Issue link: https://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1523082
Upcoming GRIP Trainings GRIP Education Sep. 5 | 1–2 p.m. MBAKS Bellevue Visit mbaks.com/events for up-to- date information on the location and status of events. E mployees should return home the way they showed up to work; that is what all employers want. Unfortunately, Washington State has had an increase in fatalities over the last year and most of these are from what is known as the "fatal four". These are four hazards in construction that account for a significant percentage of workplace fatalities in the industry. Understanding and addressing these hazards is crucial for keeping construction sites safe. What are the Fatal Four? 1. Falls (33%): • Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction. They can occur from roofs, ladders, scaffolds, or floor openings. • Hazard Controls: guard rail systems, safety nets, personal fall arrest systems, and proper training. 2. Struck-by-Object (11%): • Workers can be struck by falling objects (tools, materials, etc.) or moving vehicles and equipment. • Prevention Measures: hard hats, barricades, and proper storage of materials. 3. Electrocutions (8-9%): • Electrical hazards include contact with live wires, faulty equipment, or unsafe wiring. • Safety Measures: lockout/tagout procedures, proper grounding, and electrical safety training. 4. Caught-in and/or Caught-Between (5-6%): • Workers can get caught in machinery, between equipment, or in collapsing structures. • Prevention Strategies: proper machine guarding, confined space protocols, and safe excavation practices. Significance and Prevention • Reducing fatalities related to the Fatal Four would significantly impact overall workplace fatalities. • Implementing safety measures, training, and hazard controls can mitigate these risks. • OSHA standards and guidelines provide essential resources for addressing each hazard. Remember, safety is everyone's responsibility. We can create safer construction sites and protect workers from preventable accidents by prioritizing these hazards. Learn how to keep your business and workers safe at mbagrip.com Keeping it Safe this Summer BY MIKE OCTAVE ERNWEST Understanding and Addressing the Fatal Four 20 master BUILDER | SUMMER 2024 MEMBERSHIP VALUE