Category: Toolbox Talks

Many workplace injuries do not occur during the main task. They occur when workers are transitioning from one activity, location, tool, piece of equipment, or work area to another. Examples include: Moving from ground work to elevated work Switching from…

When most people hear “Lockout/Tagout,” they think of mechanics working on machinery in a shop. However, hazardous energy exists on nearly every construction project, and workers can be seriously injured even when they are not performing maintenance. Washington State DOSH…

Debris chutes provide an efficient way to remove waste material from elevated work areas, but they also create serious hazards. Improper use can result in struck by injuries, falls, property damage, and equipment failures. Employees working around debris chutes must…

Emergency Preparedness & Emergency Action Plans September is National Preparedness Month. While we focus every day on preventing accidents, emergencies like fires, chemical spills, severe weather, or sudden utility failures can happen without warning. Today, we’re reviewing our Emergency Action…

General Information Hydraulic or handyman jacks are used regularly for repairs or maintenance. They are essential tools but must be used with caution. General Jack Use Set brakes on equipment. Chock wheels on equipment. Do not overload the capacity of…

Scaffolds provide temporary elevated work platforms, but improper erection, access, use, or inspection can result in falls, struck-by incidents, scaffold collapse, and serious injuries. Different scaffold systems have specific assembly, fall-protection, loading, and inspection requirements. Employees must understand the requirements…

Welding produces intense heat that melts metal and creates gases and microscopic airborne particles known as welding fumes. These fumes may contain metals, metal oxides, silicates, fluorides, and contaminants from coatings or workpiece residues. Welding fumes can be inhaled by…

Chainsaws are powerful and efficient cutting tools, but improper use can cause severe or fatal injuries in seconds. Common hazards include kickback, contact with the moving chain, falling limbs, flying debris, electrical lines, unstable footing, and fire during fueling. Most…

Summer is peak season for outdoor maintenance, loading operations, and moving high-reaching equipment. It is also historically the most dangerous time of year for overhead utility accidents. Electricity can “arc” or jump across an open gap even if you do…

Fatigue is a serious safety concern that affects both physical and mental performance. It is more than just feeling tired. Fatigue reduces alertness, slows reaction time, and impacts decision making. When workers are fatigued, they are more likely to miss hazards, make…