| Job Site Safety |
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Job site safety is the most critical issue in our trade and our Union. The Cement Masons are leading the way in efforts to reduce both injuries to workers and costs to employers. Here's what we are doing: The Western Washington Cement Masons Apprenticeship is working with the Washington Safety and Health Training Institute (WASHTI), Washington State L & I and the Division of Safety and Health, and several leading contractors to develop new safety training modules and procedures to reduce the most common types of job-related injuries. This joint initiative is underway, using statistical analysis to identify the most common types of injuries to cement masons, studying the causes of those injuries and developing training programs to significantly reduce the number, severity and cost of the injuries. Here's what you can do: - STAY EDUCATED about the latest safe and ergonomic work practices - Attend tool box meetings and safety training classes, read training brochures, and look at the websites below for more information
- ALWAYS practice safe work habits
- Keep yourself in good physical condition
- Get medical attention when necessary and alert your doctor when you have been exposed to hazardous materials such as silica, Portland cement, etc.
Additional resources L & I Safety Information The Electronic Library of Construction Occupation Safety Center for the Protection of Workers' Rights
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| What To Do If You Are Injured |
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At Work. If you are injured at work, you are either covered by L & I insurance or by the employer’s insurance that L & I oversees. Do not let the employer have you put your injury on the Cement Masons’ insurance. That is fraud and it could get you in trouble. - If you are injured at work, tell your foreman immediately, even if it is just a cut – it could get infected.
- If you are taken to a doctor, make sure you tell him that you were injured at work. He will start the appropriate paperwork.
- Make sure you alert your doctor to the chemicals and materials you have been exposed to and/or working with - e.g. silica, Portland cement, etc. It can make a difference in your treatment and rate of recovery.
- If you have a time-loss injury, make sure you inform the Union Hall. They can be an invaluable ally if any problems arise. They will also inform you of your rights, which is very important for you to know.
At Home. If you are hurt off the job, you will use your Cement Masons’ and Plasterers’ insurance. Do not try to use L & I. That is fraud. Additional Help. The following organizations can be of assistance - financially, and getting you back to work quicker. - If you cannot work for some length of time, call our Health and Welfare office at (206)441-7574, ext. 3312. If your benefits are active, you may be eligible for monetary compensation.
- Project Help - (206)281-9555 or (800)255-9752. Project Help assists workers who file claims against Washingtons industrial insurance programs. Their services are free and they are there to help you with their vast expertise. Project Help is a cooperative effort between the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO, and the Washington State Employer Community.
- Center of Occupational Health and Education - (425)656-5020, www.valleymed.org. The COHE program at Valley Medical Center works with healthcare providers to assist injured workers in preventing disability and returning to work.
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Page Last Updated: Oct 16, 2007 (12:38:00)
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