Education
New OSHA weighting system could lead to more inspections
Effective Oct. 1, OSHA put a new weighting system in place for workplace safety and health inspections for fiscal year 2020. The new OSHA Weighting System (OWS) replaces the former time-centric program, which was implemented in 2015. OSHA said that the new OWS, which was based on an evaluation of the existing program and on recommendations…
The Utility of Arbitration Agreements in the Construction Industry
In today’s ever-evolving world of employment law, it is far from an easy task for construction industry employers to operate their business while successfully navigating all of the potential legal potholes that continue to abound and multiply seemingly with every passing day. This is particularly true in the face of the onslaught of claims lodged…
How technology can help contractors prevent lawsuits
Adoption of project management and data collection technology will not only make contractors’ operations more efficient but could reduce the risk of litigation as well, according to Resolution Management Consultants of Marlton, New Jersey. Three main construction technology categories that have the biggest potential to reduce the chances of contractors and owners fighting it out in court…
Prepare for Automated Construction Fleet Vehicles
Technology is changing at a rapid pace, and the construction industry is not without its opportunities to automate processes and adopt the latest industry advancements. The increased availability of partially automated vehicles is the latest example of how companies everywhere can improve the efficiency and safety of their fleets. But that doesn’t mean contractors should…
U.S. Department of Labor Proposes Revisions to OSHA’s Beryllium Standards for Construction and Shipyards
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has finalized its June 27, 2017, proposal to revise the construction and shipyards standards. In the final rule, to be published on September 30, 2019, OSHA: Does not implement the proposal to revoke all of the standards’ ancillary provisions; but Extends the compliance dates for…
Working Safely Near Overhead Power Lines
Working with or near power lines can expose workers to electrical hazards, but these dangers can be avoided through safe work practices. These practical steps can prevent injuries from contact with power lines. Conduct a hazard assessment to identify and address potential safety hazards before work begins. Ask the electric company to de-energize and ground…
U.S. Department of Labor Orders Kinder Morgan to Pay Back Pay, Damages And Fees for Retaliation Against Whistleblower
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has ordered Kinder Morgan Inc. – an energy infrastructure company based in Houston, Texas – to pay a former employee back wages, damages, and attorney’s fees after an investigation found that the company violated the whistleblower provisions of the Pipeline Safety Improvement Act (PSIA)….
Why it’s time to take your safety enrollments and orientations online
OSHA has placed a heavy burden on construction operations to adhere to stringent safety regulations. All workplaces must conform to the agencies guidelines and standards. Proper tool usage, safety equipment, training, and hazard notices all seem like common sense practices. But many worker duties can evolve quickly and pulling a safety trainer to update each…
How and Why to Keep Up With the Latest Tech Trends
(StatePoint) Whatever industry you work in and no matter what your role is, it’s possible you have wondered how emerging technologies will affect your job in the years to come or whether you’ll even have to switch careers entirely at some point. Experts say that while such concerns are understandable, embracing the newest tech can…
OSHA consults industry on silica standard refinements
OSHA is seeking industry input on its respirable crystalline silica standard for construction, and is taking comments until Oct. 15. Specifically, OSHA would like information on the effectiveness of work practice and engineering controls that limit worker exposure to respirable silica, as well as tasks and equipment related to silica exposure that are not currently included in Table…
As Harvey Recovery Continues, Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Harris County Community Services Department and Local Labor Leaders Announce Opportunity Builds Harris County, a Labor Initiative to Build a Stronger Workforce in Harris County for Disaster Recovery Projects and More
As part of the Opportunity Builds Harris County initiative, Commissioners Court voted on Tuesday to approve several worker protection provisions that include Harris County becoming the first county in Texas to set a prevailing wage floor of $15/hour for county building projects, prioritizing safer work sites and creating a job portal that will also connect…
IF YOU READ NOTHING ELSE – READ THIS ON BUILDING PERMITTING
As I write this article, Hurricane Dorian has decimated the Bahamas, blew passed Florida and is on its path along the southeast coast of the Carolinas leaving a swath of destruction behind. Local, regional and out-of-the area contractors are positioned in the starting blocks to rush in on opportunities to rebuild, rehab and repair residential,…
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