering the excavation and to provide adequate drainage of the area adjacent to the excavation. Excavations subject to runoff from heavy rains will require an inspection by a competent person.

Stability of adjacent structures

Where the stability of adjoining buildings, walls, or other structures is endangered by excavation operations, support systems such as shoring, bracing, or underpinning shall be provided to ensure the stability of such structures for the protection of employees.

Excavation below the level of the base or footing of any foundation or retaining wall that could be reasonably expected to pose a hazard to employees shall not be permitted except when:

• A support system, such as underpinning, is provided to ensure the safety of employees and the stability of the structure
• The excavation is in stable rock
• A registered professional engineer has approved the determination that the structure is sufficiently removed from the excavation so as to be unaffected by the excavation activity
• A registered professional engineer has approved the determination that such excavation work will not pose a hazard to employees.
  Sidewalks, pavements, and appurtenant structure shall not be undermined unless a support system or another method of protection is provided to protect employees from the possible collapse of such structures.

Protection of employees from loose rock or soil

Adequate protection shall be provided to protect employees from loose rock or soil that could pose a hazard by falling or rolling from an excavation face. Such protection shall consist of:

• Scaling to remove loose material
• Installation of protective barricades at intervals as necessary on the face to stop and contain falling material
• Other means that provide equivalent protection.

Employees shall be protected from excavated or other materials or equipment that could pose a hazard by falling or rolling into excavations. Protection shall be provided by placing and keeping such materials or equipment at least 2 feet (.61 m) from the edge of excavations, or by the use of retaining devices that are sufficient to prevent materials or equipment from falling or rolling into excavations, or by a combination of both if necessary.

Inspections (updated 12/2021)

Our Team Managers and Team Leaders who are over the excavation and utilities are required to notify the Safety Assistant whenever a dig is 5ft. deep or more.

Daily inspections of excavations, the adjacent areas, and protective systems shall be made by a competent person for evidence of a situation that could result in possible cave-ins, indications of failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions. An inspection shall be conducted by the competent person prior to the start of work and as needed throughout the shift. Inspections shall also be made after every rainstorm or other hazard-increasing occurrence. These inspections are only required when employee exposure can be reasonably anticipated.

Where the competent person finds evidence of a situation that could result in a possible cave-in, indications of failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions, exposed employees shall be removed from the hazardous area until the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure their safety.

Walkways shall be provided where employees or equipment are required or permitted to cross over excavations. Guardrails shall be provided where walkways are 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

[Fall protection per requirements set forth in osha 29 cfr1926.500, Subpart M – Fall Protection]

Fall protection is any means used to protect workers from falls during work in areas where fall hazards exist. Such areas include leading edges, holes, sloped roofs, etc. In such areas, engineering or design measures are most frequently used to reduce fall hazards. Where engineering or design measures are not sufficient to provide proper fall protection, the Company will take additional measures, including the use of guardrails, fall restraints, or personal fall arrests systems to reduce the hazards associated with working at elevated heights.

The effectiveness of a written fall protection plan depends upon the active support and involvement of all employees. It is intended to assist in implementing a set of procedures to ensure that all work requiring fall protection is carried out safely therefore minimizing the possibility of injury.

An employee required to complete any related task on a walking or working level of six feet or more above a lower level should not proceed with any work until the appropriate fall protection systems have been implemented.
Failure to follow this simple Company policy will lead to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

PURPOSE

Hogan is dedicated to the protection of its employees from on-the-job injuries. In accordance with the OSH Act of 1970, “each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health standards and all rules, regulations, and orders issued pursuant to this Act which are applicable to his own actions and conduct.”

The purpose of this plan is to:

• Supplement the Hogan’s safety policy by providing safety standards specifically designed to cover fall protection on each job
• Ensure that each employee is trained and made aware of the safety provisions, which are to be implemented prior to the start of any work
• Ensure employees are able to recognize fall hazards and establish procedures that are to be followed to prevent falls to lower levels or through holes and openings in walking or working surfaces
• Be certain each employee will be trained in these procedures and shall strictly adhere to them, except when doing so would expose the employee to a greater hazard. If it is determined implementation of a fall protection system will create a greater hazard, management shall be contacted prior to commencing or completing any work. Hogan or its designated representative will then determine how to safely complete the work.

Safety policies and procedures on any one project cannot be administered, implemented, monitored, and enforced by any one individual. A safe, incident-free work environment can only be accomplished with the involvement of every employee involved on the project.

Each employee must understand the following:

• The employee’s value to the company
• The cost of incidents (monetary, physical, and emotional to the employee and his or her family)
• The objective of the safety policy and procedures
• OSHA standards that apply to them and the Company
• The individual role of the employee in implementing and monitoring overall compliance of the safety policy and procedures.

The Superintendent is responsible for continual observational safety checks of all work and the enforcement of all safety policies and procedures. The Superintendent is also responsible for immediately correcting any unsafe acts or conditions.

It is the responsibility of the individual employee to understand and adhere to the procedures of this plan and to follow the instructions of the Superintendent and other company safety personnel. It is also the responsibility of the individual employee to bring to management’s attention any unsafe or hazardous conditions or acts that may cause injury to themselves or any other employees. Jared Morgan must approve any changes to this Fall Protection Plan.

WORKPLACE ASSESSMENT AND FALL PROTECTION SYSTEM SELECTION

Each Superintendent must assess the workplace to determine if the walking or working surfaces on which employees are to work have the strength and structural integrity to safely support the intended load of employees, the equipment, and all materials for the intended work. Once the Superintendent determines the surfaces are safe, he or she must choose the fall protection system that will be implemented. The Superintendent must make all reasonable efforts to anticipate the particular hazards to which employees may be exposed in the course of the job. The assessment should include the following:

• Inspecting the area to determine what recognizable hazards exist or may arise while working in that area
• Selecting appropriate protection measures and equipment (This information must be communicated to all affected employees who will engage in work related activities. The Superintendent must ensure that every employee has been trained and understands the fall protection system that will be implemented.)
• Methods must be implemented to maintain a walking or working surface in a clean and, so far as possible, dry condition. Where wet processes are required, drainage shall be inspected and approved by the Superintendent. False floors, platforms, mats, or other dry standing places should be provided when practicable.

A portion of the Superintendent’s duties is to perform the following:

• Determine the anchorage points for personal fall arrest systems
• Give specific and appropriate instructions to each employee on the systems and procedures to be used
• Ensure employees follow procedures given and that they continuously demonstrate comprehension throughout the entire work process
• Remove employees from the work environment who fail to demonstrate the ability to work safely.

Where leading edge work is involved or where conventional fall protection (e.g., guardrails systems or personal fall arrest systems) is infeasible or creates a greater hazard in a project, the Superintendent will document that condition and submit a written plan for alternative fall protection (e.g., warning lines, monitoring systems, controlled access zones) that will be implemented. Section FALL PROTECTION ALTERNATIVES, below, provides the alternative fall protection methods that could be implemented if the Superintendent deems the use of traditional fall protection methods infeasible or that they may create a greater hazard to employees.

TRAINING PROGRAM

Until the employee has successfully completed Hogan’s Fall Protection training program (available on hoganuniversity.com), the employee will not be allowed to work in an area where he or she might be exposed to fall hazards, perform work requiring fall protection devices, or use fall protection devices.

The on-line Hogan University Fall Protection course covers the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions, unsafe acts, and the regulations applicable to their work environment for any recognizable fall hazard the employee may encounter on the job. Training topics include:

• The nature of fall hazards in the work area
• Selection and use of personal fall arrest systems—including application limits, proper anchoring and tie-off techniques, estimation of free fall distance (including determination of deceleration distance and total fall distance to prevent striking a lower level), methods of use, and inspection
• The use and operation of guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, safety net systems, warning line systems, safety monitoring systems, controlled access zones, and other protection to be used
• The role of each employee in the safety monitoring system when this method is used
• The correct procedures for the handling and storage of equipment and materials and the erection of overhead protection
• The role of all employees in fall protection plans.

The Superintendent will identify all current and new employees who require training and ensure training takes place. Training on the above components will occur both in the Hogan University and at the workplace, as appropriate. The Hogan Fall Protection course covers written policy and procedures on fall protection. Workplace instruction will include demonstration of and practice in wearing fall protection equipment and any instruction necessary for a specific workplace or job task.

A written certificate of training is required which must include the following:

• The name or other identity of the employee trained
• The date(s) of training
• The signature of the Superintendent or Company designated representative who conducted the training or the signature of the employee

Retraining is required every years, or when an employee cannot demonstrate the ability to recognize the hazards of falling and the procedures to be followed in order to minimize all hazards. Employees will be removed from the work environment until they can demonstrate the ability to work safely.

ENFORCEMENT

Constant awareness of and respect for fall hazards and compliance with all safety rules are considered conditions of employment. All supervisory and management personnel have the right to issue disciplinary warnings to employees, up to and including termination, for failure to follow the guidelines of this program.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Hogan takes issues of employee safety very seriously. As a result, when an employee violates a safety policy or procedure or otherwise engages in unsafe acts in the workplace, Hogan will generally follow this procedure:

1. First offense: written warning, retraining required before returning to project.
2. Second offense: written warning, 24 hours off without pay, retraining required before returning to project.
3. Third offense: removal from jobsite with an evaluation of possible separation of employment.

INCIDENT INVESTIGATION

All incidents, regardless of their nature, resulting in injury to workers, shall be investigated and reported. Documentation must take place as soon as possible so the cause and means of prevention can be identified to prevent re-occurrence.

Should a fall or serious incident (e.g., a near miss) occur, this plan shall be reviewed to determine if additional practices, procedures, or training need to be implemented to prevent similar types of falls or incidents from occurring in the future.

FALL PROTECTION|FALL ARREST

All employees must to be protected from falls whenever the walking or working surface height is six feet (6 ft) or greater, measured from the bottom sole of the foot to the lower level onto which an employee could fall. The six-foot rule, at minimum, applies to the following conditions:

• Walking and working surfaces
• Unprotected sides and edges
• Hoist areas
• Holes
• Form work and reinforcing steel
• Ramps, runways, and other walkways
• Excavations
• Precast concrete erection
• Wall openings
• Elevator shafts
• Any additional circumstances deemed necessary by the Superintendent, Safety Assistant, or Jared Morgan.

PERSONAL FALL ARREST SYSTEMS

• Personal fall arrest systems are designed to control the fall of an employee and to minimize the injury once a worker has fallen. Fall arrest systems consist of the following components:
• Full body harness (body wear)
• Connecting device (shock absorbing lanyard, yoyo, etc.)
• Tie-off point (anchorage)
• Training
• The specific requirements for personal fall arrests systems are:
• All required fall protection equipment will be provided by the Company. It is the employee’s responsibility to maintain the equipment and utilize it in accordance with the regulatory standards, manufacturer’s requirements and Company directives.
• All lanyards and self-retracting lifelines must be equipped with locking snap hooks.
• Appropriate shock absorbing lanyards or self-retracting lifelines will be used for fall protection when they do not create a greater hazard due to the length of the potential fall.
• Lanyards will be removed from service when evidence of wear is detected or if the lanyard has had a load applied.
• The anchorage (tie-off point) determined by the Superintendent must be capable of withstanding a minimum 5,000-lb. force per worker attached.
• Anchorage tie-off points, if practical, regardless of their nature, should be above the worker’s head.
• Anchorage must be high enough so that the worker will not strike any lower level should a fall occur
• All fall protection equipment shall be inspected prior to each use by the user and annually by a competent person other than the user.

SUMMARY

An alternative fall protection method may only be used after the Superintendent does a pre-work hazard analysis and determines that a traditional fall protection method is not feasible or creates a greater hazard. All employees, using a fall protection method approved by Hogan, shall be trained by the company prior to beginning any task.

Only Jared Morgan has the authority to change this fall protection plan in accordance with the Company Safety Policies.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

[UPDATED DECEMBER 2021]

HazCom is the program designed to keep you safe from hazardous materials or HazMats that come on site, including chemicals, gases, and other products necessary for construction but which may be harmful if not used properly or used without proper protection.

Five KEY hazcom ELEMENTS

1. MATERIALS INVENTORY A complete list of on-site hazardous materials is kept in the job office.
2. SAFETY DATA SHEETS This is the collection of SDS located in the job office or in a visible location near where the materials are being stored and used.
3. LABELLING AND STORAGE All containers of hazardous materials must be labeled as to their contents.
4. TRAINING All employees must be trained on HazCom. Our Hogan University has the on-line HazCom Course for this purpose.
5. WRITTEN PROGRAM This section of this Safety Handbook is our written program.

Materials Inventory

A list of hazardous substances on your project is located either in a binder labeled “SDS Information for Employees” in the site office (next to this safety handbook) or digitally on your site superintendent’s computer.

During daily production and safety meetings with Hogan employees the project Superintendent or Foreman will have responsibility to record new HazMats that come on site and forward the documentation to Jared Morgan each week.

Jared will oversee changes to the master list and forward the list back to the site as required.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) (updated 12/2021)

SDS describe HazMats and tell how to work safely with them. Hogan employees and subcontractors can access the SDS sheets by clicking on the QRcode located on Hogan’s safety poster which is located in the project trailer.

Every Hogan employee has the right to review an SDS at any time.

OSHA and other safety inspectors will check to make sure the list is current and complete.

Training

In their New-hire Safety Orientation Course, all employees are introduced to Hogan’s HazCom program and its five key elements. Further, there is a HazCom Course dedicated to just this topic.

Continued training and program execution will be a part of every site’s daily production and safety meetings and weekly safety inspections.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

LIGHT-DUTY OR MODIFIED-DUTY PROGRAM

If you are injured and unable to do regular construction work, light duty work is available so you stay on the payroll.

If you or a co-worker goes to a clinic or emergency room with an injury, be certain to tell the doctor we provide a Modified-duty Program. Then we will find meaningful, but light-duty work for you or that employee to do while you are healing.

FIRST AID

A person who renders emergency care at or near the scene of, or during, an emergency, gratuitously and in good faith, is not liable for any civil damages or penalties as a result of any act or omission by the person rendering the emergency care, unless the person is grossly negligent or caused the emergency.

Utah Code, Title 78B (Judicial Code), Chapter 4 (Limitations on Liability), Part 5 (Miscellaneous Provisions), Section 501 (Good Samaritan Law)(Effective 5/8/2018)

No employee is obligated to provide first aid to an injured person. We clearly want employees to be qualified to do so, but we do not require they do so. If you are uncomfortable for any reason—health, risk to self, feeling unqualified—you may elect to not do first aid.

However, most first aid requirements pose little or no risk to the provider. Further, training and renewed training will help an employee feel confident (and be qualified) to perform many types of first aid.

First Aid Kits are provided on every project. Use the supplies as needed for first aid injuries that happen on the job. Report to your Superintendent when your first aid kit needs restocking.

We provide a hands-on CPR and AED Training Course to all interested employees. We encourage all to take it and to repeat it yearly.

MAJOR INJURIES

1. REMAIN CALM.
2. Stabilize the injured worker and, if trained and willing to help, give any necessary first aid and CPR.
3. Notify the site Superintendent.
4. Call 911. Station people to direct the ambulance to the injured worker. Jared Morgan does not need to give approval to send an employee to the emergency room.
5. Contact Jared Morgan, 801-910-7011, immediately. He will decide if it is necessary to report the incident to OSHA.

1. • Utah: Employers are required to notify UOSH at 801-530-6901 within 8 hours of occurrence of all fatalities; disabling, significant, and serious injuries; or illnesses to workers.
   • Wyoming: Employers are required to notify Wyoming OSHA at 800-321-6742 within 8 hours after the death of any employee as a result of a work-related incident, and within 24 hours of all work-related incidents with inpatient hospitalizations, amputations, or losses of an eye.
   • Idaho: Employers are required to notify Idaho OSHA at 208-321-2960 within 8 hours after the death of any employee as a result of a work-related incident, and within 24 hours of all work-related incidents with inpatient hospitalizations, amputations, or losses of an eye.
2. Tools, equipment, materials, or other evidence that might pertain to the cause of such accidents shall not be removed or destroyed until authorized by OSHA. All incidents of worker injuries and occupational illnesses will be investigated.

MINOR INJURIES

1. Stabilize the injured worker.
2. Report the injury to your Project Superintendent.
3. BEFORE going to a clinic, call Jared Morgan.
4. Take the worker to the clinic location written on the JOBSITE poster.
5. Let the doctor know we have a MODIFIED DUTY PROGRAM available for injured employees. We will accommodate ANY light duty restrictions as long as the employee is not hospitalized. This is important because it opens the door for us to keep the employee productively working, albeit in a “light-duty” task.

OSHA-RECORDABLE INJURIES

Frequently in our documentation and educational materials, you will find the term “OSHA-Recordable Injury”. Such an injury is:

• Any work-related fatality.
• Any work-related injury or illness that results in loss of consciousness, days away from work, restricted work, or transfer to another job.
• Any work-related injury or illness requiring medical treatment beyond first aid.
• Any work-related diagnosed case of cancer, chronic irreversible diseases, fractured or cracked bones or teeth, and punctured eardrums.
• There are also special recording criteria for work-related cases involving needle-sticks and sharps injuries, as well as hearing loss.

Essentially, OSHA-Recordable means the work-related injury or illness is serious. Hogan takes these injuries (and all injuries) seriously. They can negatively affect an employee’s ability to work. They can increase our insurance costs. And, importantly, they can in the short-term and long-term negatively impact an employee’s ability to fully enjoy life. The latter goes against our stated and acted-on belief that:

HOGAN & ASSOCIATES CONSTRUCTION VALUES HUMAN LIFE OVER PROFIT.

INJURY REPORTING

For fatal and serious accidents call Jared Morgan at 801-910-7011 immediately. He will decide if it is necessary to report the incident to OSHA.

Tools, equipment, materials, or other evidence that might pertain to the cause of such accidents shall not be removed or destroyed until authorized by Utah OSHA.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

Requirement

A stairway or ladder shall be provided at all personnel points of access where there is a break in elevation of 19 inches (48 cm) or more, and no ramp, runway, sloped embankment, or personnel hoist is provided.

When a building or structure has only one point of access between levels, that point of access shall be kept clear to permit free passage of employees. When work must be performed or equipment must be used such that free passage at that point of access is restricted, a second point of access shall be provided and used.

• Ladders shall be used only for the purpose for which they were designed.
• Non-self-supporting ladders shall be used at an angle such that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is approximately one-quarter of the working length of the ladder (the distance along the ladder between the foot and the top support).
• Ladders shall be used only on stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental displacement.
• Ladders shall not be used on slippery surfaces unless secured or provided with slip-resistant feet to prevent accidental displacement. Slip-resistant feet shall not be used as a substitute for care in placing, lashing, or holding a ladder that is used upon slippery surfaces including, but not limited to, flat metal or concrete surfaces that are constructed so they cannot be prevented from becoming slippery.
• Ladders placed in any location where they can be displaced by workplace activities or traffic, such as in passageways, doorways, or driveways, shall be secured to prevent accidental displacement, or a barricade shall be used to keep the activities or traffic away from the ladder.
• The area around the top and bottom of ladders shall be kept clear.
• Ladders shall not be moved, shifted, or extended while occupied.
• The top or top step of a stepladder shall not be used as a step.
• Cross-bracing on the rear section of stepladders shall not be used for climbing unless the ladders are designed and provided with steps for climbing on both front and rear sections.

Ascending and descending

• When ascending or descending a ladder, the user shall face the ladder.
• Each employee shall use at least one hand to grasp the ladder when progressing up and/or down the ladder.
• An employee shall not carry any object or load that could cause the employee to lose balance and fall.

Inspection and Repair

Ladders shall be inspected by a competent person for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use.

Portable ladders with structural defects, such as, but not limited to:

• broken or missing rungs, cleats, or steps
• broken or split rails
• corroded components
• other faulty or defective components

shall either be immediately marked in a manner that readily identifies them as defective, or be tagged with “Do Not Use” or similar language, and shall be withdrawn from service until repaired.

Fixed ladders with structural defects, such as, but not limited to, broken or missing rungs, cleats, or steps, broken or split rails, or corroded components, shall be withdrawn from service until repaired. The requirement to withdraw a defective ladder from service is satisfied if the ladder is either:

• Immediately tagged with “Do Not Use” or similar language,
• Marked in a manner that readily identifies it as defective;
• Or blocked (such as with a plywood attachment that spans several rungs).

All damaged ladders should be taken to the job office for repair by the Centerville yard or for disposal.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

This procedure establishes the minimum requirements for lockout of energy sources that could cause injury to personnel. All employees shall comply with the procedure.

Responsibility

The responsibility for assuring this procedure is followed is binding upon all employees. All employees shall be instructed in the safety significance of the lockout procedure by the Superintendent, Foreman, or designated individual. Each new or transferred affected employee shall be instructed by the Superintendent, Foreman, or designated individual in the purpose and use of the lockout procedure.

Preparation for Lockout

Employees authorized to perform lockout shall be certain as to which switch, valve, or other energy isolating devices apply to the equipment being locked out. More than one energy source (electrical, mechanical, or others) may be involved. Any questionable identification of sources shall be cleared by the employees with their supervisors. Before lockout commences, job authorization should be obtained.

Restoring Equipment to Service

When the job is complete and equipment is ready for testing or normal service, check the equipment area to see that no one is exposed.

When equipment is clear, remove all locks. The energy isolating devices may be operated to restore energy to equipment.

Procedure Involving More Than One Person

In the preceding steps, if more than one individual is required to lock out equipment, each shall place his or her own personal lock on the energy isolating device(s). One designated individual of a work crew or a supervisor, with the knowledge of the crew, may lock out equipment for the whole crew. In such cases, it may be the responsibility of the individual to carry out all steps of the lockout procedure and inform the crew when it is safe to work on the equipment. Additionally, the designated individual shall not remove a crew lock until it has been verified that all individuals are clear.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS REQUIRING LIKELY LOCK-OUT | TAG-OUT

• Electrical
• Hydraulic
• Pneumatic
• Chemical
• Mechanical
• Combustibles
• Multiple Lockouts
• Confined Spaces

METHODS OF NEUTRALIZING ENGERGY INCLUDE:

• Relieve Pressure
• Disconnect Lines
• Block/Bleed
• Set Fire Watch
• Lockout | Tagout
• Confined Space Permit

PERMITS REQUIRED:

• Safe Work
• Hot Work
• Line Blanking
• Confined Space

[UPDATED SEPTEMBER 8, 2021]

Commercial building construction sites are hazardous by nature. The basic PPE you are required to wear each day will protect you from most of the hazards. However, it is impossible to identify every hazard in every situation you may face. This is the reason Hogan’s safety policy is that each individual has responsibility for his or her personal safety. It is imperative you keep your head up, your eyes open, and communicate PPE needs with your Superintendent, Foreman, Project Manager, General Superintendent, or Jared Morgan.

Hazard assessments to determine appropriate risk controls, including what PPE will be required, are part of the daily production and safety meetings you are required to attend.

The table, below, is a Hazard Assessment for the most common tasks and work processes along with the required PPE for Hogan construction projects. The risk level and seriousness of potential injury have been divided into two categories: Normal Construction Risk, and High Construction Risk. *Standard PPE means, “Hard Hat, Safety Glasses, Shirt with Sleeves, Long Pants, Work Boots, High Visibility Shirt or Jacket, Gloves.”

NORMAL CONSTRUCTION RISK

HIGH CONSTRUCTION RISK

DRESS REQUIREMENTS (updated 09/2022)

The following clothing requirements apply to all Hogan employees on the jobsite.

For work inside the building of a Hogan project, when there isn’t any overhead work, interior ceiling grids are in, and the finishes are going in, the hard hat requirement may be lifted. Even though the hard hat requirement may be lifted at this stage of the project, employees are still required to wear high-viz shirts or vests, safety glasses, work gloves, long pants, and a quality pair of boots.

Hogan Construction self performs a variety of work such as the earthwork (utilities), curb, gutter, and sidewalk, footings and walls, flatwork, etc. The majority of this work is done outside. Workers on these crews must wear their hard hats at all times. In addition, while our Equipment Operators are operating equipment, they must wear their hard hat inside the piece of equipment that they are operating.

REQUIRED PPE PROVIDED BY HOGAN:

• • Full-brim or half brim hard hat that must meet ANSI standards and specifications for head protection:
    • Project Superintendents are to wear a RED hard hat.
    • Project Foreman are to wear a GRAY hard hat.
    • Team Managers are to wear a YELLOW hard hat.
    • Team Leaders are to wear a YELLOW hard hat.
    • All other field workers and visitors are to wear a WHITE hard hat.

• High-viz shirts (workers may not wear cut-off T-shirts and sleeves must be intact.
• High-viz vest (The vest is pocketed and we include a water-proof safety pocket card with contact information, what do to in the case of a major or minor injury, and a few key safety rules.)
• Safety glasses (must be ANSI Z87+ rated; when they wear out take them to the Superintendent or Foreman and you will be given new ones.)
• Work gloves—we have a variety of types to fit your needs. (When they wear out take them to the Superintendent or Foreman and you will be given new ones.)
• A two-gallon water jug for hydration.

REQUIRED PPE PROVIDED BY employee:

• Long pants—no shorts
• A quality pair of boots: They do not need to be steel-toe boots, but cannot be tennis shoes or other such insufficient footwear.

DRESS STANDARDS—STEEL FABRICATION SHOP  & yard crew ONLY

We require everyone working in our steel fabrication facility and yard to wear safety boots that comply with the American National Standard for Personal Protection—Protective Footwear (ANSI Z41-1999 and Z41-1991). This applies to existing employees and to new-hires.

We will give each employee at the steel fabrication facility and yard a yearly allowance of $125 to help with the cost of purchasing carbon-fiber or steel-toed boots. Affected employees may bring their receipt to Jared Morgan and he will request a reimbursement check to be cut to them.

FALL PROTECTION

Refer to the separate Fall Protection section in this Safety Handbook.

Hogan recognizes the critical need for each field employee to have and use fall-protection equipment. To make it easier for each employee to have his or her own equipment (always properly fitted to that employee), we will assist the employee in purchasing the equipment.

The employee will pay 50% and Hogan Construction will pay 50% on the initial purchase of qualifying fall protection equipment. (The employee will not qualify for this discount on the purchase of an additional identical item within one year of the original purchase unless the item is damaged and traded in on the purchase of the new item.)

Payment

Payment for qualifying fall protection equipment may be made by payroll deduction for a maximum of four weeks. Purchases of $50 and under must be done in a single week deduction. If the purchase is through payroll deduction the terms are that the employees authorize Hogan to deduct the amount from the employee’s paycheck for the prescribed period of time until the debt is satisfied.

If employment is terminated before the full amount is repaid, the employee agrees to pay in full the remaining portion of the debt from their final paycheck. Items are sold “As Is”—Hogan offers no warranty or exchanges on items purchased through the company.

Trade-In

One year after the initial purchase of fall protection equipment, the piece of equipment can be traded in to receive a 75% discount on the purchase price of a replacement item as long as the item shows normal wear and is traded in on the purchase of a new item.

Qualifying Fall Protection Equipment

The following equipment is eligible for the discounted purchase and trade-in programs:

• Full Body Harnesses
• Lanyards
• Personal SLRs
• Portable personal anchorage devises (beamers, etc.)
• D-ring extensions
• Positioning devices (wall chains)
• Any other equipment which has been pre-approved by Jared Morgan, Vice President, Safety.

EQUIPMENT TO BORROW

In addition to the recommended personal equipment purchase program, Hogan does maintain a set of fall-protection equipment which can be borrowed. (See your Superintendent for details.)

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

We have an extensive course on Silica Containment, which will train you on how to use the many types of equipment that will keep silica dust from your lungs—and from causing silicosis, an incurable and nasty lung disease. See also the separate SILICA section in this Safety Handbook.

Some of the dust we make is caustic. Respirators will help keep your lungs clean and functioning.

We maintain a supply of N95 in each jobsite office. Always ask for one and use it whenever you are grinding, cutting, or doing anything with a lot of dust, even if using state-of-the-art dust-containment equipment.

In addition, we also have full-face respirators at each jobsite office you should borrow and use when needed.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

Forklifts and Skid Loaders are quite different from automobiles. They are heavier, not as maneuverable, have a tighter turning radius, include multiple steering modes, and have reduced visibility—especially when carrying a load.

These differences mean these pieces of heavy equipment can more readily cause damage—to materials, to the building, to other vehicles, and to workers walking the construction site.

Forklifts and Skid Loaders are basically levers on wheels. That lever principle is what makes these vehicles such great tools in construction, but also what makes them challenging tools to control.

Center of Gravity

The center of gravity is the point where the weight of combined machine and load is distributed equally. It must be maintained within the Triangle of Stability: A triangle consisting of the two front wheels and the pivot point (center) of the rear axle. The other concept to understand is the forklift’s center of gravity. Causing the center of gravity to go outside of the triangle of safety will cause a tip-over.

If the center of gravity moves past the front axle (which is outside the triangle of safety), a front tip-over will occur.

Similarly, if the center of gravity moves past the rear tires (which are outside the triangle of safety), a side tip-over will occur.

If the machine goes too far out of level the center of gravity will move out of the triangle of safety and tip.

To operate this equipment safely, you need to become an expert at thinking in four dimensions: our standard three dimensions—up-down, right-left, forward-backwards—and, in this case, the added fourth dimension of weight. Properly understanding where your center-of-gravity is within that triangle of stability is essential. That triangle of stability is something you need to have constantly in mind.

You should also plan out each lift and transport, anticipating when or where you are likely to have the center of gravity escape the triangle of safety, and planning how to avoid that scenario.

The Operator’s Manual and load labels inside the cab will assist the user in knowing the load limits of the lift.

Inspections

Operators should inspect the equipment at the beginning of each shift. Pre-operation inspections should include:

• Electrical systems
• Physical condition of the forklift
• Fuel and hydraulics levels
• Being certain none of the hoses are damaged or leaking.

Operations

• Always wear your seatbelt.
• Set the forks as far apart as possible under the load is to evenly distribute the weight.
• When navigating an incline tilt the carriage back and raise it just enough to clear the ground—keep the forklift level.
• Keep the load close to the forklift and as low to the ground as possible, but high enough so you can see under the boom arm.
• When carrying a load, do not raise or lower a load when you’re in motion.
• Watch the terrain so you stay as level as possible. A good technique is to level the forklift before raising the boom
• If a load obstructs your view, you should:
  • Drive with extreme care
  • Drive in reverse if appropriate
  • Use a spotter and Hogan-approved hand signals
• Before you deliver a load, you must know the weight of the load, height of the landing zone, distance from the forklift to the landing zone, and forklift capacity
• If you dismount a forklift and walk to a place where it is no longer in your view, lower the forks, put the controls in neutral, set the brakes, and shut off the power.
• If you park a forklift on a slope or incline chock the wheels.
• Use only manufacturer-approved safety platforms to lift people. Otherwise no one should ride on the machine or in the cab unless it is designed to handle more than one person (as evidenced by more than one seatbelt).
• No one should never get under a raised load.
• Never enter or exit the skid loader with its arms raised. If you must work under the arms when they are raised, set the-lift arm brace.

Working inside a building

Carbon monoxide is a concern for rough terrain forklift operators if some work is done inside a partially-completed building. Engine exhaust fumes can cause sickness or death.

If you must operate in a building provide adequate ventilation.

• Use an exhaust pipe extension to remove the exhaust fumes.
• Open doors and windows to bring outside air into the area.

Pedestrians

• Know and use the traffic patterns in use at your jobsite so pedestrians will be better likely to see you.
• Stay alert for pedestrians and always give them the right-of-way.
• Never allow anyone to walk under a suspended load.
• Never allow others to ride on the forklift.
• Never leave your forklift unattended when the forks are raised or the boom is extended.

Tip-overs

Should you ever find yourself with your center-of-gravity out of the triangle of stability, and your forklift tipping over, remember to not jump from the equipment. Stay inside the cage, hold on tight, and lean away from the direction of the tip-over.

Fires

You should always have a fire extinguisher on the skid loader. Make sure it is charged and ready. Contact your Superintendent if there is no extinguisher or it is not charged and ready.

To use a fire extinguisher, follow the P.A.S.S. process:

• Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher that keeps the handle from being accidentally activated.
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle, maintaining a distance of eight to ten feet away from the fire.
• Sweep the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire until it appears to be out, then watch it to be certain it stays out.

High Pressure Oils

Most forklifts use a high-pressure hydraulic system. Escaping oil under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury.

• Hydraulic oil that penetrates the skin must be treated immediately.
• Use the “cardboard test” to locate potential hydraulic fluid leaks—passing a piece of cardboard over the hydraulic hoses to see if oil is sprayed on the cardboard.

Battery Explosions

Battery gas can explode. Keep sparks, flames, and other ignition sources away from the top of the battery.

Never check the battery charge by placing a metal object across the posts. Do it the Hogan way—which is the right way: Use a voltmeter.

Never charge a frozen battery; it may explode. First warm the battery up to 60°F (16°C).

Refueling

• Never smoke
• Avoid open flames, sparks, or electric arcs
• Turn the engine off
• Set the parking brake
• Make sure you have the proper fuel
• Don’t over-fill the tank
• Try to avoid spilling any fuel
• Check underneath the forklift for leak
• Replace the fuel cap—and never substitute a rag or tape for a fuel cap. We do it right at Hogan.
• Clean up any spilled fuel before you start the engine
• Refuel at ½ empty. Why? To reduce the likelihood or the amount of condensation in the fuel tank.
• Know the difference between fuel and diesel exhaust fluid or def
• In cold weather, use only approved fuel additives
• Contact the equipment manager for information and products
• If fuel gels in cold weather, allow it to thaw and then add the additive.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

Hogan (and OSHA) require square, steel-reinforced rebar caps be placed on all installed and protruding rebar that presents an impalement hazard as soon as practically possible. (The older “mushroom” style rebar caps are not to be used on Hogan projects.)

[ADDED DECEMBER 2021]

CONTENTS:

• INSPECTIONS & STORAGE
• SLINGS & SLING TYPES
• CONNECTING HARDWARE
• D/d RATIOS
• FREE-RIGGING NOT ALLOWED
• LIFTING PLAN

INSPECTIONS & STORAGE

Rigging equipment (slings and connecting hardware) shall be inspected prior to use on each shift and as necessary during its use to ensure it is safe. Defective rigging equipment shall be removed from service and taken to the job office. Slings and connecting hardware will also be inspected yearly.

Rigging equipment must have permanently affixed and legible identification markings as prescribed by the manufacturer that indicate the recommended safe working load.

Each job site at Hogan Construction has a designated storage location for all rigging equipment. For larger jobs that will likely be in the job site Conex trailer, tool trailer, or office. Smaller jobs will have a location designated by the Superintendent.

Rigging equipment—slings and connecting hardware—should always be returned to this storage location when not in use. Regular inspections of the equipment in these storage locations will be made. Rigging inspections done by the Safety Assistant or Jared Morgan will be recorded in Procore.

SLINGS—general

• Slings shall not be loaded in excess of its recommended safe working load as prescribed on the identification markings by the manufacturer; and
• Slings shall not be used without affixed, legible identification markings from the manufacturer or authorized testing agency.
  Slings must be inspected yearly, daily, prior to each shift, and during use as warranted.
• Slings must be properly used: no knots, kinks, makeshift connecting hardware, or use without necessary corner and sharp-edge protection.
  Chain Slings
• Whenever wear at any point of any chain link exceeds that shown in this table, the assembly shall be removed from service:

chain SLINGS

Whenever wear at any point of any chain link exceeds that shown in this table, the assembly shall be removed from service:

WIRE ROPE

• Protruding ends of strands in splices on slings and bridles shall be covered or blunted.
• Wire rope shall not be secured by knots, except on haul back lines on scrapers.
• Except for eye splices in the ends of wires and for endless rope slings, each wire rope used in hoisting or lowering, or in pulling loads, shall consist of one continuous piece without knot or splice.
• Eyes in wire rope bridles, slings, or bull wires shall not be formed by wire rope clips or knots.
• Wire rope shall not be used if, in any length of eight diameters, the total number of visible broken wires exceeds 10 percent of the total number of wires, or if the rope shows other signs of excessive wear, corrosion, or defect.
• When U-bolt wire rope clips are used to form eyes, this table shall be used to determine the number and spacing of clips:

• When used for eye splices, the U-bolt shall be applied so that the “U” section is in contact with the dead end of the rope.
• Slings shall not be shortened with knots or bolts or other makeshift devices.
• Sling legs shall not be kinked.
• Slings used in a basket hitch shall have the loads balanced to prevent slippage.
• Slings shall be padded or protected from the sharp edges of their loads.
• Hands or fingers shall not be placed between the sling and its load while the sling is being tightened around the load.
• Shock loading is prohibited.
• A sling shall not be pulled from under a load when the load is resting on the sling.
• Minimum steel rope sling lengths:
  • Cable laid and 6×19 and 6×37 slings shall have a minimum clear length of wire rope 10 times the component rope diameter between splices, sleeves, or end fittings.
  • Braided slings shall have a minimum clear length of wire rope 40 times the component rope diameter between the loops or end fittings.
  • Cable laid grommets, strand laid grommets and endless slings shall have a minimum circumferential length of 96 times their body diameter.
• Wire rope slings shall have permanently affixed, legible identification markings stating size, rated capacity for the type(s) of hitch(es) used and the angle upon which it is based, and the number of legs if more than one.

Synthetic web slings

(nylon, polyester, and polypropylene)

Each synthetic web sling marked or coded to show:

• Name or trademark of manufacturer
• Rated capacities for the type of hitch
• Type of material
• Rated capacity shall not be exceeded.

Synthetic webbing shall be of uniform thickness and width and selvage edges shall not be split from the webbing’s width.

Connecting Hardware shall be free of all sharp edges that could in any way damage the webbing.

Synthetic web slings must never be knotted, even just to shorten it’s length. Knots reduce the strength of the sling by 65%.

Attachment of end fittings to webbing
and formation of eyes

Stitching shall be the only method used to attach end fittings to webbing and to form eyes. The thread shall be in an even pattern and contain a sufficient number of stitches to develop the full breaking strength of the sling.

Environmental conditions

When synthetic web slings are used, the following precautions shall be taken:

• Nylon web slings shall not be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists or liquids of acids or phenolics are present.
• Polyester and polypropylene web slings shall not be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists or liquids of caustics are present.
• Web slings with aluminum fittings shall not be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists or liquids of caustics are present.
• Synthetic web slings of polyester and nylon shall not be used at temperatures in excess of 180°f (82.2°c). Polypropylene web slings shall not be used at temperatures in excess of 200 °f (93.33°c).

Removal from service

Synthetic web slings shall be immediately removed from service if any of the following conditions are present:

• Acid or caustic burns
• Melting or charring of any part of the sling surface
• Snags, punctures, tears or cuts
• Broken or worn stitches
• Distortion of fittings

connecting hardware

(Load hooks, Master links or collecting rings, and Shackles)

For all connecting hardware:

• Use them only as intended
• Stay within their rated capacities: both their working load limits and their approved angles of use
• Use them only if the manufacturer’s identifying labels or tags are present and legible
• Use them only if in good condition.

Job or shop hooks and links, or makeshift fasteners, formed from bolts, rods, etc., or other such attachments, shall not be used.

load hooks

The load hook is the hook attached to the crane or crane cable, or the engineered attachment.

• Their working load limits are stamped on the hook and must be heeded.
• Their approved angles of use are 45° from the vertical, and their designated capacities need to be derated if used other than in-line (0° from the vertical).
• The working load limit for the hook is valid for a single sling or two slings as long as the approved angle of use is not exceeded.
• The slings must sit in the base of the hook and be clear of the latch.
• Never side load, back load, or tip load the hook.
• And finally, do not insert a load hook directly into eyebolts. Use a shackle or master ring between the two components instead.

Load hooks should be visually inspected prior to each shift or whenever there is a concern about whether the hook remains safe to use during the shift. Hooks having any of the following defects shall be immediately removed from service:

• Deformations– any bending or twisting from the plane of the unbent hook (or as recommended by the manufacturer).
• Throat openings– any distortion causing a 5% increase in throat opening—usually about ¼-inch of additional opening space
• Wear– any wear exceeding 10% (or as recommended by the manufacturer).
• Any latch that does not close the throat opening, or any inability to lock or latch any self-locking hook

If the load hook fails any of these inspections, it must be taken out of service and given to the job office.

master links or collecting rings

A master link is generally used to:

• Provide an attachment point for a load to be hoisted
• For multiple legs to be attached to a central collection point to then be hoisted
• Connect slings to a hoisting hook when the hook’s eyes are not large enough
• Or in bridle applications

In use:

• Be sure the master link is seated fully in the bowl of the hook.
• Never overload the master link; rated capacities apply.
• Never side load or side pull master links.
• Master links are usually attached to sling eyes by means of a shackle for ease of connection.
• Stay within their rated capacities: their working load limits and their approved angles of use.
• As with all hoisting hardware, they must have a capacity rating on them and you must stay within those limits.
  • Master links typically have a 120° angle of use or 60° from the vertical.
  • All slings must be used inline or within the 120° included angle if using multiple slings. Master link capacities must be derated or reduced if pulled at an angle.

As with all connecting hardware, master links should be visually inspected before each shift and, if warranted, before each lift. At each inspection check for:

• Signs of disfigurement
• Excessive wear
• Any signs of bending or twisting
• An opening or disfigurement indicating the link has been overloaded
• Degradation by acid or welding
• Or any modifications made by other than the manufacturer
• Be certain the stock size and manufacturer embossings are present and legible. (Master links must have a rating tag if used as part of a bridle setup.)

If a master link fails any of these inspections, it must be taken out of service and returned to the job site office.

shackles

Shackles are U-shaped fittings with a pin across the throat. They are used as a connection between lengths of a chain or to attach to other fittings.

There are two main types of Shackles:

• Anchor or Bow shackles and
• Chain or D-shackles

The terms anchor shackles and bow shackles are usually used interchangeably, and both names refer to a shackle with a larger, rounded “O” shape look. The rounded design of anchor shackles and bow shackles allow them to take loads from more directions without developing a significant side load stress.

The other type of shackles, Chain shackles or D-shackles, refer to the “D” shape design of the bowl or loop. A D-shackle is narrower than a bow or anchor shackle. The smaller loop is designed to take high loads primarily in line since side and racking loads may twist or bend a D or chain shackle.

While the larger bowl or loop of the Anchor or Bow shackle can handle a larger strap, the larger loop shape does reduce the shackle’s overall strength, so when looking at a similarly sized bow and D-shackle, they likely won’t have the same working load limit.

There are a couple of important variant shackle designs.

• A wide-body shackle used to increase the D/d ratio of the sling eye. This can be used when a thimble is not utilized in the sling eye, and is good for synthetic slings and wire rope slings.
• A synthetic sling shackle is used to attach a synthetic web sling. It allows the sling eye to be supported in a flat manner (for maximum rating), eliminating pinching and bunching of the sling eye—both of which will reduce the synthetic sling rating.

Basic Pin Types

A screw pin shackle is the most common type in the industry. It is a general-use shackle designed for quick removal and reattachment. This shackle’s pin screws into the shackle ear.

A screw-pin shackles main danger lies in the pin becoming unscrewed during use.

A nut pin shackle has a pin long enough to extend through the shackle ear and protrude out the other side. The extended portion of the pin is threaded. There a nut is screwed on and a cotter pin is used to secure the nut in place.
An advantage of the nut pin shackle is its ability to rotate freely without becoming disengaged from the shackle.

The pin carries the entire weight of the load for that sling or slings. As such, it is critical to the strength and safety of the shackle and so the pin is never to be the weakest component of the shackle assembly.

To this end, the shackle pin is one incremental size larger—and consequently stronger—than the shackle itself. Shackle pins are specialized and load rated and may not be replaced by any other type of pin or bolt. Ever. No running to a nearby hardware store to get a bolt, however large, to use just this one time. Never. Not done.

You should always refer to your shackle’s manufacturer for actual ratings. You will note that in each case the pin is slightly larger than the shackle diameter.

Basic Usage

The pin, and not the bowl or loop of the shackle, always goes in the hook. No exceptions. However, you can add washers to keep the hook evenly spaced on the pin.

The bowl or loop of the shackle should always be used for slings or collectors, not the pin. Slings might become pinched if used on the pin.

However, the shackle can be used to connect two slings, and when so used, the pin can be up or down. It does have to be in a straight line, not side loaded. The shackle is only designed to carry a load on the pin and within the 45° marks of the loop.

The anchor or bow shackle is suitable for connecting multiple components.

The chain- or D-shackle is at most suitable for connecting only two components.

Typically, shackles are used to:

• Connect a sling to the load.
• To connect a sling to a pad eye, master link, or eyebolt.
• To connect a sling to below the hook lifting devices.
• To connect a hook to sling, and
• To connect a hook to below the hook lifting devices such as a lifting beam.

When using shackles:

• Avoid pinching or bunching of slings in a shackle
• Related, avoid using too small of a shackle for the sling size
• When connecting to a pad eye, the thickness of the flat of the eye should fill 50-80% of the shackle width
• When point loading a shackle to a shackle, connect the:
  • Bow to the bow
  • Bow to the pin
  • But never the pin to the pin.
  • Avoid point loads on sharp edges
  • The loading should stay centered or in-line.
• When using the shackle with a choke hitch, the running part of the choke should be placed in the bow of the shackle, not on the pin.
• Stay within their rated capacities: their working load limits and their approved angles of use.

There are required markings (per ASME B30.26) for each manufacturer to place on shackles. They are:

• The name or trademark of the manufacturer
• The rated load
• And the size or diameter of the body

Manufacturers may choose to add other markings such as angle indicators, manufacturer codes, as well as a raised pad for users to stamp serial numbers on the shackle.

The shackle size specified in catalogs and as marked on the shackle is the bow or body diameter.

Do not use the pin size to determine shackle size.

Further, the same sized shackles may not have the same working load limits due to different metal contents.

INSPECTIONS

Shackles must be inspected at the beginning of any shift and during use should conditions cause any question about the component’s integrity.

During the inspection, look for:

• Any parts that are worn more than 10% of the original dimensions
• Load-bearing components that are bent, twisted, distorted, stretched, elongated, cracked, or broken
• Excessive pitting of corrosion, nicks, or gouges
• Indication of heat damage
• Missing or illegible manufacturer’s name or trademark or rated load identification
• Body spread
• Makeshift or substandard pins not supplied by original manufacturer
• Pins that do not go all the way through the hole
• And any field modifications not designed by the manufacturer

If a shackle fails any of these inspections, it must be discarded.

D/d ratio

Most wire rope slings are rated with a D/d ratio of 25:1. That is the ratio we always work to (or larger) at Hogan Construction.

This means the working load limit for a ½-inch diameter wire-rope sling is only good for a load 12½ inches in diameter or more.

A chain sling should have a D/d ratio of 6:1 or larger.

The D/d for use with synthetic slings varies by manufacturer. You will need to consult the manufacturer’s D/d tables for that number.

The D/d ratios apply to shackles, hooks, and other connecting devices as well.

free rigging forbidden

Underhand lifting is like placing your hand under a load to lift it. This is how we typically think of using a forklift. Examples would be putting the forklift tines within the bottom space of a pallet and then lifting, or placing a bundle of rebar on top of the tines and lifting. In both cases the load sits above the tines, the tines are under the load.

In contrast, overhead lifting is like grabbing a suitcase. You are lifting it from above. Overhead.

Free rigging is an overhead lift where the sling is merely placed over the tines or even wrapped several times around the tines.

FREE RIGGING IS FORBIDDEN AT HOGAN.

Period. No matter how many times you may wrap the sling around the tines, no matter how tight the slings may be, no matter how light or how small the load hanging from the tines may be, free rigging is not to be done. Indeed, free rigging could lead to your dismissal as an employee.

Correct Overhead Lifting

Proper overhead lifting using anything with tines or teeth—a forklift, telehandler, or combo lift for example, must be done with engineered attachments—either:

• A single fork single hook
• A lifting beam
• Or a jib boom

Lifting plan

Before any overhead work begins, the crane operator, signal person, rigger, and those receiving the loads, need to meet together and discuss:

• Size and weight of the load
• Equipment needed
• Boom length and angle
• Crane and boom positioning
• Required personnel
• Crane capacity or limitations
• Signals that will be used, including who will give them and how they will be given.
• Any and all existing site hazards that could affect the lift and the precautions that will be taken to overcome these hazards and insure the safety of the lift.
• And any and all rigging needs for the lift.
• Sequencing
• Environmental conditions

Clearly the amount of planning needed will vary depending on the complexity of the load, the weather, the site terrain, and where in the construction process—where physically and with regards to timing—the lift is to take place. Regardless, this planning should take place in the daily Production and Safety meeting.

CRITICAL LIFT PLAN

If any of the following are true, the lift should be considered a “critical lift” and a detailed critical lift plan must be prepared as of the lift plan.

• Joists longer than 80 feet in length
• Members weighing more than 2500 pounds
• Loads exceeding 75% of the rated capacity of the crane or derrick
• Loads that require the use of more than one crane or derrick
• Lifting of personnel
• Load suspension above rigging personnel
• Loads not in view of the crane operator
• Loads of exceptional value
• Loads that have the potential for becoming unstable during rigging.

Also if the lift affects other trades on site then a Hazard Safety Analysis (HSA), or Job Safety Analysis (JSA) or Task Hazard Analysis (THA) is required. (All three terms are synonymous.)

This critical lift plan should address the issues listed earlier. In addition, the routes for suspended loads shall be pre-planned to ensure that no employee is required to work directly below a suspended load except for employees engaged in the initial connection of the steel and the hooking or unhooking of the load.

The critical lift plan form to be used is available on Procore.

The Critical Lifts needs to be coordinated with all the other foremen weeks ahead of time, in the Foreman Production and Safety meeting.

Double inspections

When doing a critical lift as defined above, two competent persons should inspect the rigging. Each competent person should check the rigging separately from the other and do so without interruptions. This is an inexpensive way to make sure no lives, time, or money are lost.

The names of these two different competent-person inspectors should be included in the Procore documentation.

STOP-WORK AUTHORITY

Any field employee (Hogan or subcontractor) has stop-work authority, meaning if anyone feels a lift is endangering the materials or lives, they can tell the crane or derrick operator or the rigger to stop the work until the unsafe condition has been addressed. If the employee feels they are being ignored, that employee should immediately contact our Safety Assistant (John Routson, 385-441-2603) or Vice President of Safety (Jared Morgan, 801-910-7011).

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

COMPETENT PERSON

Scaffolds shall be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and direction of a competent person qualified in scaffold erection, moving, dismantling or alteration. Such activities shall be performed only by experienced and trained employees selected for such work by the competent person.

CAPACITY

Each scaffold and scaffold component shall be capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied or transmitted to it.

SCAFFOLD PLATFORM CONSTRUCTION

Each platform on all working levels of scaffolds shall be fully planked or decked between the front uprights and the guardrail supports as follows:

• Each platform unit (e.g., scaffold plank, fabricated plank, fabricated deck, or fabricated platform) shall be installed so that the space between adjacent units and the space between the platform and the uprights is no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, except where the Superintendent can demonstrate a wider space is necessary (for example, to fit around uprights when side brackets are used to extend the width of the platform).
• Where scaffolds must be used in areas that the employer can demonstrate are so narrow that platforms and walkways cannot be at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide, such platforms and walkways shall be as wide as feasible, and employees on those platforms and walkways shall be protected from fall hazards by the use of guardrails and/or personal fall arrest systems.
• The front edge of all platforms shall not be more than 14 inches (36 cm) from the face of the work, unless guardrail systems are erected along the front edge and/or personal fall arrest systems are used to protect employees from falling.
  • The maximum distance from the face for outrigger scaffolds shall be three inches (8 cm)
  • The maximum distance from the face for plastering and lathing operations shall be 18 inches (46 cm).
• Each end of a platform, unless cleated or otherwise restrained by hooks or equivalent means, shall extend over the centerline of its support at least six inches (15 cm).
• Each end of a platform 10 feet or less in length shall not extend over its support more than 12 inches (30 cm) unless the platform is designed and installed so that the cantilevered portion of the platform is able to support employees and/or materials without tipping, or has guardrails which block employee access to the cantilevered end.
• Each platform greater than 10 feet in length shall not extend over its support more than 18 inches (46 cm), unless it is designed and installed so that the cantilevered portion of the platform is able to support employees without tipping, or has guardrails which block employee access to the cantilevered end.

CRITERIA FOR SUPPORTED SCAFFOLDS

Supported scaffold poles, legs, posts, frames, and uprights shall bear on base plates and mud sills or other adequate firm foundation.

Footings shall be level, sound, rigid, and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold without settling or displacement.

Unstable objects shall not be used to support scaffolds or platform units.

Unstable objects shall not be used as working platforms.

Supported scaffolds with a height to base width (including outrigger supports, if used) ratio of more than four to one (4:1) shall be restrained from tipping by guying, tying, bracing.

Before the scaffold is used, direct connections shall be evaluated by a competent person who shall confirm—based on the evaluation—that the supporting surfaces are capable of supporting the loads to be imposed. In addition, masons’ multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold connections shall be designed by an engineer experienced in such scaffold design.

INSPECTIONS AND REPAIR

Scaffolds and scaffold components shall be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each work shift, and after any occurrence which could affect a scaffold’s structural integrity.

Any part of a scaffold damaged or weakened shall be immediately repaired or replaced or removed from service until repaired.

MOVING A SCAFFOLD

Scaffolds shall not be moved horizontally while employees are on them, unless they have been designed by a registered professional engineer specifically for such movement or, for are manufactured mobile scaffolds.

POWER LINES

Scaffolding shall not be erected near power lines. The table below gives specific distances that must be maintained based on the voltage and type (insulated or not) of power line should the project require erecting a scaffold any closer than 20 feet to a power line.

FALL PROTECTION

Each employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet (3.1 m) above a lower level shall be protected from falling.

• Each employee on a single-point or two-point adjustable suspension scaffold shall be protected by both a personal fall arrest system and guardrail system
• Each employee on a crawling board (chicken ladder) shall be protected by a personal fall arrest system, a guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound top rail capacity), or by a ¾-inch (1.9-cm) diameter grabline or equivalent handhold securely fastened beside each crawling board
• Each employee on a self-contained adjustable scaffold shall be protected by a guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound top rail capacity) when the platform is supported by the frame structure, and by both a personal fall arrest system and a guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound top rail capacity) when the platform is supported by ropes
• Each employee on a walkway located within a scaffold shall be protected by a guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound top rail capacity) installed within 9½ inches (24.1 cm) of and along at least one side of the walkway
• Each employee performing overhand bricklaying operations from a supported scaffold shall be protected from falling from all open sides and ends of the scaffold (except at the side next to the wall being laid) by the use of a personal fall arrest system or guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound top rail capacity).

A competent person shall determine the feasibility and safety of providing fall protection for employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds. Hogan and subcontractors are required to provide fall protection for employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds where the installation and use of such protection is feasible and does not create a greater hazard.

FALLING OBJECT PROTECTION

In addition to wearing hardhats each employee on a scaffold shall be provided with additional protection from falling hand tools, debris, and other small objects through the installation of toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems, or through the erection of debris nets, catch platforms, or canopy structures that contain or deflect the falling objects. When the falling objects are too large, heavy, or massive to be contained or deflected by any of the above-listed measures, such potential falling objects should be placed away from the edge of the surface from which they could fall and the materials secured as necessary to prevent their falling.

The area below the scaffold to which objects can fall shall be barricaded, and employees shall not be permitted to enter the hazard area.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

Respirable Crystalline Silica Policy and Standards

Crystalline silica is a common mineral found in construction materials such as sand, stone, concrete, brick, and mortar. When workers cut, grind, drill, or crush materials containing crystalline silica, very small dust particles are created. These tiny particles (known as “respirable” particles) can travel deep into workers’ lungs and cause silicosis, an incurable and sometimes deadly lung disease. Respirable crystalline silica also causes lung cancer, other potentially debilitating respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as kidney disease. In most cases, these diseases occur after years of exposure to respirable crystalline silica.

Exposure to respirable crystalline silica can occur during common construction tasks, such as when using masonry saws, grinders, drills, jackhammers, and handheld powered chipping tools; operating vehicle-mounted drilling rigs; milling; operating crushing machines; using heavy equipment for demolition, or certain other tasks.

The standard (29 CFR 1926.1153) requires employers to limit worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica and to take other steps to protect workers. Employers can either use the control methods laid out in the SILICA TABLE of the construction standard, or they can measure workers’ exposure to silica and independently decide which dust controls work best to limit exposures in their workplaces to the permissible exposure limit (PEL).

The SILICA TABLE matches common construction tasks with effective dust control methods, such as using water to keep dust from getting into the air, or using a vacuum dust collection system to capture dust. In some operations, respirators may also be needed. Employers who follow Table 1 correctly are not required to measure workers’ exposure to silica from those tasks and are not subject to the PEL.

Employers who do not fully implement the control methods on Table 1 must:

• Determine the amount of silica that workers are exposed to if it is, or may reasonably be expected to be, at or above the action level of 25 µg/m3 (micrograms of silica per cubic meter of air), averaged over an 8-hour day;
• Protect workers from respirable crystalline silica exposures above the PEL or 50 µg/m3, averaged over an 8-hour day.
• Use dust controls and safer work methods to protect workers from silica exposures above the PEL; and
• Provide respirators to workers when dust controls and safer work methods cannot limit exposures to the PEL.

Hogan & Associates Construction uses the methods found in the SILICA TABLE .

Engineering controls

Engineering controls are the most effective form of protection. Engineering controls remove or isolate silica dust at the point where it is made. All of Hogan’s tools are equipped with a vacuum dust collection system or an integrated water delivery system.

The three major types of engineering controls for silica dust are wet methods, vacuum dust collection systems, and isolation.

1. Wet methods involve using water or a foam to keep dust down and out of the air.
2. Another type of engineering control for silica dust is a vacuum dust collection system. Vacuum dust collection systems remove dust at the point where it is made.
3. The third type of engineering control used for silica dust is isolation. Isolation separates the employee from silica dust.

Work practice controls

The second most effective type of protection is work practice controls.

Work practice controls involve doing tasks in ways that reduce dust exposure. On an annual basis, Hogan’s field employees, foremen, and superintendents are trained on Table 1 and on Hogan’s silica policy. In addition, they are trained on how to operate the tools that are equipped with a dust collection system or an integrated water delivery system.

Training employees how to use effective work practices is another way we protect our employees. Work practice controls involve doing tasks in ways that decrease exposures.

One type of a work practice control is making sure engineering controls are working properly. An example is checking that nozzles on a tool with wet controls to be certain they are not clogged and are pointed in the direction where dust is produced.

Immediately addressing an engineering control that is not working properly is another example of a work practice control. If you can see dust levels starting to increase, this is a sign of a problem with engineering controls.

Another example of a work practice control is using a floor sweeping compound—an absorbent and dust control water-based agent to decrease the amount of dust that gets into the air.

Personal protective equipment

The least effective type of protection is personal protective equipment, such as respirators.

Personal protective equipment, such as respirators, is at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls.
Hogan construction provides their employees—at no cost to the employee—the North 7700 Series half-face (Assigned Protection Factor 25 or APF 25) or full-face respirator (APF 25). In addition, the Moldex 2300 n95 series (APF 10) is provided to employees at no cost to them. Employees are fit tested with the half-face or full-face respirator if engineering controls and work practices are not enough to control exposures down to the exposure limit.

The OSHA questionnaire is completed on an annual basis by all of our field employees (the OSHA questionnaire is included in the FORMS section of this Safety Handbook). A health care professional will contact the employee if further testing is needed.

Competent person(s)

Construction employers must designate a competent person who has the knowledge and ability necessary to fulfill all the responsibilities outlined in the written plan. The final rule defines “competent person” as an individual who is capable of identifying existing and foreseeable silica hazards in the workplace and who has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate or minimize them. Specifically, the competent person’s responsibilities include identifying any situations in which bystanders could be exposed to silica and taking action to notify them (or restrict their access to the hazardous areas). The competent person is also responsible for recognizing and evaluating situations where overexposure may occur, evaluating the exposure potential, and making initial recommendations on how to control that exposure.

Jared Morgan, Hogan’s Vice President of HR & Safety, has been designated as the competent person who has the knowledge and ability to fulfill all the responsibilities outlined in the written plan.

Jared Morgan
Vice President, HR & Safety
801-910-7011
jmorgan@hoganconstruction.com
940 North 1250 West
Centerville, Utah 84014

John Routson, Hogan’s Safety Assistant, has the knowledge and ability to address questions and training regarding the tools equipped with a vacuum dust collection system or an integrated water delivery system.

John Routson
Safety Assistant
385-441-2603
jroutson@hoganconstruction.com
940 North 1250 West
Centerville, Utah 84014

RESTRICTION OF BYSTANDER ACCESS

Bystanders shall be restricted from entering any location(s) within a Hogan job site—inside or outside a building—where any of these tools are being used for cutting masonry:

• Handheld power saws
• Walk-behind saws
• Rig-mounted core saws or drills
• Handheld and stand-mounted drills
• Jackhammers and handheld powered chipping tools
• Handheld grinders (for uses other than mortar removal) Walk-behind milling machines and floor grinders
• crushing machines
• Heavy equipment and utility vehicles
  • when used during demolition activities involving silica-containing materials
  • for tasks such as grading and excavating but not including demolishing, abrading, or fracturing silica-containing materials

Hogan employees shall have clearly identified a demarcation line by stringing “danger” tape surrounding the area with a minimum perimeter as determined by the competent person. Fabricated signs stating “Danger toxic respirable silica dust—do not enter area without proper respiration protection” shall be posted.

Whenever possible schedule high-exposure tasks when others will not be around.

Whenever possible notification to other employees and subcontractors shall be made to make them aware of the possibility that tools will be in use throughout the day that may create respirable silica dust and they may pose a potential risk being in or around the area.

Certain situations will require the area(s) to be cordoned off with Visqueen (plastic sheeting) barriers to be erected.

SILICA TABLE PDF

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

Requirement

A stairway or ladder shall be provided at all personnel points of access where there is a break in elevation of 19 inches (48 cm) or more, and no ramp, runway, sloped embankment, or personnel hoist is provided.

When a building or structure has only one point of access between levels, that point of access shall be kept clear to permit free passage of employees. When work must be performed or equipment must be used such that free passage at that point of access is restricted, a second point of access shall be provided and used.

Construction

• Stairways that will not be a permanent part of the structure on which construction work is being performed shall have landings of not less than 30 inches (76 cm) in the direction of travel and extend at least 22 inches (56 cm) in width at every 12 feet (3.7 m) or less of vertical rise.
• Riser height and tread depth shall be uniform within each flight of stairs, including any foundation structure used as one or more treads of the stairs. Variations in riser height or tread depth shall not be over ¼-inch (0.6 cm) in any stairway system.
• Where doors or gates open directly on a stairway, a platform shall be provided, and the swing of the door shall not reduce the effective width of the platform to less than 20 inches (51 cm).
• Slippery conditions on stairways shall be eliminated before the stairways are used to reach other levels.

Temporary service (unfinished stairs)

• Except during stairway construction, foot traffic is prohibited on stairways with pan stairs where the treads and/or landings are to be filled in with concrete or other material at a later date, unless the stairs are temporarily fitted with wood or other solid material at least to the top edge of each pan. Such temporary treads and landings shall be replaced when worn below the level of the top edge of the pan.
• Except during stairway construction, foot traffic is prohibited on skeleton metal stairs where permanent treads and/or landings are to be installed at a later date, unless the stairs are fitted with secured temporary treads and landings long enough to cover the entire tread and/or landing area.
• Treads for temporary service shall be made of wood or other solid material, and shall be installed the full width and depth of the stair.

Stair rails

• Stairways having four or more risers or rising more than 30 inches (76 cm), whichever is less, shall be equipped with:
  • At least one handrail; and
  • One stair rail system along each unprotected side or edge.
• Note: When the top edge of a stair rail system also serves as a handrail, the height of the top edge shall be not more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) from the upper surface of the stair rail system to the surface of the tread, in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of the tread.

Stair Rails

• Stair rails shall be not less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) from the upper surface of the stair rail system to the surface of the tread, in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of the tread.
• Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members, shall be provided between the top rail of the stair rail system and the stairway steps.
• Screens or mesh, when used, shall extend from the top rail to the stairway step, and along the entire opening between top rail supports.
• Other structural members, when used, shall be installed such that there are no openings in the stair rail system that are more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide.

Handrails

• Handrails and the top rails of stair rail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 n) applied within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge, in any downward or outward direction, at any point along the top edge.
• The height of handrails shall be not more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 30 inches (76 cm) from the upper surface of the handrail to the surface of the tread, in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of the tread.
• When the top edge of a stair rail system also serves as a handrail, the height of the top edge shall be not more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91.5 cm) from the upper surface of the stair rail system to the surface of the tread, in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of the tread
• Handrails shall provide an adequate handhold for employees grasping them to avoid falling.

[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

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[UPDATED DECEMBER 12, 2020]

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PLACING CYLINDERS

Cylinders shall be kept far enough away from the actual welding or cutting operation so that sparks, hot slag, or flame will not reach them. When this is impractical, fire resistant shields shall be provided.

Fuel gas cylinders shall be placed with valve end up whenever they are in use. They shall not be placed in a location where they would be subject to open flame, hot metal, or other sources of artificial heat.

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TREATMENT OF CYLINDERS

No damaged or defective cylinder shall be used.

Before a regulator to a cylinder valve is connected, the valve shall be opened slightly and closed immediately. (This action is generally termed “cracking” and is intended to clear the valve of dust or dirt that might otherwise enter the regulator.) The person cracking the valve shall stand to one side of the outlet, not in front of it. The valve of a fuel gas cylinder shall not be cracked where the gas would reach welding work, sparks, flame, or other possible sources of ignition.

If there is found to be a leak around the valve stem when the valve on a fuel gas cylinder is opened, the valve shall be closed and the gland nut tightened. If this action does not stop the leak, the use of the cylinder shall be discontinued, and it shall be properly tagged and removed from the work area. In the event fuel gas should leak from the cylinder valve, rather than from the valve stem, and the gas cannot be shut off, the cylinder shall be properly tagged and removed from the work area. If a regulator attached to a cylinder valve will effectively stop a leak through the valve seat, the cylinder need not be removed from the work area.

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FUEL GAS AND OXYGEN MANIFOLDS

Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall bear the name of the substance they contain in letters at least one-inch high which shall be either painted on the manifold or on a sign permanently attached to it. Tanks colors do not necessarily indicate tank contents.

Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall be placed in safe, well ventilated, and accessible locations. They shall not be located within enclosed spaces.

Nothing shall be placed on top of a manifold, when in use, which will damage the manifold or interfere with the quick closing of the valves.

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HOSE

All hose in use, carrying acetylene, oxygen, natural or manufactured fuel gas, or any gas or substance which may ignite or enter into combustion, or be in any way harmful to employees, shall be inspected at the beginning of each working shift. Defective hose shall be removed from service.

Hoses, cables, and other equipment shall be kept clear of passageways, ladders, and stairs.

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TORCHES

Torches in use shall be inspected at the beginning of each working shift for leaking shutoff valves, hose couplings, and tip connections. Defective torches shall not be used.

Torches shall be lighted by friction lighters or other approved devices, and not by matches or from hot work.

OIL AND GREASE HAZARDS Oxygen cylinders and fittings shall be kept away from oil or grease. Cylinders, cylinder caps and valves, couplings, regulators, hose, and apparatus shall be kept free from oil or greasy substances and shall not be handled with oily hands or gloves. Oxygen shall not be directed at oily surfaces, greasy clothes, or within a fuel oil or other storage tank or vessel.

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Arc Welding Safety

Arc welders use a powerful electric arc to make and repair plain, coated, or treated metal items. Welders can be stationary, electric powered or portable diesel or gas powered.

Install electric-powered arc welders to code. Ground the equipment and place it on an independent circuit with the correct-sized fuse or circuit breaker. Overloading circuits or improper installation can lead to fire, a ground fault, or equipment failure. Mount a safety disconnect switch near the user work area. Operate diesel- or gas-powered arc welders in well-ventilated areas to control combustion fumes. Do not add fuel to the engine while it is running or near open flame. Stop the engine and lockout the ignition before performing maintenance or repairs.

To protect your body from burns due to arc welding heat, ultraviolet light, molten metal, and sparks wear:

• Dark-colored coveralls with long sleeves and pant legs—the coveralls should be fire retardant, cuffless, and pocketless with no holes, tears, or worn spots
• A skull cap to protect your head and hair
• Leather gauntlet gloves
• Safety boots
• Hearing protection in noisy environments and to keep sparks out of your ears.

Goggles or safety glasses and welding helmet or shields protect your eyes from flying sparks, chipped slag, and ultraviolet light. Welding helmets and shields should be non-reflective and free of cracks, gaps, and openings. Use the correct filter setting for the power output of the arc welder. Weld inside a screened area to protect coworkers. Portable screens, shields, and anti-flash goggles can also be used to protect visitors and coworkers.

Arc welders can reach temperatures greater than 10,000°F, posing a fire and explosion hazard. Don’t arc weld near flammables or combustibles. Avoid welding, cutting, or hot work on used drums, barrels, or tanks, where residual fumes can ignite and explode. Weld on a firebrick surface on concrete or other fire-resistant flooring surrounded by spark curtains. Fill cracks in the flooring to prevent sparks and hot metal from entering and smoldering. Keep an ABC fire extinguisher, fire blanket, and first aid kit available at all times. It may be necessary to set a “fire watch” to ensure that a fire does not start.

To avoid electric shock from arc welding, use an insulating mat when you weld steel or other conductive materials. If you are welding in a wet or damp area or perspiring heavily, wear rubber gloves underneath your leather gloves. Keep welding cables clean and intact and position them so they do not get sparks or hot metal on them.

Use arc welders in well-ventilated areas. Welding metals may be hazardous or lead to an oxygen deficient atmosphere and are best handled in a ventilation hood exhausted to the outside. If you weld or cut metals with hazardous coatings or treatments use a supplied-air respirator or a respirator with a specialty cartridge to filter specific metal fumes. Use respiratory protection for galvanized items and metals, coatings, and fluxes that contain fluorine compounds, zinc, lead, beryllium, cadmium, and mercury. Some cleaning and degreasing compounds may also be hazardous.

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WELDING CABLES AND CONNECTORS

Only cable free from repair or splices for a minimum distance of 10 feet from the cable end to which the electrode holder is connected shall be used, except that cables with standard insulated connectors or with splices whose insulating quality is equal to that of the cable are permitted.

When it becomes necessary to connect or splice lengths of cable one to another, substantial insulated connectors of a capacity at least equivalent to that of the cable shall be used. If connections are effected by means of cable lugs, they shall be securely fastened together to give good electrical contact, and the exposed metal parts of the lugs shall be completely insulated.

Cables in need of repair shall not be used. When a cable becomes worn to the extent of exposing bare conductors, the portion thus exposed shall be protected by means of rubber and friction tape or other equivalent insulation.

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OPERATING

When electrode holders are to be left unattended, the electrodes shall be removed and the holders shall be so placed or protected that they cannot make electrical contact with employees or conducting objects.

Hot electrode holders shall not be dipped in water; to do so may expose the arc welder or cutter to electric shock.

Any faulty or defective equipment shall be reported to the Superintendent.

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FIRE PREVENTION

When practical, objects to be welded, cut, or heated shall be moved to a designated safe location or, if the objects to be welded, cut, or heated cannot be readily moved, all movable fire hazards in the vicinity shall be taken to a safe place, or otherwise protected.

If the object to be welded, cut, or heated cannot be moved and if all the fire hazards cannot be removed, positive means shall be taken to confine the heat, sparks, and slag, and to protect the immovable fire hazards from them.

Suitable fire extinguishing equipment shall be immediately available in the work area and shall be maintained in a state of readiness for instant use.

For the elimination of possible fire in enclosed spaces as a result of gas escaping through leaking or improperly closed torch valves, the gas supply to the torch shall be positively shut off at some point outside the enclosed space whenever the torch is not to be used or whenever the torch is left unattended for a substantial period of time, such as during the lunch period. Overnight and at the change of shifts, the torch and hose shall be removed from the confined space. Open end fuel gas and oxygen hoses shall be immediately removed from enclosed spaces when they are disconnected from the torch or other gas-consuming device.

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VENTILATION AND PROTECTION IN WELDING, CUTTING, AND HEATING

General mechanical or local exhaust ventilation shall be provided whenever welding, cutting, or heating is performed in a confined space.

Employees performing any type of welding, cutting, or heating shall be protected by suitable eye protective equipment.

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