How safe is the construction work on campus? To find out, the Daily Lobo asked Lynn Meiers, a construction superintendent who has been in the business for 45 years.
Daily Lobo: Do you find it difficult to work with so many students running around all day?
Lynn Meiers: I'm responsible for everything. Every day we get here to this zone, and it's 20,000 participants in a contest all want to win. People jump in front of moving equipment and moving vehicles sometimes with no common sense and no awareness of the construction. Within the confines, people are safe. I make sure I don't inadvertently put people in harm's way while they're passing by. The things people do amaze me, and it's not restricted to just students either.
DL: Why is safety so important in construction projects?
LM: This job can be very dangerous. I'm the safety officer, so I make sure standards are met. There are OSHA guidelines as to what to look for and what to do in order to maintain a safe work area.
DL: What is required for adequate safety?
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
LM: Hard hats and personal protective equipment is the first source for everyone. Situational awareness, being aware of your surroundings - what's going on around you - and making sure that you don't put yourself in harm's way. A lot of the hazards here are quite obvious, and you need to know what's going on around you and above you.
DL: How do you enforce these measures?
LM: We have weekly safety meetings, and I keep an eye on everyone as far as safety.
We go over day-to-day operations and different topics such as ladder safety, fall protection, electrical shock and slips and falls.
DL: What are some common injuries you see?
LM: Minor cuts mainly, so we clean and bandage them depending on severity. Each injury, no matter how minor, needs to be taken seriously because it can result in infection.
DL: How are people disciplined if they don't follow safety guidelines?
LM: In that case the person is removed for the safety of themselves and the safety of others. One stupid move can hurt someone, and I won't allow them to hurt themselves or anyone else. I have seen some serious accidents but none at this site. I'm not here to make friends; I'm here to get the job done and make sure everyone goes home with all their parts and pieces.
