Best Practices

To Enhance Safety during Construction Work

Always have the right gear (PPE) and inspect it for signs of damage before beginning work.
Only use ANSI approved safety glasses to avoid eye injuries. Approved glasses that have passed specific tests for durability and strength are marked on the frame, lens, or both.
Prevent irreversible hearing loss through ear protection whenever jackhammers or other loud equipment is present.
Wear protective helmets in areas where falling objects could cause injury to the head or where exposed electrical conductors could contact the head.
Check your hard hat expiration date, because they typically only last about five years.
Correctly fasten the complete seat belt assembly inside any type of vehicle.

Never wear loose clothing. Loose jackets, shirts, and pants can catch in moving parts.
Stay visible with fluorescent shirt and vests.
Choose work boots that have steel toes and nonskid soles, and make sure the soles stay free of tack.
Use gloves to protect hands when climbing on equipment.

Operators should perform daily safety checks that include a walk around to identify potential hazards.
Check your lifting chains and slings for wear or cuts before starting work.
Never put yourself between a hauling truck backing into the hopper and the paver.
Keep a safe distance away from dump trucks while the bed is in motion and when the paver hopper wings are in operation.
Remember that fast moving traffic is only a step away when collecting weigh tickets from the driver's side.
Minimize the chance of falls with three points of contact when climbing in or out of a machine.
Save your joints by never jumping off equipment; always use steps and handholds, if they are available.
Avoid climbing onto truck running boards unless you absolutely have to.
Let the driver know you're climbing onto the truck bed before doing it.
Keep talking to a minimum so as not to distract the driver.
Be aware of changes in conditions that can affect safety hazards. There are fewer safety risks with one way traffic, for example, than two way traffic.
Park vehicles not currently in use out of the way of the traffic.
Always stay hydrated. Heat exhaustion can set in quickly, so drink water regularly when you are on a road or paving job.

If you have any questions about jobsite safety or protective equipment, contact Kelbe today!