2014 winter rcac newsletter
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The Newsletter of the Roofing Contractors Association of California • Winter 2014
RCAC Executive Director’s ReportWith 2013 behind us, the Roofing Contractors Association of California (RCAC) continued its trend of growth, both in size and member benefits, as well as successful advocacy efforts. The year concluded with an all-time high of 565 members, including 532 contractor members and 33 associate and sponsor members, both of which are new records for the organization. RCAC’s Group 639 workers’ compensation program also reached a new plateau, with nearly 300 group participants as the year ended.
Membership increase and growth of the group insurance program means that RCAC can continue to expand benefits and service offerings to members. In 2014, you will see increased safety communications and resources offered by the association, as well as two membership meetings (one each in Northern and Southern California). We are also seeking an affordable health insurance solution for RCAC members.
On the advocacy front, while the results were mixed legislatively, RCAC scored a major victory in November, when we successfully testified against a proposal at State Compensation Insurance Fund to eliminate the 6% premium discount for group programs (see article below). The association has also realized some progress in the efforts to create change in the way Los Angeles County treats metal roofing on residential projects (see article below).
We continue in our quest to solidify the role of roofing contractors in the rooftop solar installation market and to create standards of practice and training for rooftop solar installers. The Roofing Industry Solar Task Force held meetings with the Contractors State License Board and Office of the State Fire Marshal in the latter part of 2013, and I expect that we will see some results from those efforts this year.
One of the ongoing challenges at RCAC, as with most trade associations, is determining and understanding members’ wants and needs regarding programs and service offerings. You are encouraged to email [email protected] or call me (916-214-6495) at any time with your ideas and suggestions for events, educational offerings, safety needs, local issues of concern, legislative or regulatory concerns, or other matters where you believe we can assist. We are here to help and eager to provide value for your membership investment.
Wishing you a prosperous year ahead.
Marc Connerly, Executive Director
Executive Director’s Report .................................... 1California RoofPAC Capitol Club ............................ 2RCAC Members Discount ...................................... 2RCAC Safety Video Library .................................. 2Calendar of Events ................................................. 4Board of Directors Report ...................................... 4Under the Dome.................................................... 6Reroofs Trigger Plumbing Requirements ................. 7RCAC Defeats Plan to Eliminate 6% Discount ........ 8
In this issue...
State Fund Announces $100 Million Dividend ........ 8Los Angeles County Metal Roofing Policy .......... 8Roofing Industry Solar Task Force .......................... 9Safety Resources ................................................ 9Health Care Updates .......................................... 10How to Choose a Ladder ................................... 10Earthquake Practice to Survive ............................... 12Using Aerial Lifts Safely ...................................... 13
. .. .. .. .. .
California RoofPAC CAPITOL CLUB
California RoofPAC funds RCAC’s legislative advocacy efforts. The following individuals
and businesses have generously donatedto California RoofPAC:
(Over $1,000 in contributions this year):Eberhard Roofing Co.
Steve Reardon, Enterprise Roofing Service, Inc.Richard Lawson, The Lawson Roofing Co., Inc.
Christian Madsen, Madsen Roofing & Waterproofing, Inc.Joe Zamrzla, Stone Roofing Co., Inc.
Rex Souders, Tecta America Southern CaliforniaJohnny Zamrzla, Western Pacific Roofing Corp.
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RCAC Members Receive 20% Discount on NRCA ProductsA new benefit of membership in RCAC is a 20% discount on products sold by NRCA. The discount applies whether or not you are a member of NRCA.
Members of NRCA who are also RCAC members receive 20% off the NRCA Member price and RCAC members who are not members of NRCA receive 20% off the NRCA nonmember price.
Examples of products available from NRCA include (all prices before 20% discount):
• 2014 Boxed Set The NRCA Roofing Manual ($425 NRCA Members / $650 NRCA Nonmembers)
• 2014 NRCA Construction Details CD ($295 NRCA Members / $395 NRCA Nonmembers)
• NRCA Material Handling Series – “Overhead & Understood” (5 modules) ($395 NRCA Members / $790 NRCA Nonmembers)
• NRCA Hazard Communication Program – “Know the Signs” (English and Spanish) ($150 NRCA Members / $295 NRCA Nonmembers)
• NRCA DVD Fall Protection Program (CA specific) ($250 NRCA Members / $350 NRCA Nonmembers)
• NRCA Repair Manual for Low-slope Membrane Roof Systems ($115 NRCA Members / $230 NRCA Nonmembers)
• NRCA Waterproofing Manual ($75 NRCA Members / $150 NRCA Nonmembers)
To receive the 20% discount, email [email protected] for the promo code.
RCAC Offers Safety Video LibraryAs part of our safety program, RCAC is pleased to offer a safety video library enabling California roofing contractors to receive free videos aimed at educating employees about a variety of roofing industry safety topics. Most videos are available in both DVD (free to keep) and VHS (borrow) formats, and many are offered in both English and Spanish.
For borrowing instructions and a complete list of available titles, visit www.rcacal.com and click on “Safety Program” on the lower left side of the page. You may also email RCAC Safety Coordinator, Marc Connerly, at [email protected] or call the RCAC office at (916) 456-4790.
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The following companies generously support the efforts of RCAC:
www.southcoastshingle.com
www.vdaconsulting.com
www.firestonebpco.com
www.wgbender.com
www.westerncolloid.com
www.ajg.com
www.paccoast.com
www.usg.com
www.duro-last.com
www.roofingsupplygroup.com
www.certainteed.com/CertainTeed/Undefined/Roofing
www.cleasby.com
www.dataforma.com
www.fordwholesale.com
www.lundaythagard.com
LUNDAY-THAGARDCOMPANY
www.andreini.com
www.nationalcoatings.com
Email: [email protected]
www.malarkeyroofing.com
www.roofmaster.com
www.sfgravel.com www.4flyers.com
www.usa.sarnafil.sika.com
www.statefundca.com
www.alliedbuilding.com
www.gaf.com
www.sunmizer.com
www.graceconstruction.com www.eagleview.com
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2014 RCAC/Roofing Industry Calendar of EventsWednesday, April 2California Subcontractors Legislative ConferenceSacramentoRegister at www.CaSubLegConf.org
Wednesday, April 2: Legislative Dinner (Location TBD)
Thursday, April 3, 10:00 a.m.RCAC Board Meeting, Sacramento
Saturday, April 5Northern California Safety Day Ford Wholesale, San JoseContact [email protected] to register
Thursday, April 10 – Friday, April 11NRCA OSHA 10-hour ProgramSouth San FranciscoVisit www.nrca.net/calendar for details and to register
Saturday, April 12Southern California Safety Day South Coast Shingle, Long BeachContact [email protected] to register
Thursday, April 24 – Friday, April 25NRCA OSHA 10-hour Program, Los AngelesVisit www.nrca.net/calendar for details and to register
Tuesday, May 20Southern California Membership Meeting(Location TBD)
Tuesday, May 27Bay Area Membership Meeting (Location TBD)
Thursday, May 29NRCA Fall Protection SeminarSouth San FranciscoVisit www.nrca.net/calendar for details and to register
June 8-11WSRCA Western Roofing Expo, Las VegasVisit www.nrca.net/calendar for details and to register
Thursday, June 12NRCA Fall Protection Seminar, San DiegoVisit www.nrca.net/calendar for details and to register
July 8-11: NRCA Midyear MeetingsChicago
Thursday, July 24, 10:00 a.m.RCAC Board Meeting, Sacramento
Friday, August 8RCAC Golf Tournament (Location TBD)
Wednesday, October 29, 10:00 a.m.RCAC Board Meeting
November 11-13NRCA Fall Meetings, Chicago
Board of Directors ReportIn attendance: President Steve Reardon, Past President Richard Lawson; Directors Allen Brooks, John Cleasby, Doug Hollander, Brett Maurer, Dave Stefko, Johnny Zamrzla; Ex Officio Directors Bill Callahan, Ron Johnston, John UpshawAbsent: Vice President Rex Souders, Secretary/Treasurer Christian Madsen; Directors Bruce Fryer, Aaron Hill
The RCAC Board of Directors met in January at the offices of Gallagher Risk Management Services in Lafayette. Issues relating to insurance received a great
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deal of attention at the meeting, including group health insurance, the RCAC group workers’ compensation program, and the state of affairs at State Compensation Insurance Fund (SCIF).
Ashley Tipton, Warren G. Bender Co., made a presentation discussing alternative risk planning, including self-funded and captive programs. She will be preparing an information piece covering health benefits for RCAC members.
The Board also heard from SCIF representatives, who reported that State Fund will be adding a fourth tier (Tier D) to their recently-implemented tiered pricing strategy. Tier D will be for policyholders with very poor loss histories and may double the premiums of some companies. They also reported that minimum premiums will increase by 25%, effective March 1, 2014.
RCAC Board members shared with the SCIF representatives concerns over auditing procedures, as well as other issues related to the group program policies.
RCAC staff is in the process of looking into prices to update the RCAC web site, and they hope to make progress by the Board meeting in April.
Under the DomeLegislative Report
As of this writing, there are few legislative proposals of significant interest to our industry. However, we expect to see approximately 2,000 bills introduced prior to the February 21 deadline, and there are certain to be several that significantly impact roofing businesses.
Among the bills expected to be introduced is a proposal to clean up the language of SB 293 (2011), relating to the 5% retention limit on public projects. The bill included language allowing public entities to avoid the 5% retention limit by declaring a project “substantially complex,” but included no definition for the term. Unfortunately, many agencies (particularly school districts) are rubber stamping their projects as “substantially complex” to skirt the 5% retention limit.
There may also be legislation cleaning up language in the indemnity reform bill that was passed in 2012, and
there is talk of a bill to provide subcontractors involved in Owner Controlled Insurance Programs (OCIPs) and Contractor Controlled Insurance Programs (CCIPs) with greater protections.
The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is contemplating a couple of legislative measures as well. The first would address the issue of unlicensed contractors advertising for work (a practice that is rampant on sites such as craigslist).
Current law permits unlicensed contractors to perform works of improvement valued at less than $500, and allows unlicensed contractors to advertise for work provided the advertisement states that the individual or company is unlicensed. The stated intent of these exemptions is that unlicensed contractors should be permitted to complete construction work “of casual, minor, or inconsequential nature.”
However, many unlicensed contractors are using this exemption to advertise for any and all construction services, including large-scale projects that are clearly in excess of the $500 limit prescribed by law. The CSLB proposal would prohibit unlicensed contractors from advertising for work that exceeds $500 in value.
Unfortunately, the proposal as written leaves the definition of “clearly in excess of the $500 limit” open to interpretation, allowing violators to plead ignorance to the value of the services for which they are advertising. It also seems unlikely that this language would be any more effective in deterring unlicensed contractors from advertising for or performing work in excess of $500.
RCAC staff has suggested to CSLB that, at a minimum, advertisements by unlicensed contractors, in addition to stating that the advertiser is unlicensed, should be required to state that the advertiser cannot legally contract for work in excess of $500.
Another legislative proposal under consideration by CSLB is aimed at the requirement that the License Board initiate disciplinary action against a licensee within 30 days of notification by the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE), also known as the Labor Commissioner, that the licensee has been found in “willful or deliberate violation of the Labor Code.”
CSLB’s internal review, investigation, and disciplinary
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process typically takes several months or even years (due in large part to delays on the part of the Attorney General), and the violator is able to continue bidding on and receiving work despite serious or egregious Labor Code violations.
In response to this issue, the CSLB is proposing to include the following language on the license lookup page of its website for licensees found guilty of violating the Labor Code:
• “CSLB is aware of a potential Labor Code violation, relating to a Civil Wage and Penalty Assessment (CWPA) by the Labor Commissioner on one or more public works projects. Please refer to the following link for additional information and to verify the status of the CWPA: [website link provided here].”
The CSLB is also considering a proposal declaring that an individual contracting with a suspended
license is subject to the same disciplinary action as an individual contracting without a license.
Some Re-roofs Triggering Low-Flow Plumbing RequirementsRCAC Arguing Case With Three Municipalities
Another legislative matter currently before RCAC relates to SB 407 (2009), which went into effect on January 1, 2014, and requires the installation of low-flow plumbing fixtures in buildings constructed prior to January 1, 1994, when a permit is pulled for “alterations or improvements.”
Although most municipalities agree with RCAC’s position that a re-roof is a repair and not an alteration or improvement, at least three cities (Dixon, Vacaville and
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San Bernardino) are treating re-roofs as an improvement and requiring the installation of low-flow plumbing.
Supported by written opinions issued by the CSLB and California Building Officials (CALBO), RCAC has drafted a letter making the case that the jurisdictions should re-consider their policies and is in the process of making contact with the agency representatives to advocate for policy change.
RCAC Defeats Plan to Eliminate 6% Group Premium DiscountAt their meeting in November, the State Compensation Insurance Fund Board of Directors considered an internal recommendation to eliminate the 6% premium discount currently offered to participants in the insurance carrier’s group workers’ compensation programs. If approved, the strategy would have effectively rendered groups worthless.
RCAC staff was alerted to the proposal and was informed that it was a near certainty that the Board would approve the recommendation.
Following several unsuccessful attempts to gain a meeting with SCIF Board members or upper management, RCAC drafted a letter explaining the favorable loss history of Group 639, the burgeoning safety resources and activities made available to RCAC members, and the potential negative ramifications of eliminating the premium discount.
After reaching out to other trade associations with group programs in a last-ditch effort to form a coalition against the proposal, RCAC staff attended the SCIF Board meeting, testified in opposition to the concept, and was the only organization to do so.Soon after the meeting, we were informed that the Board of Directors had rejected the idea, that the 6% premium discount would remain in place for the foreseeable future (at least the next year), and that SCIF would embark on a group programs fact-
finding and evaluation process in the coming months.Based on the group size at the end of 2013, the efforts to maintain the 6% premium discount saved RCAC members more than $400,000 in aggregate premium for 2014.
State Fund Announces $100 Million DividendOn the heels of similar dividends for the 2011 and 2012 policy years, the State Compensation Insurance Fund (SCIF) recently announced a $100 million dividend to qualifying policyholders for the 2013 policy year. The dividend represents a return to policyholders equaling approximately 8.6% of estimated annual premiums and demonstrates the effectiveness of the business improvements and operational efficiencies implemented by the organization.
“We are committed to being a competitive workers’ compensation insurance provider that brings value to California employers,” noted State Fund Board Chair, Larry Mulryan. “Part of that value is the ability to return funds to our policyholders in the form of a dividend.”
The action brings total dividends declared since the 2011 policy year to $250 million. Since its inception, State Fund has declared $5 billion in dividends to policyholders.RCAC members participating in the association’s group workers’ compensation program (Group 639) received nearly $170,000 in dividends in 2013 for the 2012 policy year, and that number is expected to increase dramatically for the 2013 policy year with the significant increase in the participation in Group 639.
Los Angeles County Metal Roofing PolicyLast summer, RCAC, in conjunction with the Roofing Contractors Association of Southern California (RCASC), contacted the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning to share concerns over the County’s policy requiring design review and environmental assessment when a metal roof is proposed on a residential
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project. The policy has been part of the County Zoning Code for more than 30 years, although inconsistently enforced.
Since that time, County staff has exchanged written communications with RCAC, acknowledging a need to re-visit the Zoning Code and offering a compromise that would allow roll-formed metal roofing, but maintain a review requirement for “reflective, glossy or polished” metal roofing.
Although a step in the right direction, RCAC is not satisfied with this offer and is attempting to meet with County staff to discuss the policy further.
Roofing Industry Solar Task ForceRCAC has partnered with Associated Roofing Contractors of the Bay Area Counties, Independent Roofing Contractors of California, Roof Integrated Solar Energy, Roofing Contractors Association of Southern California, and the Union Roofing Contractors Association in an effort to create knowledge and training standards for rooftop solar installers and to secure a spot for licensed roofing contractors among the classifications authorized to perform rooftop solar installations.
Members of the Task Force have met with representatives from CSLB and the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and, as can be expected when dealing with public agencies, creating policy change has been frustratingly slow.
We are in the process of identifying sites in the Sacramento area with installed shingles and single-ply roofing with integrated solar for the purposes of showing CSLB staff firsthand examples of materials that legitimately should be installed by roofing contractors. We have also developed a survey of solar system owners and installers seeking their input on issues arising out of rooftop solar installations (e.g., leaks, warranty violations, damaged roofing materials, etc.).
It is our hope that tangible progress in this effort will be realized this year.
Safety ResourcesA big part of RCAC’s mission is to support safety within the roofing industry. Our annual Safety Days, safety video library, free safety handouts, and safety articles support that mission, and we encourage you to take full advantage of those resources.
Below are some additional sources of web-based and written safety information:
California Department of Public Health, Occupational Health Branch: The Occupational Health Branch offers information on the BuildSafe California Project, assistance on conducting effective tailgate trainings and other construction-related health and safety materials. The agency has 23 free English and Spanish tailgate training “Safety Break” topic cards and a template for creating your own tailgate trainings. For more details, call (866) 627-1587 or visit www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/ohb/Pages/BuildSafe.aspx.
California Department of Industrial Relations, Division Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA): For a guide on how to put together your company’s Illness and Injury Prevention Program (IIPP), visit www.dir.ca.gov/DOSH/PubOrder.asp
Center for Construction Research and Training: Research and Development Institute of the Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO. Provides construction health and safety publications and hazard alerts in English and Spanish to both union and open shop construction companies. Call (301) 578-8500 or visit www.cpwr.com/rp-hazardalerts.html.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): English and Spanish resources at www.cdc.gov/niosh or www.cdc.gov/Spanish/niosh.
Construction Safety Council: Nonprofit construction occupational health and safety organization, (800) 552-7744 or www.buildsafe.org.
National Safety Council: Safety information and products, including construction toolbox kit. Visit www.
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nsc.org/safety_work/Pages/Home.aspx.
ELCOSH: Electronic library of construction occupational safety and health includes tailgate topics in English and Spanish. Visit www.elcosh.org/index.html.
State Compensation Insurance Fund: More than 80 free construction-related topics in English and Spanish available at www.scif.com. Click on “Employers,” then “Safety,” then scroll down to “Safety Meeting Topics (Bilingual).”
We also encourage you to contact our safety partner, Safety Compliance Company, at www.safetycompliance.com or (800) 901-7926. RCAC members receive $25 off of their first purchase at Safety Compliance.
Health Care UpdatesHealth care continues to be an important issue for small business owners. The Small Business Administration and Small Business Majority are committed to helping businesses navigate the changes and opportunities in health care through the Affordable Care Act 101 webinar series.
Each week, small business owners can learn the basics of the Affordable Care Act and how they can enroll in small business health insurance marketplaces. Other topics discussed include insurance reforms, the small business health care tax credit, and employer shared responsibility provisions. SBA representatives help small business owners understand the facts of the Affordable Care Act so they can make informed decisions about providing health insurance for their employees.
The Affordable Care Act 101 takes place every Thursday at 11 AM PT. Below are the registration links for upcoming presentations: Thursday, March 6 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, March 13 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, March 20 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, March 27 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, April 3 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, April 10 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, April 17 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, April 24 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, May 1 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
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Thursday, May 8 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, May 15 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, May 22 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to RegisterThursday, May 29 at 2:00 PM ET: Click to Register
For more information on how the new health care law affects small businesses, check out www.businessusa.gov/healthcare
How to Choose a Ladder(Provided courtesy of State Compensation Insurance Fund. For more details or additional safety information, visit www.statefundca.com)
Most fatal falls in the workplace are from ladders. Choosing the correct ladder for your work is an important part of your overall ladder safety program that should include training, proper maintenance and storage, inspections, and safe work procedures.
First, assess the height of your work task. Stepstools and short ladders elevate you slightly. Stepladders and extension ladders can get you to further heights. What type
of work will you be doing? Is the ladder used to enter and exit a work area, or will you be working from it? Platform ladders and work platforms provide stable, elevated working surfaces. Is there an unusual space or access issue? Specialty tripod or trestle ladders access awkward spots.
Determine the rated capacity you need. Office and
household ladders are not suitable for construction and heavy-duty work. Choose a ladder that can hold the weight of the worker and the load of materials or tools that will be carried up and down. Type 1A ladders are rated for 300 pounds while 1AA ladders hold 375 pounds. Exceeding the weight capacity of a ladder can cause it to buckle, twist, and collapse.
Your ladder material is important. Fiberglass ladders are sturdy, non-corrosive, and non-conductive if clean and dry; so use them for working around electricity. Aluminum
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Celebrating 75 years in business, Warren G.
Bender Co. is one of the Sacramento region’s
largest independently owned insurance
brokerages. The mission of this family
business is “providing protection, superior
service, and education to those who matter
most – our customers.”
WGBCO clients represent many
industries, such as manufacturing, public
works construction, property development/
management, healthcare and others. “We
know our strengths and grow from that base
without trying to be everything to everyone,”
explains Stephen Bender, President and CEO.
“We’ve journeyed many roads with clients
as they’ve changed their business models
and risk profi les, and continue to provide
guidance to build ongoing relationships and
preserve their bottom line.”
Steve Bender started in the family
business in 1972, learning from his father
Warren, the company founder. In Steve’s 41-
year tenure, the company has grown from
three employees to 42, and is now looking
to WGBCO’s third generation of leadership.
One of Steve’s daughters, Maggie Bender-
Johnson, is Director of Operations, and
nephew, Christopher Bender, manages the
company’s Employee Benefi ts Department.
Both are part of a succession team of fi ve
people who share the passion and vision,
and understand the company’s core values --
family and non-family talent working together
for a successful and robust future.
In 2008, Warren G. Bender Co. moved
headquarters to Roseville after 70 years in
Sacramento, and in 2010, opened a Southern
California offi ce. Though personal insurance
was the company’s mainstay for the fi rst
30-plus years, commercial insurance now
represents about 85 percent of their revenue
base, with personal insurance, employee
benefi ts, and surety as the balance.
“We design insurance and risk
management programs to fi t our clients’
changing needs, and that could be 20 or more
lines of coverage for any given client,” says
Bender of their diverse commercial clients.
“They have a myriad of risks they have to
respond to and we’re the architects for their
coverage.”
“We are fi ercely proud of WGBCO’s
values and history, and are excited about
our next generation of growth and service,”
he concludes. “Every day has its challenges
but at the end of the tough day, we can say
we stayed true to our ethics and our values,
and that’s what will inspire us for another 75
years.”
www.wgbender.comp: 916.380.5300
516 Gibson Drive, Suite 240
Roseville, CA 95678
Warren G. Bender Co.75 years of depth and dependabilityDenise Metz, Chris Bender, Maggie Bender-Johnson, Stephen Bender, Edward Johnson, Roland Guillen
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ladders are lightweight and durable, but should NOT be used around electricity.
Make use of accessories such as stabilizing bars, which can hold extension ladders in place when you access rooftops. Trays hold tools and materials. Specialty footings or levelers provide stability on unusual or uneven surfaces. Consult your ladder manufacturer about compatible accessories and how to use them properly.
You may need several ladder types and sizes for your job tasks. Know how to store, transport, and access your ladders safely and conveniently. Ladder handles or wheel devices help you manage and move your ladders.
Step up to safety on the proper ladder for the job!
Earthquakes Aren’t Planned, But YOU Can Plan and Practice to Survive(Provided courtesy of Safety Compliance Company. For more details or additional safety information, visit www.safetycompliance.com) According to the US Geological Survey, there is a 60% chance that a 6.7 magnitude or greater earthquake will occur in California in the next 30 years. Preparedness is the best way to manage earthquakes. First, prepare your workplace for an earthquake. Secure all shelving and equipment. Do an evaluation of your workplace to determine exposure areas. Keep doors, exits, and aisle ways clear at all times for quick access evacuations. Have protected area ideas close to your work area such as tables or desks. Store chemicals properly. Store emergency equipment so that it would be accessible after an earthquake. Gather emergency supplies for the workplace. Fire extinguishers should be charged and inspected monthly so they are always ready to use. Test fire alarms, sprinklers, and emergency exit lighting. Keep flashlights, a radio,
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extra batteries, and a First Aid kit on hand at all times. Keep enough supplies for the number of workers that may need to shelter or work at your facility after an earthquake. Prepare personal emergency supplies for your car, including comfortable clothes and shoes, a flashlight and batteries, First Aid kit, food, water, and necessary medications. The rule for all emergency kits is to have 72 hours of supplies to survive until emergency services are available. Make lists of emergency contact phone numbers and determine a meeting place for the family after an emergency. Follow your emergency evacuation plan that is in your safety program and practice evacuations annually. Also set-up an emergency plan at home. Get training on First Aid and CPR techniques. Train and remember to Duck, Cover and Hold in an earthquake. During an earthquake, duck or drop down on the floor. Take cover under a sturdy desk or table and hold on to it so that you can move with it during the shaking. Face away from glass. If you cannot take cover, stand against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms.
Here are some things to consider during and after an earthquake:During An Earthquake • If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table or
stand in a corner.
• If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and power lines.
• If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Get under a table. Do not use elevators.
• If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay inside your car until the shaking is over.
• If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the doors. Crouch and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.
After An Earthquake• Unless there is an immediate, life-threatening
emergency, do not attempt to use the telephone.
Contact RCAC Membership Director Corinne La Fazia at(909) 305-4996 for more information.
• 6% discount• Individual dividends paid annually• Open program: use your broker, ours, or call State Fund directly• Quick and easy to qualify and sign up
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After a quake, be sure to:• Check for gas and water leaks, broken electrical
wiring or sewage lines. If there is damage, turn the utility off at the source and immediately report gas leaks to your utility company. Check for downed power lines; warn others to stay away. Check your building for cracks and damage, including the roof, chimneys and foundation.
• Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. For your own safety, cooperate fully with public safety officials and follow instructions. Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
• Be prepared for aftershocks.• Stay calm and lend a hand to others. • If you evacuate, leave a message at your home
telling family members and others where you can be found.
• Contact your Safety Compliance Company representative, Kirk Herold, today to help prepare your workplace for earthquake survival. Kirk may be reached at (562) 822-7233 or kirkh@
safetycompliance.com.
Using Aerial Lifts Safely(Provided courtesy of State Compensation Insurance Fund. For more details or additional safety information, visit www.statefundca.com)
Associated HazardsAerial devices are used in various industries and offer many benefits, including access for people or equipment to hard to reach areas, usually at a height. However, if not used correctly, aerial lifts can result in serious or fatal injuries.Common hazards associated with aerial lifts are:
• Overturns.• Tip over.• Falls from elevated lift platforms.• Being struck by falling objects.• Contact with electrical power lines
(electrocutions).• Ejections from lift platforms.
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• Boom failures.
Required TrainingEmployers are responsible for ensuring that aerial lift training is provided. Training programs should cover correct lifting and operational functions of the aerial lift device, recognition of unsafe hazards in the work zone, and verification that the worker is knowledgeable and skilled in operating the aerial lift. In the event that one of the following occurs, retraining must be provided.• If an accident or an injury occurred while using the
aerial lift.• Using a different aerial lift on which the worker
has not been trained.• Hazards discovered in the workplace during use.• Improper use of an aerial lift.
Aerial Lift OperationPerform a pre-start inspection before operating a lift. Inspect the vehicle and the lift components (e.g. fluids, gears/levers, steering, brakes, tires and battery; fuel systems and mechanical parts, etc.) as well as the work zone. If defects are present, do not operate the lift until it has been serviced by a qualified person.
Safe Work Practices• Read the Operators Manual before operating aerial
lifts.• Be trained to use aerial lifts.• Keep work zone free of safety hazards.• Look for unstable surfaces (bumps, ditches, slopes,
and overhead obstructions).• Watch out for people in close proximity.• Keep an eye on changes in weather conditions.• Use body harnesses and restraining belts with a
lanyard that is attached to the boom or the basket to prevent being pulled or ejected from the basket.
• Use provided outriggers.• Don’t exceed the load limits of a lift including
the combined weight of the worker, tools, and materials.
• Maintain a clearance of at least a minimum of 10 feet or 3 meters from energized overhead lines.
• Check to make sure that operational and warning labels/placards are affixed to the lift and platform.
Knowing the functions and operating procedures of an aerial lift reduces the chances of accidents.
For more information and training requirements, refer to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
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2014 RCAC Board of DirectorsEXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Steve Reardon – PresidentRex Souders – Vice President
Christian Madsen – Secretary/TreasurerRichard Lawson – Past President
DIRECTORSWilliam Baley • Allen Brooks
John Cleasby • Bruce Fryer • Aaron Hill Doug Hollander • Brett MaurerDave Stefko • Johnny Zamrzla
RCAC CONTACT INFORMATIONConnerly & Associates Inc.
2215 21st St.Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 456-4790 Fax: (916) 456-7672
Ilene Connerly — AdministratorMarc Connerly — Executive DirectorJulie Cisneros — Senior Consultant
Corinne La Fazia — Membership Director
RCAC SAFETY DIRECTORFor safety-related questions and information
Marc [email protected]
RCAC/NRCA MEMBERSHIP INFORMATIONCorinne La Fazia
NRCA and RCAC West CoastMembership Director
(909) [email protected]
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