Summer Heat Construction Safety

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Summer brings longer days and ideal conditions for construction projects, but in many parts of the country it can also present significant health and safety challenges for workers. 

High temperatures, intense sunlight, and the physical demands of construction work can pose serious risks for workers who aren’t prepared. Since employee safety is the number one priority for us here at Steadfast, we’ve put together some strategies construction companies can implement to protect their employees during these next hot summer months.

Educate Employees on Heat-Related Illnesses

Knowledge is power, and understanding the symptoms and dangers of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, is crucial to employee safety. Conduct regular training sessions to educate workers on how to recognize these conditions, the importance of hydration, and the steps to take if they or a coworker start experiencing symptoms.

Implement a Heat Safety Plan

A comprehensive heat safety plan should include guidelines for work-rest cycles, hydration, and monitoring weather conditions. Schedule the most strenuous tasks during the cooler parts of the day, typically early morning or late afternoon. Ensure that workers take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and encourage employees to look out for one another.

 Provide Adequate Hydration

Dehydration is a major risk during the summer, so make sure you provide your team with plenty of water and encourage them to drink small amounts frequently (rather than just waiting until they feel thirsty). Electrolyte-replenishing beverages can also help maintain the body’s salt balance. Providing coolers of both are a low-cost way to help encourage workers to get the hydration they need. 

Create Shaded and Cool Rest Areas

Designate shaded areas where workers can rest and cool down, and make sure they are using them as needed. If natural shade isn’t available, consider setting up tents, canopies, or portable cooling stations. Cooling towels and misting fans can also provide relief.

Use Protective Clothing and Gear

Encourage workers to wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing to reflect heat and promote ventilation. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF can protect against harmful UV rays. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) that is designed for hot weather, such as ventilated helmets and moisture-wicking fabrics.

Monitor Weather Conditions

Keep a close eye on weather forecasts and heat advisories. Adjust work schedules and plans according to the predicted temperatures and humidity levels. Consider using heat index charts to determine safe working conditions and adjust activities accordingly.

Acclimatize Workers

New and returning workers may need time to adjust to the heat. Implement an acclimatization plan that gradually increases exposure to high temperatures over a week or two. This helps the body adapt to the heat, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Promote a Culture of Safety

Foster an environment where safety is prioritized. Encourage workers to look out for each other and to report any safety concerns. Regularly review and update safety protocols to ensure they remain effective and relevant.

Use Technology

Where possible, leverage technology to monitor worker’s health and safety. There are a wide range of wearable devices that can track vital signs and detect early signs of heat stress. There are also a wide variety of apps and software that can provide real-time updates on weather conditions and send reminders for hydration and breaks.

Emergency Preparedness

Ensure that all workers are trained in first aid and know the procedures for dealing with heat-related emergencies. Keep first aid kits readily available and equip supervisors with the tools and knowledge to respond quickly to any incidents.

Protecting your team from the dangers of summer heat requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. By educating employees, providing adequate resources, and fostering a culture of safety, construction companies can create a safer work environment and maintain productivity throughout the summer months. Implementing these strategies not only safeguards the health and well-being of workers but also demonstrates a commitment to their safety and job satisfaction.

Tiltrotator: Turning the Construction World Upside Down

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If you love construction technology like we do at Steadfast, one of the best things about a new year is the introduction to the newest technologies that are on the horizon. 

Our favorite this year: the tiltrotator accessory. 

This remarkable piece of equipment is transforming the way construction projects are executed, and offering unparalleled versatility and precision. Let’s talk about what they are, how they work, and the profound impact they’re having on the industry.

First, what are tiltrotator accessories? 

A tiltrotator is a hydraulic attachment mounted to the end of an excavator or backhoe arm. It’s made up of two main components: a tilting mechanism and a rotating mechanism. The tilting mechanism allows the attached tool, such as a bucket or grapple, to tilt sideways, while the rotating mechanism lets the tool rotate 360°.

How do they work?

Tiltrotator accessories are controlled via the excavator’s hydraulic system, allowing operators to easily manipulate the attached tool with precision. By tilting and rotating the tool, operators can achieve a wide range of angles and positions, making it possible to work more efficiently in tight spaces and around obstacles.

That’s neat, but are they really that important? 

They’re literally turning the construction industry upside down! 

  • Improved Safety: Of all the industry changes they bring, this is by far the most important. By reducing the need for manual labor and minimizing the risk of accidents caused by improper equipment positioning, tiltrotator accessories improve safety on the job site.
  • Increased Efficiency: Tiltrotator accessories enable operators to perform a variety of tasks without having to constantly reposition the excavator. This saves time and increases productivity on the job site.
  • Enhanced Precision: With the ability to tilt and rotate the attached tool with precision, operators can achieve more accurate results, whether they’re digging trenches, grading land, or placing materials.
  • Versatility: Tiltrotator accessories are incredibly versatile, allowing operators to switch between different tools quickly and easily. This versatility makes them invaluable for a wide range of construction projects, helping crews finish their work in record time. 
  • Cost Savings: While the initial investment in tiltrotator accessories may be significant, the long-term cost savings are substantial. Increased efficiency and productivity translate to lower labor costs and faster project completion times.

Tiltrotator accessories represent a groundbreaking advancement in construction technology, offering unprecedented levels of versatility, precision, and efficiency. As our industry continues to evolve, these innovative attachments are poised to play an increasingly central role in shaping the way projects are executed. 

Need equipment or staffing for your next project?
Contact Steadfast today! jhworthy@steadfastentities.com

Safety First

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At Steadfast Enterprises, LLC, we take pride in connecting our clients with highly trained staff from IUOE Local 542. 

Our goal is twofold: 

  1. to provide you with the people you need to get the job done efficiently, and 
  2. to keep our workers safe and healthy. 

Safety is paramount for construction businesses of all sizes and it’s non-negotiable. Poor employer precautions and hazardous conditions don’t just result in employee injury or death, they also result in high fines and penalties that put some companies out of business completely.  

To help, we’ve put together this list of effective strategies to enhance safety and protect your team:

Training and Education

Providing comprehensive safety training to all workers is fundamental. Even for smaller businesses, investing in safety training sessions ensures that employees understand potential hazards, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. This education instills a safety-conscious mindset among workers.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equipping workers with appropriate PPE is essential. Safety helmets, high-visibility vests, goggles, gloves, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection are basic necessities that shield workers from various job site risks. Prioritize the availability and proper use of PPE through regular checks and replacements as needed.

Regular Safety Inspections and Maintenance

Conducting routine safety inspections of equipment, machinery, and job site conditions is critical. Businesses should prioritize regular maintenance of tools and equipment to ensure they’re in optimal working condition, reducing the risk of accidents due to malfunctioning machinery.

Utilization of Technology for Safety

Mobile apps and software are available for all budgets, and can aid in safety documentation, hazard reporting, and conducting safety audits. Wearable technology like smart helmets or vests equipped with sensors can alert workers to potential dangers, improving situational awareness.

Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)

Performing a thorough job hazard analysis for each task on the construction site helps identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies. This analysis enables workers to understand the hazards associated with their specific roles and take necessary precautions.

Implementing Safety Protocols and Guidelines

Establishing clear and concise safety protocols and guidelines is crucial. Ensure these guidelines are prominently displayed and easily accessible to all workers, in multiple languages if needed. Regularly review and update safety protocols in response to changing job site conditions or new risks.

Promoting a Safety Culture

Fostering a culture of safety among workers is essential for creating a safer work environment. Encourage open communication about safety concerns, recognize and reward safe practices, and involve workers in safety-related decision-making processes. Don’t let safety violations slide and commend workers when they take action to stay safe. 

Collaboration with Safety Organizations and Resources

Construction businesses can benefit from collaborating with OSHA or other safety organizations to access resources, training materials, and guidance on safety best practices. Networking with industry peers can also provide valuable insights into today’s safety measures and solutions.

Regular Safety Meetings and Toolbox Talks

Conducting frequent safety meetings and toolbox talks allows for discussion of safety issues, sharing best practices, and reinforcing safety protocols. These discussions create an opportunity for workers to actively engage in safety-related conversations.

Encourage Reporting and Investigation of Incidents

Encourage a reporting culture where workers feel comfortable reporting near-misses, incidents, or hazards without fear of reprisal. Investigate incidents promptly to identify root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Prioritizing safety on construction sites, even for smaller businesses, requires a proactive approach from both staff and supervisors. By investing in education, leveraging available resources, and promoting a collective commitment to safety, construction businesses of all sizes can create a safer work environment for their workers, reducing accidents and ensuring their well-being on the job.

Constructing for Wildfires

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As we recently saw in Maui, Canada, and all across the West Coast of the United States, wildfires happen quickly and with very little warning. Due to climate change, urban sprawl, and other factors, they have become increasingly destructive and more frequent, which means the need for fire-resistant buildings has never been more urgent. Fortunately, there are some key strategies used when designing structures that can help them withstand wildfires, protecting both lives and property.

Understanding Wildfire Vulnerability

Before diving into building construction, it’s essential to understand the factors that contribute to a building’s vulnerability during a wildfire:

Materials: Traditional building materials like wood siding and shingles are highly flammable. Choosing fire-resistant materials is the first step in building resilience.

Embers: Embers carried by the wind can ignite structures even before the fire front arrives. Sealing entry points for embers is crucial.

Roof Design: Roofs are particularly vulnerable, as embers can accumulate in gutters and vents, leading to ignition. Proper roof design is essential to keeping a building safe.

Landscaping: Vegetation near the building can fuel a wildfire’s intensity, so creating defensible space around structures is vital.

Location: Buildings in wildfire-prone areas are at higher risk, so it’s important to understand local fire behavior and regulations.

Designing Wildfire-Resistant Structures

Fortunately, we’ve come a long way in construction technology, and there are many ways to help protect structures from wildfires:

Use Fire-Resistant Materials

Choose non-combustible materials for building exteriors, such as stucco, concrete, or fiber cement siding. Metal roofing and tempered glass windows are also excellent choices, because these materials can withstand direct exposure to flames.

Protect the Roof

Roof design is critical to protecting the rest of the structure. Consider using Class A fire-rated roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles with fire-resistant coatings, clay or concrete tiles, or metal roofing. Clear out gutters and install spark arrestors on vents to prevent ember intrusion.

Seal Entry Points

Those embers that can start your roof on fire can also enter buildings through vents, gaps, and openings. Seal these entry points with non-combustible materials and employ ember-resistant vent covers.

Create Defensible Space

Maintain a buffer zone of non-flammable vegetation around your building. If you have a lawn, keep it well watered. Keep trees and bushes trimmed, and store firewood and flammable items away from structures.

Fire-Resistant Windows and Doors

Install fire-resistant windows and doors, which are designed to withstand high heat and flames. These can be crucial for preventing interior fires caused by radiant heat.

Regular Maintenance

This one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t do this. Regularly inspect and maintain your building to ensure that fire-resistant features remain effective over time. If you do find anything that has been damaged or has deteriorated, replace it promptly. 

Build Firebreaks

When possible, incorporate firebreaks, such as wide driveways or gravel pathways, to impede the fire’s progress toward the building.

Consult Local Building Codes and Experts

Compliance with local building codes and consultation with wildfire mitigation experts can be extremely helpful! These experts can offer site-specific guidance tailored to your location’s unique wildfire risks, and can help you protect your project in often unexpected ways. 

Designing structures to survive wildfires can feel complicated, but by using these tips, you can significantly increase your building’s chances of withstanding a wildfire. And if you need equipment or staffing to finish your wildfire-safe project, Steadfast, Entities, LLC is here to help! Because we know it’s not just about protecting property value; it’s about producing quality, long-lasting construction projects. 

Hard Hats vs. Helmets

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Heads up!

You know that at Steadfast Enterprises, LLC, we love to be on the cutting edge of any technology that makes projects safer, more efficient, or more sustainable. That’s why we took notice when we saw a shift: construction workers are increasingly swapping their traditional hard hats for helmets.

While there’s nothing more iconic than the yellow hard hat, we are also interested to see how helmets bring enhanced safety standards, improved comfort, and innovative features to address the evolving needs of the industry.

Enhanced Protection and Safety

Hard hats have long been the symbol of construction sites, but helmets offer an elevated level of protection. Modern construction helmets are designed to meet stringent safety regulations, providing impact resistance and better shielding against falling objects, debris, and other hazards. With reinforced shells and advanced materials such as high-density polyethylene, helmets have higher structural integrity, reducing the risk of head injuries in potentially dangerous situations.

Integration of Advanced Technologies

One significant reason for the transition from hard hats to helmets is their use of cutting-edge technologies. Helmets now come equipped with a range of features to improve both safety and efficiency on construction sites, like integrated sensors that can detect potential falls or impacts, alerting workers and supervisors in real time. This technology helps prevent accidents and allows for immediate response in case of an emergency, further minimizing risks and enhancing worker protection.

Customization and Adaptability

Another advantage of helmets is their customizable nature, allowing workers to personalize their headgear according to their specific requirements. Adjustable straps, suspension systems, and interior padding provide a more comfortable and secure fit, reducing strain during long work hours. Helmets can also accommodate additional attachments such as face shields, earmuffs, or communication devices, facilitating seamless integration of various accessories in a wide range of working conditions.

Improved Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is a vital factor in any industry, and construction is no exception. Hard hats, although functional, can be heavy and cumbersome, leading to neck pain, headaches and fatigue. In contrast, helmets are designed with ergonomics in mind, focusing on weight distribution and ventilation systems to provide enhanced comfort. The lighter weight and improved airflow of helmets make them more wearable for extended periods, ensuring workers are both safer and happier.

Changing Industry Standards and Regulations

As safety regulations and industry standards evolve, so does the gear worn by construction workers. OSHA and other regulatory bodies are increasingly acknowledging the benefits of helmets in terms of safety and ergonomics, and some jurisdictions have already made helmets mandatory for specific job roles. While both hard hats and helmets are OSHA-approved, that might not always be the case.

Thanks to the advanced protection offered by helmets, we’re seeing the industry transition away from traditional hard hats. Their adaptability, customization, and technology makes them an ideal choice for keeping workers more comfortable, efficient, and safe. As helmet technology continues to improve, you can be sure Steadfast Entities, LLC, will be working to provide you with the most up-to-date gear and equipment to keep your staff safe and comfortable while on the job!

Don’t Let Your Equipment Walk Away

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Did you know that more than 250 pieces of heavy equipment are stolen each week in the United States? That number increases during December and January, when job sites are empty due to holidays and weather delays. 

Of that stolen equipment, less than 20% is ever recovered, costing business owners anywhere from $300 million to $1 billion every year. The good news? There are lots of ways to protect your equipment from thieves, saving you money and keeping your holidays merry and bright! 

Be on the De-FENCE-ive

Good fences make good neighbors…and are the first defense when it comes to stopping thieves. Make sure your fences go completely around the full perimeter of the jobsite, and that they’re at least 8’ tall. 

Walk the fence often and keep an eye out for tampering like cut chain links or stacked items that make it easier to get up and over. You can also install heavy duty safety bollards at gates, which make it harder for potential thieves to drive off the property with large equipment.

Be Tech Savvy

High-tech safety devices are now more attainable than ever. Whether it’s new and improved LED lighting to brighten your jobsite at night, tamper-proof security cameras, or GPS tracking devices on your equipment, there are a wide variety of products available at several different price points to keep your equipment safe. 

Some newer machines have built in anti-theft technology that require an operator to put in an individual pin to start the machine. If a thief tampers with the system, the machine will automatically send you an alert. If possible, hire a security consultant to figure out which technology would work best for you. It may be an extra cost up front, but if it keeps your equipment safe, it’ll pay for itself over time. 

Make Sure It Works

You can have the best security technology in the world, but it won’t do you any good if it isn’t working properly. Test alarms regularly to make sure they are still in working order. Make sure cameras can capture faces, license plates, and identifying features both during the day and in the dark. Potential thieves will often test your responsiveness by causing false alarms, so keep a close eye on your worksite for unknown vehicles or people who might be casing the property. If someone does look suspicious, report it to local authorities.

Store Equipment Safely

Light, easy-to-move equipment is often a top target for thieves, so make sure your lighter equipment is under cover or inside when left for the night, weekend, or holiday. Never leave equipment trailered, and make sure all trailers are properly secured so they can’t be used to steal equipment. AIf possible, make sure trailers and large equipment are parked far enough apart that they don’t block camera views and provide accidental coverage for criminals.

Maintain Your Inventory

It’s easy to put off, but keeping record of the serial numbers, PINs, manufacturer, and year of every piece of equipment is incredibly helpful should it ever be stolen. An easy way to do this is to take photos of the machines and their serial numbers/PINs, where they are stored, and (if present) your logo, and then store those pictures virtually on the cloud. Your insurance will need all this info when filing for theft. 

Another option? Rent equipment from Steadfast, LLC! This saves you from the hassle of dealing with storage, theft prevention and insurance. Contact us today to explore our reliable, modern equipment options.

Robots on the Rise

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Amazon’s Innovation

Amazon broke new ground last month when they introduced the first-ever fully autonomous mobile robot at several of their facilities. The robots, named Proteus, were developed to move heavy, wheeled transports called GoCarts around their fulfillment and sorting centers. Amazon has been working on this technology since 2012 and, according to their company blog, hopes that Proteus will “help reduce the need for people to manually move heavy objects through our facility and instead let them focus on more rewarding work”. 

Robots on the Rise

While Proteus is the first robot of its kind that can move around actively working employees, the use of robots in construction, warehouses, and many other sectors isn’t new. In fact, 2021 was a banner year for industrial robot orders, with companies around the country ordering 39,708 units (up 14% from the previous high in 2017). Those numbers are expected to continue to climb, as many industries are using robotics in the face of worker shortages to complete repetitive tasks that their human counterparts don’t want to do.

Robots in Construction

Along with solving labor shortage issues, robotic technology is helping combat the housing crisis. Automation has allowed increased flexibility, productivity, and efficiency in manufacturing, which can clearly be seen in the construction of manufactured homes. Many of the building components for these homes are now built off-site, allowing them to be mass produced. On site, automated welding is making the process faster and completed with fewer errors. In some cases, 3D printers are now used to build both customized building components and the buildings themselves. 

As industry standards change and builders are facing increased environmental regulation, robots have the added benefit of making worksites more sustainable. Studies show that up to 25% of materials brought to a jobsite ends up wasted. The use of robotics improves consistency and quality, reducing that waste. With the ever-increasing cost of supplies, this sustainability is good for both the planet and the pocket as it saves companies money, from reduced material costs, and time, from faster operations. 

Robots are also making job sites safer. About 108,000 worksite fatalities occur every year worldwide, and construction workers are 4x more likely to have a fatal accident than other industries. 

As shown by Amazon’s Proteus, one way robots can help prevent worker injury is by carrying heavy loads. They can also get into spaces that are unsafe for human workers, and can be used for repetitive tasks that commonly lead to worker injuries over time. Industry leaders are hopeful that this increased safety will entice young people to consider careers in construction, as many are hesitant to go into such a dangerous field.

A Robotic Future

Urbanization, climate change, and a shortage of workers have made the integration of robotics into the construction industry essential. In a May 2021 study, 81% of company leaders said they would invest in robotics and other automation within the next 10 years. 

At Steadfast Enterprises, LLC, you can be sure that we’ll continue to use the most efficient, up-to-date equipment, and continue our focus on sustainability and quality. Learn more about our technology-forward equipment rental and sales here.

Why OSHA?

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What is OSHA?

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration, or OSHA, was introduced “to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance”. 

While OSHA sometimes gets a bad reputation for their numerous requirements and steep fines for noncompliance, they have decreased the number of workplace illnesses, injuries, and fatalities by over 80% since their inception in the early 1970s. 

Costly Violations

OSHA creates enforcement policies and targeted inspection programs, and responds to fatalities, catastrophes, and complaints. If they find a company is not in compliance with their safety standards, they can face serious financial penalties ranging from $14,502 to $145,027 per violation. For 2021,  the most common violations from around the country were: 

  1. Fall Protection (5,271 violations)
  2. Respiratory Protection (2,521 violations)
  3. Ladders (2,018 violations)
  4. Scaffolding (1,943 violations)
  5. Hazard Communication (1,939 violations)
  6. Lockout/Tagout (1,670 violations)
  7. Fall Protection Training Requirements (1,660 violations)
  8. Eye and Face Protection (1,451 violations)
  9. Powered Industrial Trucks (1,404 violations)
  10. Machine Guarding (1,105 violations)

Protecting Workers

OSHA reviews worker safety in many types of industries, including construction, general industry, maritime, agriculture, and the federal sector. The largest OSHA fine in history was issued to BP Products North America, Inc. in 2005 in the amount of $87 million, after an explosion at a Texas refinery killed 15 people and injured another 170. 

Unfortunately, unsafe working environments can still be a problem today.

  • In 2021, a water utilities construction company in Boston was fined almost $1.3 million after two workers were struck by a dump truck and pushed into a nine foot trench, causing their deaths.
  • An aluminum parts manufacturer had a history of repeated safety violations, and was fined $1.2 million after a worker was hit and killed by a machine’s barrier door.
  • And a grain facility in Wisconsin was fined over $676,000 after the engulfment death of a corn silo manager. These tragic accidents highlight the continued importance of OSHA in maintaining safe work environments for employees. 

At Steadfast Entities, LLC, we make safety a priority. We are signatory with The International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 542, who employs a rigorous training program for all equipment operators.

Once assigned to a Steadfast project, they are further trained on our specialized equipment.  By combining modern, reliable equipment with well trained, top-tier employees, we ensure a satisfying customer experience and safe, happy workers.

Contact us about your project today: jhworthy@steadfastentities.com

Technology Improves Project Safety

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There’s no doubt that advances in technology have made our lives easier. From medicine to smart phones, we’re right in the middle of the technology revolution! The heavy equipment world is no different. Check out these 4 innovations that have helped improve project safety dramatically in recent years.

No More Taglines

The modern crane assistance device Torquer offers a patented remote-controlled orientation system, HALO (Hands free Autonomous Load Orientation). The tool eliminates the need for taglines or workers directing from the ground, so fewer workers will be injured in accidents. Easy to install and operate, with a 20Te capacity, this is one technology to watch out for!

Identify Risk Early

Flipping the switch over to high-tech, new Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities allow trained computers to identify risk factors on a job site before anyone sets foot on it, during work, and after construction. One AI engine, “Vinnie,” analyzed millions of job site photos and videos to then be able to recognize hazards like standing water, ladders, lack of protective equipment, material and structural defects, and more. 

Willmott trials robotic exoskeleton vest on live site | Construction News

Protect Workers

Robotic, powered exoskeletons will dramatically change the construction industry by lifting the burden off workers, site managers, and recruiters alike. Imagine Iron Man, but without the evil villians – this wearable exoskeleton allows a single individual to match the productivity of a whole team while avoiding injuries or accidents. Reducing the load on the individual also opens up the role to a wider range of individuals, expanding diversity in the field and helping recruiters. 

Aerial Drone Inspections

Drones are utilized more and more in the construction world to view and assess the structural integrity of work sites and cranes. Drones also help workers reach small spaces, see potential obstacles or hazards, and identify needed equipment or materials. Having better visuals on the front side allows projects to run more smoothly and safely. 

Technology is advancing every day and we can’t wait to see what new tools come out next!