On most roofing job sites, controlling mechanized tools is
relatively simple. Most mechanized tools used by roofing workers
are connected to energy sources, and ensuring a tool accidentally
won't start often is achieved by unplugging the tool from its power
source.
But in a sheet-metal shop, disabling equipment for inspection or
maintenance and safeguarding equipment to keep workers' limbs from
getting caught can be challenging. Because some pieces of equipment
are used by more than one worker, work shifts change, and machine
parts may be removed for repair or cleaning, ensuring equipment is
safe for use requires workers to pay attention to the status of
machines.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average of
10,000 on-the-job amputations occurs each year. (Exact numbers are
unavailable for roofing-related sheet-metal shops.) The statistic
is disturbing because preventing on-the-job amputations can be
achieved through a commitment by roofing contractors to train
workers.
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