General Safety Policy

TO:              All Employees, All Applicants, All Subcontractors

SUBJECT:    Safety and Health Rules

Objective:    Safety Rules are provided as guidelines for safe operations. All employees must follow these rules and a condition of employment.

Scope:         Applies to all employees and contractors.

Procedure:   All employees will be given a copy of the following safety and health rules upon initial employment.  All employees must sign and return the acknowledgement form after they have been given a chance to review the safety rules and ask any questions.  The safety rules will be periodically reviewed to ensure they are applicable and current.

Enforcement:         Employees will be subject to disciplinary action for violations of safety rules. Such action may include anyone or more of the following depending on the severity of the violation.

Employees shall be afforded instructive counseling and/or training to assure a clear understanding of the infraction and the proper conduct under organizational guidelines. However, nothing in the policy of this safety program will preclude management from terminating an employee for a safety violation. This is not progressive discipline system and any safety violation may lead to an employee’s termination without prior instruction or warning.  Management reserves the right to impose whatever disciplinary action it deems appropriate:

Verbal Warning with documentation in personnel file.
Written Warning outlining nature of offense and necessary corrective action with documentation in personnel file.
Termination.

Management, including supervisory personnel, shall be subject to the above disciplinary action for the following reasons:

Repeated safety rule violation by employees under their supervision
Failure to provide adequate training prior to job assignment.
Failure to report accidents and provide medical attention to employee injured at work.
Failure to control unsafe conditions or work practices.
Failure to maintain good housekeeping standards and cleanliness in their departments.
Following are lists of safety rules for specific areas of construction.  Some of these rules may not apply to all of our employees, depending on what your job duties entail.  Nonetheless, you should be familiar with and adhere to all of our company safety rules.

Remember, willful violation of these safety rules can result in a 50 percent reduction in compensation benefits if you are injured.

The key to accident prevention is the development of the proper safety attitude by each employee.  Each employee has the personal responsibility of following established safe working procedures and developing safe work habits.  Unsafe acts and / or unsafe conditions cause accidents. The following rules should be adhered to at all times:

  1. Vehicles, machines, and equipment must not be operated by anyone who has not been specifically trained or authorized to do so.
  1. Check machines, equipment, and tolls before use to ensure they are in good condition.  Do not use defective material or equipment.  Report any defects to the supervisor.
  1. Always wear the required safety equipment.
  1. Rings and other jewelry should not be worn when working around machinery that has moving parts in which such items could get caught.
  1. Never reach into moving machinery.
  1. Always wear a hard hat in areas where overhead work is being done.  Never stand or walk under a suspended load.  MSHA, Part 46 Regulations requires that hard hats must be worn at all times in the quarry area.
  1. Keep the work area neat and orderly.  Keep aisles, stairs, and walkways clear.  Do not place materials of any type on top of electrical boxes and do not hang materials on top of fire protection equipment.  Good housekeeping is the responsibility of every employee.
  1. Use a ladder or step stool to get to heights beyond reach.
  1. Watch for moving vehicles.  Never assume the operators of mobile equipment can see other workers.
  1. Employees must never be under the influence or in possession of intoxicating beverages or narcotics while on the job.
  1. Report unsafe conditions to the supervisor.  If possible, correct the hazard as soon as it is discovered.
  1. Always use a hand railing when going up or down stairs.
  1. Immediately report all injuries or illnesses to the supervisor.
  1. If another employee is working in an unsafe manner, tactfully bring it to his or her attention.

GENERAL

  1. Proper clothing must be worn and appropriate personal protective equipment must be used.  The supervisor will inform employees of the specific personal safety equipment that must be used for the job.
  1. All safety equipment must be inspected for defects daily and before each use.  If a defect is discovered, it must be reported to the supervisor immediately.

HEAD PROTECTION

  1. Hard hats must be worn where there is a potential danger of head injury from impact, electrical shocks and burns, and falling or flying objects.  MSHA, Part 46 Regulations require that hard hats be worn in the quarry area.
  1. Hard hats may be removed and placed in vehicles when operating such equipment.
  1. Ensure head protection is in good condition both on the inside as well as the outside.  The outer shell must be free of cracks or other damage and the suspension inside must be free of defects. If head protection is damaged or uncomfortable, notify the supervisor.

FOOT PROTECTION

  1. Shoes and other foot protection must be appropriate for the type of job being performed.  Safety shoes can prevent serious injury and lost time.  Safety shoes should be kept in good repair for safety reasons as well as for comfort.  Your supervisor will inform you of the appropriate footwear required for your position.

EYE/FACE PROTECTION

  1. Suitable eye and face protection must be worn by all employees to offer protection from hazards encountered in chipping, grinding, buffing, boring, breaking, welding or similar work that subjects the eyes and face to flying fragments.  Chemical eye goggles must be worn when there is a danger of injury to the eyes as a result of heat or chemical reactions.  The company provides safety glasses; so it is your responsibility to get a pair.
  1. The eye protection prescribed for a particular job must always be worn.  Safety goggles can prevent injury to or loss of eyes.  Additional protection, such as face shields, welding helmets, colored goggles, etc. may be required for certain occupations.

(a)   Employees with vision in only one eyes, or those who, in the opinion of the designated medical provider, have such limited vision that they may become permanently disabled if they receive an eye injury while on the job, are required to wear the eye protection prescribed by the employer at all times while on company property.

  1. Eye protection must be worn at all times on jobs or in areas that present the slightest danger to eyes.  It is up to the supervisor and the safety coordinator to determine the proper eye protection for the specific hazard.  It is the employee’s responsibility to take advantage of, and even insist upon, the available eye protection.
  1. If eye protective gear is bent or damaged, notify the supervisor.  The supervisor will either arrange to have it adjusted or provide undamaged equipment.
  1. Face shields may be required for certain tasks.  They provide more ventilation than other types of eyewear.  They are sometimes required with safety glasses or goggles for greater all-around protection.

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

  1. It may occasionally be necessary to work in dusty, chemically impure, gaseous areas or areas where there is a lack of oxygen.  Work in such areas may only be done under the direction of an authorized supervisor.  If a respirator is prescribed for safety purposes, it must be worn, as survival may depend upon it.
  1. Prescription glasses or facial hair may interfere with the proper wearing of a respirator. Employees who wear glasses or have facial hair should check with the supervisor before using a respirator.
  1. There are many different types of respirators.  The correct type will be provided for the job at hand.  It is imperative that respirators not be switched among employees.  Not only is this an unsanitary practice, but another respirator may be designed for a different use, and thus be ineffective.

HAND PROTECTION

  1. Hand protection is needed for some work, such as handling or working with sharp metal, rough edges, hot materials, or chemicals.  The type of glove will depend on the substance or material being handled.  Verify proper hand protection with the supervisor.
  1. All employees engaged in welding operations must wear approved gloves.

HEARING PROTECTION

  1. Approved hearing protection devices such as earmuff, earplugs, or ear canal caps may be required.
  1. Cotton balls, hearing aids, and portable radio or tape player earphones are not acceptable hearing protection devices.

ADDITIONAL BODY PROTECTION

  1. Arm protectors, fire-retardant clothing, disposable overalls, rubber aprons, leggings, etc. may be required for certain jobs.  When protective clothing is prescribed, it must be worn.  Protective clothing must be in good condition and fully protect the wearer from the hazards for which I is required.
  1. All employees who work in or near the public right-of-way must wear fluorescent vests.

FALL PROTECTION

  1. Employees who are required to work above floor or ground level must protect themselves from falling.
  1. Safety harnesses and lifelines are necessary if walkways, toe boards, guard railings, or other safeguards cannot give full protection.
  1. Safety belts are prohibited.  Only safety harnesses with appropriate lifelines and lanyards are acceptable fall protection.
  1. When attaching lifelines, adjust to allow only a drop of a maximum of six (6) feet in case of a fall.

HAIR AND CLOTHING

      1.  Employees working around moving machinery must keep hair neatly trimmed or tucked under a properly fitting hat.

  1. Loose fitting clothing and jewelry must not be worn around machinery or when working on structure.
  1. Only trained and authorized personnel are permitted to use gas or electric cutting or welding equipment.
  1. Welders’ hoods and / or goggles must be worn for protection from flashes and sparks that can cause injury to eyes.
  1. Whenever possible, shield work when welding or burning to protect others from the arc or flash.
  1. When it is necessary to be in an area where welding or cutting is being done, exercise caution.  Avoid looking at the bright light. Check clothing to ensure that no sparks, which might set clothing on fire, are being carried.  Grease or oil on clothes is especially dangerous when working around oxygen, as oxygen can cause grease to ignite.
  1. Protective caps must be placed on cylinders whenever they are not in use.  Always replace the caps on full or empty cylinders after the regulators have been removed.  It is especially important to have the caps in place to protect the valves while transporting cylinders.
  1. All cylinders, whether full or empty, must be properly secured to a wall, a hand truck or some other stationary object.
  1. Oxygen cylinders must not be stored in a confined space with acetylene, liquid flammables, oils or grease because a leaking cylinder can cause spontaneous combustion of such materials.
  1. Store acetylene cylinders in an upright position.  Never transfer or mix acetylene from one cylinder to another.
  2. Do not store compressed gas cylinders where they are subject to excessive variations in temperature.
  1. Never use oils or grease to lubricate any part of an oxygen, acetylene or gas cylinder or regulator.  Be sure to wash all grease or oil from hands before touching cylinders to avoid ay serious fire hazard.
  1. Use a green hose for oxygen and a red hose for all fuel gas.  Never use compressed air to blow out these hoses.  Use only oxygen for the oxygen hose and fuel gas for the fuel gas hose.
  1. Authorized personnel must make any cutting or welding equipment repairs only.
  1. Ensure that all fire hazards have been eliminated in areas where welding or cutting operations are to take place.
  1. Employees must be trained and instructed in the proper use of special tools before operating them.
  1. Inspect tools before they are used.
  1. Use hand tools properly to avoid injury.
  1. Keep tools in good condition.  Repair or replace worn or damaged tools before using them.  Mushroomed, cracked or chipped heads, and rough splintered or badly worn handles are unsafe and should not be used.
  1. Do not leave defective tools where other workers might use them.  Red tags should be put on defective tools and the supervisor notified.
  1. Each tool should have its own storage place. Do not leave tools on top of ladders or other items.  Return tools to their proper places so that they do not pose a threat of falling on or tripping workers.
  1. Use the proper tool for the job.  A tool that requires too much exertion is not the correct tool.
  1. Use hand tools for the job for which they are intended.  Do not substitute them for hammers or crowbars.
  1. Use tools properly.  Do not use a screwdriver on an object held in the hand, or cut with a knife toward the body.
  1. Do not use adjustable wrenches if the jaws are sprung, as this causes slippage.
  1. Do not use excessive pressure or force on any hand tool.
  1. Always use a tool kit or tool belt when carrying tools.  Carrying tools in pockets is dangerous, especially if the tools are sharp or pointed.
  2. Wear appropriate eye protection when chipping or doing other work that may cause particles to fly into the air.
  1. Tools and equipment powered by electricity, compressed air, or compressed gasses can be dangerous and may cause serious injury to the operator or others if not handled properly. Precautions and safe practices have been developed to cover the use of such tools and only properly trained, authorized, and qualified people are allowed to operate them.
  1. Before a worker uses a tool or piece of equipment that is unfamiliar, the supervisor must provide an operational briefing, including safety warnings and precautions relating to the particular tool or equipment.
  1. Keep guards in place at all times except when making repairs.  Before making any repairs or adjustments unplug or disengage hand-held power tools from the power source. Stationary power tools must be properly locked out when making repairs or adjustments.
  1. All electric circular saws must be equipped with a fixed guard over the upper half of the blade and a moveable guard that complete covers the lower half of the blade.  Never remove or block saw blade guards.
  1. Frequently check all cords and power cables for breaks in the insulation, especially at the socket and at the point of attachment to the tool.  Immediately report defective cords to the supervisor.
  1. Disconnect electric tools when changing attachments or making minor adjustments or repairs.
  1. All electrical tools or equipment must be either grounded or double insulated.  Some portable electric tools are quipped with three-prong grounding plugs, which are made to automatically ground the tool.  If the ground prong or blade is broke off, the tool must not be used until the three-prong connector is properly repaired or replaced.  Double-insulated tools may be used but they must be clearly identified as the double-insulated type so as not to be confused with tools that require grounding.
  1. Do not run electric cords across aisles or through oil or water.  Inspect cords for kinks, worn or missing insulation, and exposed strands or wire before using an electric tool.  If nay of these conditions are found, do not use the tool.
  1. Disconnect electric tools from the power source when not in use.
  1. Do not wear gloves or loose clothing when operating portable power tools.
  1. Compressed air is extremely dangerous if it is improperly or carelessly used.  Never direct compressed air toward any person for any reason as it can result in death. When using compressed air for cleaning purposes, either the pressure must be less than 30 psi, or effective pressure-reducing tips must be used.  Never use compressed air to clean clothing or skin.
  1. Ensure that air tools are connected only to an airline and not to a natural gas or compressed gas or oxygen line.  When finished with air-powered tools, shut off the valve and release the remaining air in the tool by pressing the trigger.  The tool can then be safely removed from the airline for repair or transfer to another location.
  1. Proper eye and face protection must be worn when using air-powered drills, hammers, grinders, sanders, etc.
  1. Keep all cutting tools such as saws, knives, chisels, tin snips, axes, hatchets, etc. sharp and clean. Sharp tools are much safer than dull tools.
  1. If fire or exploding hazards exist, tools of a non-sparking material must be used.
  1. Only authorized personnel who have been instructed and properly trained in the safe use of powder-actuated tools may use such tools.
  1. The use of powder-actuated tools is prohibited in explosive or flammable environments.
  1. The safe operating procedures provided by the manufacturer of powder-actuated tools or any other tools must be followed explicitly.
  1. Only a trained operator or maintenance person may start up and operate a machine. Do not operate, repair, or test any machinery, electrical apparatus, or other equipment unless it is part of the assigned duties. Do not attempt to lubricate, clean, repair, inspect, or operate a machine that is not fully understood.  If there is any doubt, ask the supervisor. Personnel authorized to operate machinery must follow the safe procedures established for the machine or equipment.
  1. Before turning on a machine, ensure that everyone is in the clear and that guard and safety devices are in place and properly adjusted.
  1. Never tie down or block out guards or other devices such as two-hand controls.
  1. Machinery must not be operated if guards have been removed for repairs, adjustments, or for any other reason.
  1. Never leave a machine running unattended.
  1. When adjustments are necessary, turn off the power and wait until the machine has come to a complete stop. Do not attempt to brake or slow down moving machinery with hands or with a makeshift device.
  1. Some machines use more than one kind of power.  Power types include, but are not limited to, electrical, pneumatic (air), and hydraulic.  If the machine uses more than one source of power, make sure that all power sources are turned off and that any residual pressure is bled off prior to making any adjustments or repairs.
  1. Keep all machines clean. If it becomes necessary to remove chips or scrap from a machine, use a brush or a tool.  Do not use hands.
  1. Do not wear oversized or loose-fitting clothing that could get caught while operating machinery.
  1. Long hair must be tied back, tucked under a cap, or otherwise protected from being caught in moving parts.
  1. If the machine or equipment requires eye and / or face protection, this protection must be worn while operating the machine.  Eye protection must be worn while engaged in all chipping, sanding, grinding, or buffing operations.
  1. Chipping, grinding, or buffing operations must be shielded or isolated to protect others from flying particles.
  1. If a machine is not working correctly, notify the supervisor.  If the machine is unsafe to operate, the supervisor must mark it “out of order” or lock it out to prevent injury.
  1. Switches or valves on machinery or equipment may be opened or closed only by personnel who are authorized to operate or repair such machinery or equipment.  Correct, established procedures must be followed.
  1. Locks, tags, or flags may not be removed by anyone other than the person who placed them,   and then only after ensuring all personnel are in the clear.  DANGER or CAUTION signs must not be removed by anyone other than the person who placed them. They may be removed only after the dangerous condition has been corrected.  If a lock, tag, flag, or sign must be removed and the person who placed it cannot be found, check with the supervisor who will follow the proper procedure.
  1. Do not make any adjustments, such as speed changes, etc. to machinery unless authorized to do so by the supervisor. Only authorized personnel are permitted to adjust machinery while the machinery is in motion, and this may be done only where proper procedures have been established.
  1. When authorized to make minor adjustments on machines, be sure to guard against unexpected movement or parts to avoid injury.  Keep hands in the clear, away from moving parts, to avoid losing a hand or a finger in a machine.
  1. Use extreme caution when working around conveyor belts.  Make sure the emergency stop is working properly.
  1. Do not cross conveyors of any kind except at places provided for safe crossing.

Trenching without bracing, shoring or proper sloping is hazardous because of the various types of soil and the angles or repose.  A cave-in can occur even in hard soil.  If such a failure does occur, persons in the trench can be buried, usually resulting in serious injury or death.  Improper or careless installation of bracing and shoring can cause similar tragedies.

  1. Prior to starting any excavation, conduct an evaluation of soil conditions and factors affecting the stability in order to plan for appropriate measures to safeguard persons and property from hazards of moving ground.  Obtain a permit if required.
  1. Make efforts to locate any anticipated underground installations in cooperation with utility companies or other owners.  Notify respective parties of proposed work.
  1. In the excavation of trenches five feet or more in depth, it is essential that the exposed faces of these trenches be supported and held firmly in place by adequate bracing. This requirement must be complied with for all trenching with the following exceptions:
    1. Trenches that are in rock or hard shale that have been shown to be geologically self-supporting on an unsupported vertical face.
    1. Trenches with exposed faces sloped to the angel or repose for the type of soil in which the excavation is being made or properly benched to an equivalent of the angel of repose.
    1. Trenches in which trench shields or boxes are used.
  1. Inspect all shoring before entering a trench, after weather changes, or after any other activity that might affect the shoring system.  Conduct inspections at least once daily.
  1. Under no conditions should bracing or shoring be omitted, regardless of the length or time that the trench will be open.
  1. Place excavated material at least two feet from the edge of the trench to prevent placing an additional load on the trench face wall.
  1. Employees are not permitted to work within the area of operation of any piece of equipment that is excavating a trench.
  1. Riding in the bucket to the bottom of an excavation is prohibited.  Ladders should be used any time access is required.
  1. Management is responsible for the type of bracing, the material size and proper installation in all bracing and shoring operations. Employees are responsible for the safe handling and installation of the material.
  1. Air in an excavation four or more feet in depth must be tested if there is a possibility of harmful gas or oxygen deficiency. Work must be stopped if hazardous air is detected.
  1. Detailed plans for shoring, sloping, benching, or other means of protection must be prepared by a registered civil engineer and available at the work site for any deviations from the minimum state or federal regulations and for excavations deeper than 20 feet.
  1. A safe means of access for employees working in excavation four feet or more in depth must be located within 25 feet.  Standard guardrails and toe boards must be installed when walkways are provided across excavations deeper than five feet.
  1. Employees must be trained in the safety precautions and hazards associated with excavating equipment and any shoring, sloping or benching system used.

Definitions:

     Hole – A void or gap 2 inches or more in the least dimension in a floor, roof, or other walking/working surface.

     Openings – A gap or void 30 inches or more high and 18 inches or more wide, in a wall or partition, through which employees can fall to a lower level.

     Floor Opening – An opening measuring 12” or more in its least dimension in any floor, roof, or platform through which a person might fall.

  1. Guard floor openings with standard railings and toe boards.
  1. Use a standard railing with standard toe board to guard all exposed sides of a floor hole into which a person can accidentally walk, or use a floor hole cover of standard strength and construction that is secured against accidental displacement.
  1. Mark a floor hole or opening with a danger warning.
  1. Warn every employee on the job about any floor holes or openings.
  1. Report any area without proper guardrails or floor hole covers to the supervisor.  Leave the area until the hole or opening has been properly covered or until guardrails have been put up.

TEMPORARY RAILS AND GUARDRAILS

  1. Temporary stair railings and guardrails are required by law on all construction projects to protect workers.
  1. A standard guardrail must be 42” high from floor to top of rail and its posts must not exceed 8’ centers.  It must have a mid-rail, and a minimum 4” high toe board with a maximum ¼ inch clearance above floor that is strong enough to stop tools, materials, etc. from sliding or rolling over the edge.
  1. Paneling or screening should be used if a 4” toe board is not sufficient to restrain adjacent materials.
  1. All guardrails must be capable of withstanding a 200-pound load in any direction.
  1. The minimum requirements for wooden rails are 2” x 4” stock for posts and top rail, with 1” x 6” mid-rails.  The material should be selected to avoid defects and splinters.
  1. The construction of stair railings should be similar to that of the guardrails mentioned in number 2 above except that the top surface of the railing should be a distance of 30” to 34” as measured from the top, forward edge to the trend (in line with the face of the riser below it) upward in a vertical line, to the top of the railing.  Landings and platforms require standard guardrails.
  1. Report any area without proper stair railings or guardrails to the supervisor.  Leave the area until proper railings are in place.
  1. Vehicles and equipment must not be operated by anyone who has not been specifically trained or authorized to do so
  2. Check equipment according to the provided pre-trip inspection report.  Report any defects to the shop supervisor.
  3. Verify that the site for dumping and unloading are safe. Ensure that the dumpsite is level and there is no interference with power lines or trees.  If the site is unsafe, do not attempt to unload until it has been fixed appropriately. Notify you supervisor to rectify this situation.
  4. When out of the vehicle, wear the proper safety equipment (hard hats and fluorescent vests).  Communicate and understand the safety equipment that is required on the projects in which you will be working on.
  5. Foot protection must be appropriate for the type of job being performed. No cowboy boots will be allowed since they have no traction.  Safety shoes can prevent serious injury and lost time.  Your supervisor will inform you of the appropriate footwear required.
  6. Ensure that all steps, hand holds and other entry devices are in safe and good working order.
  7. Communicate and understand all local and state laws that apply to your position.  If you are unclear about the laws or regulations, be sure to speak to your supervisor.
  8. Verify that all required licenses, permits, and paperwork are in your vehicle before operating.  If you feel something is missing or is incorrect, notify the office.