Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/844521
Appendix C: Worker Protection Priority Issue 23.0 Jobsite Safety of the Energy Savings Plus Health Guide refers to this appendix for worker protection. This appendix contains information to help those performing and supervising the building upgrade assess the risks to workers; it recommends actions to minimize risks to workers' health and safety and identifies resources for additional information. Worker protection is especially important in older buildings. Areas undergoing construction may con tain remnants of legacy contaminants, such as lead and asbestos. Although these materials often are not considered harmful if left undisturbed or covered, they can become a concern when disturbed. Therefore, it is essential that the contractors review available informa tion about the existence of such materials before be ginning any modifications to the building. If existence of hazardous materials is suspected, a review must be commissioned by the school authorities. In some situations, only certified personnel can perform certain activities outlined in this Guide. By law, employers and supervisors are required to provide workers with a workplace that is free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm, as required in Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. Employers and supervisors must ensure the following: 1. Work site operations are conducted in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reg ulatory requirements. OSHA regulatory requirements identify the following construction hazards to be addressed: 2. Workers are trained in the hazards of their job and the methods to protect themselves. 3. Workers are provided the protective equipment needed to reduce site exposures. Employers are required to perform a Personal Protective Equipment Hazard Assessment for each employee. Table C1 provides a list of recommended assessments and actions for worker safety concerns. Project contract documents (drawings or specifications) and site plans should include precautions to address these issues. Table C1 also includes measures an employer needs to take to evaluate existing and potential health concerns and recommended actions to ensure worker safety. Assistance with developing these worker protection plans often is available from state or federal training programs. OSHA offers training courses and educational programs to help broaden worker and employer knowl edge on the recognition, avoidance, and prevention of safety and health hazards in their workplaces. OSHA also offers training and educational materials that help businesses train their workers and comply with the Oc cupational Safety and Health Act (see http://www.osha. gov/dte/index.html). When known pollutants are being produced or disturbed during retrofit activities, follow appropriate standards (including OSHA, National Institute for Occupation al Safety and Health [NIOSH] and EPA standards) to minimize worker and occupant exposure. The document "IAQ Guidelines for Occupied Buildings Under Con struction" published by the Sheet Metal and Air Con ditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA) also can be used as a best-practices manual for main taining IAQ in occupied buildings undergoing renovation or construction. The SMACNA document covers how to manage the source of air pollutants, control measures, quality control and documentation, and communication with occupants. 98 Energy Savings Plus Health | INDOOR AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOL BUILDING UPGRADES Asbestos-Containing Materials 29 CFR Part 1926.1101 and 40 CFR Part 763, Subpart G Chemical Hazards 29 CFR Part 1910.1200 Confined Spaces 29 CFR Part 1926.21 (b)(6)(i) Electrical 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart K Falls 29 CFR Part 1926.501 Ladders 29 CFR Part 1926.1053 Lead 29 CFR Part 1926.62 and 40 CFR 745 Personal Protective Equipment 29 CFR Part 1926.28