Housekeeping three

As each of us works throughout the jobsite, our daily needs require extension cords, air compressor hoses, cutting torch hoses and welding leads. Each of these cords or hoses acts as an umbilical cord providing us with the necessary electricity, compressed air, acetylene, oxygen, grounds for welding, and power for the welding stinger. The danger here is that any of these leads can become tangled and create tripping hazards if they are not placed properly before you start work.

We must take the time to run them underneath walkways, overhead if needed, away from access doors and ramps, and away from pinch points. Leads and hoses are subject to cuts, abrasions, puncture and plain old normal wear and tear. Remember to run leads, cords and hoses out of the way, cover them properly and most of all, do not let them become tripping hazards.

There are many other objects around the work area that are just as dangerous. Have you ever stepped on a screwdriver or a short piece of pipe and felt your feet about to slip out from under you? Did you ever trip over a shovel carelessly left on the ground? Have you ever thought of how well a wire snare works in catching small or large animals? How about your foot! We must take time to pick up long pieces of tie wire, if not, you may be the next one that is snared.

All of the above can be solved if we do a little housekeeping while we work. Cleaning up at the end of the job is fine, in fact it is essential, but job cleanup is not a one shot proposition, it is a continuous operation. It is an important factor in construction efficiency and in the prevention of work injuries. Remember these tips -- store material and tools neatly, cleanup scrap as work progresses, keep walkways clear at all times, and take care of your tools. Do not leave them where they will cause you or others to fall.

GOOD JOBSITE HOUSEKEEPING PROMOTES EFFICIENCY AND MORALE, AND HELPS TO REDUCE ACCIDENTS. 'THE INJURY YOU PREVENT MAY BE YOUR OWN!'