The construction industry is eager to get back to work, but construction firms face a new safety challenge as the United States continues to battle COVID-19 — keeping workers healthy.
As the economy continues to re-open, construction workers face increased risk while on the job. At the new Salt Lake City International Airport construction site in Utah, 75 workers tested positive for the novel coronavirus out of about 1,600, or were forced to quarantine after direct exposure, according to trade publication Construction & Demolition Recycling.
According to Safety and Health Magazine, acting Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Administrator Loren Sweatt held a June webinar to encourage employers to examine existing practices and look for possible areas of improvement. OSHA-recommended guidance includes maintaining at least six feet of distance between workers whenever possible and frequent cleaning and disinfection of common touch points.
At the Salt Lake City International Airport construction site, project managers saw case numbers trend back down after implementing rigorous procedures for social distancing, mask-wearing and other protective rules. Workers submit to temperature checks on arrival and are questioned about whether they are experiencing symptoms or if they have been near others who have, according to Construction & Demolition Recycling.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, all construction workers should wear cloth face coverings and maintain six feet of distance whenever possible. Personal protective equipment (PPE) should also be utilized when appropriate and workers should limit tool sharing and exercise caution in trailers, portable restrooms and other shared spaces.
