Construction Site Shutdown

The Workforce

First and foremost is to take precautions to protect the workforce while the site is still operating.  As has been recommended by health experts, the workers should stay home if sick and self-quarantine if exposed to someone diagnosed with COVID-19.  The same should apply to a worker exhibiting symptoms of the virus.  OSHA has produced a 35 page document on the subject of COVID-19 in the workplace.  https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf.

Need a checklist for COVID-19 while continuing to work?  Know that IMA’s Risk Management Center (RMC) has a simple audit checklist, online training on the topic and many other resources.  If you haven’t availed yourself in the past to our RMC, all clients can register at www.imacorp.com/rmc.  Our RMC also has HR Library, an employment and benefits resource.  Here you will find detailed information relative to COVID-19, whether masks are recommended, hygiene and other workplace practices.

Employers should give high priority to the cleaning and hygiene on site in common areas and items such as door handles, handrails, portable bathrooms, etc.  Provide adequate handwashing facilities and take other precautions listed in the document referenced above.

• Food vendors and trucks should be asked to not visit sites or use precooked food if they do.
• Limit group gatherings to fewer than 10 people and practice social distancing, where possible.
• Limit jobsite visitors to “critical need only”.

The Jobsite

In terms of the site itself, start from the outside in as you prepare for a shutdown:

• Evaluate traffic lane closures for which you are responsible.
• Ensure that street closure permit requirements are met and will continue to be met while the project is shut down.
• If the site is fenced, check that all sections are in good repair and serve the intended purpose.
• If not already in place, consider fencing the entire perimeter including road access points.
• Satisfy your duty to warn by installing signage indicating “danger,” “no trespassing,” “keep out” or similar message that conveys potential danger.
• Signage should be placed at intervals such that a person can see at least one sign as they approach the fence at any given point.
• Evaluate your lighting needs to keep the worksite well lit for law enforcement and emergency response personnel.
• Identify and protect confined spaces and trenches.

Equipment and Materials

• When possible, move motorized equipment to an offsite, secure location.
• Remove and safely store keys to licensed and motorized equipment.
• Ensure that GPS and theft prevention devices are in working order.
• Install secure barriers around the base of tower cranes.
• Remove portable tools and equipment from the site. When not feasible, store such in a secure, non-visible location.
• Document the amount and condition of the materials stored onsite as you shut down. In the event of a loss, this can be a valuable tool in terms of establishing proof of loss. If using video to document, make sure it is archived and retrievable.

Onsite Security

• Verify that any existing security systems are communicating properly.
• Consider adding electronic surveillance in the form of motion detectors and/or security cameras with adequate pixel resolution and storage capabilities.
• Consider having a security vulnerability assessment done. This may result in a recommendation to add site security personnel where the risk for trespassing is deemed high. When possible, monitor worksites via drive-bys for obvious signs of damage or trespassing. Do not confront trespassers. Call law enforcement and your IMA claims advocate.
• Additionally, working alone should be avoided unless there is a suitable lone worker procedure in place.

Fire and Water

Fire damage and water intrusion are the two most common and costly types property losses on construction sites. They also contribute to project delays.

• When possible, turn off domestic water supply at the source. Be aware that some equipment may need a continuous water supply to operate properly.
• Water to in-service fire sprinkler systems should not be shut off without first checking with the authority having jurisdiction and your IMA insurance professional.  You may need provide for continuous heat to protect water from freezing.
• Move high value equipment and materials to a secure location.  If not feasible, protect buildings materials and equipment that can be damaged by weather events or water intrusion.
• Ensure smoke, fire, water intrusion and motion detection devices are working properly.
• Ensure that storm water management controls are in place according to plan.
• Shut off all utilities to the extent possible while allowing for those deemed necessary.