Protection Update - Summer 2004...2 Protection UPDATE | SUMMER 2004 NEW PROTECTION FOR CONSTRUCTORS van, dropped from 20 feet, and hit with a hammer. They are available in 20-, 30-,

News from the International Safety Equipment Association

ProtectionUPDATE

S U M M E R 2 0 0 4

By Joe WalkerProtection Update Editor

This spring, Woodrow Wilson Bridgeproject Safety Manager John Arnouxwas making one of his frequent

rounds through the construction areawhen he spotted a subcontractor fore-man standing in the middle of a fielddirecting heavy equipment.

“The foreman got out of his truck,walked over to a front-end loader andgave instructions to the operator,” said

Arnoux of Potomac Crossing Consultants(PCC), the project managers. “Then hewalked to a backhoe operator andshowed him what he wanted done. Andthen he walked over to another piece ofequipment, and back to his truck. All thewhile, dust was swirling around him. Andhis reddish-brown jacket was the samecolor as the dirt. You could barely see him.”

Hardhats, safety glasses and high-visibility safety apparel are mandatoryfor PCC personnel when workingaround moving vehicles on the $2.6

Protection Updateis the newsletter for theISEA Partnership for WorkerProtection program. It isintended for anyone whospecifies, purchases or usespersonal protective equip-ment, and those who regu-late it. Protection Update isdistributed without charge,and also is available onISEA’s website www.safetye-quipment.org.

1901 North Moore StreetArlington, VA 22209-1762 USATelephone: (703) 525-1695Fax: (703) 528-2148Email: [email protected]

Daniel K. Shipp, [email protected]

Joseph L. Walker, [email protected]

2 New Protection forConstructors

6 How to SelectEyewashes, Showers

8 Products forHot-Weather Work

12 Making ConstructionSafer Around the Nation

15 OSHA $100,000 Safety Citations Club

i n t h i s i s s u e Using PPE Shows Respect forCoworkers On Massive Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project

a 16

Major Contractors on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge ProjectProject Management—Potomac Crossing Consultants consisting of Parsons Brinckerhoff,Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP (RK&K) and URS Corp.

Bascule—American Bridge Co. and Edward Kraemer & Sons, a joint venture.

Virginia Approaches—Virginia Approach Constructors, a Granite/Corman Joint Venture.

Maryland Approaches—Potomac Constructors, LLC, organized by Edward Kraemer &Sons, American Bridge Co. and Trumbull Corp.

Maryland Interstates—G.A. & F.C. Wagman, Inc., and John R. Driggs.

Virginia Interstates—Shirley Contracting, Old Dominion Demolition, Corman, R. R.Dawson, and Tidewater Skanska, Inc.

WILSO

N BRID

GE PH

OTO

S BY JOE W

ALKER

FOR THE WHOLE PERSON…From Direct Safety are a 268-pageSeptember—December 2004 MasterCatalog, offering a selection of per-sonal protection, industrial safety,and traffic control products, and anew Reno, Nev., warehouse,allowing delivery of in-stock itemsto western states in three days orless, according to the company.

800-528-7405 ordirectsafety.com.

From Klein Tools is a new canvaswork apron that offers protection frommessy work site projects, the companyreported, adding that the apron featuresdurable, cotton canvas with a large frontpocket for tools and other necessaryitems for the jobsite. The apron has alarge neck-strap that adjusts for univer-sal sizing and a black Klein logo deco-rates the chest. 800-553-4676 orkleintools.com.

AGAINST FALLS…From the Miller Division of Bacou-Dalloz—800-873-5242 or bacou-dal-loz.com—are:● Relief Step Safety Device, which isdesigned to assist a worker suspendedin a full-body harness avoid the effectsof orthostatic intolerance, also known assuspension trauma. The relief step canbe attached to any brand of full-bodyharness for added short-term safety andcomfort to the user; it deploys easily

when the worker activatesa clearly marked tab,according to the company.The worker inserts onefoot into the web loop-step, enabling him/her toalternate between stand-ing and hanging whileawaiting rescue.● Falcon line of Self-Retracting Lifelines, whichexceeded a series ofextreme durability perfor-mance tests that includedbeing run over by a utility

Protection UPDATE | SUMMER 20042

N E W P R OT E C T I O N F O R C O N S T R U C TO R S

van, dropped from 20 feet, and hit witha hammer. They are available in 20-,30-, 50- and 65-foot models in bothgalvanized and stainless steel wire rope.All include a tagline and carabiner, andmeet applicable OSHA, ANSI, CSA andCE requirements, the company said.● Claw, Single D and Double DPermanent Roof Anchors, which provide

multiple-use appli-cations,includingnew roof orshingleinstallation,guttercleaning,window,

skylight and chimney cleaning or repair,and general roof maintenance. TheClaw gives one anchorage point whenattached to a wood rafter or truss mem-ber (upright orinverted) duringconstruction. TheSingle D gives oneD-ring anchoragepoint whensecurely installedon a wood roofsubsurface andfinished with theselected roofingmaterials, and theDouble D providestwo D-ring anchorage points wheninstalled over a wood ridge peak andfinished with the selected roofing materi-als; both are for a single user.

From Mine Safety Appliances Co.is the TechnaCurv Tower Harness,which features variable width, sub-pelvicwebbing; soft, flexible, Teflon-coatedwebbing; curvilinear comfort system;removable saddle; secure-fit buckles;visco-elastic shoulder padding, andSorbtek fabric on the shoulder, back,saddle and sub-pelvic pads. 800-MSA-2222 or msanet.com.

Miller Claw, Single D

Claw, Double DPermanent RoofAnchors

DirectSafety2004MasterCatalog

Klein Tools canvaswork apron

FalconTM

Self-RetractingLifeline

FOR THEHEAD, FACEAND EYES1

From BradleyCorporation

is an improved, On-Site Gravity-FedEyewash for greater mobility betweenlocations without a plumbed water sup-ply. The new S19-921 model is easier tofill, assemble and transport, whichmakes relocating the unit to anotherhazard hassle-free, according to thecompany. Bracket clamps hold thetransparent tank securely to thepedestal, and the connection betweenthe tank and pedestal is fully sealed. Ituses only seven gallons of solution todeliver a constant flush for 15 minute,making it one of the lightest portableeyewash products that conforms to theANSI Z358.1-2004 standard, Bradleysaid. 800-BRADLEY or bradleycorp.com.

From Direct Safety are Fuel™ SafetyGlasses, which the company says pro-vide extreme ultraviolet protection withstyle at a low introductory price. 800-528-7405 or directsafety.com.

From Encon Safety Products is theAquarion™ Self-Contained EyewashStation with sterile flushing fluid stored infactory-sealed bags. The product offersa sleek, slim designand an innovativemounting methodfor use on virtuallyany wall, column,

shelf or cart, or in a tight hallway, thecompany said. It has four distinct methodsof visual inspection, is ANSI compliant,and installation is fast and simple, requir-ing only one person, according to Encon.800-AT-ENCON or enconsafety.com. a 4

Protection UPDATE | SUMMER 2004 3

Fuel™ SafetyGlasses fromDirect Safety

Encon’s Aquarion™Self-ContainedEyewash Station

1 ALL LENSES MENTIONED IN PROTECTION UPDATE MEET THE ANSI Z87.1 STANDARD FOR INDUSTRIAL EYE PROTECTION.

Bradley Gravity-FedEyewash

● IQ Express fully automated bump testand calibration station for the ToxiProand ToxiLTD personal gas detectors.The instrument performs up to eightcritical tests, including gas sensor identi-fication, instrument performance, cali-bration and record keeping, in less than20 seconds, according to the company.The system improves safety complianceover manual bump testing and recordkeeping, and offers an economicalalternative to other test stations, thecompany said. ● A patent for a novel dilution pumpsystem used in the Cannonball3 con-fined space gas detector, whichensures more accurate com-bustible gas readings,according to thecompany. TheCannonball3 isdesigned for thedetection ofoxygen deficien-cies, flammablegases and vapors, andseveral toxic gases; ithas a large, scratch-resistant screen, multi-sized visual alarm, andone-button approach.

From Bacou-Dalloz is Bilsom’s newversion of the Clarity line of earmuffs,featuring patented “uniform attenuation”technology that filters out harmful noisewhile allowing users to hear warnings,alarms and coworkers’ voices, even inloud industrial environments, accordingto the company. Other improvementsinclude advanced comfort that promoteswearability, and multiple noise attenua-

tion levels, which allow usersto choose the right amountof protection for theirapplications. 800-322-1110 or bilsom.com.


From Mine Safety Appliances Co.is a new non-vented model of theAdvance™ helmet, which features a raingutter and lateral contour above the earfor easy integration of hearing protec-tion, and dielectric (Class E) head pro-tection. The molded polyethylene helmetfeatures four- or six-point Staz-On® orFas-Trac® ratchet suspensions, and isavailable in eight colors, including high-visibility orange and lime green. It has aGlaregard™ underbrim to reduce reflec-tive glare. 800-MSA-2222 ormsanet.com.

FOR THE HANDS…From the Bacou-Dalloz Perfect FitGlove Co. is the PowerCoat™ line ofgeneral purpose PVC, nitrile, neoprene,and natural latex supported gloves. Thegloves are liquid proof and chemicalresistant, ergonomically correct andextremely flexible, according to the com-pany. The PVC gloves in several stylesaredesignedwith arough finishfor superiorgrip in allconditions,while thecotton linermaintainsflexibilityand comfortfor preciseor repetitivejobs, thecompanysaid, addingthat they are well-suited for construc-tion. The PowerCoat thermal insu-lated gloves are ideal for outdoorweather jobs. 800-245-6837 orperfectfitglove.com.

FOR HEARING AND BREATHING…From Bacou-Dalloz’ Biosystems(800-7116776 or biosystems.com)are:

N E W P R OT E C T I O N c o n t i n u e d

Bacou-Dalloz’ PowerCoatTM

gloves.

Bacou-Dalloz ClarityTM

earmuffs

MSA’s non-ventedAdvance™ helmet

Cannonball3confined spacegas detectorfrom Bacou-Dalloz’Biosystems

From Mine Safety AppliancesCompany (800-MSA-2222 ormsanet.com) are:● Sirius , Orion FX and Solaris FXMultigas Detectors. The Serius detector

combines twoinstrumentsinto one with aPID in a multi-gas unit,allowing usersto monitorconvenientlyandconfidently forhundreds ofpotentiallydangerousvapors andchemicals.Both the OrionFX and SolarisFX are eco-nomical, reli-

able and easy-to-use portableinstruments for detecting the presence ofoxygen, hydrogen sulfide, carbonmonoxide and combustible gas. Bothfeature an LEL sensor with fasterresponse andrelease times fortoluene, xyleneand other aromatichydrocarbons, thecompany said.MSA added thatthe Orion FXdetector featuresone-button calibra-tion with excellentresistance to dustand water penetra-tion, while theSolaris FX is amongthe smallest, lightestfour-gas monitors onthe market.● Promotion through which customerswho purchase an MSA Advantage200LS Respirator with Low-Profile P-100High-Efficiency Cartridges receive two


complimentary pairs of protective eye-wear—a pair of Pyrenees eyewear withclear, anti-fog lens with blue frame, andone of Arctic Elite eyewear with gray,anti-fog lens with gray frame. ●

SiriusTM multigas detectorfrom MSA

MSA SolarisTM

Multigas Detector

U S A C a n a d a E u r o p eC u s t o m e r S e r v i c e & T r a i n i n g C e n t e r s

Contact Northfor our complete

fall protection catalogand specify DBISEAH7

1 • 888 • 422• 3798or e-mail:

[email protected]

Aerial

Construction

Scaffolding/forming

Rebar

Roofer

6

By Rebecca GeisslerBradley Corporation

The U.S. construction season is infull swing, taking advantage of thewarm summer months. Some

workers have decades of experience,while others brought on to help withpeak demand have just a few days onthe job. The reality is that workers of allskill levels are at risk on heavy construc-tion sites. In this industry, it is critical forjob sites to provide emergency fixturesas protection against serious injuriesand potential fatalities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of LaborStatistics, the construction industry hasthe highest number of fatal injuries ofany major industry. In response to thesignificant risks to construction workers,OSHA has developed guidelines gov-erning the use of personal protectiveequipment (PPE). Yet, surveys have

found that many workers are not consis-tently using some of the necessary safetyequipment.

The Danger ZonesHazards on construction sites rangefrom impact injuries to chemical expo-sure. Many eye injuries result from flyingwood dust and other debris like paintchips, dirt and concrete particles. Safetyglasses with side shields can help toprevent most eye injuries, but some par-ticles may still reach the eyes.

Solvents, paints and adhesives usedcan be toxic to the eyes and skin. Pro-tective clothing and eyewear can mini-mize the risk to workers exposed to thefumes, sprays and splashes from thesechemicals, which could result in burnsor even blindness.

When improper personal protectionor no protection is used, injuries areinevitable. Even with the appropriateprotection, accidents may still happen onheavy construction sites. A solid safetyplan should include a back-up system toprotect the eyes and skin of workers.

Safety StandardsOSHA has indicated in past statementsthat general industry standards forsafety equipment also should be appliedto construction sites. Therefore, OSHAstandard 29 CFR 1910.151 (c) wouldapply, requiring suitable drenching facil-ities wherever construction workers maybe exposed to injurious corrosive materials.

Although OSHA has not officiallyadopted the ANSI Z358.1-2004 stan-dard for eyewash and shower equip-ment, OSHA generally refers to thestandard as a guide for the selectionand installation of such equipment. Toprotect workers, products used on heavyconstruction sites should comply with theANSI standard.

The standard indicates that eyewashesand drench showers should be within 10seconds reach (approximated at 55 feetin the standard appendix). Additionally,the path to the eyewash or drench shower


How to SelectPortable andPlumbedEyewashes,Showers forConstruction Sites

How to SelectPortable andPlumbedEyewashes,Showers forConstruction Sites

Eyewashes and drenchshowers should be in placeas part of a sound safetyprogram at heavy con-struction sites.


must be free of hazards or obstructions.This means the person affected shouldnot need to use stairs, go through doorsor clear away items in front of the unit.On construction sites where materials andmachinery can be in constant motion,careful planning is required to keep apath clear and units close to workers.

Drench showers and eyewashesshould be identified with a highly visiblesign and be in a well-lighted area.Other ANSI requirements include mini-mum flushing flow and incoming pres-sure to the fixture, as well as height andclearance restrictions. The eyewash ordrench shower must also provide cleanflushing fluid at a tepid temperature thatwill not shock or burn the user.

Portable Emergency SolutionsThe first step of protection can be assimple as a bottle eyewash station. Bottleeyewash provides a quick flush and canbe used as a first response to chemicalexposure. This allows the user to imme-diately rinse the affected area beforemoving to a full 15-minute flush station.

Another option is a portable eyewashstation. These units are available in manydifferent models, but generally provide a

longer eye flush. Portable, gravity-fedeyewashes are designed to provide afull 15 minutes of flushing fluid at aminimum rate of 0.4 gallons perminute. It is important to make sure theproduct has been third-party tested tocomply with the ANSI Z358.1 standard.

Gravity-fed portable eyewashes areavailable in a range of shapes andsizes. Some manufacturers offer heatedunits, which are designed to be used incold climates. Another type of portableunit can be mounted to a waste recepta-cle. These units allow for convenientflushing-fluid storage and disposal.

The most recent version of the ANSIstandard permits another type of solu-tion — drench hoses. They can now beused as an eyewash or eye/face washwhen installed according to the require-ments indicated. This may provide amore flexible option on construction sites,but it is important to note that drenchhoses must be in a fixed location, activatewith one step and remain flowing untilshut off. If not installed as required byANSI, drench hoses are considered sup-plemental products.

Portable pressurized tanks provide athird ANSI-approved eyewash option.These units are filled with a suitableflushing fluid and are pressurized toprovide the appropriate volume andduration of flow. Again, be sure to spec-ify units that are ANSI compliant, asmany of the smaller units are approvedonly to be used as supplemental emer-gency equipment.

Plumbed OptionsOn larger or longer-term constructionsites, plumbed water may be accessible.For these applications, plumbed eye-wash fixtures can be installed. Plumbedfixtures can range from freestandingunits to those mounted on the outside ofa building with piping protected on theinside. With any outdoor application, itis essential to evaluate the anticipatedtemperature range and select theappropriate equipment accordingly. a 11

About the AuthorRebecca Geissler is a productmanager for emergency fixturesat Bradley Corporation, an ISEAmember company and leadingmanufacturer of plumbingfixtures, washroom accessories,partitions, emergency fixturesand solid plastic lockers. Shecan be reached at BradleyCorp., W142 N9101 FountainBlvd., Menomonee Falls, WI,53052-0309. For more infor-mation, call (800) BRADLEY orvisit bradleycorp.com.

Updated Eyewash StandardAn updated American National Standardfor emergency eyewash and shower equip-ment is available from the InternationalSafety Equipment Association (ISEA).

ANSI Z358.1-2004 includes minimumperformance requirements, testing, instal-lation, maintenance and training specifi-cations to help ensure that this criticalequipment is installed, working correctlyand used properly when needed. The pub-lication covers plumbed and self-containedshowers and eyewashes, eye/face washequipment, combination units, personalwash units and hand-held drench hoses.

To order, contact ISEA, 1901 N. MooreSt., Suite 808, Arlington, VA 22209, or703-525-1695 or [email protected]. A single copy is $53; ISEAoffers discounts on bulk orders.

Plumbed fix-tures may bemounted onthe outside ofa buildingwith pipingprotected onthe inside.

Products Keep Workers Safe,Comfortable andProductive in Hot Weather

On average, 175 Americans dieof heat-related injuries eachyear—more lives than are lost

from hurricanes and tornadoes. Becausesummer is “high season” for heavy con-struction, some deaths unfortunatelyoccur in this industry. Keeping workerssafe, comfortable and productive in hotweather involves a combination of fac-tors, including plenty of water, frequentbreaks in the shade and, of course, com-fortable equipment and attire.

That is where personal protectiveequipment (PPE) and related safety prod-ucts come in. Here are examples of prod-ucts from ISEA members that will helpalleviate the hazards of hot weather andkeep workers comfortable.

Cooling the BodyIsotherm® Cool Vest from Bullard, whichremains at a constant 55 degrees forhours of cooling, the company reported.Isotherm uses a simple, interchangeable,front/back cool pack system that providescontinuous cooling to the worker’s upperbody, and the vests are easily adjustablefor maximum comfort and flexibility,Bullard said, adding that the cool packs(containing non-toxic material) willrecharge in 20 minutes. 877-BULLARD

or bullard.com.Cooling vests incorporating

patented PCM™ (phase changematerial) technology from Kappler.PCM freezes at 65 degrees F when

fully charged, and absorbs heatproduced by the body, the company

said. This allows for comfortable useagainst the skin without fear of vasocon-striction, while the high freezing temper-

ature promotes slower melting andpractically eliminates condensation sothe garment stays dry as the coolingpacks melt, Kappler said. The coolingvest is available in a fabric and all-meshversion, which can be worn over cloth-ing. At 100 degrees F ambient tempera-ture, the cooling duration is 1.5 to twohours. 800-600-4019 or kappler.com.

ScotchliteTM reflective material fabricsand films from 3M offer users a choiceof components that are lightweight, softand flexible, according to the company.These fabrics and films can be convertedinto webbing, trim or graphic transfers,providing a variety of options for creat-ing highly visible designs, patterns andaccents. 651-737-4075 or 3M.com.

BrillianceTM Vest-Lite and BrillianceComfort high-visibility vest trims fromReflexite Americas. Both trim productsare significantly lighter in weight thancomparable products to make them morecomfortable for the wearer. BrillianceVest-Lite tapes are available in fluores-cent lime-yellow and white, and are 30percent lighter than other microprismaticmaterial available, according to Reflexite,while the Brilliance Comfort material isperforated, making it breathable to helpcombat heat stress. Comfort tapes typi-cally read more than twice the candle-power of competitive tapes made fromglass beads, the company added. 860-223-9297 or reflexiteamericas.com.

Eye and Face ProtectionOutdoor faceshield windows and spec-tacles molded from materials specificallyformulated for work in bright sunlight,from Fibre-Metal Products Co. Theseitems protect from ultraviolet (UV) glarewhile allowing full color recognition forwork with color-coded materials andrecognizing colored warning signals, thecompany said. 888-210-0705 or fibre-metal.com.

Head and Neck ProtectionSportekTM brow pad, underbrim greendecal, cotton sun shade and sun shields



from Bullard. The soft, terry-like fabric ofthe Sportek pad is comfortable andcool, and cushions the wearer’s fore-head when worn under a hardhat. Thefabric is fast drying and stain and odorresistant. The underbrim decal helps

reduce the glare of bright sun, while thesun shade helps protect the neck againstsunburn. The SS4 and SS5 sun shieldsextend the hardhat brim to provide 360-degree protection from UV rays, and willclip to the brim of any Bullard cap a 10

Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation,which causes premature aging of the skin,wrinkles, cataracts, and skin cancer. The amountof damage from UV exposure depends on thestrength of the light, the length of exposure, andwhether the skin is protected. There are no safeUV rays or safe suntans.

Skin CancerSun exposure at any age can cause skin cancer. Beespecially careful in the sun if you burn easily, spend a

ProtectingYourself inthe Sun

ProtectingYourself inthe Sun

lot of time outdoors, or have any of the followingphysical features:

Numerous, irregular, or large moles.Freckles.Fair skin.Blond, red, or light brown hair.

Self-ExaminationIt’s important to examine your body monthly becauseskin cancers detected early can almost always be cured.The most important warning sign is a spot on the skinthat is changing in size, shape, or color during a periodof 1 month to 1 or 2 years.

Skin cancers often take the following forms:Pale, wax-like, pearly nodules.Red, scaly, sharply outlined patches.Sores that don’t heal.Small, mole-like growths—melanoma,the most serious type of skin cancer.

If you find such unusual skin changes, see a healthcare professional immediately.

OSHA Offers Guidance for Working in Hot Weather

The sun and warm weather can bring special hazards for construction workers outdoors. To help employersand workers stay safe throughout the summer months, the U.S. Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA) offers tips that can help prevent heat-related deaths, illnesses and injuries.

The two most serious forms of heat-related illnesses are heat exhaustion (primarily from dehydration) andheat stroke, which can be fatal. Signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke need immediate attention.

OSHA’s Heat Stress Card, available in English and Spanish, lists tips and precautions to prevent many heat-related deaths and injuries. This laminated, fold-up card is free to employers to distribute to their workers.Working Outdoors is an OSHA fact sheet that offers advice on ways to protect against exposure to ultravioletradiation, precautions to take if working in extreme heat, and how to protect against Lyme Disease and WestNile Virus. Both can be obtained from the OSHA publications office, Room N3101, 200 Constitution Ave.,N.W., Washington, DC 20210, or downloaded from osha.gov.

The Protecting Yourself in the Sun pocket card, in this issue of Protection Update, explains how to perform self-examinations to detect early stages of skin cancer. The card also describes common physical features of skincancer that can be caused by exposure to the sun.

Additional information about heat and sun hazards can be found at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control andPrevention—cdc.gov—and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health—cdc.gov/niosh.

<FO

LD

✁


or hat; the see-through front allowsoverhead visibility. 877-BULLARD orbullard.com.

HS1 Classic Headsweats® from ERBSafety have a DuPont CoolMax® ban-dana cap with DuPont CoolMax sweat-band, ERB reports, adding that the comfortsystem uses Perspiration Technology®

that wicks moisture away from the skin,and dries three to four times faster thanregular cotton. Headsweats from ERBwill not saturate or drip, and are avail-able in black, white, red/white/blue,red/white/ green, yellow and lightningbolt. 800-800-6522 or e-ERB.com.

Supereight E-1RW-RD full-brim helmetwith a light-weight cotton Sunshield thatblocks UV rays, and the Supereight E-1RW-WE helmet with the Sunbrero thatextends the brim for shade, both fromFibre-Metal Products Co. The E-1RW-RDhelmet’s extended size protects the face,ears and neck, and the Sunshield (avail-able in white and high-visibility orange)is easy to install and remove. The Sunbrero

shade also blocks UV rays without block-ing vision, the company says. 888-210-0705 or fibre-metal.com.

Supercool bandana, three-in-one head-band and neckwrap from Fibre-Metal.The bandana’s wicking action keeps per-spiration from eyes, goggles or glasses;soak the headband to provide hours ofcomfort, the company said. The head-band can be used as a regular sweat-band, can be soaked in water to cool,or add water and refrigerate for extracooling. The neckwrap is lightweight,adjustable, and tailored to lay flat to coolthe pulse points, and it can be chilled ina cooler. Supercool products hydrate inthree to five minutes. 888-210-0705 orfibre-metal.com.

Vented AdvanceTM caps from MineSafety Appliances Co., which have sixlarge cooling vents along the crown forimproved air circulation and comfort.

U.S. Department of Laborwww.osha.gov

Cover up. Wear tightly-woven clothing that blocksout light. Try this test: Place your hand between asingle layer of the clothing and a light source. Ifyou can see your hand through the fabric, thegarment offers little protection.Use sunscreen. A sun protection factor (SPF) of atleast 15 blocks 93 percent of UV rays. You want toblock both UVA and UVB rays to guard against skincancer. Be sure to follow application directionson the bottle.Wear a hat. A wide brim hat (not a baseball cap)is ideal because it protects the neck, ears, eyes,forehead, nose, and scalp.Wear UV-absorbent shades. Sunglasses don’thave to be expensive, but they should block 99 to100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation.Limit exposure. UV rays are most intensebetween 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you’re unsure aboutthe sun’s intensity, take the shadow test: If yourshadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays arethe day’s strongest.

For more information about preventing,detecting, andtreating skin cancer, check out these sources:

American Cancer Societywww.cancer.org1-800-ACS-2345

Centers for Disease Control and Preventionwww.cdc.gov/ChooseYourCover1-888-842-6355

The Skin Cancer Foundationwww.skincancer.org1-800-SKIN-490

Block Out UV Rays Preventing Skin Cancer

<FO

LD

✁


This represents thetitle of this boxX

If chemical hazards on a site pose arisk to the body, a drench shower maybe required. If a portable drench showeris chosen, make sure it provides enoughwater volume to fulfill the 15-minuteflush requirement and has the capabilityto deliver the required spray pattern. Aplumbed drench shower may be the bestsolution for most applications.

In some situations, a pallet-mountedor booth-style drench shower (possiblycombined with either an eyewash oreye/face wash) may be appropriate.Many of these units include a type ofwater tank system. Typically, water muststill be supplied to the unit, and electric-ity may be required to maintain a tepidwater temperature in the system. ●

Advance helmets come with either four-or six-point Staz-On® or Fas-Trac® ratchetsuspension, MSA reported. These helmetsare available in eight colors, includinghigh-visibility orange and lime green,and have a rain gutter and lateral con-tour above the ear for easy integrationof hearing protection, and a patentedGlaregardTM underbrim reduces reflec-tive glare. 800-MSA-2222 or msanet.com.

Skin CareBugoff professional skin protection kitfrom Fibre-Metal Products Co.; the kitincludes sunscreen, lip balm, poisonplant barrier crème and cleanser, insectrepellant, first aid burn gel, insect stingrelief pads, itch relief and waterlesshand sanitizer, all in a heavy-duty zippercase with a handy belt-loop clip. 888-210-0705 or fibre-metal.com. ●

EYEWASHfrom page 7

12 Protection UPDATE | SUMMER 2004

From the U.S. Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA)—osha.gov—is All About OSHA,

which provides a general overview of basictopics related to OSHA and how it oper-ates. The 38-page guide, available inEnglish (OSHA 2056-07R -2003) andSpanish (OSHA 3173-05R - 2004), coversOSHA’s purpose and history, the OSH Act(including employer responsibilities andrights), state programs, standards andguidance, programs (including enforce-ment and inspections), services, andregional offices.

M A K I N G C O N S T R U C T I O N S A F E R A R O U N D T H E N AT I O N

Also new from OSHA are:● Personal Protective Equipmentbooklet (OSHA 3151-12R—2003),which provides a general overview of PPErelated to OSHA standards. It covers therequirement for PPE, hazard assessment,selecting PPE, training employees in prop-er use of PPE, descriptions of the varioustypes of PPE, and OSHA assistance.● New safety and health bulletins ongas-monitoring instruments, air-line respi-rators, suspension trauma/orthostaticintolerance, and concrete beam manu-facturing. The gas-monitoring instrumentsbulletin explains calibration rules and pro-cedures and offers recommendations fromthe International Safety EquipmentAssociation that suggest, at a minimum,verification of sensor accuracy before eachday’s use. The air-line respirators bulletinincludes five case histories in which workersdied due to respirators being inadvertentlyconnected to inert gas supplies, and givesrecommendations to help employers andworkers ensure proper procedures arefollowed when using air-line respirators.The suspension trauma bulletin describessigns and symptoms of the condition(which may occur with workers whoremain suspended for lengthy periods insafety harnesses), outlines recommenda-tions for preventing such occurrences,and discusses worker training and rescue.The concrete beam bulletin providessafety recommendations for employerswho use strand restraint devices in themanufacture of such beams.● A new OSHA Challenge VoluntaryProtection Program (VPP) pilotdesigned for employers committed toimproving their safety and health man-agement systems and who want to pursuerecognition for improvements. Challengeprovides a roadmap to improve perfor-mance and ultimately to VPP Merit orStar status. Charter administrators includeAssociated Builders and Contractors, TheAssociated General Contractors ofAmerica, Construction Safety Council,Independent Electrical Contractors, andNEA-The Association of Union

●

●

●

●

●


Constructors.● Plans for its site-specific targeting(SST) inspection program, throughwhich unannounced, comprehensivesafety and health inspections will beconducted at some 4,000 high-hazardworksites this year. The program initiallywill cover worksites that reported 15 ormore injuries or illnesses resulting indays away from work, restricted workactivity or job transfer for every 100 full-time workers.

From the U.S. Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention’s National Institutefor Occupational Safety and Health(NIOSH)—cdc.gov/niosh—are:● A Spanish language version of its alert,Preventing Deaths, Injuries andIllnesses of Young Workers, whichidentifies hazardous working areas andprovides recommendations for youth toremain safe while working in these con-ditions.● Safe Work for Youth inConstruction—Information forEmployers posted online, includinginformation on applicable laws, prohib-ited jobs, and a bulleted list of recom-mended “do’s” and “don’ts.”● Request for public comments concern-ing the establishment of Total InwardLeakage performance require-ments and laboratory test capabilitiesfor testing half-mask respirators.● A new web page and manual provid-ing guidance to employers in assess-ing and measuring the effective-ness of safety and health changesin the workplace. The Does it ReallyWork? manual gives case studies anduseful tips in an easy-to-read format;the web version of the manual is inter-active, NIOSH said.

From the Construction Safety Council(CSC)—800-552-7744 or buildsafe.org—are:● The Safety, It’s Up to Me video,which tells the story of an oversight in safework practice, innocently committed, that

had deadly consequences. It shows thefar-reaching effects such accidents haveon victims, their families, coworkers,supervisors and employers. CSC says thatthe 10-minute video, which is availablein DVC, CD and VHS formats, is a 14


appropriate for all safety meetings.● Product Catalog covering the completeline of safety training programs, videos,publications and courses. The 56-pagebooklet includes more than 25 illustrations.

From the American Society of SafetyEngineers (ASSE)—asse.org—are:● A construction safety scholarshipfor students through the ASSEFoundation. The scholarship will be forstudents pursuing degrees in occupa-tional safety and health, with anemphasis on construction. Funds will beraised from royalties of the new bookConstruction Safety Management andEngineering, written by ASSE membersand other experts in construction safety.● A new ANSI standard that specificallyaddresses public safety duringconstruction operations. Protectionof the Public on or Adjacent toConstruction Sites (ANSI A10.34-2001)establishes comprehensive safety guide-

M A K I N G C O N S T R U C T I O N S A F E R c o n t i n u e d

Tell Us Your StoryProtection Update SeeksStories About Life- andCost-saving Programs

Protection Update seeksstories from constructionindustry safety specialistsgiving concrete (pardon thepun) examples about howtheir safety programs incor-porating personal protectiveequipment have preventedinjuries, saved lives andsaved their companies’money. If you have a storyto tell, contact Editor JoeWalker at 703-525-1695 [email protected] you send an email, pleaseprovide your telephone num-ber. Protection Update willwrite the stories for futurenewsletter issues basedupon your experiences

lines for employers, contractors, build-ing owners, and rescue personnel.

From the Construction Industry Researchand Policy Center—http://bus.utk.edu/cirpc/—at the Universityof Tennessee, a study showing that fallsand run-overs are the leadingcauses of fatalities in the construc-tion industry. Falls from roofs andother structures accounted for 20 per-cent of the deaths, the researchers said.

From the American Journal of IndustrialMedicine (Vol. 45, No. 1), findings thatfrom 1992 to 2000, Hispanic construc-tion workers were nearly twice aslikely to die on the job as non-Hispanics.The study found that Hispanics accountedfor 23.5 percent of deaths among con-struction workers in 2000, that falls wereresponsible for 37 percent of those fatal-ities, and that Hispanics are exposed togreater risks than non-Hispanics. ●


OSHA $100,000 Club of Construction-related Safety CitationsThe U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed penalties of $100,000 ormore for the following recent alleged failures to protect workers from potential hazards, including many thatcan be avoided or mitigated by safety equipment:● Modern Continental Construction Co., the lead contractor on a Route 3 improvement project through MiddlesexCounty, Mass., $371,000 for failing to protect workers against cave-in, fall and drowning hazards at four differentworksites. OSHA found employees at one site exposed to falls of up to 28 feet from an unguarded walkway.● Bovis Lend Lease, Inc., Charlotte, N.C., and Midwest Steel, Inc., Detroit, a total of $324,500 for failing toprotect workers from falls and improperly storing potentially explosive gas cylinders during construction of ahigh-rise in Chicago. Citations included lack of fall protection.● San Antonio Lath & Plaster Inc., $230,100 for violations at worksites in Wichita and Lawrence, Kan. Thecompany was cited for repeat, willful, serious and other-than-serious violations, including failure to requireemployees to wear hardhats, and inadequate employee safety training.● Pieper Electric, Inc., Milwaukee, $193,500 for failing to protect workers from electrical hazards duringinstallation of equipment at a Racine, Wis., wastewater treatment facility. After three Pieper employees wereseverely burned by an arc flash and explosion, OSHA cited the firm for willful violations including lack ofpersonal protective gear.● Eastmond & Sons Boiler Repair and Welding Service, Inc., New York, $134,800 for willful and serious vio-lations of safety standards following the deaths of two employees overcome by toxic fumes while cleaning afuel oil tank in the Bronx. OSHA citations included failing to provide workers with equipment to test the airin the tank, to ensure use of personal protective equipment, and to provide mechanical rescue devices foremployees working in confined spaces.● C Construction Co., Inc., Tyler, Texas, and three subcontractors $134,200 after an investigation into a wallcollapse during construction at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base in North Carolina. The agency’s findingsdetermined that the 26-foot-high concrete block walls had no temporary bracing and no limited-access zones.● Warren Guillard Bricklayers, Inc., Tallmadge, Ohio, $122,300 for repeatedly failing to protect workersagainst falling from scaffolding and ladders. OSHA issued the citations after a worker fell 20 feet when theladder he was climbing broke apart.● Fabi Construction, Egg Harbor Township, N.J.; Keating Building Corp., Philadelphia; Mitchell BarPlacement Inc., Sewell, N.J., and Site Blauvelt Engineers, Mt., Laurel, N.J., $119,500 following an investiga-tion into the collapse of a garage under construction at the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City; theaccident killed four workers and injured 21.● Wynn Brothers Inc., Ocilla, Ga., $115,500 for exposing workers to trenching hazards at an Ocilla con-struction site. An inspector observed workers installing pipelines in a 13-foot-deep, improperly shored trenchfrom which they had no safe means of exiting.● Atkins Masonry, Inc., $113,400 after finding the company used dangerously unsafe scaffolding at a Hattiesburg,Miss., construction site and despite having been penalized for similar hazards several times in recent years.● V. DiIorio & Son., Inc., South Plainfield, N.J., $112,500 for exposing employees to cave-ins while workingin a seven-foot-deep, unprotected trench at a New Jersey jobsite. OSHA inspected following an imminentdanger referral from a state trooper who was controlling traffic at the site.● Garney Construction Inc., Fort Smith, Ark., $111,000 for failure to protect employees from trenching andother job-related hazards; the citations followed an inspection conducted as part of a national emphasisprogram aimed at preventing trenching and excavation accidents.● Interstate Grading, LLC, Smyrna, Ga., $104,300 following an investigation of a trenching accident thattrapped four workers. A trench wall caved in, burying the workers up to their necks; they were dug out byhand and rescued.● Jimerson Underground Inc., Sugarland, Texas, and L&B Vactor Services LLC, Edinburg, Texas, $100,600following the deaths of two L&B workers who suffocated when they entered an oxygen-deficient sanitarysewer line in Edinburg to clean it out. Citations included failing to provide personal protective equipment,atmospheric testing and continuous monitoring.

16

billion project, which involves construct-ing approaches and a new bridge tocarry the Capital Beltway (I-95/I-495)over the Potomac River betweenMaryland and Virginia south of thenation’s capital.

Arnoux directs that PCC personnelwear their high-visibility vests at all times,and suggested to the subcontractor fore-man that he put one on for his own pro-tection and out of “consideration andrespect for his operators.” He explainedto the foreman that an operator lookingstraight ahead probably would catchsight in his peripheral vision of a personwearing a high-visibility vest, even if thatindividual is well off to the side. But if theperson’s jacket matches the color of the

soil he is standing on, there is a chancethat the operator would not see him andhe could become a fatality.

Respect for coworkers plays a big rolein the personal protective equipment (PPE)program that Arnoux oversees for theWilson Bridge project management,whether it involves high-visibility apparelor any of the other types of PPE. In fact,Arnoux says it is one of his most convinc-ing arguments to make the case forsafety — “a secret to the success” of hissafety program.

The existing Wilson Bridge, completedin 1961, carries nearly three times moretraffic than it was designed to handle. Sub-stantial volumes of traffic from adjacentinterchanges merge just as the eight-laneCapital Beltway constricts to six lanes onthe bridge, causing daily miles-long back-ups on both sides of the river and one ofthe worst bottlenecks in the country. Today’snearly 200,000 daily trips are projectedto grow to nearly 300,000 by 2020.

The construction includes replacing theexisting single-span bascule (draw-type)bridge with dual spans that are 20 feethigher (allowing taller ships to pass underto minimize the number of openings), andconstructing four new interchanges toimprove traffic flow and alleviate conges-tion. The project began in 2001, is underbudget and on schedule, with the newbridge (each span with six lanes, fullshoulders and a bike path) to be openby 2008, and the entire 7-1/2-mile longproject to be completed by 2011. It isthe largest public works project in the

WILSON BRIDGE PROJECTfrom page 1


SafetyClean™

Keep Them Clean, for Safety’s Sake!

Cleans Lens Prevents Fogging Reduces StataicNow Available.....

VisionAid RainbowII Liquid LenscleaningSolution in two convenient personal size

Take Anywhere Packs.

Pre-moistened Foil Packed towelettes are5”x8” each, and come 100 towelettes to a

dispenser box.

Pre-moistened Pop-UP tissues are 3 1⁄2” x 7” each and the Handi-Pak

contains 36 tissues.

Call Toll Free 1-800-426-1881

Local: 508-295-3300 Fax: 508-295-3521

Web http://www.hlbouton.com

e-mail: [email protected]

IDEAL FOR YOUR TOOL BOX, DESK DRAWER, GLOVE BOX,WORK STATION, HOME, OFFICE OR WORKSHOP, LAB, OR

INDUSTRIAL WORKPLACE, YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVELENSCLEANERS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

H. L. Bouton Co., Inc.PO Box 840Buzzards Bay, MA 02532


Q: You monitor and enforce PPE use byhaving regular meetings and visits with thecontractors. How often does this happen?A: I visit the contractors on Tuesday andThursday of every week. And, I would beout there every day if I could. I reallyenjoy getting out in the field, but thereare other obligations.Q: If a contractor has an accident— let’ssay somebody falls and is not wearingfall protection—is that reported to you?A: Yes. That would be required by theircontracts and carried on their record-able accidents/incidents and their lost-time accidents/incidents. These arereported to me on a monthly basis.Q: How many workers are there on theproject and what is the percentage ofthose who use PPE on a regular basis?A: Right now, we probably have between800 and 1,000 people on the project.All of the PCC staff is required to wearthe proper PPE at all times while out inthe field. The contractors and subcon-tractors safety programs allow for every-one out there to have hardhats, safetyglasses and high-visibility vests every-where on the jobsite. Other types ofPPE—hearing, respiratory, hand andfoot protection—are required as thesituation warrants. We have not hadtoxic situations that warranted supplied-air respirators or even half masks. Thisis basically all new construction workingoutdoors. But there is a lot of dust fromchipping and grinding, welding fumesand so forth, so we use a lot of N-95particulate respirators. Q: What about silica?A: Of course, silica is an issue whenworking with concrete. But it is not at theforefront for us because we are workingoutdoors. I don’t see a lot of confinedspace issues, and we don’t have toxic orhazardous chemicals at this point.However, we do have plenty of dust.Q: What about air monitoring equipment?A: I require it when we are setting man-holes or duct banks, or moving fueltanks, as we have on the Virginia side ofthe project. The other day, we a 18

mid-Atlantic region.Arnoux works directly for Parsons

Brinckerhoff, which has overall responsi-bility for project safety. Rummel, Klepper& Kahl (RKK) and URS are the othermembers of the project managementteam operating together under the PCCbanner. This joint venture works for theFederal Highway Administration, thestates of Maryland and Virginia, and forthe District of Columbia, which own thebridge and highways leading to it, andare funding the project. By Arnoux’ esti-mate, the project involves nearly 400contractors and subs, ranging from majorfirms doing the construction to smallerones involved with environmentalaspects, communications, and so forth.

Protection Update discussed theWilson Bridge safety program withArnoux at his office on the Marylandside of the Potomac and again followinga boat tour of the construction site:Q: How does your safety program func-tion day to day?A: Each of the large contractors isresponsible for its safety program, andeach has a safety manager who takesthat accountability. They all must submittheir written programs to me. Our joint-venture team reviews their programs,offers recommendations and returnsthem to the contractors. They makeadjustments in line with our recommen-dations and resubmit them to me.Q: So once those programs areapproved, do the contractors have toreport on a regular schedule of what ishappening out there from a safetystandpoint?A: No, because we do not dictate theirsafety programs. However, I do monitortheir programs, mainly by going out intothe field and observing and making sug-gestions. I am basically a resource to thesafety people out there. If they have ques-tions or coordination issues, with emer-gency-medical or rescue services forexample, then I help with those. We alsointerface with contractors’ safety com-mittees.

American Bridge Co. and Edward Kraemer& Sons' joint venture team leaders, fromleft, senior project engineer John Camp,general foreman Sam Kerlin, and fore-men Justin York, Raphael Manzaneresand David Geeseman work to keep thebascule project safe and on track.

Workers wear fallprotection as theyplace forms forpouring concrete onthe Wilson Bridgestructure

detected contaminants in a fuel tank atseveral hundred parts per million. Thecontractor pulled everyone out of thatarea and we let the excavation venti-late—basically, we let Mother Naturetake its course—until it was safe for peo-ple to go in there again.Q: It seems that this project would pre-sent some unique safety challenges. Forexample, I saw workers who appearedto be rappelling down the arches of thesuperstructure as they installed forms forpouring concrete. What was going onthere?A: All of the bascule is unique in its con-struction, in it form and in its design.Every bridge pier is mathematically dif-ferent. Each aspect brings its own safetychallenges. The workers you saw were notrappelling, they were using cable grabs.They had their safety cables in place and,

of course,it’s a fall-arrest sys-tem.Q: You areworkingyear-round.You havegot weathersituations todeal with.Are thereany particu-lar heatstress orcold stresschallengesthat youhave foundworking outon the waterunder whatcan be verybrutal con-ditions inwinter orsummer?A: Theycertainlycan. I have


safety meetings where I address heat-stress issues—heat exhaustion. I providemy people with sunscreen. The contrac-tors probably do also. In the cold—inhypothermic conditions—we certainlyhave our meetings with contractors thataddress those situations. Q: Do you provide educational materi-als for them, or is that solely the respon-sibility of the safety managers for thecontractors?A: Each company has its own safetyprogram and handouts, but I will pro-vide them with information should theyrequest it. I do my own 10-hour OSHAtraining and we conduct first aid/CPRtraining every year for my inspectorstaff. If we have room in those classes,I invite contractor personnel. Q: Are there problems associated withoverseeing a project with so manystakeholders—two states, the District ofColumbia and several branches of thefederal government—who may havedifferent worker safety requirements,and making sure they are addressed interms of PPE?A: Safety, per the OSH Act of 1970, isfairly generic. We all follow the rulesand regulations of the same CFR-29;basically, that is our Bible. We don’tchange much, safety-wise, from onejurisdiction to the other. All of our gen-eral contractors’ safety programs aredrafted according to OSHA standards.Q: Do you see many federal and statesafety representatives on the jobsite?A: We see them all regularly. In fact,(Virginia Department of Transportationrepresentatives) came out just the otherday and did a four-hour ‘walkabout’safety inspection on (one of thecontracts). I keep in touch with them onthe internet and through friendships. Ihave known some of these people formore than 20 years, and they have beenvery helpful with our safety program.Q: Can you tell me about any interest-ing safety incentive programs on theproject?A: R. R. Dawson has a very innovative

Producers of Innovation and Value!

• Molded from high density polyethyl-ene for maximum protection andcomfort

• Accessory slots accommodate a widevariety of eye, face and hearing prod-ucts

• Cushioned brow pad absorbs moistureto help keep wearer cool and com-fortable

• Brow pad is removable, washable andreplaceable

• Comfortable, impact-absorbing, 6-point woven nylon suspension

• “Easy Quick-Slide” sizing adjusts sus-pension from head sizes 61/2 - 8

• New softer band material conforms towearer’s head for a more comfortablefit and allows for easier size adjust-

ERB INDUSTRIES, INC. – SAFETY DIVISION P.O. Box 1237 - #1 Safety Way - Woodstock, GA 30188-1237phone: 770-926-7944 - fax: 770-516-1980 - web: www.e-ERB.com - email: [email protected]

OMEGA II® Safety Helmet… engineered to provide the finest combination of safety,

personal comfort and value in head protection.

NEW AND IMPROVED

HI-VIZ COLORS!NEW AND IMPROVED

HI-VIZ COLORS!

Above, left: WoodrowWilson Bridge project safetyleaders include, from left,Chris Claggett, safety man-ager for American Bridge/Edward Kraemer; JohnVoigt, safety manager forTidewater/Skanska; JohnArnoux, safety manager forPotomac CrossingConsultants, and RichardMcElhaney, safety managerfor American Bridge/EdwardKraemer/Trumbull Corp.

Above, right: Work on piersfor the new Woodrow WilsonBridge crossing the PotomacRiver goes on year round;the existing bridge providesa backdrop.

OMEGA II®


one. In short, employees earn DawsonDollars for practicing good safety. If theyshow up for work and don’t get hurt,they earn 10 Dawson Dollars a year. Ifan employee corrects an unsafe act orcondition, he or she receives oneDawson Dollar per documented inci-dent. If an employee has a safety ideathat is implemented throughout thecompany, the reward is 100 DawsonDollars. Supervisors are given DawsonDollars in set amounts—five, 10 and 20DDs—to give out for ‘atta boys’ or ‘attagirls.’ Unsafe work carries penalties.Each accident costs an employee twoDawson Dollars, and failure to report anaccident, incident or near-miss zeroesthe employee’s account. Each employeecan keep two years worth of DawsonDollars on the books. They spend mostof them at the Dawson General Store,which is stocked with company logo andhigh-end safety items, NASCAR ticketsand so forth.Q:Do you have any final thoughtsregarding PPE use you would like toshare with our readers?A: PPE use is a requirement on our pro-ject. We represent the constructionindustry, and it’s basically part of ourgear, just like a scuba diver wears histanks and his wetsuit. Members of myteam don’t ever get out of a vehiclewithout the hardhat, safety glasses andreflective vest. At elevations of six feetand above, everybody must don a har-ness and lanyard. Project managersmust wear high-visibility apparel 100percent of the time. None of my inspec-tors will get out of a vehicle without it. Iencourage the contractors to do likewise.

Attention to Safety Pays The project management’s attention tosafety is paying off in terms of low lost-workday and recordable injury rates. Asof the end of March 2004, the Marylandcontracts (including the bridge, itself)showed a lost workday case rate of 1.1and a recordable injury rate of 6 (for1.44 million work hours) and the Virginia

Editor’s Note: For more infor-mation on the Wilson Bridgesafety program, contact JohnArnoux, Potomac CrossingConsultants, Woodrow WilsonBridge Center, Maryland FieldOffice Complex, 6711-C OxonHill Road, Oxon Hill, MD20745, phone 301-567-0094,ext. 376, [email protected] more information on theproject itself, visitwilsonbridge.com.

Architectural renderingsshow the new WoodrowWilson Bridge as it willappear in 2008.

contracts showed a lost workday rate of1.7 and a recordable injury rate of 3.5(for 346,000 work hours), vs. nationalaverages of 3.7 for lost workdays and7.6 for recordable injuries.

And ultimately, this work done safelywill produce an innovative, elegant-looking bridge—described by some asthe hands of Neptune reaching out ofthe Potomac to support the roadway—that will serve motorists in the Nation’sCapital and those traveling I-95 up anddown the East Coast for well into the21st Century. ●

20 Protection UPDATE | SUMMER 2004

Workers Keep Heads in the GameLes was working on a pile-driving site when he was hit on his helmeted head by a 65-pound chunk of

mud and concrete. Although he received 14 stitches in his scalp and his hardhat was destroyed, Les probablywould have been killed had he not been wearing head protection.

Darryl was trying to bull-rig a motor control center module that was positioned on concrete piers. A wire-rope choker that connected a 10-ton come-along to one of the piers broke loose and freed the come-

along, which swung around the pier, striking Darryl in the head. His hardhat deflected the force of the impact andundoubtedly saved him from serious injury. Les’ and Darryl’s hardhats by Mine Safety Appliances Co., msanet.com

It Could Have Become a ‘Federal Case’Fall protection saved the life of a window washer at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington

after the line suspending him 60 feet off the ground snapped, The Washington Post reported (May 18). D.C. Fireand Emergency Medical Services crews brought him to safety, uninjured, about a half hour after the incident.The Rayburn building, across the street from the U.S. Capitol, houses offices of House of Representatives members.

WorksforYou

SAFETY EQUIPMENTEditor’s Note: Protection Update welcomes contribu-tions from readers for our regular Safety EquipmentWorks for You feature. Email examples of where PPEhas saved workers’ lives or prevented injuries to EditorJoe Walker, [email protected], or mailthem to the Editor, Protection Update, InternationalSafety Equipment Association, 1901 N. Moore Street,Suite 808, Arlington, VA 22209. Photos are welcome.

1901 North Moore StreetArlington, VA 22209-1762 USA

PRST STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDAlexandria, VA

PERMIT NO. 1490

Documents

Protection Update - Summer 2004...2 Protection UPDATE | SUMMER 2004 NEW PROTECTION FOR CONSTRUCTORS van, dropped from 20 feet, and hit with a hammer. They are available in 20-, 30-,