Report of the MCAA Safety Committee

Words: Zach AckleyThe Committee has had a very busy 2014. The committee spent a substantial part of early 2014 working on silica rule testimony and comment. The committee was very active with the CISC. We are waiting to hear back from OSHA on the release of the final rule which is not expected until sometime likely in late 2015 at the earliest.

Safety Newsletter

The Committee has helped produce 12 newsletters this past year. These newsletters are short quick newsletters sent to member firms. The purpose is really to re-focus contractors on the importance of safety and give another resource to safety folks in our member firms.

Safety Forum

The Committee held six safety forums throughout the year. These forums were developed to share information in an open forum after a short topic for the month is discussed. The forums are designed to have a sharing of information among contractors across the country. We are always looking for people to spearhead different forums so if you would like to volunteer, please contact the office.

Safety Awards

The MCAA gave our annual safety awards to member companies at our mid-year meeting in Milwaukee. Top safety performers were presented with awards at our mid-year Board meeting.

Safety Consultant Retained

The MCAA retained the services of Jackson Lewis a law firm from Washington DC who spearheaded our silica coalition to work with us on safety issues in the year ahead. They are on 12 hour contract and we can add hours at a reduced hourly rate as needed. They will help consult us through legal issues related to safety.

Safety Consultant II

The MCAA is working with Strategic Safety Consulting to develop a network of program offerings around the country to include OSHA 10 hour course, forklift Train the Trainer Courses, Foreman/Superintendent Training (Safety Coordinator) and other programs. They will work with us to expand our safety offerings outside of our wall bracing program.

Networking

The committee has been busy addressing individual requests and inquiries. Whether it be citation advice, implementing a safety program or any other item related to safety, the committee is positioned to help other safety representatives and often spends hours on the phone assisting each other. This is often an overlooked service of the committee, but one of it’s more important ones.
Hines Market Square
September 2026

Hines Market Square, now known as Aris Market Square, is a mixed-use, multifamily development located in downtown Houston. The architect on this project, Ziegler Cooper, is known for reshaping the urban landscape. In keeping with their vision, the buildin

Understanding Met-Guard Protection in Work Boots
September 2026

Masonry work demands precision and strength, but it also comes with unavoidable risks. From handling heavy materials like brick and block to operating cutting equipment and working in tight, active environments, tradesmen and tradeswomen regularly expose

Making Old Brickwork Look New Again
September 2026

Brickwork is built to last, but mortar isn’t. Over time, exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and everyday wear causes joints to crack, crumble, and even recede. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly turn into a structural concern if left unadd

Why Joint Profiles Matter In Masonry Restoration
September 2026

For generations, masonry structures have been defined not only by the brick, block, or stone used in construction, but also by the mortar joints that tie everything together. Whether restoring a historic brick facade, repairing natural stone veneer, or re