How Do I Get Certified with OSHA?

November 27, 2020November 27, 2020

The occupational safety and health administration sets work safety rules for every employer to follow. It is done to certify that the employees are in line with the OSHA regulations. Provided that the rules are followed, a certificate will be issued by a training firm as proof.

When job hunting, you are likely to come around the description that demands OSHA certification. More specifically, the job may specify the certification into OSHA 10 or 30. However, it is a surprise that occupational safety and health administration does not give certification for both OSHA 10 and 30. So to speak, when you see the term OSHA certification, it probably demands that you have up-to-date training as required by OSHA.

Even though it’s wrong to say that one is certified by OSHA, you have to go through the outreach courses for you to be certified. Certification may also be outdated depending on your employer or the state laws. To renew it, you will have to go back to outreach classes and get them updated.

· Understanding OSHA certifications

Provided that a job demands either OSHA10 or OSHA30 certification, you must prove that you completed the outreach training program. Graduates from these programs are given cards depending on duration. Should it be a 10-hour program, you will get the OSHA 10 completion card. The same applies to the 30-hour duration.

Despite all these, OSHA does not approve workers who have gone through 10- or 30-Hour OSHA Outreach training for certification. It claims it to be a voluntary endeavor that does not meet the standard requirements. The standards are the set rules that are put in place for employees. Though there are states that may require one to have the outreach training for employment, it’s sufficed to say that OSHA does not need it. Therefore there is no course in the outreach program that is considered by OSHA as certification.

How can I be certified by OSHA?

Even though OSHA does not give certification to workers, it allows for training. It authorizes trainers and courses in various occupational fields. With that said, the closest thing to certification that you can get is the OSHA Outreach training. Upon its completion, you are a given a card. The card is typically generated from the Department of Labor OSHA, and it’s categorized into 10-Hour or 30-Hour card. So as a worker, you don’t even need the DOL card. To be compliant, you should only have the relevant training to stay safe on the worksites.

· Where can I get certification for OSHA?

With all things considered, certification for OSHA is typically indirect. OSHA outreach training programs impart trainers with work safety knowledge and allow private institutions to provide the courses. The criterion also provides a list of trainers on their website, and it can account for online and face to face training. To be OSHA certified, you have to ensure that your course provider is legitimate and has up-to-date authorization.

You must be aware that there are fraudulent parties with the notion to con you. They may either be suspended or revoked by OSHA or even non-authorized. Therefore, You must see it through that you get a trustworthy trainer. Thereon you can choose the training depending on your job certifications’ demand.

· What are the requirements for OSHA certification?

OSHA does not give specifications that address training or certifications for workers. They are not aware of applicable standards in employees’ workplace. Their standards call for employers to train their workers in ways pertinent to their spheres of work. The only needed certification requirement is that; you have your employees trained on how to be safe on worksites in the long run. The training is, however, voluntary and OSHA has specific guidelines for it that should be followed.

· Who are the OSHA outreach courses suitable for?

The outreach courses are classified into different industrial fields. It’s done that way to ensure that you remain relevant to the topics from your worksite. In terms of worth, outreach courses are suitable for building contractors and renovation contractors. To some extent, it is also best for the construction workers.

Getting certified for construction with OSHA is easy. The course is even presented in multiple languages. Additionally, maritime OSHA certification is also available. It’s ideal for those that work in shipyards, ferry terminals, and longshoring departments.

OSHA outreach courses are also ideal for the general industry. They cover vast fields ranging from manufacturing, healthcare, and warehousing. To be certified in these fields, you should pay attention to the relevant courses at hand. Despite all these, some low-risk industries are not strict on the OSHA outreach courses.

It is, therefore, an optional, or rather say a voluntary approach. You should check with your employer and see their requirements. If it is needed, you can commence the learning process. Nonetheless, having OSHA certification can ultimately color your resume. It will give you higher chances of securing job shots. As per my opinion going for the outreach, the course is a wise move and decision.

What’s OSHA 10 or OSHA 30, and what’s best?

Despite where your worksite falls, there is a pending choice on the outreach course. That is either the 10 hour or 30 hour OSHA course. The DOL card issued for OSHA 10 can suffice if you are not supervising other employees. Thence it’s limited to functionality.

The course is usually 10 hours, but breaks are a mandate. Since there are breaks, the course can take up to 2 days. The DOL for OSHA30, on the other hand, is vital if you have supervisory tasks. It’s best for project administrators, engineers, safety specialists, and site leaders. Longer durations are due to the need for supervisors to comprehend the safety regulations. The course can last for four or even more days.

What does OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 certification cover for?

You will not encounter the specifications for OSHA certification, but it’s wise for you to know what they entail. The programs elucidate the workers’ rights and the employer’s responsibility under OSHA. It further explains how to file a complaint.

To be precise, as aforementioned, the OSHA 10 program is a program designed for workers, and it covers the safety concerns among regular workers. On the other hand, OSHA 30 is meant for supervisors and instructors. However, there may be variations depending on the general industry. In those cases, you can get both of the courses tailored to everyone.

Do I Need A Department of Labor OSHA Card?

The DOL card is always issued to individuals after completion of the outreach certification course. It’s sufficed to be portrayed as a certificate. The card is official, and it’s vital in adding value to your resume. To date, it’s prominently growing as a primary job requirement. To get a job at an oil rig and government worksites, it’s a must that you have the card. The trend also applies to New York.

An authorized outreach course only is the only way for one to get the card, and so to speak, there are a few providers. Therefore, it will help if you register with a faculty approved by the labor department when enrolling for the outreach course. If in doubt, you should consult directly with your employers. You may also do research concerning state laws on OSHA training and labor cards.

Understanding OSHA Certification and Certificates

Despite the similar-sounding of the words certification and certificates, OSHA sees them differently. The certificates are issued the moment that you are done with the outreach course. However, they are temporary since they are just placeholders for the DOL card.

Having an OSHA certificate or DOL card does not mean you are certified. Certification is verified from the students’ mastery of the latest outreach course. The courses are meant to train students on new changes and evaluate their skills and knowledge.

How frequent and when do I have to get OSHA certified.

The OSHA training mandate has frequencies attached to every topic. Despite that, the DOL CARD that you get from the outreach training has no federal expiration. It’s therefore justified to say that your certification is up to the law. When the state or law demands the DOL, its jurisdictions will elucidate how recent it should be.

You may also go for new certification if your employer requires it. The desired outcome is usually to refresh new employees and add some new knowledge to their repertoire. With all things considered, it’s an industrial call for you to go for certification, and it’s usually after every two years from the last outreach.

Can You Add The OSHA Certification To Your CV?

OSHA disregards the outreach courses as certifications. However, employers always search for the outreach courses in your resume. When writing a resume, it would help if you include the outreach courses in the certifications zone. However, you have to fill them in as course titles. You can also include the DOL card if you have completed the outreach course.

· Ways in which your faculty can be certified by OSHA

1. Schedule inspections with OSHA consultants

For faculty certification, you have to Contact the OSHA department in your location. Thereon you can schedule an inspection meeting with the consultant. The consultant will accompany you to the workplace and evaluate both environmental and also mechanical hazards. Through inspection, anything that violates OSHA rules can be well outlined. Furthermore, the consultant will review your workplace safety program then talk to the employee on the most observable hazards.

2. Rectify the problems outlined by the inspector

Since everything that is outlined violates the OSHA regulations, it will be wise if rectifications are done. OSHA will establish guidelines for employees’ safety and protection in their workplace. Further rectifications can also be done through writing safety rules and talking the implemented safety policies to employees. To some extent, OSHA outreach training can also be conducted for employees.

3. Abate the company injuries

Lowering injuries in the workplace below the national average value is vital to get certified. OSHA has double stands for evaluating this. The first one usually involves calculating the number of days workers are on restricted duty due to the effects related to the injuries. The other one is the recorded number of injuries within your company.

After you have followed all the safety regulations and minimized injuries, you can contact an OSHA consultant for re-evaluation. If everything is in line, the consultant will recommend you to OSHA managers and the state government for a SHARP certificate.

The benefits of being certified by OSHA

· It Improves Your Resume

After you have completed the training, you can update your resume and add your newly acquired skills. It’s ideal for most job seekers since it’s a quick way of telling your employers about the benefits and differences you will make. To some extent, it may help employees boost the company’s reputation.

· It’s a guarantee for a Safe Work Environment.

Completing the OSHA outreach training is key to building safe surroundings for other employees and improving their general and physical health. In short, this training is all about boosting workers’ morale in the long run and also motivates them to be much more productive. It also intends to promote consistency in work attendance since safe health is covered for. In fact company’s that are compliant with OSHA have little to none work-related injuries or even ailments.

· Increased Work Opportunities

Being OSHA certified opens more doors for work opportunities and even takes its reputation to the next level. You can be a valuable asset in the safety group committee that educates other staff on the safety practices. Moreover, being certified can make a positive difference in your career by providing new jobs or even grant you promotions to the next rank that you desired.

In retrospect, being certified by OSHA comes indirectly. It’s presented in OSHA outreach courses, which can be done either online or even face to face. However, the four days that the course may take are worth positively changing your entire career. So if you come across the term OSHA certification, you should not be alarmed at all. It is all about having the latest OSHA outreach education.

The Importance of Construction Recycling

November 16, 2020November 16, 2020

More and more people and industries are currently becoming aware of the optimal life cycle of different materials and their waste, which has given rise to the need to take into account environmental requirements. Of course, the world of construction has not escaped this reality.

Construction technology has made significant advances in recycling in recent years. Every day, a series of new applications or even processes are created and implemented, which have the concepts of reuse, reduction, and recycling in the construction processes.

The purpose of these advances is to be able to create constructions that respond to various problems:

Sustainability
Social commitment
Technical and technological needs
Environmental wellness
Reduction of waste and materials
Balanced use of resources

But before delving into the importance of recycling, it is essential to know what this really is and how it differs from reducing or reusing materials.

Recycling vs. Reuse vs. Reduction

These terms are closely related at a concept level. However, they have subtle differences that are important to know in order to make fair use of resources and, of course, dispose of them properly.

Recycling of building materials

Recycling is an operation where all the waste materials generated or used are transformed again into new materials or usable products to fulfill their original purpose or even fulfill other objectives.

Reuse of construction materials

In this type of operation, the products or components that have been used in the construction process are usually used again for the purposes for which they were originally created.

Reduction in the use of construction materials

This operation consists of substituting some materials with others to reduce the amount of waste generated; some scraps are usually used to fulfill the substitution’s useful purpose. This helps not only to reduce the waste generated but also to save on the cost of the materials invested.

For this, it is essential to carry out an analysis of how resources can be used more rationally, to avoid wasting materials unnecessarily.

Why is the recycling of materials in a construction important?

It is becoming more and more common to find recycling options in construction materials. This increase in the popularity of this operation is due to many important factors. Construction companies that have shifted their focus around recycling used materials have found it to be a great option due to factors such as:

Decrease construction expenses

When constructions are carried out, the expenses can reach excessive amounts due to the purchase of new materials for the works. It is common to expect that the materials used in this process are of high quality and durable, which will guarantee that the building is stable and resistant over time.

However, thanks to the recycling of the materials used, it is possible to reduce construction costs. The need to buy new materials is mainly reduced by recycling previously used materials and making them useful again.

Additionally, recycling also helps reduce expenses related to transportation for waste disposal. It is much cheaper to recycle them than to dispose of these materials, which maximizes profits and lowers costs.

Helps conserve energy

Energy is a very useful resource, but it is also somewhat limited, so it is vital to be able to conserve the different sources that produce this energy. By recycling various construction materials, such as asphalt or concrete, you can help save energy safely.

These materials can be repackaged and used again in construction, helping conserve energy and avoid wasting resources.

Decrease the amount of waste in landfills

One reality that cannot be denied is that landfills around the world are slowly filling up. This means that it is necessary to start thinking about a new option to be able to get rid of all the construction materials that have been used.

Recycling is the perfect answer to this problem since by reducing or avoiding the generation of new waste with construction; the environment is respected. This approach is also truly an economic boom, as operating costs associated with building new projects and works are minimized.

You can generate additional income

Recycling not only helps save money by reducing the expenses associated with purchasing new materials, but it is also possible to sell and generate additional new income. Many construction companies have set up recycling plants for construction waste.

When recycled, these residues can be used in the manufacture of other products such as cement, tiles, iron plates, plaster, bricks, and others. These products can be sold, which translates into more income for the company, but not only that but also new job opportunities will be created for the community.

An advantage over the competition

Construction companies that recycle materials can have a significant advantage over the competition. In the construction world, competitiveness is really high, so if a company cannot only minimize costs related to operations but also to maximize its profits, it will undoubtedly be able to stay ahead of its competitors.

This is because by saving money on the purchase of new materials, these funds can be used on other fronts such as the commercialization of the company’s services and its products, so they can attract a more significant number of customers and maintain their relevance within the construction sector.

Not forgetting that being a company with a good environmental protection policy can be valued in a much more positive way by the community, making many prefer to work with this company than with others.

In conclusion, materials are very important for the development of any construction work, and their use cannot be dispensed with. Then, by not being able to avoid their consumption, it is possible to save a large sum of money, energy, and even increase income, with something as simple as the proper recycling of all these materials.

What materials can be recycled within a building?

Earth, concrete, metals, glass… They are some of the primary materials that can be recycled within the construction sector. These are some of the materials that can be recycled and how they do it:

Earth

When any construction is going to be done, one of the first steps is removing the earth. Hydraulic excavators are used for this. This can create a large amount of excess soil, but this does not have to be a problem.

Excess soil from any excavation within the construction can be recycled without a problem since it does not usually have significant pollutants. Although, if necessary, in some cases, carry out an additional grinding process to be able to achieve the fineness of the grains suitable for other projects.

The recycling of these lands reduces carbon emotions by reducing the transport processes associated with the transfer of these wastes and avoiding causing damage to the surrounding landscape.

Concrete

Concrete is one of the most frequent wastes in the construction area, and it is usually found in the form of rubble, debris, unused concrete remains, and others. To be able to recycle concrete, it is necessary to carry out a previous treatment where the concrete is crushed until its particles reach the appropriate thickness for use. Additionally, this material must be purified to eliminate the remains of contaminating elements, which will improve its performance.

After this treatment, it is possible to reuse this concrete in bases, retaining walls, reconstruction, gravity walls, fillings, or other construction stages. With recycling, the useful life of concrete is prolonged in various projects.

Metals

Metals are among the most recycled materials in the construction sector due to a large number of benefits they bring at an environmental, economic, and social level. Recycling metals is a relatively simple activity, saving a significant amount of money on virgin raw materials for construction.

Among the metals that are usually recycled, the following stand out:

Steel: This is one of the most common metallic materials in constructions; therefore, it generates the most waste, so its recycling is essential. Steel has the particularity that it can be recycled in an unlimited way without losing its quality. This dramatically reduces the waste generated in construction since steel is, without a doubt, one of the most recycled materials in the world today.
Copper wire: Another of the most recycled metals today because it is 100% recyclable in an unlimited way. This means a great advantage since recycling copper consumes up to 85% less energy than producing it from zero. Copper is highly valued for being an electrically conductive material, so its primary use is electrical wiring, which implies that recycling is essential for modern life.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a very light material. It can be recycled unlimitedly; aluminum has an excellent natural resistance to corrosion, among other properties, which is very important for the construction industry. In this industry, almost 90% of aluminum is recycled, which is very important for the environment, as it reduces carbon emissions by approximately 9.8 tons.
Bronze: This metal consists of an alloy of copper and tin. With the recycling of bronze, these components can be conserved for other different uses. It is usually recovered from some decomposed industrial machinery and ornaments and is recycled to create new elements for buildings.
Iron: usually used in trellises. Its recycling is simple and can be done indefinitely without losing its properties. Like all metals, they are recycled through smelting, reducing carbon emissions by up to 6.7%.
Brass: Recycling brass can help save significant sums of money, and it is effortless to recycle it since it is only enough to melt it to obtain a new metal with the same properties. For this reason, the leftover shavings from the use of this metal are usually collected to process and recycle it.

In conclusion, the recycling of metals in the construction sector helps to reduce the current pollution levels of the environment since, in general, it reduces air, water pollution, and the generation of waste by up to 70%. In fact, Nashville Recycling has seen their number as high as 90%.

Glass

Glass is another widely used material in construction, and it generates a great deal of waste. The positive is that this material can be recycled 100% indefinitely. Its recycling saves a large amount of energy because its recycling uses lower temperatures than creating it from scratch, which reduces polluting emissions to the environment.

On the other hand, it allows saving in raw materials, since recycling one ton of glass saves 1.2 tonnes in raw materials to make new glass. Recycled glass can have the same properties, strength, and use as any other glass.

Wood

In construction, it is common to use wood in some processes. These woods are often reused until they lose their properties or characteristics. When they are past their useful life, they can be processed to be used as a natural fuel.

Asphalt

When the floors of some constructions are paved, unused residues usually remain, and the same happens when these pavements are removed for other works. This waste can be recycled for use in new asphalt projects. For this, they are crushed and mixed with other materials that allow them to extend their useful life.

Plastic

It is possible to recycle a large part of the plastics used in construction through melting, which allows creating new materials for construction sites. This recycling dramatically reduces environmental pollution and energy consumption.

Benefits of recycling in construction

As you have seen, most of the materials used in the construction process can be recycled, and doing so is not only a responsible act but also brings a series of benefits to this sector:

You save on energy consumption
You decrease the consumption of limited natural resources
You reduce the environmental impact generated by construction
You reduce the generation of waste
You save money on buying new materials
You can increase your income
It is a highly sustainable practice
You improve the public image of your company

When you decide to take the step to recycle construction materials, you can use the advice of companies that are responsible for proper waste management, which will help you make fair use of materials properly.

By using recycled materials, you can also ensure that the materials you use in construction have a good quality and the exact properties you need for different buildings.

Having experts in the area to advise you will also help you save time in the process since you will be able to learn the proper differents recycling techniques and how this will help you save time and resources.

What is Specialty Welding?

November 7, 2020November 7, 2020

Specialty Welding

Welding is a must-have skill for manufacturers and metal fabricators. There over 50 types of binding processes, and they follow into various categories. Standard welding skills have a variety of uses in many industries. Metals are part of the construction, automotive, manufacturing, and product development industries. Specialty welding is one of the types of binding that metal fabricators use. It has a different result from standard fusion, and it is more targeted for a specific product.

What is Specialty Welding ?

Any welding that needs special skills and alloys to do—some types of material linking fall under the select welding category. Most of the time, it is expensive because it aims to achieve a specific purpose. Most of the projects are complex and require a high level of expertise to complete. Therefore, welders use special tools to weld metals and create fantastic fabrications. Overall, there is a high paying market for that kind of service.

How is it Different from Other Forms of Welding?

Specialized metal linking requires a unique set of skills, which not all welders possess. The skills of an individual operation welder aren’t something people who do metal binding as a hobby. It requires a high level of knowledge and a lot of experience Due to the high price tag machinery that specialty welders use, an intimate understanding of all the trade tools. Welders need certification to handle tools for specialty welding. The credentials also prove that the welder has the proper safety training to prevent injuries during projects.

There is a purpose to all special projects, a specific end goal to everything welder does. Since the projects need particular skill sets are in this particular kind of bonding, companies demand the necessary credentials. Some gadgets use gas, electric power, and other methods to ensure that the process runs smoothly. A project can determine the tools that a welder uses depending on the complexity. The materials also factor into the techniques that the project utilizes.

Finally, the cost of a unique material fusion project is well above standard welding projects’ price. Most customers expect some form of customization to create a metal product that suits their needs, and they are willing to pay top dollar to get what they want. Since few welders possess specialized metal linking skills, it adds to the higher fees that clients pay for technical metal linking services.

What is T-23 to P-91?

Specialty welding comes with many calculations and technicalities that welders need to account for when doing metal fabrications. Metals have a vast number of alloys that welders use when making products. Therefore, a welder needs to use the right procedure during fabrication to maintain an alloy’s integrity and guarantee durability.

ASME assigns welding numbers that indicate an alloy’s strength and suggestions regarding the right procedures for handling the alloys. T-23 to P-91 materials require specialized groove welding to prevent heat damage and enhance weld fusion after fabrications. Most of the material is steel alloys that plants use in the production lines. Welders need to follow laid down procedures when using the materials for a durable final product.

Overall, welders need to consider how the heat will affect the weld zone after the fusion. ASME numbers make it simple for experts to choose an ideal fusion method depending on the materials’ use. It also reduces the quality checks that need to be conducted at the end of the process. Using proven procedures ensures that the alloys undergo the right strategies during fabrications to ensure the final product is strong enough to handle heavy-duty jobs.

Types of Welding Services

There are so many companies that offer unique material bonding services when you search online. You must know the kind of welding you want before you go out there to look for welding services. There are three main kinds of services that you can get when in need of metal fabrication. Each service has its advantages and disadvantages. Also, it will highly depend on the project that you seek to undertake. Some projects, physical locations, or types of metals will play a significant role in determining the kind of service you need to utilize.

Manual Services

Manual welding services require a high level of experience in metal fabrication. It is a popular kind of bonding for general-purpose fabrications. Manual Metal arc fabrications include joining two pieces of metal using an electrode rod. A rod is placed between two metal plates, and the electrode rod melts to fill in the gap between two metals. It is a useful and straightforward way to join two metals.

A high level of artistry and a steady hand is necessary for the production of high-quality end products. A welder’s skill will determine how well a metal fuses after a weld. Poor manual techniques can lead to low fusion at the edges of the end products. There is no guarantee that the end product will be satisfactory when a client opts for manuals fusion services.

Pros

Comes in handy for hard to reach areas in a weld zone
A welder is free to move from one location to another during an operation.
Suitable for unusual weld patterns
It doesn’t require many machines.
Simple to set up and start working

Cons

It would be best if you had more human resources for enormous operations.
The cost of labor is high.
More rejects due to human error.
The precision of a weld depends on the stability of a welder’s hand.
High employee turnover as welders quite all the time.

Automatic Services

Advancement in technology has made it possible for customers to have access to automatic welding services. It is important to note that not all welding projects are compatible with mechanical material fusing services. Most companies prefer an automated welding process because it is highly productive and profitable. The primary forms of automated services include semi-automated and fully automated services. A project or the type of metal can determine the kind of automation service that you will use.

In a fully automated fusing operation, machines are set up to run the process from start to finish. Therefore, one machine feeds the parts to the binding machine, which uses existing settings to weld the pieces together. Another device removes the complete product and sets it aside, and the process repeats.

Semi-automated welding operations have an operator who loads the parts, controls the weld, and removes the complete product. Some projects are sensitive and require an expert to monitor the process to ensure high-quality end products. Automated systems rely on the fact that all parts are assembled before the function begins. An automatic operation’s attractive features are that it requires little human resources to run at full capacity. Therefore, a company can maintain high productivity and reduce the production cost in terms of human resources.

Another advantage of automated operations is the reduction of human errors in welded parts. Lower mistakes mean that products will seamlessly pass a quality test and reduce the valuable resources spent to correct the errors. Simply put, fewer rejects translate to more income for a company.

Orbital Services

Orbital welding is a form of automated welding with better precision and superior technique. The method was used in the 1960s in the aerospace industry. It is a high-end technique that makes welds that require a low margin for errors. Orbital welding comes with all the benefits of automated systems over manual welding. There is no need to hire a skilled to monitor the process. Instead, you can hire a qualified mechanical technician to monitor the process and ensure everything runs smoothly.

The process includes parts (tubes or pipes) being put in place and clamped down to prevent any movement. The electrode of an orbital machine is usually at the place where two parts meet. An orbital weld head rotates around the parts melting an electrode to join the two regions. Controls and settings specify the movement of the weld head and the power supply.

Factors to Consider Before Automations

Both Orbital and Automatic welding services using entirely or semi-automated operations. Here are some of the pros and cons you should consider before automating your welding operations.

Pros

High productivity and profitability
Fewer rejects on final products
Lower labor costs since automation require fewer employees.
Useful in large scale projects
More comfortable to ensure the quality of the final products by using standards welding settings
Audits and inspection use a sample size instead of inspecting all final products.
Companies don’t need a certified welder to operate the machines.

Cons

There is a high initial investment and set up costs.
You cannot move the machine from place to place quickly.

Audits and Inspections

It is common practice for authorities and governing bodies to conduct inspections to ensure their quality. Reviews ensure that all welds, especially in industrial plants, comply with all standards. Also, checks test the strength and safety of the final product. It confirms that it can withstand heavy-duty use in a plant.

Audits confirm that all welds meet standards, especially for materials that manufacturers produce for consumers. Consistent compliance is the goal of audits in welding operations. Keep in mind that low-quality products can lead to catastrophic results in manufacturing plants or employees that deal with dangerous stuff like electricity or chemicals.

Audits and inspections check whether experts or companies follow the American Welding Standards (AWS) and the ASME codes. The standards and regulations stipulate which metals and alloys to use and the ideal methods for the procedure. All rules and principles cover techniques, qualifications, materials, and specifications to ensure users’ and welders’ safety. Fabrication is a vast field that incorporates a variety of designs. Appropriate procedures and methods prevent accidents due to poor artistry.

FAQs

What is the Difference between Super Duplex Stainless Steel and Inconel?

Most specialty materials are either Super Duplex or Inconel because of the multiple uses of the materials. Super Duplex Stainless Steel has an addition of chromium-nickel alloy with molybdenum and austenitic-ferritic. It is highly resistant to corrosion and cracking, making it an excellent choice for industrial use. It also has a high tensile strength that is essential for any material used in a plant. The material is one of the most stocked, unique materials for piping uses.

Inconel is a popular material in specialty welding because it has multiple industrial uses. It is an alloy of chromium and nickel to form a metal that can perform efficiently under high temperatures. Inconel is a trademark product of Special Metals Corporation, and there are 18 varieties of the alloy. A large proportion of the alloys is nickel and a low percentage of chromium. A variation in the quantities of chromium and nickel forms an Inconel alloy with some unique properties. The alloys have a high melting point, and they are stable in various industrial uses. Most applications of Inconel are in the oil and gas industry.

What are the Safety Measures for Specialized Metal Linking?

Material linking poses a risk of inhaling toxic fumes during the process, among other injuries. Welders must wear protective gear to prevent the inhalation of fumes. Other protective equipment forms include a shield for the face, goggles for the eyes, glove to provide a steady grip, and rubber sole boots. Some workmen prefer to wear fire-resistant gear to be on the safe side.

Prolonged periods of manual welding can cause a laborer to experience intense heat from the electrode. Proper ventilation and air conditioning keep the working area at optimum temperature while minimizing fumes in the air. It is also essential to conduct regular inspections to ensure that wires are well insulated, and equipment has regular maintenance. All equipment needs to be turned off when not in use to reduce the risk of injuries.

Do All Types of Specialty Welding Require Certification?

Not all kinds of welding services require a technician to have certification. For example, operating automatic welding machines doesn’t require certification, but manual welding involves certification. Certificates prove that a welder understands the standards and guidelines of welding a variety of metals and alloys. Overall, companies should endeavor to hire workers who have certification for the necessary specialty fields. Hiring an untrained welder can lead to poor quality welds or injuries and damage to property.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywzib5Ocyn0

How is a Bucket Truck Inspection Done

October 13, 2020October 13, 2020

Modern life brought us various services as gifts that make our daily routine much simpler and more comfortable, such as Electric power, fiber optic services, telephony, and others.

These services reach all users, mainly through overhead cabling. These systems require the use of bucket trucks, both for their installation and for maintenance and repairs.

But there are some risks with bucket truck use that can be prevented through simple safety inspections, which is why regular bucket truck inspection is so important.

What is a bucket truck?

When we talk about bucket trucks, we refer to those vehicles capable of lifting a worker along with their tools to access a project that is executed in the heights.

Thanks to its hydraulic platform, people can carry out risky jobs such as maintenance of high voltage cables, more efficiently because they have controls that the vehicle operator operates to control the movements of the bucket truck and have more effective results.

Bucket trucks have different types of lifting actions. Some use a kind of scissor that goes up and down on a hinge. Other types of actions include raising a telescopic and articulated platform; This technique is called “the elbow.” The boom moves up and out on a hill, something as the name implies.

These trucks allow most of the modern conveniences that need to be installed to be done more conveniently and easily. Services such as telephony, electricity, cable, and the Internet are top-rated and are available because bucket trucks have made the installation process and carrying out these projects more accessible.

Can you imagine climbing a 65-foot ladder in the air? It would be quite complicated and riskier, which is why we have the bucket trucks to take us safely to a relatively high construction site.

Bucket trucks are a crucial tool in power line work, cable/internet, forestry, sign, light repair/installation, window washing, painting, and even Christmas decorations.

Bucket Truck Features

There are different platform bucket trucks, which fulfill different functions. These are one of the essential characteristics of each of these tools:

Articulated or telescopic truck lifts

This type of platform is used for outdoor work located at high altitudes, such as repairs, maintenance, power lines, etc.
It consists of an articulated arm capable of rising to heights of up to 62 m. and rotate 360 .
The platform can be used by a maximum of three people depending on the case.

Self-propelled scissor lifts

This type of platform is used for electrical installation work, maintenance, industrial assemblies, etc.
The platform is a vertical elevation with the highest reaches of 25 m. With a large capacity of people and auxiliary work teams.
They can be powered by batteries, the internal combustion engine, and four-wheel drive.

Articulated or telescopic self-propelled platforms

They are used for work in hard-to-reach areas. They can be of an articulated arm and telescopic section or only telescopic with a reach of up to 40 m.
They can be powered by batteries, with a diesel engine and all-wheel drive or a combination of both systems.

Risk factors of a bucket truck

All jobs carry associated risks that can endanger the physical integrity of employees. In the case of activities related to the use of bucket trucks, the risks can be even higher than in other jobs; some of the main dangers that employees face are the following:

Falls at a different level

They can be due to:

Tipping of the equipment as a whole when it is located on a sloping surface or in poor condition, lack of stabilizers, etc.
Absence of safety rails in part or all of the perimeter of the platform.
Carry out work using auxiliary elements such as stairs, stools, etc. to gain height.
Work on the platform without properly anchored personal protective equipment.
Breakage of the work platform due to overload, deterioration or misuse of it.

Fall of materials on people or goods

They may be due to:

Team overturn.
Unprotected work platform.
Breakage of a work platform.
Loose tools or materials left on the surface.
People are located in the vicinity of the work area or under the vertical of the platform.

Team rollover

It can originate from:

Work with the chassis on an inclined surface
Sinking or softening of all or part of the support surface of the chassis
Do not use stabilizers, do it incorrectly, support them totally, or partially on poorly resistant surfaces.
Overloading of the work platforms with respect to their maximum permitted resistance.

Falls to the same level

They usually have their origin in the lack of order and cleanliness on the surface of the work platform.

Entrapment between any of the moving parts of the structure and between it and the chassis

They are produced by:

Carry out some type of action on the structure during the lowering operation.
Stand between the chassis and the platform during the lowering of the work platform.

Blows, shocks, or trapping of the operator or the platform itself against fixed or moving objects

They usually are produced by lifting movements or small movements of the equipment in the vicinity of fixed-mobile obstacles without the corresponding precautions.

Many of these bucket truck hazards can be easily prevented by performing a regular bucket truck inspection. Taking time to do this could help to significantly reduce not only accidents but also material and human losses.

Safety Tips for Using the Bucket Truck

To avoid bucket truck accidents, several safety rules must be implemented, not only before starting but before the platform is initiated and raised, to perform the movement of the bucket truck once the platform has already been raised and after that has already been used.

What to do before launching the platform?

A full bucket truck inspection should first be done to detect any defects or failures that may affect the safety of workers. The examination should consist of the following:

Inspect for deteriorated welds or other structural defects.
Check for leaks in hydraulic circuits, damage to various cables, the state of the electrical connections, tires, batteries, and brakes.
Make sure that the operating controls work correctly.

Each of the defects must be evaluated by qualified personnel, who may determine these constitute a risk to the safety of the equipment. Each of the irregularities found that may be a risk must be corrected before using the equipment.

What to do before raising the platform?

It is necessary to verify if there are electrical lines of A.T. in the vertical of the team. If so, you have to have a prudent safety distance. If possible, the right solution would be to isolate them or cut the current while the work is finished.
Check carefully both the state of the support surface that the equipment has, as well as its level.
Make sure that there is no greater weight on the platform than established.
It must be verified that, in the case of using stabilizers, they have been deployed correctly according to the standards dictated by the manufacturer. Furthermore, it must be ensured that, as long as the platform is not in the transport position, they cannot be acted upon.
Verify that the access door is without problems and that the state of the protections is correct.
It is essential to verify that the seat belts are properly anchored for bucket truck safety.
Before starting to carry out the work, the area in which it is going to work must be delimited, in this way it prevents pedestrians from circulating near the area.

What to do when starting the raised platform bucket truck?

It is necessary to check that there are no obstacles in the direction where there is going to be movement. In addition, it is required to make sure that there is no unevenness in the support surface; it must be substantial.
A prudent distance must be maintained from any obstacle that could compromise the integrity and safety of workers, for example, holes, ramps, or debris.
The maximum travel speed set by the manufacturer mustn’t be exceeded.
A meteorological study should be done because the platform should not be driven or raised in rain or powerful winds.
The bucket truck driver must not be distracted and must drive safely.

Some other rules to keep in mind

It is important that the work platform is not overloaded.
The platform should not be used as a crane.
It is strictly forbidden to add elements that may increase the load due to the wind on the bucket truck.
Workers must always use the seat belt and their harness correctly anchored. In addition, the operator who is going to work on the platform must always keep both feet on it.
The use of elements that generate additional height, such as stairs, on the platform is prohibited.
Operators must always communicate immediately if they detect any anomaly that could affect their physical integrity of qualified workers.
Bucket safety systems cannot be modified, disconnected, or altered.
Platforms should not be used indoors unless they are properly ventilated.

What to do after the platform is used?

After the job is complete, park the bucket truck where it is safe.
Each of the contacts must be closed, and it must be verified that it cannot be mobilized. If necessary, the wheels can be damaged.
The platform should always be cleaned of liquids such as fats, oils, or others, which have been spilled on it during the work carried out.
You must be careful with water because it can affect the electrical parts of the bucket truck and the cables.
Keys should be removed from the bucket truck and left where only qualified personnel can use it.

Why it’s important to have a bucket truck inspection

All Bucket trucks must be inspected for the first time before they are put into operation, and subsequently, they must be subjected, in addition to the corresponding annual reviews, to periodic official inspections every three years, or additional inspections whenever exceptional circumstances arise that may generate harmful consequences for safety such as transformations, accidents or continued lack of use.

How to maintain a bucket truck

Bucket trucks must be maintained in accordance with the instructions of each manufacturer and which must be contained in a manual that is delivered with each platform. Both the revisions and the deadlines to be carried out must be made by specialized personnel.

The periodic reviews consist of a structural, functional, operational, and conservation check to guarantee the correct functioning of the platform with the manufacturing requirements.

It is recommended that a checklist be made periodically with the following revisions:

1 Chassis Revision

Check that the wheel nuts are tight
Condition of tires
Cleaning
Visual inspection of welds
Steering joints (pivots and ball joints)
Travel braking
Unbraked translation
Check that the different organs are well tightened
Check for oil leaks
Status of the base controls

2 Basket / Platform Revision

Access door
State of the floor cleaning
Extensions
Anchorage of seat belts (only in articulated and telescopic)
Operation of the leveling of the basket (in articulated and telescopic)
Visual inspection of welds
Control panel
Information and control labels

3 Pen review

Visually inspect the condition of the welds
Check that there are no oil leaks
Check the condition of cables and chains
Operation cut-off switch in case of breakage of the telescopic cable or chains

4 Articulated Arm Review

Visually inspect the condition of the different elements and joints of games and welds
Check the state of the hydraulic hoses, friction, etc.
Check for oil leaks

5 Orientation Revision

Visually check the status
Check the tightening of the ring gear screws
Check swing reducer play
Braking of the turn when releasing the control

6 Scissor Mechanism Revision

Visually inspect the condition of the welds
Check that there are no hydraulic leaks
Condition of the joints
Emergency lowering mechanism
Protection fence to avoid touching the scissors when lowering or automatic stop before reaching a height of 3 m. with reset and reducing with acoustic warnings
Oil leaks in stabilizer cylinders

7 Check the operation of the Tilt Safety Device 3/5

In interruption of movements
In a sound indicator of inclination
Automatic entry of short speed when lifting
Automatic system that guarantees on machines with stabilizers that they are resting on the ground
Overload
Sound alarm
Interruption of the maneuver
Sound indicator of translation
Emergency stops
Horn
Door safety contacts
Radius limiter, on telescopic arms
Security against unauthorized use
Priority to basket controls
Emergency manual or electric pump control

8 Battery check

Check water level
Check that the terminals are tight
Check the condition of the electrical cables
Control the load

9 Test of movements, both of the basket controls and the base

On telescopic or articulated booms, raising and lowering the boom
Raising and lowering of the joint
Telescopic, enter, exit
Left-right turn
Stabilizers
Basket leveling control
On scissor machines
Raise and drop the scissors
Documentary verification and signaling
Identification plate
Nameplate
CE marking (Later machines 1-1-97)
Manufacturer’s certificate
Instruction manual
Safety instructions
Proof of the latest revision

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxcFZnx9q48

What does a Fire Protection Engineer do?

September 28, 2020September 28, 2020

A fire protection engineer is often found nosing around old and new buildings. He is an important figure that people consult when they want to protect their properties from fire. These engineers are involved in the construction of new buildings and the renovation of old structures.

They know all the rules, regulations, and codes surrounding fire protection and they will keep your building on the right side of the law. Contactors rely on them to identify the best materials and tools for fighting and resisting fires.

If you are contemplating the notion of hiring a fire protection engineering firm this is what you can expect from them:

1). They act as consultants for architects and civil engineers, providing assessments that can be used to identify risks and threats related to fire. People can use these assessments to mitigate those risks and threats.

2). They will show you all the attributes you can add to a building during construction to make it safer. That includes the right number of entry and exit points, not to mention their locations.

3). They will tell you the building and safety codes and standards that pertain to your project. They will also help you to fulfill them. Some building codes are complicated. The layperson needs help interpreting them. This is where a fire engineer enters the picture.

4). Fire engineers are supposed to help you prevent fires. But if a fire occurs, or even an explosion, they can also carry out investigations to find the source. They are not necessarily a replacement for arson investigators. But their considerable knowledge can come in handy at the site of a fire or explosion. At the very least, they will help you eliminate the factors that caused the fire.

5). Some people are forced to halt the construction of expensive projects because their buildings have failed to meet the relevant standards. A fire engineer can prevent such disasters by reviewing your plans before the project commences. They will ensure that your plans meet the relevant standards. They will also review your fire safety measures and protocols, making certain that they are accurate.

6). A fire prevention engineer will design fire protection systems for you. If you already have fire protection systems, he will review them. His report will tell you whether or not they are sufficient for your situation.

7). If you have a functional fire protection system that has been analyzed and approved, it still requires testing every once in a while. An engineer will schedule and oversee this testing. He can also conduct fire drills where necessary.

8). Because the rules and regulations surrounding fire protection keep changing, an engineer will keep you abreast of these changes. He will show you how to make alterations to your pre-existing fire systems to ensure that your premises are always compliant with current legislation.

Some laypeople have the experience required to perform some of the duties associated with an engineer. However, these experts are still necessary because they have far more experience in the field. They also have special tools such as modeling software that makes their work more accurate.

What is Project Quality Management and how can it be used for Construction in New York City

September 8, 2020September 8, 2020

In this article we will touch upon Project Quality Management and how it can be of use in the various construction projects around the city that never sleeps, the Big Apple, New York City.

The Definition of Project Quality Management

Project Quality Management in New York City is the foundation upon which the success of the whole project of constructing a building, monument, or something completely third is built upon. It entails the above everything else consistent and perpetually improving basis upon which the management of construction is based upon. What every aspirational Project Quality Manager strives to deliver and what the majority of good ones do deliver are these two factors:

1) Find potential issues and solve them before the customers do

2) To make sure that nothing harmful happens to the construction during the delivery period.

For those New Yorkers who are looking to invest in construction you need to figure out how good any given Project quality Manager is upon delivering these things:

1 Creating and Realizing a Quality Management Plan

2 How good are they at Creating quality procedures

3 Different levels of quality control

Project Quality Management NYC — Quality Management on the Mechanism of Metal Gears.

Let us take a deeper look as to how a good Project Quality Manager deals with those three things:

1 Creating and Realizing a Quality Management Plan

As we all know, avoiding mistakes is better than correcting them. In the business world, it is also a great way to save money. The ideal way to avoid mistakes is to create a wonderful Quality Management plan. Every Quality Management Plan should have these four points:

1 Quality Policies

2 Objectives that are easy to grasp and attain

3 Set standards for different requirements.

4 To have all the necessary legal requirements.

With all this in mind, it is easy to see why people usually think of PQM as something that happens both externally and internally.

New York City Project Quality Management

2 How good are they at Creating quality procedures

OK, you have set your Quality Management Plan, and now it is time to tackle the quality procedures. In most cases, this is the most gruesome and nerve-wracking part of Project Quality Management New York City Plans are thoughts that are put to paper, but procedures come with people who need to be drilled and instructed well so that they perform all their duties at the right time, at the right place with the most expertise possible.

These are the four key areas for creating Quality Procedures:

1 Internal Audits for Control

2 Documents and Records

3 Corrective and Protective Actions

4 Non-Conformances

3 Different Levels of Quality Control

Organizational level Management is the type of management in New York that the highest part of the construction hierarchy needs to worry themselves with. They will be the big eye in the sky and overlook every single thing that those lower on the hierarchy need to do.

Project Level Management Quality is a level below that. It entails forming concerning and getting all the necessary tools to track and monitor all the tasks that have been set upon completing in a given time and place, under the constraints of the initial budget.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygTz2TdtwcY