Having a written safety and health program that details the hazards present on the job and how they will be handled is a key piece of injury and illness prevention on construction sites.

That’s why private owners and decision makers at the federal and state level are increasingly requiring construction contractors have these policies in place before allowing them to bid on projects.

However, creating these written policies can be time-consuming and expensive, especially for small contractors that don’t have dedicated safety professionals on staff. If your company is missing out on projects because you can’t pass contractor prequalification tests, the LHSFNA has a solution.

As a LIUNA signatory contractor, you can use the LHSFNA’s online Site Safety and Health Program to create safety and health programs customized for your company or an individual jobsite. This free online tool also includes options for additional hazards that may be present on certain sites, such as asbestos, lead or confined spaces.

To truly improve worker safety, written programs have to do more than sit on a shelf. Everyone on site must be trained in the policies and procedures they include so they can be implemented as written. All LHSFNA programs state that employers will:

• Inspect the worksite regularly and correct any hazards
• Conduct accident investigations
• Train workers on the hazards they will face
• Foster communication between employees and management
• Maintain records of assessments, investigations, trainings, injuries and illnesses

To sign up or find out more about this free service, visit www.lhsfna.org/safety or call the Fund’s OSH Division at 202-628-5465.