OSHA programs

Soil, water, nearby utilities and the protective system all shape an excavation plan. Start with the conditions on the ground and the work crews need to do.

Breakers and saws can make it hard to hear a coworker’s instructions. The right controls depend on how loud the task is and how long the crew is exposed.

When something goes wrong, workers should know who to alert, where to go and who has each emergency role. Put those steps into a plan the crew can use on that site.

Paints, solvents and fuels need clear labels and safety information the crew can find and understand. Organize the hazard-communication materials around the products used at work.

Before demolition or renovation disturbs a material, find out whether asbestos is a concern and which rules apply. The answer depends on the material and the work planned.

A respirator is only one part of a respiratory-protection program. Match the equipment and procedures to the task, the exposure and the worker before use.

Manholes and vaults can raise questions about the space, the hazards and the procedures required before entry. Work through those questions before anyone goes in.

Hot, strenuous work and limited shade can put a crew under heat stress. Plan water, rest, acclimatization and a response before the temperature climbs.

Hot work can send sparks beyond the cut or grind. Before starting, decide whether a fire watch is needed and how combustibles and watch duties will be handled.