First Quarter 2010 SWR Safety News

As of February 15^th 2010, SWR has put in 30,303 man hours. Our jobs are going well and have received exceptional owner company feedback. Way to go folks, keep up the great work!!!

Happiness is an attitude.  We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong.  The amount of work is the same ~Francesca Reigler

Equipment Tagging

Please remember to tag all equipment that needs attention, whether in the form of repairs or maintenance, when it is returned to the tool trailer or the shop.  Tagging equipment for repairs is important on several different levels, from ensuring damaged equipment is not returned to the job site to increasing efficiency in the tool room and shop.  If you have any questions about how this process should be completed, please do not hesitate to talk to a Superintendent or the Safety Director.

When it comes to getting things done, we need fewer architects and more bricklayers.  ~Colleen C. Barrett

OSHA Free

Congratulations on completing 144,925 Man Hours in 2009 OSHA free!

Fall Protection

According to OSHA "The US Department of Labor (DOL) lists falls as one of the leading causes of traumatic occupational death, accounting for eight percent of all occupational fatalities from trauma".  In construction, generally speaking, fall protection must be provided at six feet and above.  "In 2008, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that fatal work injuries involving falls decreased 20 percent in 2008 after a sharp increase in 2007. The 847 fatal falls in 2007 was the series high. Fatal falls to a lower level, which accounted for 85 percent of all falls, were down 23 percent in 2008. Fatal falls from roofs were down 26 percent and falls from ladders decreased by 14 percent. The number of fatal falls on same level (to a floor or walkway or against an object) increased slightly in 2008...Identifying fall hazards and deciding how best to protect workers is the first step in reducing or eliminating fall hazards. Occupational fatalities caused by falls remain a serious public health problem".  Southwest Refractory's number one priority is to keep our employees safe.  Please make sure that you are tied off in all situations in which you are required and if you ever have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to talk to your superintendent or the Safety Director.  (All quoted information found at: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/fallprotection/index.html)

REMEMBER THE JSA!

When job books are returned to the office at the completion of work, they need to include all JSA and safety audits distributed through the project. These are vital in tracking and trend issues.

The secret of joy in work is contained in one word- excellence.  To know how to do something well is to enjoy it. ~Pearl S. Buck

Always continue the climb.  It is possible for you to do whatever you choose, if you first get to know who you are and are willing to work with a power that is greater than ourselves to do it..  ~Ella Wheeler Willcox