Fatalities and serious injuries.

The construction industry has major fatality problems relating to falls from heights, electrical contact, reversing vehicles, trench wall collapses, and workers being struck by falling or moving objects. Serious-injury problems relate to housekeeping, manual materials handling, direct installation activities, and on-site in-transit activities. They vary from one construction trade to another and from one type of project to another. Each of the these problems can be reduced through the application of better site management, better training, and improved work practices. In some instances, changes in materials, tools, or equipment can be beneficial in reducing the incidence of fatal or serious injuries.

Controlling injury hazards in construction.

Using information from the U.S. government and the scientific literature, the authors identify preventive strategies for specific types of injuries and categorize features of employers and workers that are associated with low injury rates. They conclude that safe working conditions are possible and are related to the attitudes of workers and management.

Assessment of isocyanate exposure during the spray application of polyurethane foam.

This survey examined the air concentrations of diphenylmethane 4,4' diisocyanate (MDI) produced during the spray application of polyurethane foam at both indoor and outdoor locations. The sprayer, his helper(s), and fixed distances from the spray operation were sampled. The sprayers had the highest exposure levels, followed by outdoor helpers, then by indoor helpers. Area sample results showed that levels at a distance greater than 3 m (10 ft) outdoors and 8 m (25 ft) indoors were negligible, thereby supporting the establishment of a "work zone" around the spray operation.