Page 247 - Safety Memo

h. Formwork and falsework. 1711(j) designed to minimize RMIs if more than one person is
diagnosed with RMIs as follows:
i. Training Requirements. 1711(k)
a. The RMIs are work related.
j. Framed panels and concrete forms. 1713
b. The employees incurred the RMIs while performing a job
k. Falsework and vertical shoring. 1717 process or operation of identical work activity.
c. The RMIs were reported in the past 12 months.
Ergonomics in Construction d. A licensed physician objectively identified and
diagnosed the RMIs. 5110(a)
Ergonomics is the study of improving the fit between the worker 2. The program must include the following:
and the physical demands of the workplace. Ergonomics can
be used to reduce injuries, improve productivity, and reduce the a. A work site evaluation.
costs of doing business. b. Control of exposures that caused the RMIs.
The construction industry suffers from debilitating and costly c. Training of employees. 5110(b)
occupational injuries, primarily to workers’ backs, necks,
shoulders, hands, and arms. These types of injuries or traumas C. Some ways to eliminate or reduce RMIs:
are commonly called repetitive motion injuries (RMIs) and 1. Proper lifting and material handling
are caused by activities that are repeated on a regular basis. 2. Use of equipment to reduce load and strain
Symptoms of RMIs may include chronic pain, numbness,
tingling, weakness, and limited range of motion. RMI symptoms 3. Employee rotation for repetitive tasks
may not be noticeable for months or even years after exposures, 4. Use of ergonomically designed tools
or may appear to be acute after a sudden and severe onset.
5. Use of personal protective equipment
A. Factors that can contribute to RMIs:
1. Awkward postures 6. Appropriately timed rest periods
2. Forceful exertion, including heavy lifting D. Employer should regularly scrutinize the 300 Log to see
whether multiple cases of RMI’s are being reported. Failure to
3. Repetitive work monitor for such patterns of illness, as reported on the Log,
might mean that the employer will fail to identify that two or
4. Vibration from tools and equipment more RMI cases have occurred in the past year, triggering a
5. Pinching (contact stress) during tool use and material requirement for a more careful assessment of ergonomic risks.
handling Excavation, Trenches, and
6. Temperature extremes
7. Lack of recovery time to affected body parts Earthwork
Note: Repeated localized fatigue or soreness after Hazards associated with excavation are cave-ins; the striking of
completion of the same task or day’s work often indicates underground utilities; falling tools, materials, and equipment; and
that the worker is being exposed to conditions that can hazardous air contaminants or oxygen-deficient environments.
lead to RMIs.
A. The minimum safety requirements are as follows:
B. Knowledge of ergonomic principles can be used to
produce simple changes in the workplace and work activities, 1. Before opening an excavation, these actions must
which in turn can avoid injury, improve productivity, and make be taken: 1541
jobs easier. The requirements that employers must follow a. Must identify subsurface installations prior to opening an
include the following: 5110 excavation and ensure they are marked.
1. Employers must establish and implement a program b. Two working days before starting the work, notify all

52 Cal/OSHA Pocket Guide for the Construction Industry June 2019 Cal/OSHA Pocket Guide for the Construction Industry | June 2019 53