- Knowledge. Know the issues, the risks and the responses.
- Action. Make plans. Be prepared to handle any emergency.
- Dedication. Be a role model. Make safety a priority.
- Community. Engage your co-workers, family and neighbors.
A joint publication of NAHB and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, “Jobsite Safety Handbook,” provides information in English and Spanish on policies, procedures and practices that will help residential builders and trade contractors protect their workers from job-related safety and health hazards.
The company safety program, the handbook advises, should include these four elements:
- Management Commitment. A successful program should include a clear statement of policy by the owner, management support of safety policy and procedures and employee involvement in the structure and operation of the program.
- Worksite Analysis. The program should set forth procedures to analyze the jobsite and identify existing hazards and conditions and operations in which new hazards can be created.
- Hazard Prevention and Control. The program establishes procedures to correct or control present or potential hazards on the jobsite.
- Safety and Health Training. This is an essential component of the program. The complexity of the training will depend on the size and complexity of the worksite as well as the characteristics of the hazards and potential hazards at the site.
To promote safety at home, NAHB and HIT Entertainment are developing a public service campaign called “Blueprints for Home Safety,” featuring Bob the Builder™. Included will be a 30-second public service announcement, a 16-page activity book with a pull-out poster and a Web site where children can play games and learn more about home safety.
The materials are still being developed; NAHB will announce the program in this publication when it is completed.
An article on 10 steps that are needed to ensure an effective safety and health program will appear in the June 16 issue of NBN Online.
The “NAHB-OSHA Jobsite Safety Handbook” is available from BuilderBooks.com in an English edition or English and Spanish. It is also available in a construction safety kit that includes two other publications.
For further information on safety issues, e-mail Robert Matuga or call him at 800-368-5242 x8507.
For information on “Blueprints for Home Safety,” e-mail Kym Kilbourne or call her at 800-368-5242 x8447.
BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of safety and OSHA-related publications online. To view or purchase these publications, click here.
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