Construction industry and civil engineering - 2,110 entries found

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• Construction industry and civil engineering

2007

CIS 08-1097 Crosthwaite D.
Health and Safety Executive
Health and safety in public sector construction procurement
This study was concerned with examining health and safety issues in public sector construction procurement in the United Kingdom. Data were collected by means of postal questionnaires. The overall approach followed two distinct stages: a survey of public sector clients and a survey of private sector suppliers. While the findings indicate that the majority of public clients surveyed generally followed the guidelines set out in the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (see CIS 95-13), there is more that could be done to adopt best practices.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. viii, 47p. 4 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr556.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-1096
Health and Safety Executive
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 - Baseline study
This report presents the findings of a survey of the costs incurred by enterprises and attitudes held by duty holders when complying with Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (CDM, see CIS 95-13) that took effect in April 2007. Data were collected by means of questionnaires and interviews. Costs were analysed by type of duty holder (designers, owners, general contractors and subcontractors), type and size of project, and time spent on site. A key finding was that the cost of CDM compliance did not exceed 2% of the project value for any duty holder. Other findings are discussed.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. xx, 206p. Illus. 3 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr555.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-1095 Dąbrowski A., Dźwiarek M.
Safety during construction work
Bezpieczeństwo - wykonywania robót budowlanych [in Polish]
The hazards arising during construction work are described, with particular attention drawn to accidents caused by machinery and to the specific nature and diversity of construction work. Guidelines for occupational safety and health are proposed. A checklist is included to enable hazard evaluation and the improvement of occupational safety and health on construction sites.
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2007. 118p. Illus. 68 ref. Price: PLN 20.00.

CIS 08-1168 Inaba R., Mirbod S.M.
Comparison of subjective symptoms and hot prevention measures in summer between traffic control workers and construction workers in Japan
A survey on heat-related subjective symptoms and protection measures against heat during outdoor work in summer was conducted among 204 traffic control workers and 115 construction workers, all male, in Japan. Their workloads were estimated at relative metabolic rates of 1-2 and 2-4, respectively. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on age, occupational career, working habit, present or past history of diseases, individual preventive measures to the heat, and subjective symptoms during summer. Findings are discussed. Some preventive countermeasures to improve working conditions in outdoor work environments are presented.
Industrial Health, Jan. 2007, Vol.45, No.1, p.91-99. Illus. 33 ref.

CIS 08-1132 Dowker K.P., Fletcher B., Ledin S.
Health and Safety Executive
Real time monitoring and environmental fate of oxides of nitrogen in the construction industry
The United Kingdom workplace exposure limits for nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) are currently under review. In the meantime, both NO and NO₂ were subject to a CHAN (Chemical Hazard Awareness Notice) of 1ppm (8-hr time-weighted average, TWA), significantly lower than the previous occupational exposure standards. Exposure to these oxides of nitrogen commonly arises in the construction industry from diesel engine exhaust emissions and from the use of explosives. This project addresses the effectiveness of real-time monitors, particularly personal monitors, at these concentration levels, and the environmental fate of NO and NO₂ in the construction environment, using laboratory and field experiments.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. x, 75p. Illus. Approx. 90 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr546.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-1094
Health and Safety Executive
Improving the effectiveness of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994
This report provides the basis for a future evaluation of the effectiveness of the proposed revisions to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (CDM, see CIS 95-13). It describes a study to obtain the views of construction stakeholders on the effectiveness of CDM 1994, and to prepare a series of key indicators of improvement in areas that affect safety and health in construction. Data were gathered from three sources: a literature review, 25 structured interviews and three workshops on factors that influence safety and health in construction. Findings are used to propose changes in evaluation of the revision to the CDM introduced in 2007.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. xiv, 198p. Illus. 26 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr538.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-1185 Soria Peña J.J.
Temporary edge protection system for formwork panels and concrete - Preventing falls from heights
Sistema provisional de protección de borde para tablero y hormigón - Prevenir la caída de altura [in Spanish]
Presentation of a system for temporary edge protection that meets the requirements of the EN 13374 Standard. The characteristics of the product are described, together with its advantages and the test results showing compliance with the standard.
Mapfre seguridad, 3rd Quarter 2007, Vol.27, No.107, p.6-19. Illus.

CIS 08-1244 Beswick J., Rogers K., Corbett E., Binch S., Jackson K.
Health and Safety Executive
An analysis of the prevalence and distribution of stress in the construction industry
Although when compared with other industries, the construction sector has relatively low levels of reported work-related stress, it is still a topic of concern. This research was undertaken to gain a greater understanding of the level, causes and extent of work-related stress within the construction industry. A postal survey was conducted among a sample of construction industry workers to investigate work-related stress. The survey findings were also discussed with industry stakeholders on completion of the survey. In total, 1732 questionnaires were returned (response rate 35%), with an over-representation of large companies and certain job types. However, the results provide an interesting insight into the level and extent of reported work-related stress within the industry. Approximately 23.2% reported that they have suffered from an illness caused by or made worse by stress on their job or during work done in the past. Other findings are discussed.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. viii, 81p. Illus. 47 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr518.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-955 Hamann R., Mattke U.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Occupational safety and health in the construction of buildings assembled from prefabricated elements
Sicherheit und Gesundheitsschutz bei der Montage von Gebäuden aus vorgefertigten Elementen [in German]
An increasing number of buildings, particularly small-scale buildings, are being assembled from prefabricated elements. Since the elements are manufactured in factories with consistent working conditions, the risk for workers is lower than for similar work carried out on the building shell at the building site. However the remaining processes, namely transport and assembly, are recognized as accounting for an above-average share of accident incidences. In both processes, there are numerous hazards involving falls from height and falling objects. This project set out to examine preventive measures for improving workers' safety on such building sites. The majority of the weak points were identified in site preparation, on-site work and workplaces where there is a risk of falling from a height. Preventive measures aimed at improving occupational safety are proposed.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2007. 181p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: EUR 26.00.

CIS 08-866 Dong X., Ringen K., Men Y., Fujimoto A.
Medical costs and sources of payment for work-related injuries among Hispanic construction workers
To assess medical costs of occupational injuries and sources of payment among Hispanic and non-Hispanic construction workers, Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data from 1996 to 2002 covering more than 7000 construction workers, including 1833 Hispanics, were examined and subjected to univariate and multivariate analyses Annually, work-related injuries in construction cost USD 1.36 billion, with 46% paid by workers' compensation. Compared with non-Hispanic workers, Hispanic workers were 53% more likely to have medical conditions resulting from work-related injuries, but 48% less likely to receive payment for medical costs from workers' compensation. This study suggests an urgent need to reform the current workers' compensation system, including easier access for Hispanic and other immigrant workers.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2007, Vol.49, No.12, p.1367-1375. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 08-883 Accidents in the construction industry of Hong Kong (2000-2004)
The safety performance of the construction industry in Hong Kong has continued to improve, even though it still has the highest accident rate and number of fatalities. The number of industrial accidents decreased from 4367 in 2003 to 3833 in 2004, down by 12.2%. The accident rate per 1000 workers fell from 68.1 in 2003 to 60.3 in 2004, down by 11.4%. Compared with 2000, the number of accidents showed a significant drop of 67.9%, while the accident rate went down by 59.7%. Figures on fatal and non-fatal accidents have also been decreasing rapidly since 2004. Data are provided for type of accident, type of work being performed, month, location of injury, age group and sex. Detailed information is also provided on accidents during renovation and maintenance work, and on fall from height accidents.
Labour Department. 16/F, Harbour Building, 38 Pier Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2007. 24p. Illus.

CIS 08-710 Laine P., Pamies A.
Platforms for working at low heights
Plates-formes de travail pour travaux de faible hauteur [in French]
Falls from a low height remain numerous (in the building sector, 20 % of fatal falls are from ladders), which shows how necessary it is to foresee appropriate work platforms instead of the makeshift means still too often encountered. This data sheet reviews the existing regulations and standards, and gives practical instructions for choosing different equipment: light individual mobile platforms, individual mobile platforms, mobile access and working towers, scaffolds. Prevention measures are recalled.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., Nov. 2007. 4p. Illus. 14 ref. Index. Price: EUR 0.50. Downloadable version free of charge.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/2C08E5BB7AC0F254C1256CD900508154/$FILE/ed75.pdf [in French]

CIS 08-660 Roberge B., Lemey F., Gravel R., Audet E., Gautrin D.
Use of sensitizers or irritants in a construction-trade teaching environment
Utilisation de sensibilisants ou d'irritants dans un milieu d'enseignement de métiers de la construction [in French]
The objective of this study was to evaluate the exposure to sensitizing agents likely to exacerbate latent symptoms of asthma in the vocational training environment of apprentices of several building trades (carpentry, plastering, heating equipment). Exposure was evaluated using the HSE prediction model for a control level corresponding to the worst exposure scenario. The finding was that apprentices may be exposed to several sensitizing or irritant substances at more or less high concentrations, depending on the step in the task performed. Contrary to what happens in the workplace, no task lasted eight hours. The use of the products was intermittent and could extend over several days. Recommendations include implementing engineering controls, pursuing product substitution and developing a respiratory protection programme.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. viii, 51p. Illus. 14 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 7.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-523.pdf [in French]

CIS 08-664 Containment or removal of asbestos or asbestos-containing materials - A guide to prevention
Travaux de retrait ou de confinement d'amiante ou de matériaux en contenant - Guide de prévention [in French]
The removal or containment of asbestos or asbestos-containing material (ACM) can engender risks, whether these materials are located in buildings, structures, equipment or plants, including in case of demolition. This guide is aimed at all parties involved in an on-site asbestos remediation operation (building owner, order giver, main contractor, enterprises, employers, occupational physicians, employees, OHS professionals), whether the operation was decided given the state of the ACMs or considering the nature of the work on buildings and plants requiring prior treatment of these materials. Contents: general aspects; technical and sampling requirements; removal or confinement of friable ACMs; removal or confinement of non-friable ACMs. Appendices include lists of relevant approved occupational diseases in France, French laws and regulations, lists of products containing asbestos and a check-list for evaluating exposure and preparing an action plan. Replaces CIS 00-68.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., July 2007.102p. Illus. Price: EUR 12.00. Downloadable version free of charge.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/A9909E404051F1C8C1256CD900505303/$FILE/ed815.pdf [in French]

CIS 08-663 Courtois B., Serre P.
Concrete release agents - Composition, hazards, prevention measures
Produits de démoulage des bétons - Composition, dangers, mesures de prévention [in French]
Methods used for the building shell construction increasingly involve the off-site prefabrication of heavy reinforced concrete elements, together with on-site concrete cladding. Both methods require forms that need to be coated before use with a release agent. The chemical nature of these products as well as their mode of application can give rise to discomfort, and sometimes to serious health impairment. This booklet presents the main products used as release agents (mineral oils, synthetic oils, vegetable oils and release additives), their classification, their hazards and the preventive measures to be applied during their use.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd. ed., July 2007. 8p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: EUR 2.00. Downloadable version free of charge.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/EE6745ABCC6E3954C1257369004E6D0F/$FILE/ed6017.pdf [in French]

CIS 08-700 Suits M.
ANSI/ASSE Z359-2007: Better fall protection
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls remain the first cause of fatal accidents in the construction industry and the second cause of fatal accidents in all industries taken together. This article comments a set of five new standards, ANSI/ASSE Z359-2007 Fall Arrest Code, which came into effect in October 2007. They address the elements of a managed fall protection programme and provide the guidelines to design or strengthen existing programmes. The standards were developed by a committee that included engineers, end users, military personnel, representatives from OSHA and ANSI, trainers, fall protection equipment manufacturers, fall protection specialists, rescue experts and academics.
Occupational Hazards, Oct. 2007, p.51-58. Illus.

CIS 08-471 Cable J.
Don't strain yourself
Safety professionals are aware of the importance of sprains and strains. In 2003 in the United States, overexertion related to lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying or throwing of an object cost employers USD 13.4 billion. According to data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) for 2005, construction's lost-days nonfatal occupational injury and illness incidence rate for sprains and strains (83.1 cases per 10,000 full-time workers) was higher than any other industry sector. BLS data for 2005 also show that construction's overall lost-days nonfatal occupational injury and illness incidence rate (239.5 cases per 10,000 full-time workers) was higher than that of any other sector. This article explains how an ergonomics programme in the construction industry can help avoid sprains and strains in this sector.
Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2007, p.36-41. Illus.

CIS 08-404 Bowler R.M., Roels H.A., Nakagawa S., Drezgic M., Diamond E., Park R., Koller W., Bowler R.P., Mergler D., Bouchard M., Smith D., Gwiazda R., Doty R.L.
Dose-effect relationships between manganese exposure and neurological, neuropsychological and pulmonary function in confined space bridge workers
This study involved 43 welders exposed to welding fumes containing manganese during the construction of a bridge span, who were administered neurological, neuropsychological, neurophysiological and pulmonary tests. Various outcomes were analysed in relation to blood manganese (MnB) and an estimated cumulative exposure index (CEI). The time weighted average of manganese in air ranged from 0.11-0.46mg/m³. MnB levels of more than 10µg/L were found in 43% of the workers. Lung function values were found to be below normal in 33.3% of the welders. Computer assisted tremor analysis tests, body sway tests and smell identification tests showed impairment in 38.5 to 88% of the welders. Significant inverse dose-effect relationships with CEI and/or MnB were found for IQ, executive function, sustaining concentration and sequencing, verbal learning, working and immediate memory. Dose-effect associations between CEI and sexual function, fatigue, depression and headache reported by the workers were significant. Other findings are discussed.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2007, Vol.64, No.3, p.167-177. Illus. 45 ref.

CIS 08-493 Jolly H.
Stress at work: Lower the pressure!
Stress au travail: faites baisser la pression! [in French]
Topics addressed in this review article on occupational stress: definition of stress; stress factors; main prevention approaches; low level of consciousness regarding stress in the French construction sector; interview of the human resources manager of a large construction enterprise on the action plan adopted for fighting against stress.
Prévention BTP, Mar. 2007, No.94, p.48-51. Illus.

CIS 08-452 Sagot F.
Roofing - Scaffolding for roofing work during building renovation
Toiture - Echafaudage pour la couverture d'un immeuble en réhabilitation [in French]
Risks related to the use of suspended bracket scaffolds during roofing work are diverse, including failure of the support, electrocution, collapse from overload and falls of persons or objects. This article discusses the precautionary measures that apply to suspended bracket scaffolds, in particular their anchoring system, elevating platform trucks, personal protective equipment and waste material chutes.
Prévention BTP, Mar. 2007, No.94, p.32-33. Illus.

CIS 08-380 Jolly H.
Cement: guidance for improved protection
Ciment: des consignes pour une meilleure protection [in French]
Fresh cement is an irritant that can cause rash, skin erosion, crevasses and burns. It is also an allergen, giving rise to skin diseases known as cement dermatitis, mainly due to impurities containing hexavalent chromium. Overall, cement is believed to be responsible for 10% of occupational skin diseases. This article reviews the precautions to be taken for avoiding these diseases, essentially consisting of hygiene measures and the use of suitable work clothing and personal protective equipment. A box mentions relevant French regulations.
Prévention BTP, Apr. 2007, No.95, p.48-50. Illus.

CIS 08-86 Jully H.
Eye allergies: Their proper diagnosis in occupational settings
Allergies oculaires: bien les repérer en milieu professionnel [in French]
Some substances used at work can cause or aggravate eye allergies. In the building industry, cement dust is the most common allergen. Other sensitizers are found in varnishes, adhesives, corrosion inhibitors, detergents, disinfectants, dyes, plastic and rubber additives, and epoxy resins. The most frequent effect is chronic conjunctivitis, possibly associated with rhinitis, eczema of the eyelids or allergic asthma. Prevention involves the use of less potent allergens whenever possible, proper hygiene (washing one's hands, taking a shower at the end of the work day) and wearing safety spectacles.
Prévention BTP, May 2007, No.96, p.51-52. Illus.

CIS 08-206 Sagot F.
Advantages of techniques not requiring trenching
Les avantages des techniques sans tranchée [in French]
This article describes the various techniques of underground work that do not require trench work. They mainly involve the laying or repairing of pipes. By avoiding having to dig up roads, they allow important savings and minimize obstructions to traffic. They are less hazardous than traditional methods, but nonetheless require certain precautions, particularly during work near roads which are kept open to traffic.
Prévention BTP, May 2007, No.96, p.36-47. Illus.

CIS 08-194 Jolly H.
Work and heat waves: Careful, danger!
Travail et fortes chaleurs: attention, danger! [in French]
Working during heat waves is risky, particularly when it involves high physical effort while being directly exposed to the sun, as is often the case in the construction industry. This article summarizes the main precautionary measures to be adopted on building sites when the temperature exceeds 30° (check the weather forecast, inform workers on the hazards; move working hours forward; supply drinking water; ensure that workers wear loose-fitting cotton clothing; be alert to hyperthermia symptoms), together with relevant French regulations.
Prévention BTP, June 2007, No.97, p.48-50. Illus.

CIS 08-117 Durcy M.
Working in the construction industry past the age of 50
Travailler dans le BTP après 50 ans [in French]
Topics addressed in this collection of articles on work in the construction industry past the age of 50 in France: numbers of workers employed in the construction industry by age group; proportion of older workers having taken early retirement on health grounds; wear of the articulations caused by the physical workload; diseases affecting older workers in the construction industry (musculoskeletal diseases and lung, heart and digestive tract problems); retaining older workers in the workforce by improving ergonomics and work organization; training and improved occupational health surveillance; efforts undertaken by a construction enterprise to improve working conditions and reduce the strenuousness of certain jobs; presentation of a website on occupational safety and health in the construction sector.
Prévention BTP, June 2007, No.97, p.38-47. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 08-8 Everything you always wanted to know about undeclared work but were afraid to ask - 5 questions by an individual building a home
Tout ce que vous avez toujours voulu savoir sur le travail au noir sans jamais oser le demander - 5 questions d'un particulier qui construit sa maison [in French]
Wat u altijd al wilde weten over zwartwerk maar nooit durfde vragen - 5 vragen ven een particulier die een huis bouwt [in Dutch]
The phenomenon of undeclared work is a serious threat to the financing of the social security system and represents unfair competition to employers who comply with regulations. Workers who are involved in undeclared work often have no protection. Thus situation is all the more worrying because undeclared work is known to represent between 10 and 20% of the Belgian gross domestic product. Aimed at individuals who are building a house and who may be tempted to use undeclared labour, this booklet mentions the risks involved with this type of employment under Belgian social legislation.
Service public fédéral, Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blérot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, [ca. 2007]. 16p. Illus.
http://www.confederatiebouw.be/builders/library/illegal/brochure_zwartwerk_fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.confederatiebouw.be/builders/library/illegal/brochure_zwartwerk_nl.pdf [in Dutch]

CIS 08-203 Torres K.
Using your head
As the head's protective armor against falling objects, hard hats are the first piece of PPE that construction workers grab when going to a job site. Yet many workers continue not to wear them. Furthermore, employers often do not require workers to wear had hats or do not sufficiently enforce the requirement. The main reasons why many workers continue to disregard the use of hard hats include their lack of comfort, their weight and self-consciousness of one's appearance. New designs of hard hats presented in this article overcome most of these issues.
Occupational Hazards, July 2007, p.23-28. Illus.

CIS 08-161 Lesage J., Stanley J., Karoly W.J., Lichtenberg F.W.
Airborne methlyene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) concentrations associated with the application of polyurethane spray foam in residential construction
The objective of this study was to evaluate the exposure to airborne methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) among spray polyurethane foam applicators. It was conducted during foam application inside five single family homes under construction in the United States and Canada. Spray foam applicators and assistants may be exposed to airborne MDI concentrations above the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 0.20mg/m³, ceiling. At these concentrations, OSHA recommends appropriate respiratory protection. Airborne MDI concentrations decrease rapidly after foam application ceases. The majority of the airborne MDI samples collected in the breathing zones of the spray foam applicators exceeded the OSHA PEL-C. The highest airborne concentrations measured after 15 and 45min were 0.019mg/m³ and 0.003mg/m³, respectively. Other findings are discussed.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Feb. 2007, Vol.4, No.2, p.145-155. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 08-220 Schneider S.
The development and field testing on an ergonomic intervention for the preparation of footers in postframe building construction
The objectives of this study were to develop an ergonomic device designed to reduce low back disc compression force for manual material handling tasks in concrete foundation work, to determine the effect of the device on low back compression force, to determine the effect of the device on other work intensity measures such as heart rate and self-reported ratings, and to characterize the mean cycle times associated with the tasks with and without the device. Heart rates were monitored and a force meter was used to measure the peak force required to carry out the various tasks, with and without the intervention device. The main benefit of the device was a reduction in the compression force on lower back vertebra. However, there were little or no benefits with respect to heart rates and use of the device increased the time required for the tasks. Other findings are discussed.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Feb. 2007, Vol.4, No.2, p.D10-D14. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 07-1339 Waché O.
Sustainable development and occupational safety and health
Développement durable et prévention [in French]
This collection of articles covers the topic of sustainable development in the construction sector. Topics addressed include: sorting of waste on construction sites; use of environmentally-friendly products and construction materials; construction materials made from natural products (wood, clay bricks, insulation made from hemp); safety in waste sorting and recycling operations.
Prévention BTP, July-Aug. 2007, No.98, p.36-47. Illus.

CIS 07-1338 Sagot F.
Construction site waste - From onsite sorting to the processing centres
Déchets de chantier - Du tri sur site aux centres de traitement [in French]
From 1 July 2002, only inert waste that cannot be further treated or usefully converted is accepted in landfills in France. As a consequence, construction enterprises need to limit their production of waste and resort to on-site sorting in order to lower the cost of landfilling. This article presents an example of how to organize waste streams on a construction site.
Prévention BTP, July-Aug. 2007, No.98, p.28-29. Illus.

CIS 07-1467 Finiel J.
Fall arresting system - Mobile fall arrester for rope
Système d'arrêt de chute - Antichute mobile sur corde [in French]
Fall arresting systems consist of a group of components that allow to immediately stop the fall of an operator in case of an incident. Each component of the system needs to be compatible with the others. This article describes the various components of fall arresting systems: anchor points; locking buckles; mobile fall arrester; fall arresting harness.
Prévention BTP, July-Aug. 2007, No.98, p.26-27. Illus.

CIS 07-1333 Durand M.J., Berthelette D., Loisel P., Beaudet J., Imbeau D.
Construction workers suffering from lumbar back pain - Evaluation of the implementation of an early collaboration rehabilitation programme
Travailleurs de la construction ayant une dorso-lombalgie - Evaluation de l'implantation d'un programme de collaboration précoce en réadaptation [in French]
The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of a participatory programme aimed at the rehabilitation of workers suffering from low back pain in the construction industry in Quebec. It involved 29 workers suffering from low back pain. Data were collected by means of questionnaires, interviews and medical examinations. Rehabilitation interventions aimed at workers suffering from low back pain were found to constitute a complex problem. For such interventions to be effective, it is necessary to act simultaneously at several levels. Various research projects are proposed for improving the efficiency of rehabilitation interventions in occupational settings.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal H3A 3C2, Quebec, Canada, 2007.vi, 92p. Illus. 129 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-489.pdf [in French]

CIS 07-1356
Health and Safety Commission
Managing health and safety in construction - Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007
This Approved Code of Practice provides guidance on complying with the duties set out in the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007), which came into force on 6 April 2007. It is an update of the version analysed under CIS 01-1732. The key aims of CDM 2007 are to integrate health and safety into the management of the project, to encourage all parties involved to work together to improve the planning and management of projects, to identify risks early on, to target effort where it can do the most good in terms of health and safety and to discourage unnecessary bureaucracy.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Feb. 2002. vi, 121p. 8 ref. Price: GBP 15.00.

CIS 07-1100 National code of practice for induction for construction work
This Code of Practice (based on the National Standard for Construction Work, see CIS 06-1385) provides guidance to persons working in the general and residential construction sectors on the types of induction training that may be needed to provide construction workers with an awareness and understanding of common hazards on construction sites and how they should be managed.
Australian Safety and Compensation Council, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Loc 64N1, GPO Box 9879, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia, 2007. iii, 25p. Illus.
http://www.ascc.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/FBD41330-5268-479D-B459-B997B268D988/0/Induction_Code_of_Practice_complete.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-1056 Barruyer C.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Hazardous exposures
Bronchite chronique obstructive: des expositions à risques [in French]
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by productive cough, shortness of breath and repeated pulmonary infections, leading to respiratory insufficiency and possibly death. While smoking remains the main cause of COPD, other risk factors include occupational exposure to silica, wood and textile fibre dusts. Topics addressed in this review article on COPD: occupations at risk, aggravating effect of smoking, early detection (spirometry), prevention plan and compensation.
Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.48-50. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 07-1185 Scaffolding - Points that need to be checked
Echafaudages - Points de vérification [in French]
To allow scaffolding to be used safely, prior checks need to be made on four specific items, namely collective protection, access, fastening and stability. These requirements are specified in article R.233-13-35 section 2 of the French Labour Code.
Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.30-31. Illus.

CIS 07-1018 Occupational accidents - Decrease in fatalities but an increase in serious injuries on construction sites
Accidents du travail - Moins de morts mais plus de blessés graves sur les chantiers [in French]
This article presents the key statistics of occupational accidents in the construction sector in France for the year 2005. Compared to 2004, the number of fatal accidents declined by 4%, while that of accidents involving absenteeism increased slightly. Other topics addressed: rise in insurance premiums; statistical trends of occupational accidents since 1950; trends in occupational diseases caused by cement dust, asbestos and noise between 2003 and 2005.
Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.4-5. Illus. 1 ref.

CIS 07-1093 Statistics of occupational accidents and diseases in the construction sector
Statistiques accidents du travail et maladies professionnelles BTP [in French]
This Internet document presents the statistics of occupational accidents and diseases for 2005 in the construction sector in France, together with trends in the number and severity of occupational accidents and diseases since 1990. The data indicate that the number of occupational accident cases declined during the period, while the number of occupational diseases increased up to 2002 and then levelled off. The number of fatal accidents is in sharp decline.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Apr. 2007. Internet document. Illus. 4 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/4595DE5436ED33EDC1256F50004A14D8/$FILE/print.html [in French]

CIS 07-1202 Work at height - Regulations
Le travail en hauteur - Réglementation [in French]
This Internet document summarizes existing French regulations on work at height. It outlines general principles for identifying and avoiding risks during work at height, including the incorporation of safety measures at the design stage of a building, and sets out specific safety provisions for work equipment used in temporary work at height and for work on construction sites.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Jan. 2007. Internet document. Illus. 4 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/2AB74FA88826EF94C1256DDE005CBA92/$FILE/print.html [in French]

CIS 07-1212 Durcy M.
Ornithosis-psittacosis: Beware of infections caused by birds
Ornithose-psittacose: gare aux infections dues aux oiseaux [in French]
Construction industry workers are at risk of exposure to ornithosis-psittacosis, an infectious disease transmitted by bird droppings. The bacterium which causes the infection is very stable and can survive several months in dried droppings without losing its potency. The most frequent signs are fever, shivering, headache, cough and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause moderate or severe bronchopneumonia. It is recognized as an occupational disease in France. Preventive measures include the usual hygiene precautions, working in a manner to avoid the formation of aerosols and use of personal protective equipment.
Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.58-59. Illus.

CIS 07-1108 Jolly H.
Lead: An ever present hazard in the construction industry
Plomb: un risque toujours d'actualité dans le BTP [in French]
Many activities in the building sector may cause exposure to lead. This article discusses preventive measures, safety checks and simple hygiene rules that can ensure that the risk is managed. Contents: sources of lead (piping, paint); routes of entry (ingestion, inhalation of dust or smoke); checks to be made before and during the work; French regulations; lead poisoning; lead detectors; personal hygiene.
Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.54-57. Illus.

CIS 07-1075 Tournigand S.
Occupational accidents: Cost of the risk
Accidents du travail: le coût du risque [in French]
Main topics addressed in this collection of articles on the cost of occupational accidents and occupational diseases (OA-OD) in the construction industry in France: operating deficits in the OA-OD insurance business and need for reforming the system; incentives for encouraging investment in preventive measures; comparison of the funding systems in various European countries; view of the manager of a firm specializing in auditing OA-OD insurance; using the single document (see CIS 01-1278) for calculating the benefits of investment in preventive measures.
Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.37-46. Illus. 1 ref.

CIS 07-1184 Richard A.M.
Elevating trucks - Adhering to good principles
Chariot élévateur - Une bonne conduite à tenir [in French]
On construction sites or in workshops, the driving of elevating power trucks can cause serious accidents for drivers and other operators. This article on the safety of elevating trucks covers selection criteria, the importance of wearing seat belts, the authorization of drivers and the characteristics of several types of truck.
Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.30-31. Illus.

CIS 07-1137 Computer-based tool - Manage your chemical hazards with LARA-BTP
Outil logiciel - Maîtrisez vos risques chimiques avec LARA-BTP [in French]
This article describes a computer application for evaluating chemical hazards related to the use of products in the building industry, taking into account the regulatory requirements defined in decree 2003-1254 of 23 December 2003 and providing guidance on safe working methods. The user is required to input the data on the product label and specify the conditions of use, after which the application will provide relevant guidance, hazard evaluations and action plans.
Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.10-11. Illus.

CIS 07-348 Welch L.S., Dong X., Carre F., Ringen K.
Is the apparent decrease in injury and illness rates in construction the result of changes in reporting?
Injury rates in all industries and in construction in particular have been declining. Inconsistencies in the information suggest some of the apparent decrease may be due to changes in the ways injuries are treated, misclassification of employees, or underreporting. Lost-time injury rates for the largest construction employers declined by as much as 92% between 1988 and 1999. Yet the rate for cases with restricted work activity actually increased from 0.7 to 1.2 per 100 full-time workers between 1990 and 2000, and fatalities among construction workers remain high. In Massachusetts, at least 14% of construction employers misclassified workers as independent contractors, with the effect that injuries to these workers are not recordable. Studies that compare OSHA logs with other data sources find that the OSHA logs do not include a significant proportion of injuries and illnesses identified elsewhere.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.39-45. Illus. 30 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Welch.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-321 Brophy J.T., Keith M.M., Gorey K.M., Laukkanen E., Luginaah I., Abu-Zahra H., Watterson A.E., Hellyer D.J., Reinhartz A., Park R.M.
Cancer and construction: What occupational histories in a Canadian community reveal
From 2000 to 2002, male patients at a Canadian cancer treatment centre with new-incident head-and-neck or oesophageal cancers were invited to participate in a population-based study. The study population included 87 cases and 172 controls. A lifetime-history questionnaire was administered. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for occupational groups with a minimum of five cases, adjusted for duration of employment, age, smoking, alcohol, education and income. A significantly increased risk was shown for construction workers (OR = 2.20; 95% CI 1.25-3.91). This investigation of a set of rare cancers over a limited time period demonstrates the feasibility of this research approach. The increased risk among construction workers supports the need for more comprehensive study of exposures in this occupational group.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.32-38. 111 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Brophy.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-347 Holder M., O'Brien T.
Protest and survive, the U.K. Construction Safety Campaign: A case study of workers' and victims' family action and legal and regulatory inaction on construction health and safety
The U.K. Construction Safety Campaign, based on grass-roots rank-and-file trade union activity, has both a domestic agenda and a wider sphere with regard to international developments. Using organized protests and media exposure to achieve its ends, the Campaign has contributed substantially to reducing injuries and fatalities in the U.K. construction industry, as well as achieving some justice for victims of the industry's neglect of safe management practices.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.27-31. Illus. 4 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Holder.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-346 Nielsen J.
Struggles for health and safety in the Danish construction industry
An encouraging trend of reductions in accidents and fatalities in the Danish construction industry, brought about by the combined sustained efforts of unions, management, and government, is suffering a reverse. While some large construction companies have achieved excellent safety records through effective internal programs combining rewards and penalties as incentives, the overall picture is worsening as government eases pressures on small and medium-sized enterprises by relaxing occupational health and safety regulations.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.21-26. Illus. 13 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Nielsen.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-345 Fraser L.
Significant developments in occupational health and safety in Australia's construction industry
Construction is Australia's third most dangerous industry. On average, 49 building and construction workers have been killed at work each year since 1997-1998. Securing safer construction workplaces is jeopardized by an Australian government bent on removing union influence. Workers must prove their individual health and safety is at risk or face fines of up to $22,000 over work stoppages. The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry view is that occupational health and safety (OHS) legislation is overly complex and biased unfairly against the employer. Significant advances in OHS achieved by construction unions working together with employers and government authorities are now at risk, to the detriment of workers.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.12-20. Illus. 31 ref,
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Fraser.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-344 Murie F.
Building safety - An international perspective
International health and safety standards to protect construction workers are already in effect but are often ignored by management. Conforming to these standards and implementing other measures described by the author could substantially reduce the high incidences of injuries, illnesses, and fatalities arising from work in this industry.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.5-11. Illus. 11 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Murie.pdf [in English]

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