10-29-24 Developing Effective PTP's in the LMS

Last week, we discussed the importance of Pre-Task Plans (PTPs) in ensuring we safely plan our workday. This week, we’ll focus on how to create a more effective PTP within the Learning Management System (LMS). Rather than going through each step of the PTP, we’ll highlight areas where improvement is often needed.

Job Information

  1. Location of Work: Clearly specify the exact location where the work will take place. For example:
    1. 4th-floor mechanical room.
    2. Building 2, levels 5-9.

  2. Task Description: Provide a detailed task description to avoid ambiguity and ensure everyone understands what needs to be done. Be specific:
    1. “Insulate CHW, HHW, CW, DCW, DHW systems with fiberglass pipe covering.”
    2. “Install mineral wool safing & firestop sealant around all mechanical & electrical floor & wall pens per mfg. specifications.”

  3. Superintendent: This is a new and required field. The selected superintendent will automatically receive a copy of your completed PTP.

Work Task & Environment Evaluation

  1. Steps of the Task: The steps should strike a balance between clarity and practicality—specific enough to provide clear direction but not overwhelming. Examples include:
  • Assemble and organize the crew.
  • Conduct stretch and flex activities.
  • Create and review PTP with crew.
  • Inspect tools & equipment, record inspections on inspections tags if applicable.
  • Stage materials, tools, & equipment in work areas.
  • Load material in lift (if applicable).
  • Measure for insulation.
  • Cut insulation to desired length.
  • Install and seal insulation or firestop material per manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Return materials, tools, & equipment to lay-down area.
  • Consolidate & dispose of construction debris.

Ensure accountability of work crew & depart jobsite.

 

  1. Hazards of the Task: This section should be detailed to ensure safety while remaining practical for the team to understand and act upon. Based on your task steps, potential hazards might include:
  • Burns from incidental contact with hot surfaces.
  • Slips, trips, & falls due to frost on rooftop surface or wet areas.
  • Sprain & strain injuries due to awkward body positioning or material movement.
  • Repetitive stress or overexertion injuries.
  • Skin & eye irritation from chemicals or materials.
  • Environmental exposure hazards such as heat stress or cold weather injuries.
  • Pinch points, struck by, & caught-in-between incidents.
  • Cuts, abrasions, & punctures from tools, materials, or surrounding environment.
  • Eye injuries due to airborne fibrous debris or sparks.
  • Falls from heights.
  • Falling objects such as dropped materials or tools.
  • Fire or explosions.
  • Release of stored energy (mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, thermal, or chemical)
  • Damage to equipment or structures.

 

  1. Hazard Control Methods: Your hazard control methods should follow the
    Hierarchy of Controls, prioritizing the most effective ways to eliminate or mitigate risks: Elimination, Substitution, Engineering Controls, Administrative Controls and lastly through the use of PPE. Examples of hazard control methods could include the following.

  • Implement Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures with plant maintenance team.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and Kevlar arm sleeves.
  • Keep work area clean and dry; use rug runners in entry ways and place signage.
  • Use designated access and egress routes and gates.
  • Perform stretch and flex activities before, during, and after work.
  • Use proper lifting techniques & mechanical means to move material (hand truck or cart)
  • Locate cooling or warming shelters, provide water & establish work/rest cycles.
  • Rotate employee tasks and alternate tool use between hands.
  • Read material SDS, wear task appropriate PPE (face shield or googles)
  • Identify and observe overhead hazards and obstructions.
  • Use a spotter when elevating or moving the MEWP.
  • Use task appropriate tools, store cutting tools in a sheath and wear Cut Level 5 gloves.
  • Utilize fall protection equipment where a fall could exceed 4’.
  • Develop and implement a fall protection work plan with rescue procedures. 
  • Erect a Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) below and adjacent to the immediate work area.
  • Obtain a Hot Work Permit and assign a fire watch in the immediate work area.

Remember This!

Our goal is to make the development of our pre-task plans a valued and integral part of our daily work process, rather than just a “check-the-box activity”. By creating effective and detailed pre-task plans, you are proactively managing risk, improving communication, and ensuring all work tasks are completed safely and efficiently.

If you would like assistance in developing a more effective and detailed pre-task plan, please do not hesitate to reach out to your superintendents or a member of your safety team. We are here to support you!

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