Floor Joist and Deck Work
Morning Safety Huddle Topics

(Note: you must be 18 or older to work in an elevated location that is more than 6 feet above the next lower horizontal surface)

Note : This sheet also applies to installing `flat' roofs on two story structures.

The House Leader will define the Controlled Access Zone around the structure and will describe how it is to be marked or identified (generally the entire structure)

The first several joists shall be installed by workers supported by interior ladders or scaffolding or from the exterior grade. 

After several joists are installed and braced, trained workers may work from a platform comprised of sheets of plywood attached to the braced floor joists.   Work performed within four feet of the leading edge should be done facing the edge of the deck while in a crouching position (Minimize the need to stand within four feet of the leading edge).

Openings in the decking shall be securely covered or barricaded once the operations which create the opening are completed

Access to the sub-floor that includes a break in elevation of more than 19" requires the secure temporary installation of a sturdy ramp or steps with handrails positioned at 36" above the stair treads.

Doorway openings that involve a break in elevation of more than 19" will be barricaded when operations associated with working on the doorway are not underway.

If the lower edge of a wall opening is less than 39" above the floor and more than 6' above the exterior grade the opening will be barricaded as soon as operations directly associated with the wall opening are complete

Personnel who are not engaged in the installation of the sub-floor should not be positioned within 6' of the edge of the decking.

The area within 6' of the perimeter of the structure should be kept clear of movable objects that would increase the severity of an injury resulting from a fall.   

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