Time was of the essence to replace this critical flood-damaged rail crossing but so, too, was worker safety, especially with severe flood conditions compounding the challenges of meeting an expedited schedule. 

Even amid the demands of rapid mobilization, an intense safety planning effort resulted in no recordable incidents, lost-time injuries or even first-aid calls over more than 5,200 work hours. 

Daily “Take 5” crew meetings provided forums to review task requirements and brainstorm potential safety issues. All personnel were required to wear personal floatation devices near the water, with safety skiffs positioned at each crane barge to respond quickly in the event of a fall. 

In addition to providing safe access from the riverbank to a temporary dock barge, the team constructed handrails and fall protection safeguards around pile casing templates and work areas. A full-time safety professional was also on hand to monitor adherence to safe work practices and to serve as a safety resource when questions arose.

Back to 32 Best Projects 2020 Shine as Best of the Midwest