Report of the MCAA Safety Committee

Words: Zach AckleyThe Committee has had a very busy 2015. While the committee has not had a huge roll in the silica process, it has been involved on the political side of this issue. As we write this report we are somewhat hopeful that language known as the Hoeven amendment will be placed into the year end Omnibus bill that we expect Congress to pass the week of December 14. If this language is inserted and is passed into law, it will stop the rule in it’s tracks and send them back to nearly square one. OSHA would need years to comply with the requirements of the new law. If the amendment is not included, we can expect the new rule in early 2016. Likely a new law would be challenged in the courts.

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 Key West. Top safety performers were presented with awards at our mid-year Board meeting.

Safety Data Sheets

The MCAA has been compiling new safety data sheets for the new globally harmonized system that OSHA is rolling out. These sheets will be replacing the old MSDS forms and contractors can quickly find masonry related sheets in one place on one site. Access the MCAA web site and go to safety and then click safety data sheets. If we are missing a sheet you would like, drop us a note and we will go out and work to get access and post them on the site. This service is being done to make the gathering of sheets easier for contractors and to help make the process a one-stop shop.

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 one’s.
About: Safety Featured
 0
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

Garen Graves
Featured MAP Partner
Mortar
Read More
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.

Justin Stengel
Read More
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

Allison Goley
Featured MAP Partner
Read More
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

David Biggs
Featured
Read More