Construction and Remodel Safety

General

• Oregon-OSHA and DEQ regulations on asbestos, lead, and silica require that building materials be sampled prior to demolition, replacement, or remodeling

Policy

• OSU construction safety policy requires sampling for any construction/remodeling that will impact any of the following building materials, surfaces, or equipment
  • Carpet
  • Floor Tiles
  • Walls
  • Ceilings
  • Roofs
  • Sprayed-On-Insulation
  • Insulation on Plumbing
  • Laboratory Benches, Cabinets, and Other Laboratory Furnishings
  • Fume Hoods
  • Chalkboards

Sampling and Surveys

• List does not cover ALL regulated material
• When requested (7-2273), EH&S will perform necessary sampling prior to any demolition activities
• Sample analysis fees may be the responsibility of the requesting Department/Unit
• EH&S will consult with departments after the sample results are evaluated
• Regulatory fines issued by OR-OSHA or DEQ for improper demolition or disposal will be the responsibility of the department or unit

Excavation Operations

• Special rules apply to excavations. The most serious hazard of trenches is cave-in due to improper shoring and sloping of the trench.
• Other injuries are caused by work activities performed in the trench, including accidents due to falling materials, machinery, and exposure to noxious gases.
• Electrocution from utility lines or pipes, and slips and falls while climbing in and out of trenches are other hazards.
• Factors to consider before shoring or sloping are:
  • Determine the location of underground pipes, electrical, gas, sewage, or fuel lines before digging.
  • Trench depth: If the trench is 5 feet deep or more, it must be shored or sloped. If there is a possibility of soil movement, even shallower trenches have to be shored. If there is any doubt -- shore or slope the trench.
  • Running Soils: The more liquid the soil, the more you need to use additional types of shoring
  • Changing Weather Conditions: Hard packed soil can become soupy and unstable after rain. Trenches which are safely sloped or shored in dry weather can be very dangerous in wet weather.
  • Heavy loads in the area: Don't park heavy equipment next to a trench. Nearby structures such as buildings, curbs, trees, and utility poles will exert stress on trench shoring.
  • Vibration: If you are digging a trench near a roadway or where other operations create vibration, make the shoring strong enough to withstand the added stress.
    
  • If a trench is 5 feet deep or more, work should be supervised by an individual knowledgeable about trench safety.
    
  • Always shore from the top down, and take it out from the bottom up.
    
  • Keep water away from trench banks.
    
  • Make sure electrical lines and cables are grounded, guarded or de-energized.
    
  • Make sure that shoring material is the right kind, in good condition, and free of defects.
    
  • Place soil removed from the trench at least two feet from the trench rim.
    
  • Always wear hard hats and other necessary protective equipment.
    
  • Notify a supervisor when working in a trench.
    
  • For easy, safe and quick exit, set exit ladders every 25 feet for trenches greater than 4 feet deep.
    
  • Post warning signs and barricade areas that may be dangerous to employees or the public.