Job site safety is the most critical issue in our trade and our Union.  The Cement Masons are leading the way in efforts to reduce both injuries to workers and costs to employers. 

Here's what we are doing:

The Western Washington Cement Masons Apprenticeship is working with the Washington Safety and Health Training Institute (WASHTI), Washington State L & I and the Division of Safety and Health, and several leading contractors to develop new safety training modules and procedures to reduce the most common types of job-related injuries.  

This joint initiative is underway, using statistical analysis to identify the most common types of injuries to cement masons, studying the causes of those injuries and developing training programs to significantly reduce the number, severity and cost of the injuries.

Here's what you can do:

• STAY EDUCATED about the latest safe and ergonomic work practices - Attend tool box meetings and safety training classes, read training brochures, and look at the websites below for more information
• ALWAYS practice safe work habits
• Keep yourself in good physical condition
• Get medical attention when necessary and alert your doctor when you have been exposed to hazardous materials such as silica, Portland cement, etc.

 Additional resources

 L & I Safety Information

The Electronic Library of Construction Occupation Safety

Center for the Protection of Workers' Rights