June is Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of safety measures in various industries. At Mikula Contracting, we take safety seriously and prioritize the well-being of our employees above all else by taking special measures to avoid injuries and fatalities.
With a focus on excavation safety and demolition safety, we ensure that our team is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and protective gear necessary to mitigate potential hazards and maintain a safe work environment.
The Importance of Safety Measures
In any industry, safety measures are of utmost importance to protect workers and reassure clients that the work is being performed in the most conscientious way possible. When it comes to excavation work, specific hazards need to be addressed.
Trench collapses, for instance, pose a significant risk. Serious injuries could occur if employees are not trained to support the trench sides or put up barriers to ensure no one falls into the trench.
Demolition safety is also paramount. No matter which demolition method you use, heavy items falling from a controlled explosion or an excavator moving heavy materials back and forth could lead to injuries to individuals who are in the wrong place at the wrong time. In these cases, most accidents can be avoided.
At Mikula Contracting, we take extensive precautions to protect our workers from such hazards. Our team of professionals ensures that appropriate protective measures are in place.
Employee Requirements
Training for our employees is essential to avoid demolition or excavation hazards and ensure that our team members are properly protected. We can create a safer working environment by equipping our employees with the necessary knowledge and protective gear.
If you are considering a construction company that does not prioritize excavation or demolition safety, it is time to move on to a company that takes safety very seriously. Ask tough questions to see who is ready with a safety plan before moving forward with a company that does not require employee safety training.
Pre-Job Safety Considerations
Before any excavation work begins, pre-job safety considerations are carefully considered and entered into the planning process. Trenching and excavation safety plans are unique to each project and should be performed by a competent person. The excavation-competent person is also designated to call out any safety concerns on-site, classify soil, clear sites authoritatively, and perform inspections.
Factors like the slope or bench configuration and soil type are carefully evaluated to determine the appropriate safety measures. Is there a risk of collapse? Has the soil been tested to ensure it is free of toxic substances? All of these things should be assessed before moving forward on the project.
The plan may include protective measures, such as shoring, shielding, or sloping to prevent cave-ins. Access and egress points are adequately protected, allowing safe entry and exit from trenches. Excavation hazards are thoroughly evaluated, and our team receives regular training on recognizing and mitigating these hazards.
For a demolition safety plan, the employees may plan for fire safety, first aid services, and locating any nearby utilities. A demolition-competent person should always be on-site to inspect the demolition site and identify any safety concerns.
Conducting thorough pre-job safety assessments ensures that our employees are well-prepared and equipped to handle their challenges. Then nothing catches us by surprise when a hazard does arise.
Jobs Where Safety Issues May Cause Concern
Specific jobs may pose particular safety concerns. For example, projects involving steep slopes or benches require additional precautions to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety.
Similarly, the soil type can influence the stability of trenches and the potential for cave-ins.
Demolition safety includes preparing for falling heavy objects, toxic materials hidden inside the building, or danger from explosions used in demolition.
What Kind of Safety Issues Can You Expect?
Excavation and demolition safety comes with identifying potential hazards that could arise during a project, such as:
- Cave-ins
- Falling objects
- Hazardous soil or materials (lead or asbestos)
- Utility-related accidents
- Demolition-related accidents
At Mikula Contracting, we proactively address these concerns through thorough safety training. Our team is taught to identify potential hazards and take immediate action to mitigate risks, ensuring a safer work environment for everyone involved.
How We Handle Safety Issues
At Mikula Contracting, we adhere to the guidelines and regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We regularly review and update our safety protocols to meet or exceed industry standards.
Our commitment to safety includes conducting thorough inspections and providing continuous training for our employees. A proactive approach to excavation and demolition safety is key to preventing accidents and promoting a culture of safety and responsibility.
Protective Gear We Require
To ensure the safety of our employees, we require the use of appropriate protective gear. This includes personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, high-visibility vests, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
We also offer hearing and respiratory protection and harnesses for those working from great heights during demolition. If an employee ever feels unsafe, we encourage open dialogue to brainstorm and come up with a solution before continuing the project.
Mikula Contracting Considers Safety Above All Else
At Mikula Contracting, safety is a top priority. We are committed to providing a safe working environment for our employees. By prioritizing excavation safety and demolition safety, adhering to regulations, and continuously improving our safety practices, we strive to set a high standard for the industry.
Working for an excavation company does not have to be a risky job. When employees choose to work with a company that values their safety and adheres to strict safety protocols, they can feel confident going to work daily. In addition, clients feel more comfortable when employees prioritize safety on the job.
June is safety month, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of implementing safety measures in all industries. Trust Mikula Contracting for your excavation or demolition needs, knowing that we put safety above all else.
