Monthly Archives: August 2016

  • August 9, 2016
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work safety assured builders winnipeg

Safety Precautions While Working in Summer Heat

Category : blog

Extreme summer temperatures can cause reactions ranging from discomfort to serious illness in most people. For workers who are exposed to the heat over the course of a work day, taking safety measures is an important part of staying healthy and comfortable.

High daytime temperatures can make it challenging to work outdoors or in buildings without air conditioning. Here are some ways to increase comfort during periods of peak temperature:

• Wear clothing that is lightweight, light-coloured and loose-fitting.
• Use fans indoors.
• Take rest breaks and drink cool beverages.
• Focus on lighter activities whenever possible and leave physically demanding tasks for cooler periods.

More serious situations can lead to heat stress, a condition in which the body is unable to control its internal temperature. The following symptoms can result:

• Heat illness – headaches, dizziness, upset stomach and vomiting.
• Heat exhaustion – fatigue, weakness, moist skin, rapid and weak pulse.
• Heat stroke – hot dry skin, a rapid, strong pulse, mental confusion, unconsciousness, seizures and convulsions.

Take these steps to prevent heat stress:

• Monitor yourself and your co-workers.
• Take breaks and remember to drink when you’re thirsty.
• Work in the shade, away from heat sources.
• Build up tolerance to high temperatures.

Follow these measures to treat someone who is experiencing heat stress:

• Move the person to a cool, shaded area.
• Loosen or remove heavy clothing.
• Provide cool drinking water.
• Call 911 immediately.
  • August 4, 2016
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Top 10 Roof Maintenance Tips

Category : blog

When well maintained a shingle roof can last for up to 30 years, protecting your home, your family and your belongings. If you have a slate or tile roof, it can last a life time. Replacing a roof can be expensive but with regular maintenance and repairs when needed, you’ll be sure to get a long and happy life from your roof.

  1. Inspect your roof on a regular basis. In late fall look for leaves and other debris on the roof and in the gutters and in early spring check for damage caused by ice damming. It’s also a good idea to inspect the roof after any storms with heavy winds.
  2. Clean the gutters. Clean the gutters and downspouts in the late fall after the trees have shed their leaves. Check for breaks or gaps in the seams and make certain that the brackets holding the gutters against the house are securely attached.
  3. Check the flashing. Flashing is a prime target for leaks simply because it’s covering a hole in the roof. Check the flashing around vents, exhaust pipes and chimneys. Make certain it isn’t bent or punctured and that the sealant isn’t dried out or loose.
  4. Remove overhanging tree limbs. Trees that are growing too close to the house can be a hazard to your roof. There’s not only the risk of broken limbs falling on the roof but if they overhang or rest on the shingles, they can abrade the protective stone coating over time.
  5. Look for animal damage. Squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons and birds will all make themselves at home on and under your roof if given the chance. If areas of the roof have been weakened by rot, it will provide an easy access to all sorts of small critters. They will only compound the existing damage, which could mean some pretty expensive repairs.
  6. Check for signs of insects. If you live in an area that is prone to termites or carpenter ants you’ll need to keep an eye on the roof for signs of activity. Soft rotten spots, shredded wood or sawdust and insect feces are all signs of an infestation.
  7. Walk around the house. By walking around the house from time to time, especially after any significant winds, you can check for pieces of broken shingles on the ground. Dry, brittle shingles can break easily and if you find bits and pieces on the ground it’s important to have a closer look at the roof.
  8. Inspect the attic. The underside of the roof is where you’re most likely to spot leaks before they become too serious. Look in unfinished areas of the attic for streaks or staining. Look for signs where water may have trickled in around the chimney and vents. Also look for soft spots in the wood as well as indications of animals or insects.
  9. Avoid walking on the roof. You can easily damage a roof by walking on it. No matter what material your roof is made of, it can be fragile. Asphalt shingles, slate or clay tiles can all crack or come loose from being stepped on.
  10. Schedule a professional inspection. Contact Assured Builders, Winnipeg at 204-254-3726 and  set up a schedule for  inspections.