On April 15, Bay Fastening Systems reacts to news that the University of Washington’s construction safety measures have prevented multiple construction related accidents and reduced the overall injury rate on school-related construction projects to less than 2%.
According to an article posted by the University of Washington, the university’s Capital Projects Office estimated that a decade ago, “12 of every 100 workers were injured and lost time on the job.” This number was “deemed unacceptably high” according to Ronald Fouty, the safety director of university’s capital projects.
In order to improve safety measures, the university spoke with independent contractors and school construction managers. A stretching and flexing routine was also recommended to the contractors in order to reduce the occurrence of muscle strains and pulls. In 2012, the university achieved its goal of reducing injury rates to less than 2%. During 2012, the injury rate was 1.41%.
According to the article, Fouty estimates that 370 injuries have been prevented due to the initiative and $11 million was saved “for the contractors and for the taxpayer-supported state workers compensation system” over the last decade.
“We applaud the University of Washington for their continued efforts to reduce construction accidents,” says Cliff Bernard. “As a blind rivet and engineered fastener distributor, our products are used in many construction projects and many of our customers are involved in the construction industry. We encourage other universities and contractors to use the University of Washington as inspiration to reduce their own construction injury rates. A key factor in reduction of work injuries has a strong correlation to the equipment used for construction and many manufacturers of this equipment have turned to work safety attributes in their engineered designs. Battery powered hand tools and rivet guns have significantly reduced work related injuries by eliminating the need for power lines and hoses which significantly contribute to pathway obstructions. ”
Bay Fastening Systems is a full service distributor of engineered fastening systems that include Blind rivets, drive rivets, solid & semi-tubular rivets, military spec rivets, Lock Bolts, Inserts and specialized installation systems. Founded in 1962, Bay Fastening Systems has become a leader in the fasteners industry through its continuing commitment to quality service, deep product knowledge and consultation, and an easy ordering process.
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