construction
September 20, 2023
From Floods to Fires, Here Are Climate Change’s Impacts on Construction Insurance
Adapting the construction industry to the reality of climate change These extreme weather-related events are having a very real impact on the industry. One issue occurs right at the start of the construction process – choosing a viable location and then, from there, what materials will be used. Keeping an eye on bodies of water...
September 15, 2023
The Importance of Safety Orientations in Onboarding
Minimizing workplace injuries is vital for businesses across industry lines. Especially as it pertains to new employees, implementing safety orientations in the onboarding process could play a major role in preventing injuries. In fact, recent research found that 40% of occupational injuries occur among workers who have been in their roles for less than one...
September 8, 2023
3 Economic Forces Putting Strain on Construction
It’s been a tough three years for the construction industry. Lingering labor shortages and supply chain issues brought on by the pandemic have caused project costs to shoot up. In an effort to govern inflation, the Federal Reserve has raised interest rates, resulting in higher borrowing costs. Noticing a pattern? Today’s economic conditions are increasing...
August 28, 2023
DOL Proposes Rule to Clarify PPE Standard
On July 19, 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a notice of proposed rulemaking intended to clarify the personal protective equipment (PPE) standard for the construction industry. The stated goal of this action is to align construction, general industry and maritime standards. Comments and hearing requests must be submitted by Sept. 18, 2023,...
August 3, 2023
Preventing Falls Due to Extreme Heat
Extreme heat creates many risks in construction. As an employee in this industry, not only should you be aware of illnesses caused by the heat, but you also need to be mindful of how high temperatures can cause physical and mental impairments that can lead to falls and know how to prevent this hazard. How...
July 26, 2023
5 Risks in the Construction Industry
Construction owners and contractors face a myriad of risks that are inherent to the industry. In order to help ensure safe and productive operations, it’s vital for these parties to understand common exposures so they can take proactive steps to address them. Common Construction Industry Risks While each operation’s specific exposures may vary, the construction...
July 20, 2023
OSHA Proposes Rule Clarifying PPE Standard for Construction Workers
On July 19, 2023, OSHA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to revise its construction personal protective equipment (PPE) standard to explicitly require that the equipment must properly fit the person wearing it. Comments and hearing requests must be submitted by Sept. 18, 2023. Current Standard OSHA’s standard at 29 CFR 1926.95 sets out...
July 19, 2023
OSHA Expands Injury and Illness Submission Requirements for Employers in High-hazard Industries
On July 17, 2023, OSHA announced a final rule that will require certain employers in designated high-hazard industries to electronically submit additional injury and illness information than what is currently required but employers are already required to keep. The final rule will become effective on Jan. 1, 2024. Injury and Illness Submission Expansion Overview OSHA’s...
June 26, 2023
Tips for Safe Operation of Corded Power Tools
Corded power tools are useful for several types sizes of projects. They also can be more accurate and efficient than hand tools. However, corded power tools can also present serious safety hazards when not used correctly. Below are tips to help keep you safe while working with them. Types of Corded Power Tools Corded power...
June 13, 2023
Construction Industry’s Rebound Brings More Opportunities, But Also More Risks
The construction industry is rebounding after significant challenges during the pandemic, but more opportunities also come with more risks, an insurer has warned. Selective Insurance, a commercial business insurance carrier specializing in construction firms, has forecasted that more single-trade contractors will expand their business into multiple trades or general contracting to cope with growing demand...