A drywall secure clip fastens drywall sheets to a wall preventing the risk of tipping sheets.
Hazard Analysis — Falling or tipping drywall sheets or panels
Problem:
Workers who move and install drywall or panels may face hazards from falling or tipping drywall sheets or panels.
Risk Description:
Collapsing drywall sheets and panels can crush workers which may cause traumatic injuries or fatal crushes.
Unsecured or improperly stored/handled drywall sheets or panels can easily become unstable. A stack of drywall can weigh more than a thousand pounds yet may require only a few pounds of pulling force to tip over. When a stack tips forward, the momentum generated by the force gravity can substantially increase the striking force of the stack by several fold, resulting in serious and sometimes fatal accidents by its crushing effects.
Assessment Info:
Assessment of coming in contact with collapsing drywall sheets and panels should be an integral part of the site safety planning process.
To assess the likelihood of being crushed, here is a list of general items to consider when performing construction tasks near stacks of drywalls or panels:
- Are materials secured such that they are stored in tiers by stacking, racking, blocking or interlocking to prevent from falling?
- Are aisles and passageways clear?
- Are there clear signs posted indicating the risk of collapsing drywall/panel stacks?
Regulations & Standards:
OSHA standard 1926 Subpart H, titled Materials Handling, Storage, Use, and Disposal, in safety and health regulations for construction, must be in place. All materials stored in tiers shall be stacked, racked, blocked, interlocked, or otherwise secured to prevent sliding, falling or collapse. Also, aisles and passageways shall be kept clear to provide for the free and safe movement of material handling equipment or employees.
Federal OSHA Standards are enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor in 26 states. There are currently 22 states and jurisdictions operating complete State plans (covering both the private sector and state and local government employees) and 5 - Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and the Virgin Islands - which cover public employees only. If you are working in one of those states or jurisdictions you should ensure that you are complying with their requirements.
