As of March 27, 2020
APAH’s COVID-19 Safety Precautions on Construction Sites
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, APAH wants to assure the community that the safety and welfare of its employees, residents, associates, contractors and neighbors is its highest priority. As noted in the policy statements and executive orders of DC, Maryland and Virginia, construction services and services to the economically disadvantaged are essential services and by necessity shall continue.
Jobsite safety is heavily regulated by the Department of Labor’s OSHA division. Contractors must have approved Safety Programs which include provisions for training, emergency procedures, safe work practices involving hazardous conditions, notification protocols, personal protection equipment (PPE), safety data sheets, and more.
In addition to such requirements and in compliance with the CDC’s Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), OSHA classifies construction work in the lowest risk category for COVID-19 and provides guidance (Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19 – OSHA 3990) and procedures for maintaining safe worksites.
On a daily basis, APAH’s contractors evaluate each project for safe work practices to maintain the standards set forth above; those measures are robust and being followed. Additional steps, beyond those guidelines include:
- To the extent possible, work is being spread out on floors.
- Primary crew makeup is single and two-man crews; crews larger than 3 workers are minimized.
- “Partnering” and more chain-of-command interaction.
- Staggered work and lunch schedules, to extent possible.
- Increased ventilation across work areas.
APAH will continue to update its practices as recommendations and procedures change, and is committed to maintaining healthy work and living environments.
