FAQ

Question: What is eLCOSH?

eLCOSH is an electronic library of occupational health and safety information related to the construction industry.  The information included ranges from toolbox talks and training materials to government requirements, articles, and research reports. Materials are available in a number of formats (documents, images, videos, podcasts and presentations). The library includes both archival information and new information that is updated frequently.

Question: How is it organized?

Each item in the library is tagged to one or more hazards, trades and jobsites to help users quickly access information. Each item is also tagged to a type of media (such as image or video) or a type of document (such as research report or handout). This organization allows a user to browse through items in one or more category, in addition to the more standard key word search.

Question: How can I find information?

You can find information through a keyword search or by browsing through one or more of the following categories: hazard, trade, jobsite, type of media (such as image or video) or type of document (such as research report or handout). In each category, you can select a subcategory. For example, if you want to browse by trade, you can limit your search to information related to bricklayers. Once you make an initial selection, you can then filter the results with the additional categories to find, for example, information on silica as it relates to bricklayers.  You can further filter by media or type of document, such as a toolbox talks on silica appropriate for bricklayers. Most search results also include a "More like this" section to help you find other items similar to the one that you are looking at currently.  In addition, there is a link to CPWR’s Construction Solutions website.  In some cases, this link will take you directly to a solution for the hazard that you are researching.

Question: Can I download and use images and presentations that I find in eLCOSH?

You can download and use materials found on eLCOSH, however, CPWR requests that the user give it appropriate acknowledgement. In addition, when using the website, you may encounter documents, illustrations, photographs or other information sources contributed or licensed by private individuals, companies or organizations that are protected by U.S. and foreign copyright laws. The copyrights for these third-party materials must be respected. Transmission or reproduction of protected items beyond that allowed by fair use as defined in the copyright laws requires the written permission of the copyright owners.

Question: Can I submit an item for inclusion in eLCOSH?

Your suggestions and comments are welcome.  Click on the "Contact" link on the bottom of the screen to submit a question or suggest an item for inclusion in eLCOSH.  Please note, all items posted on eLCOSH are subject to an internal review and approval process.

Question: What are employers’ responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act

OSHA requires employers to provide a safe work place.  There are a number of steps that employers must take ranging from providing safe tools, to maintaining appropriate paper work, and establishing proper reporting procedures.  The following link provides details about the employers’ responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act: http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/employer-responsibility.html .