Report of the MCAA Safety Committee

Words: Zach AckleyThe Committee has had a very busy 2014. The committee spent a substantial part of early 2014 working on silica rule testimony and comment. The committee was very active with the CISC. We are waiting to hear back from OSHA on the release of the final rule which is not expected until sometime likely in late 2015 at the earliest.

Safety Newsletter

The Committee has helped produce 12 newsletters this past year. These newsletters are short quick newsletters sent to member firms. The purpose is really to re-focus contractors on the importance of safety and give another resource to safety folks in our member firms.

Safety Forum

The Committee held six safety forums throughout the year. These forums were developed to share information in an open forum after a short topic for the month is discussed. The forums are designed to have a sharing of information among contractors across the country. We are always looking for people to spearhead different forums so if you would like to volunteer, please contact the office.

Safety Awards

The MCAA gave our annual safety awards to member companies at our mid-year meeting in Milwaukee. Top safety performers were presented with awards at our mid-year Board meeting.

Safety Consultant Retained

The MCAA retained the services of Jackson Lewis a law firm from Washington DC who spearheaded our silica coalition to work with us on safety issues in the year ahead. They are on 12 hour contract and we can add hours at a reduced hourly rate as needed. They will help consult us through legal issues related to safety.

Safety Consultant II

The MCAA is working with Strategic Safety Consulting to develop a network of program offerings around the country to include OSHA 10 hour course, forklift Train the Trainer Courses, Foreman/Superintendent Training (Safety Coordinator) and other programs. They will work with us to expand our safety offerings outside of our wall bracing program.

Networking

The committee has been busy addressing individual requests and inquiries. Whether it be citation advice, implementing a safety program or any other item related to safety, the committee is positioned to help other safety representatives and often spends hours on the phone assisting each other. This is often an overlooked service of the committee, but one of it’s more important ones.
Masonry Mortar: The Right Type for the Job
May 2025

When it comes to masonry construction, mortar is much more than “glue” that holds everything together — it’s a critical component of wall performance, longevity, and aesthetics. It can “make it or break it”. Whether you’re laying a foundation CMU wall or

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 20 Recap: Mark Kemp, Superior Masonry
May 2025

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Mark Kemp joins the set to talk about his esteemed career in masonry, how his passion stayed strong throughout the years, and how retirement has been treating him.

How It’s Made: Clay Thin Brick
May 2025

Clay thin brick is a versatile alternative to traditional full brick. It comes in numerous colors and styles and offers something for every design preference. Thanks to the lighter weight, it is designed to reach spaces full brick cannot. From floors to c

Bonding with Masonry 2025: Q1
May 2025

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and a Mason Contractor. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk. Q. An Architect asks how to create a narrow masonry pier between openings. Is there a min