Roofer Madness

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Tag: Roofing contractor (Page 1 of 5)

Autumn Safety Tips for Construction Companies

October 8, 2024 /
Excavator. Earth mover.

We all know the different safety hazards that can come with each season. Winter brings snow and ice, spring brings crazy tropical storms, and summer brings hot temperatures that cause heat-related illnesses. Autumn brings challenges and conditions, from rainy days and even hurricanes to colder morning temperatures and warmer afternoons. As we enter Autumn, we want to cover some of the possible hazards you can find while working in construction. Stay updated with the latest safety regulations and training to keep you and your crews safe on jobs. 

Take precautions in Muddy Conditions

Under rainy conditions, you will most likely encounter mud on a construction site. While mud seems harmless, it can also become a hazard. It increases the risk of slips and falls and makes the ground unstable for equipment. Here are some tips to help prevent mud-related accidents.

Improve Mud Terrain 

Set up drainage on your job site to remove some of the mud. In critical areas, consider laying gravel for traction.

Urge Caution on Steps 

Remind everyone to wipe their boots frequently, especially before climbing ladders or mounting or dismounting equipment.

Erect Scaffolding Properly

Scaffolding must be erected on a firm foundation and never directly on soft, muddy, or frozen ground. For better stability, use a mud sill. These stable wood planks, placed under the scaffold footings, distribute the weight of the scaffold, keeping it from moving or sinking into the mud. After a storm, always check the scaffolding to ensure it’s still stable before use.

Take Steps to Stabilize Heavy Equipment 

Heavy equipment can become stuck in the mud. Even if you’re using a rough terrain forklift, mud can increase the risk of rollover. Tire chains or tracks increase traction in the mud. Heavy equipment mud mats can turn muddy areas into safe access roads. At the end of the workday, hose off equipment to keep mud from caking and jamming machines.

Clear off Leaves 

We can all appreciate all the beautiful colors of the trees being changed. However, once the leaves fall, they can cause hazards on job sites. Leaves can hide uneven ground and become slick, increasing the risk of falls. They can also block the air intake or exhaust on equipment. Therefore, properly removing leaves is vital to decrease the risk of accidents. 

Store Equipment and Materials

Continuously cleaning leaves and debris from equipment can be annoying and time-consuming. So why not store your equipment in an enclosed space to protect it from storms, leaves, and debris? Portable Storage bins are always a good option when equipment has to stay on the job site.

If you expect a heavy storm (like hurricanes in some regions), take extra precautions by removing and securely storing as much equipment as possible. Move materials into a secure storage area, too. Cover materials and equipment that can’t be moved with a heavy-duty tarp or use tie-downs and sandbags to keep them from blowing away. Take down cranes, scaffolding, light towers, and other equipment that could pose a threat. Board up any windows and doors.

Provide Adequate Lighting 

Shorter days mean less daylight. Low light makes it harder to judge objects’ position, shape, or speed and causes eye strain and headaches. OSHA regulations dictate how bright construction sites must be to work safely. Many job site lighting options exist, including string, portable, and towable light towers. However, pick the proper light option for your construction site, follow the setup, and follow the instructions when taking down the lights.  

Practice Generator Safety

Due to the risk of electrocution, portable generators and water don’t mix. Don’t operate a generator on a wet surface or in the rain unless your generator has a waterproof canopy. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, use a portable generator only in a well-ventilated outdoor area, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents.

Review your Evacuation Plan

You should have a site-specific evacuation plan tailored to different types of emergencies. Conduct period evacuation drills to ensure workers know what to do in emergencies.

Make Allowances for Cold and Flu Season

Cold season starts in September, and flu season typically begins in October. You should prepare by eating healthy food, taking vitamins, and drinking water and electrolytes.

As employers, you should accommodate employees’ calls out sick and, as hard as it is, encourage them to stay home when sick.

References

United Rentals. “Autumn Safety Tips for Construction Companies.” United Rentals, 24 Aug. 2022, www.unitedrentals.com/project-uptime/safety/autumn-safety-tips-construction-companies. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.

Overview of National Safety Month

July 2, 2024 /

June is National Safety Month, established by the National Safety Council in 1996. This June, we joined other organizations and the National Safety Council to bring extra attention to safety issues in and outside the workplace. We shared safety tips and facts about safety issues each week, including safety awareness, roadway safety, risk reduction, slips, trips, and falls. In honor of National Safety Month, we wanted to share tips and facts about each issue.

Week 1: Safety Awareness

At CEI, safety is a major focus in all departments. Throughout the year, our employees undergo specific training, and we continuously share tips and facts to help them be aware of the safety risks they face daily in our industry. Safety awareness is important to keep our employees and others around us safe, whether on a job site or in the office.

Week 2: Roadway Safety 

For week 2, we shared tips about staying safe on the road. 

  1. Stay focused on the road and your surroundings. Never drive distracted.
  2. Do not use your cell phone or any electronic device while driving. If there is an emergency, safely pull off the road or into a “Texting Zone” before using your devices.
  3. Avoid arguments and stressful or emotional conversations with passengers.
  4. Avoid eating or grooming while driving.
  5. Be sure children are properly and safely Buckled in. Properly secure pets in a pet carrier or portable kennel.
  6. Drive sober. Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs and discourage others from doing so.

Week 3: Risk Reduction 

For week 3, we discussed some basics of risk reduction plans for any industry. Regardless of your industry, target market, and personnel, you will always face a certain level of risk while operating. This is why you must find ways to reduce your company’s risk. Here are basic steps to approach risk reduction:

  1. Risk Assessment & Identification – Identifying and assessing the risk faced through operations.  
  2. Risk Mitigation – Find Practices to minimize or reduce the risks.
  3. Preventive Measures – Look for preventive measures to keep workers safe during operations.
  4. Contingency Planning – Contingency planning gives you a blueprint to follow in an emergency.
  5. Monitoring & Review – monitor your risk reduction approaches and practices to ensure they work.   

Week 4: Slip, Trips and Falls 

In the last week of National Safety Month, we discussed the risk of slips, trips, and falls in the roofing industry. Slips, trips, and falls account for approximately 20% of all work-related injuries. While the risk is even more common in winter, it can be present in any weather condition (rain, ice, snow, or sunny). Here are some things to remember to prevent daily slips, trips, and falls.

  1. Practice Good Housekeeping – removing clutter that can increase trips and slips is important to keep the workspace safe. 
  2. Adequate Lighting – Workers can navigate through spaces better with enough light. Given this, it’s best to place proper lighting in access and egress points such as halls, ramps, stairs, and exits. 
  3. Be aware of safety signs and markers- Watch out for safety signs telling you of hazardous space, as well as flagged-off areas that can show areas to prevent you from falling. 
  4. Clear the area from snow, ice, and spills- Properly clearing the workspace from slippery elements like snow, ice, or water is important to ensure safety. 
  5. Wear proper footwear – Wear Non-slip shoes with good traction to protect workers from static electricity, falling objects, explosions, exposure to hazardous substances, and other risks.
  6. Implement safety plans and protocols- A well-thought-out safety plan cements all efforts to promote fall protection, especially in high-risk workspaces. This plan must include in-depth risk assessments, safety standards and practices, training, regular inspections, equipment guidelines, and toolbox talks.

Recap of National Roofing Week 2024

June 11, 2024 /

June started with a bang as we celebrated National Roofing Week, presented by NRCA. June 2nd through 8th was spent showcasing our projects, community involvement, and hard-working employees. This year, we celebrated a different theme each day: Signature Projects, Charity Projects, Employee Appreciation, Employee Training, and Celebration.

Monday – Signature Projects:

We proudly showcased several impactful projects we completed in the past year. The first of these signature projects is Lake Trust Credit Union in Brighton, MI, a sheet metal and TPO roof project with incredible architectural design. The next project is Edgewood Country Club, a shingle roofing project in Commerce Charter Twp, MI. Lastly, the Catholic Central Stem Building in Novi, MI, is a slate, green roof and paver system project for the Detroit Catholic Central School. Each of these projects demonstrates our expertise and contribution to the communities we serve.  

Tuesday – Charity Projects:

Annually, we proudly sponsor multiple organizations that do important work. Some of those organizations include Bennett’s Beavers, Clara’s Hope, Hudson Mills Old Power Club, and Reaching Higher. Additionally, this year, we donated and helped roof a barn at the new Freedom River Veteran Recreational Center in Livingston County, MI. Also, we continue to support Cleary University in many aspects, from academics to athletics. Our commitment to giving back to our community is a testament to our values, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue doing so. 

Wednesday – Employee Appreciation:

Our company’s success directly results from our employees’ dedication and hard work. During National Roofing Week, we took the opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to every one of our team members. We showed our gratitude by providing lunch for our entire staff. Pizzas were delivered to around 10 job sites for our roofing and sheet metal employees, while the service, shop, and office staff enjoyed breakfast sandwiches and a small pizza party. Our staff is the backbone of CEI, and expressing our appreciation is a small way to thank them for their continuous efforts. 

Thursday – Employee Training:

Training is very important in any industry, especially construction because we deal with dangerous and unique working conditions. That is why a top priority at CEI is to train our staff on safe work practices. Over the past year, our employees have undergone comprehensive training programs, including CPR training, OSHA 30, ladder safety, defensive driving, and RTF and MEWP training. These programs have equipped our employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure their safety and the quality of our work. 

Friday – National Roofing Week Celebration:

To wrap up National Roofing Week, we decided to celebrate by gifting our employees National Roofing Week T-shirts designed by Libby Cook. These T-shirts symbolize our pride in the roofing industry and our appreciation for our employees’ hard work. National Roofing Week allows us to recognize the importance of the roofing industry in all aspects while having fun. We are honored to be able to give our employees something to show our appreciation and to celebrate the week.

Happy New Year!

January 7, 2019 /
Happy New Year!
As the year begins we want to take a moment to reflect on the past year and be thankful for the support of our loyal customers, employees, and partners in business. We wouldn’t be here without you. We also would like to announce that 2019 is CEI Michigan, LLC’s 50th year in business. For the past 50 years, we have worked hard to provide our customers with integrity, reliability, and service that is unparalleled, and are excited to continue to serve our community in for the next 50 years.
This is a big year for CEI Group and we are ready to celebrate! Aside, from the normal excitement of a new year, planning, getting new work, etc. We are planning fun events to celebrate all year. The biggest being the 50th-year celebration this spring/summer. Other things in the works are:
  • Wrap-Up 2018 Video – Coming Soon!
  • Annual Company Kick-Off Meeting in February.
  • 50th Year Festival for our team and their families
  • NRCA’s National Roofing Week 
  • + So much more. 
Cheers to another great year! If you have any questions now or into the New Year, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help.
Stay tuned! 2019 is going to rock!

About CEI

August 8, 2018 /

CEI Group has earned a reputation as one of the country’s most progressive roofing firms. They pioneered single ply roofs in the late 70’s and 80’s, were one of the first roofing companies to maintain their own sheet metal shop, and today, they are leading the way in green roofing projects, sheet metal,  and composite wall panel projects.

As a union-shop, CEI is also known for their trade craftsmanship. Some of the lost art and techniques for working on architecturally-challenging or historical elements have been preserved and passed down from veteran roofing pros.

CEI customers appreciate the company’s disciplined project management, communication during the project, and ability to consistently meet challenging deadlines.

“We take the stress and uncertainty out of your toughest roofing challenges.” Eric Cook, President, CEI Group

Founded: 1969

Focus: Challenging Commercial Roofing Projects

Specialties: University & Historical Roofs, Slate Roofs, Multi-Level/Multi-Roof System Projects, International Government Work

Services: Leak Hunting & Repair, Extended Roof-Life Service Agreements, Coatings, Waterproofing

Photo of the Month: July 2018

August 8, 2018 /

Every month we host a photo of the month. All of the photos are taken and sent in by our staff. This month we focused on the efforts of our safety department. Our photo of the month came from one of the monthly safety meetings that we have at CEI. We get together all of our field staff and some of our office staff to discuss various safety measures.

3 Quick Facts About Roof Maintenance

August 3, 2018 /
Proactively maintained roofs last an average of 8 more years than reactively maintained roofs.
  • Your roof is a HUGE investment and you should protect that investment!
  • Proactively manage your roof with annual or biannual inspections and maintenance, just like you would the other assets in your business (i.e. technology or machinery).
  • Don’t wait until you have a major incident on your roof.
Annual roof maintenance cost only 1% to 3% of the cost of a commercial roof replacement.
  • We know that saving money is a priority when it comes to running your business.
  • Maintenance pays for itself by saving on
  • Unscheduled roof repairs
  • Damaged roof
  • Deteriorated roof deck
  • and the small cost of the interruption or distraction from your business
Building owners and facility managers who inspected and repaired their roofs routinely were able to identify potential problems before they happened. As a result, they spent an average of only 14¢ per square foot annually for maintenance. On the other hand, owners and managers who reacted to problems spent an average of 25¢ per square foot annually.
  • With a proactive maintenance plan, its all about identifying minor issues before they become major.
  • Keep the investment over your head working so it protects the one below!
How can you proactively maintain?
Schedule a fall and spring inspection. We have maintenance and inspection programs that are designed to help your roof last longer.
You can learn more about our maintenance programs at ceigroupllc.com

Heat Safety for Roofers

June 29, 2018 /

The weather is going to be getting extremely hot in the upcoming month. Being informed on how to properly work in the heat is more than important. The weather in the following weeks is looking to reach record high’s. Roofers are placed out in the sun high up with often times nothing to cool them off, no shade and a hot roof. This can make for an even hotter environment. Being informed about taking care of yourself and your crew in these conditions is important for making a safe and productive job site.

  • Stay Hydrated- This means drinking lots of water (even if you are not thirsty) and avoiding sugary or caffeinated beverages because they speed up dehydration. According to NERI, 1 quart of water per employee per hour is ideal.
  • Sun Protection- Wear sunscreen and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
  • Get out of the sun- during breaks sit in the shade or someplace with air conditioning. Those not accustomed to the heat should take more frequent breaks or limit the amount of physically demanding work.
  • Sunglasses- make sure you are protecting your eyes from the sun with a proper pair of sunglasses.
  • Know the sign and symptoms of heat sicknesses- Watch out for your fellow crew members and help them if they show any signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion.
Signs and Symptoms of Heat Illness (From NERI Insurance Group) 
Heat Rash:
Heat rash occurs when the skin’s sweat glands are blocked and the
sweat cannot get to the surface of the skin to evaporate. This causes
inflammation which results in a rash, which appears as reddened skin
with tiny blisters. It often occurs in skin creases or areas where your
clothing is tight against your skin restricting air circulation.
Common symptoms of heat rash included; red bumps on the skin
and an itchy or prickly feeling to the skin, also known as prickly heat.
Heat rash will usually fade away when the skin is allowed to cool.
Medical treatment is only necessary if the area becomes infected.
To avoid heat rash, try and avoid or minimize the duration of time spent in hot and/or humid
conditions, wearing loose-fitting clothing and use air conditioning or fans to allow air to circulate
over your skin.
Heat Cramps:
Heat cramps are an intermittent, involuntary spasm of larger muscles which occur in individuals
who are physically active in hot weather conditions. While heat cramps are the least serious
form of the heat-related illnesses they still may be very painful and also serve as the first
a warning sign or symptom that you are suffering from heat exposure.
The primary symptom of heat cramps is profuse sweating with involuntary spasms of the large
muscles in the body and could also be the first sign that you’re suffering from heat exhaustion.
Heat cramps most often affect the lower extremities and abdominal cavity.
The treatment for
heat cramps include; rest, cooling the body, hydration and stretching the muscles that are
cramping.
To prevent against heat cramps, try and avoid or minimize the duration of time spent
performing physical activities in the heat, drink plenty of water and rest in a cool or shaded
area.
Heat Exhaustion:
Heat exhaustion is often caused by ignoring the signs of heat cramps and can quickly
progress to heat stroke. This occurs when the body’s temperature regulation fails. The person
often exhibits a change in their mental status, becomes confused, lethargic and may even suffer
a seizure. When experiencing the effects of heat exhaustion, the skin stops producing sweat
and their body temperature significantly rises. This is a life-threatening condition and
immediate emergency medical attention is required. Additional signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include; profuse sweating (at its earliest stage), weakness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, lightheadedness, and muscle cramps.
Treatment for heat exhaustion starts with being able to recognize the signs and symptoms, stopping the activity you were performing, moving to a cooler environment and rehydration with water or a sports drink which is high in electrolytes. Rehydrating yourself is the most crucial treatment procedure for heat exhaustion.
Heat Stroke:
Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia, in which the body temperature is elevated dramatically.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not promptly and properly treated.
Heat stroke is caused by an elevation in body temperature, often accompanied by dehydration.
The signs and symptoms of heat stroke are; confusion, agitation, disorientation, the absence of
sweating and coma. The most effective way to prevent against heat stroke is to stay hydrated
and be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat cramps to avoid reaching
the level where heat stroke will come into play. If anyone is exhibiting the signs of heat stroke
911 MUST be called immediately, as it’s a matter of life and death.

Project Spotlight: Kreeger Elementary School

June 19, 2018 /

The Fowlerville School District proposed a bond to go to vote in May of 2018. They are using the money to improve many of the schools building. They are a focusing on repairs for “Boilers, classrooms, instructional technology, and athletic fields”, according to a report from WHMI. Yet, the biggest project was replacing the shingle roof on Kreeger Elementary that was long due for repair.

CEI started the project in the middle of May. It is their first shingle roof project in over 10 years, making this an exciting project. The job included a full shingle tear off and replacement, as well as an addition of custom ridge vents fabricated by CEI’s sheet metal shop.  Kreeger is a good change and gives the crews something different to work on. In the last 4 weeks, CEI has completed about half the reroof. They are still pushing forward as we begin to craft the ridge vents. The project is set to be done by August. 

 

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