On April 9, KBS joined with the Associated General Contractors of America and contractors across the U.S. for a national safety stand down dedicated to educating employees on preventing the spread of COVID-19.
During the event, KBS halted work for at least 10 minutes on more than 30 construction sites across Virginia to educate workers on what they should do to keep themselves safe from Coronavirus and to help flatten the curve for everyone. During these meetings, our superintendents reviewed the health and safety directives with groups of 10 or less workers while practicing social distancing, standing at least six feet apart from one another.
The Coronavirus safety precautions discussed included maintaining a distance of no less than six feet with others at all times, cleaning and sanitizing frequently used tools, equipment, and frequently touched surfaces on a regular basis and ensuring the proper sanitation of common surfaces and equipment.
“One of the defining characteristics of the commercial construction industry, is the unwavering commitment to the safety and health of every construction worker,” said Stephen Sandherr, Associated General Contractors of America president and CEO. “Given the current COVID-19 pandemic workers and the American public are relying on us to continue that commitment to safety.”
“There is no margin for error when it comes to protecting our workforce and the public from the spread of the Coronavirus,” said Mark Lambert, KBS Safety Director. “Stand downs provide an opportunity for us to make sure that everyone working on KBS jobsites understands and follows all relevant safety guidelines provided by public health and safety officials.”
KBS has developed a comprehensive Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Plan outlining the steps every employee should take to reduce the risk of exposure to and transmission of COVID-19. It describes how to prevent worker exposure to the virus, protective measures to be taken on the job site, personal protective equipment and work practice controls to be used, cleaning and disinfecting procedures and what to do if a worker becomes sick. Additionally, quick-reference Covid-19 prevention signs — in English and Spanish — have been placed at all construction sites.
