Barely visible, but dangerous nonetheless, respirable crystalline silica is the by product of sawing, drilling, and crushing concrete, stone, and brick.  The dust particles are small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, where they can cause serious illness and fatal disease.  Learn about the OSHA standard that includes specific measures for employers to protect employees from exposure, including engineering controls, work practices, and respirators.

Working in and around trenches requires attention to multiple hazards, both below-grade and above-ground. And because excavation operations can turn tragic in an instant, everyone must be involved in preventing cave-ins through site inspections, soil/air analyses, and protective systems. The role of a competent person is especially important to ensure compliance with OSHA safety standards. Learn how to Slope –Shore – Shield for best results.

It is unfortunate that the need for training to avoid falls is talked about as much as the incidents themselves. But why, and why so often? Because the hazard is commonplace in construction - at height (from scaffolds, ladders, roofs) and on ground (from slips and trips on uneven surfaces). The resulting injuries are usually severe, but entirely preventable with a proactive safety program involving risk assessment, personal equipment, and protective systems.