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Loss Scenario
A volunteer was struck in the head by a hammer that fell from another volunteer’s hand during a house build. This resulted in a closed head injury leading to cognitive problems, shuffled walking, depression and neurological problems. The volunteer was not wearing a hard hat when the incident occurred, however, hard hats were available for volunteers on the jobsite.
Basic Prevention
All volunteers should wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such has hard hats while working on house builds. Tool lanyards should be considered for use in high traffic areas. Volunteers using hand tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, and/or saws should exhibit extreme caution and be mindful of other volunteers and workers in their immediate area. Volunteers should make sure that their immediate area is clutter free so that loose tools or materials are not accidentally kicked or bumped off of roofs or platforms. And as always, all volunteers should read and sign the Habitat Waiver of Liability.
Additional Prevention Information
Dropped Tools Risk Management Article located on the Habitat For Humanity Affiliate Insurance Program Website www.hfhaffiliateinsurance.com.
OSHA Quick Cards, Construction Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
http://www.osha.gov/Publications/construction_ppe.html
OSHA Construction Safety and Outreach Program, Hand and Power Tools Safety Tips
http://www.osha.gov/doc/outreachtraining/htmlfiles/tools.html
State Of Michigan Construction Safety Tips
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/dleg/wsh_cet0119_233074_7.pdf