Scoops (Download)
SCOOPS 1 What are they? Scoops, also called shovel-scoops are tools used for lifting and moving loose materials such as coal, gravel, snow, soil and debris. They are commonly used in construction, agriculture and gardening http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shovel 2 History Shovel scoops, evolved over the years as a result of the need for moving lighter materials instead of digging Similar garden tools date back to 6000 B.C. The Romans later mastered the shape of the shovels used today http://historiccamdencounty.com/ccnews69.shtml 3 Industry Usage Shovel scoops in the construction industry are used in removing light materials, especially non-cohesive soil and debris 4 Safety Concerns & Hazards Typical safety concerns generally are about straining fatigue on the back from prolonged use Other sources cite heart attacks, from over-exertion http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/01/16/earlyshow/saturday/main536799.shtml 5 Injury Report Most of the injuries resulting from shovel-scoops are from straining the back and heart attacks as a result of over working 6 A worker was shoveling sand, as part of a stucco job The work was strenuous but non-continuous and plenty of water and breaks were provided Worker collapsed from heart attack and died 7 Fatality Example OSHA OSHA does not address the issue of shovel-scoop safety and citations Fatalities data 1999- 2007, line 7828 8 Safe Usage Safe Usage of shovel-scoops involve foremost a visual and physical inspection PPE that is needed; Hard hats Safety goggles Steel-toed boots 9 Safe Work Procedures Assess the appropriate weight of material to be in each scoop Lift with the legs, not the back Do not try to cast the material too far Take frequent breaks 10 THINK SAFETY WORK SAFELY 11