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When a worker dies from falling off a roof, being struck by lightning, or becoming caught in machinery, the cause is relatively easy to determine. But when buildings or machinery such as cranes collapse, it's more difficult to determine the cause of the incident. That's where OSHA's structural engineers come into the picture.
Since 1989, OSHA's small team of structural engineers has investigated more than 100 structural collapses during construction involving worker fatalities and/or injuries. The current staff of four engineers is often engaged on multiple investigations or training to help employers, workers, construction engineers, project managers, and regulatory bodies identify problems in construction and design to help prevent future incidents, fatalities, and serious injuries.
An article in Structure Magazine by Mohammad Ayub, Director of the Office of Engineering Services for OSHA, offers valuable insights into the office's first two decades, including preventative measures that structural engineers can take to prevent collapses and save lives.
