In the two previous articles in this series, I discussed terminal impact force (TIF) analysis in selecting a suitable structural point to attach an anchor device. A suitable anchor point is a point capable of withstanding the potential 5,000-pound applied impact force (per attached worker) imposed over any existing uniform and/or concentrated live and dead loads already in play. Now it is time to discuss selection of the appropriate anchorage device, based on the type of work being performed, the number of workers applied to the personal fall arrest system, and the structural parameters of the workplace, as well as the environmental conditions of the site.
Contrary to popular opinion, the maintenance-free roof system is a misnomer. All types of roofs require a certain level of attention. In fact, from the moment of installation, the roofing system undergoes continuous deterioration. Extreme temperature fluctuations as well as snow, ice, hail and wind prevail upon the roofing surface. In short, the elements are the biggest deterrents to the roof system over its service life. Traffic on the roof and the installation of mechanical and other equipment can also cause physical damage that could lead to roofing failures.
As this is being written, there is no consensus in Washington on the several proposals for immigration reform. It is, however, fairly certain that change is on the horizon relating to our immigrant workforce - a workforce estimated to include upwards of 30 percent to 40 percent of the people employed as roofers in this country.
When you think of a great dining experience, what comes to mind? You probably start thinking about the great food. Then, there is probably a friendly staff offering professional service. The presentation of the food and the ambiance play a part as well.
In last month's article, I dealt with the white-collar segment of construction industry theft represented by embezzlement. Now, let's turn our attention to the more common problems associated with the theft of tools, equipment and materials, which can be thought of as construction's blue-collar crime wave.
Many contractors are not good at hiring and managing when it comes to managers. Managing managers requires different measurements and skill sets from managing field employees. Manager success is based on skills and a scope of work that goes beyond day-to-day job functions. While it is impossible to learn how to become a better manager of managers just by reading a magazine article, this information can possibly help you avoid some of the common mistakes contractors make.
For most construction companies, it is not too difficult to find people with bodies who are able to nail shingles. The difficulty is finding the right people - people who are as committed to excellence as you are.
Until recently, my salespeople and I haven't been wired for success. Sure, my team has always been successful at communicating the benefits of a new roof to our consumers and getting them involved with our company, but we weren't operating at top speed. We weren't connected.
Great leaders understand that significant change takes the energy and talent of other people. Tell stories that illustrate how your listener fits into the picture.
A typical problem with the majority of construction jobsites is a lack of qualified persons (QP) to determine if any point of anchorage is capable of resisting the kinetic terminal impact force (TIF) of all of the potential anchorage points. By "capable," I mean the ability to resist TIFs without failure. The term "failure" in the OSHA standard is defined as "load refusal, breakage, or separation of component parts."
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