Construction Blog

Construction Worker Safety in the Fall and Winter

Construction Worker Safety in the Fall and Winter

Although most people complain about all the construction that seems to appear during the summer months, construction (both concrete and outdoor) doesn’t stop just because the weather turns cold. And for workers who endure the cold winter months, safety becomes even more important. Working construction is always a dangerous job, but when normal working conditions are made more difficult by cold weather and decreased daytime hours, those dangers are even more present.

But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t work in the fall and winter, it just means that there are a few extra precautions we can take to overcome the cold and the darkness.

Overcoming the Cold

Working in the cold is uncomfortable, but not impossible. Here are a few tips to keep safe during the colder months of the year:

1. Layer—The threat of hypothermia is one of the biggest threats to winter construction safety. As a result, you need to learn the signs of oncoming hypothermia and always work in twos. Also, learn to layer your clothing so you can adjust your body temperature for different jobs and a range of temperatures so you don’t get too cold or too hot.
2. Heaters—Most companies and job sites will provide construction heaters for the winter months. There are a number of styles, like radiant heaters or forced air heaters. For example, LB White makes a wide range of heaters for construction sites that will run from wall outlets or from generators. When you use construction heaters, make sure you follow proper safety guidelines by not placing the heater too close to flammable materials or directly on plywood. When possible, elevate the heaters off the floor. And always make sure to crack a window (if working inside) in order to let out excess fumes.
3. Heating blankets—Also, if you work with concrete, make sure to use concrete curing blankets (like those made by Powerblanket), which will keep in the heat and moisture needed to help the concrete cure correctly, making it more durable and safer in the long-run.

Overcoming the Dark

Working in the cold, may be uncomfortable, but working the dark can be downright dangerous. Here are a few tips for proper lighting on the job:

1. Light towers and Light balloons—if you are working at night, in the early morning, or in the evening, lighting towers are a must. LED lighting towers are great because they provide an excellent amount of light with very little power; however, they can be bulky. For a lighter solution, you can try lighting balloons, which are more lightweight and portable. Either way, use the lighting solution that is best for your job and worksite in order to perform your job correctly and avoid accidents and injury.
2. Traffic Arrow Boards—One of the most dangerous parts of road construction is the traffic. In the dark, winter months that danger is magnified tenfold. Setting up reliable traffic arrow boards to clearly indicate where traffic should flow is a must if you are working on the roads.

All in all, construction safety in the winter is all about using the right equipment to overcome the dangers that cold and dark create. If you can use the proper equipment to keep you warm and help you see (and be seen), you’ll be less likely to get hurt or seriously injured.

As goes the Economy, so goes Construction.....

As goes the economy, so goes construction.

That industry mantra can sound either disheartening or hopeful depending on the current economic landscape.
No doubt, the recession hit hard – and few industries were hit harder than construction. In fact, in a study commissioned by Associated General Contractors, it said the recession and resulting housing and credit slump, has resulted “in one of the highest unemployment rates in any segment.”

But thanks to a slow, but steadily, improving economy, that’s all starting to change -- and it only takes a quick jaunt in downtown Salt Lake City to see the proof of the rejuvenation.

Nearly every corner of the major metro block is packed with cranes, cones and cement mixers. The city's hub is in the midst of one of the biggest revitalization projects in the nation. The story is the same for North Temple -- a revitalized shopping district and one of Salt Lake's major thoroughfares to the airport. And soon, the aptly-named 'Sugar Hole' in vintage Sugar House will become home to new retail shops and storefront luxury condos.

This trend was also confirmed on paper as, for the first time in six months, the nation’s construction industry added jobs in February. According to the March 4 employment report by the U.S. Labor Department, 33,000 jobs were created during the previous month.
But this is far from unexpected.

Fact is, buildings fall into disrepair. Roads buckle in the cold and potholes abound. As the population increases, so does the need to larger, better infrastructure and more housing options. As the economy continues to find its breath, these opportunities will grow expontentially.

So, while flurries of orange cones and traffic delays may inconvenience some commuters and pedestrians, their presence is indicative of a greater economic turnaround -- and the perennial security of the construction industry.

That’s where Construction Complete can help . As a premier supplier for professional construction tools and equipment, we can help you make the most of the economic upswing. By providing everything from custom tools to landscaping supplies to heaters, we can help you maximize your efficiency year-round. We understand your business needs and promise to continue to provide the expertise, fair pricing, timely delivery and custom solutions you need to excel.

So, take comfort. No, the construction industry is far from recession-proof. But it’s almost always at the forefront of recovery.

How to Choose & Install the Right Generator

I think we’ve all experienced the inconvenience of a prolonged power outage. Beside the inconvenience of no light, there is also the potential of spoiled food and a lack of heating or air conditioning. A power outage can get pretty uncomfortable. I thought I’d give a very brief introduction on how to purchase and set up a generator for use in case of home emergencies. 

Before I begin, you should know that there are many things to consider when purchasing a generator, and I highly recommend consulting a professional. A certified professional will not only be able to recommend what generator is best for you and your property, but they will also be able to direct you on how to safely install and operate your generator. Also, a great source for information is the internet, which is full of helpful videos and diagrams. The following information is a summary of a pamphlet provided by DTE Energy:

1. Selecting Your Generator

Determine “constant wattage”

    Depending on the generator, it can only operate a limited number of items. Determine what appliances you need to operate and add up the wattage. That total is your “constant wattage,” or the energy you need to keep the selected item running. 

Determine “start-up wattage”    

    Motor-driven appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and furnace blowers require up to five times their normal wattage to start. Choose a generator that meets or exceeds your “constant wattage” and has a surge rating that meets or exceeds your “start-up wattage.”

Match voltage ratings

    Most household appliances are rated at 120 volts, but some large appliances such as ranges and dryers are rated at 240 volts. A 240 volt appliance cannot be operated on a 120 volt generator. 

2.  How Many Watts?

    Check the label or manual on the generator for its wattage capacity. On the appliances in your home, check labels inside or on the appliance for wattage. If the appliance only gives you it’s amps, you can multiply that times the voltage to determine wattage. Again, this might be a good time to consult a professional. 

3.  Connecting Your Generator

    If you’ve already purchased a generator, we recommend you have a qualified electrician install it. If you’ve already installed it, have a local electrician check your work (for compliance with safety codes, that it’s properly grounded, and that any necessary permits are obtained). This will ensure that there is no “back-feed.” Back-feed occurs when an improperly connected generator begins feeding electricity back into the outside power lines. Back-feed can seriously injure or even kill. To prevent back-feed, we recommend you use one of two methods:

     Transfer Switch: A qualified professional can install a transfer switch. The transfer switch disconnects the path of electricity between power lines and your main panel and connects the path between the generator and the panel. 

    

     Direct hookup: If you do not install a transfer switch, plug the appliances you want to operate directly into the generator. For an extra measure of safety, switch your main fuses or circuit breakers to the “off” position. 

4.  Operating Your Generator

    There are a few important rules to remember when operating your generator. 

• Read all instructions carefully
• Good ventilation is important (generators produce carbon monoxide)
• Handle fuel carefully
• Water conducts electricity
• Protect appliances
•  Turn off or disconnect all appliances and lights before you begin operating the generator. Once the generator is running, turn your appliances and lights on one at a time to avoid overloading the unit and damaging your appliances.

5.  Safety First!

    Remember, you (the operator) are responsible for safe and proper operation of your generator. If for any reason you have questions, it is highly recommended that you contact a professional. This could be a qualified electrician, general retailer, manufacturer, or even a rental company. Get your questions answered first!!!