Submitted by Steve Winicker.
LAST WEEKENDS SHOP ACTIVITY
Some progress was made on the firebox door and the control rods for the blower and rail washer. Unfortunately, all these projects have hurdles yet to be gotten past before the repairs are completed. I had hoped to have the flues cleaned out but last-minute complications for some volunteers lead to these things not happening this weekend. Perhaps next week we can make some progress on these fronts.
Other projects were moved ahead with the power car receiving some removal of old flooring and the investigation into making the Caterpillar forklift operational getting an assessment of how to go about making the needed repairs. .
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
At this point more of the same. We need to get the flues cleaned out followed by the smokebox so the required inspections can be made.
SAFETY SENSE
Slips and falls are one of the most frequent causes of accidents, both on and off the job. Each year in the United States, more than 300,000 people suffer disabling injuries from falls. Slips and falls can be fatal as well; they rank second only to automobile accidents, causing nearly 12,000 deaths a year. To avoid getting hurt from falls, avoid rushing and remember the following….
WATCH WHERE YOU WALK
Be aware of where you are walking. Look down continuously for spilled liquids, materials, equipment, changing surface levels, etc. Make sure the area is well-lit or use a flashlight if lighting is poor.
WEAR PROPER FOOTWEAR
Make sure your shoes are in good shape and correct for the job. Discard worn-out shoes with smooth soles and other defects. If conditions are wet and slippery, wear non-slip shoes or boots. Avoid footwear with leather soles which have poor floor traction–especially on smooth surfaces.
CHECK FLOOR OPENINGS
Avoid unguarded floor openings such as our Shop pit. The pit grates or barriers should be placed around the pit if it will be open for any period of time. On construction sites, when covers are placed over floor openings, avoid walking on the cover unless it is absolutely secure and will not move or collapse. Never jump over pits or other openings.
BE CAREFUL ON STAIRS
Do not run when going up or down stairs. Check to see that stair treads are in good shape, with no obstructions on the steps. Always use the hand railings. Avoid carrying large loads when going up or down stairs and ensure that stairs are well-lit.
MAKE SURE SCAFFOLDING IS SAFE TO USE
When working on scaffolding, make sure it is secure, stable and properly set-up. Do not work on scaffolding if guard rails are missing or the base is unstable. Check to see that planks are in good shape and not cracked. Tall scaffolds should be tied into a structure to increase stability.
