Security guards trained by an authorized OSHA instructor can be an asset on construction jobsites. OSHA 10 security guards undergo an intensive 10-hour training course that covers hazards on a job site. The training emphasizes hazard identification, avoidance, control and prevention.
Workers on a construction site are aware of OSHA regulations, but when meeting deadlines and in a stressful environment these regulations may slip their minds. OSHA 10 security guards provide a construction company with trained guards who not only keep the area safe from intruders but they also keep the jobsite safe from hazards. OSHA 10 security guards can focus on where safety issues may occur and immediately have these problems taken care of.
OSHA 10-hour construction industry outreach training program typically covers basic safety and health information and recognizing, avoiding, abating and preventing hazards on a construction site. The program also provides information regarding workers' rights, employer responsibilities and how to file a complaint.
A typical course covers an introduction to OSHA, OSHA’s four hazards (falls, electrical exposure, struck-by and caught-in/between situations); personal protective equipment; health hazards; cranes, derricks, hoists, elevators and conveyors; stairways and ladders; lead exposure; and asbestos exposure.
OSHA 10 certified guards can do more than check identification and walk the perimeter of the jobsite. They can identify safety hazards such as trip or fall hazards, unsafe ladders, propane tanks left next to welding equipment, or a backhoe left in the up position at the end of the day. The guards document the situation and present it to the designated personnel so the problem can be remedied.
On one jobsite, the guard noticed rebar sticking out of the ground without its required plastic capping. The guard took a picture of the rebar and noted the safety violation along with time and location in his report, which went to the construction company and the security company. The rebar was fixed with the hour. A typical report may also note activities such as locking a fence gate or moving a propane tank away from a potential fire hazard.
On another jobsite a backhoe’s bucket was left in the up position. This is a potential hazard because the hydraulic systems in the backhoe could malfunction and fall on someone working close to the machine. The security guard immediately photographed and documented the violation. The information was sent to the security company and to the foreman on duty. Since the violation was noticed after working hours, the security guard placed cones around the backhoe. The next morning the foreman directed the backhoe operator to immediately fix the situation. The foreman also reviewed OSHA regulations with the operator to ensure the problem didn’t happen again.
While workers on a construction site should be OSHA 10 certified, construction companies may not be aware that OSHA 10 security guards are an option. When hiring outside security, ask if OSHA 10 certified guards are available. Guards who are inherently aware of the dangers on a jobsite can be that extra set of eyes and ears that helps prevent injuries.
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