Understanding OSHA Regulations for Masonry Contractors in the USA

Words: Jake Burke



Masonry contractors in the USA must adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to maintain a safe work environment. OSHA, the federal agency responsible for worker safety, sets stringent guidelines to protect workers from the hazards inherent in masonry work. As luck would have it, OSHA has specific wording for masonry, making it a little simpler than some industries. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial step in preventing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the job.

One of the key areas of focus for OSHA in the masonry industry is fall protection. Given the heights at which many masonry workers operate, falls are a significant risk. Masonry work also often lacks ideal overhead anchorage for fall protection, so MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms) and temporary horizontal lifelines (HLL) are often used to satisfy regulations and keep workers safe. OSHA mandates that fall protection systems, such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems, be in place for workers operating at heights of six feet or more above a lower level. Additionally, scaffolding must be erected and maintained according to OSHA standards, ensuring it is capable of supporting its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load.

 

Another critical regulation pertains to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). OSHA requires masonry contractors to provide workers with appropriate PPE, including safety helmets, safety glasses, and safety-toe boots, to protect against head, eye, and foot injuries. Moreover, respiratory protection is essential when working with materials that generate dust, such as cutting or grinding brick, stone, or concrete (highlighted because "concrete" is not considered masonry under our definition). OSHA’s standards also require regular inspections and maintenance of PPE to ensure its effectiveness.

Furthermore, OSHA emphasizes the importance of training. Masonry contractors must ensure that their workers are properly trained in recognizing and avoiding job site hazards. This includes training on the safe operation of equipment, proper lifting techniques, and the correct use of PPE.



Compliance with OSHA regulations is not just about avoiding fines; it is about fostering a culture of safety that protects the lives of workers and enhances the reputation of masonry contractors in the industry.

To develop a plan that keeps your workers safe and satisfies OSHA requirements, OSHA's website is a great source to read and save regulations important to your work. We also encourage you to visit our free templates and resources to put the required plan into action.

Remembering Paul Odom
December 2025

The masonry industry lost a true titan and a dedicated leader with the passing of Paul Odom. Known for his unwavering commitment to his craft and his community, Paul leaves behind a legacy defined not just by the structures he helped build.

Dan Kamys
Read More
Managing the Modern Jobsite: How MSV Helps Crews Do More with Less in 2026
December 2025

On today’s jobsites, efficiency is becoming as essential as craftsmanship. Crews are working with fewer hands, tighter schedules, and greater pressure to deliver high-quality results without increasing costs. It’s a reality affecting everything from resid

Jeff Tew
Technical Talks
Read More
A Free Resource for Contractors: The Block Design Collective
December 2025

The Concrete Masonry Checkoff has launched the Block Design Collective (BDC), a national resource that provides fast, reliable guidance for anyone designing or building with concrete masonry. For contractors, the benefit is straightforward: better informa

Industry News
Read More
The Hidden Forces That Build America: Arching Action and the Tools We Trust
December 2025

Most people at World of Concrete can identify a CMU block from 50 feet away. Some can even smell Type S mortar curing from across the hall. But mention the phrase “arching action,” and you will see a surprising number of boots shift and eyes drift toward

Shayne Sanders
Technical Talks
Read More