Research

Training and Awareness Programs from Research

CPWR offers free training and awareness programs developed through our research projects that address leadership, selected hazards facing construction workers, and other topics. These research-initiated programs are in addition our free management resources and the work of our Training Program.  

Best Built Plans:  Comprehensive Ergonomics Training Program for Workers and Contractors – Construction workers are at high risk for developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, such as strains, sprains, carpal tunnel, and back injuries, due to the physically demanding nature of their work.  In addition to planning and on-the job training resources, the Best Built Plans program includes a comprehensive ergonomics training program with modules for workers and contractors. The worker training module raises awareness of soft tissue injuries and ways to prevent them, including safe lifting practices and proper body mechanics, through classroom and hands-on components. This part of the program includes an instructor guide, presentation, and handouts. The contractor training module is a recorded presentation that discusses the health risks, ways to mitigate the risk, and includes specific information that a contractor needs to create their own ergonomics program to reduce soft tissue injuries among the workers they employ. Elements of the Best Built Plans program are available in English and Spanish.

Foundations for Safety Leadership — The FSL training program is an OSHA-approved 30-hour elective module designed to provide construction foremen and other lead workers with the skills to become effective safety leaders. It can also be used as a stand-alone training program. Its resources include an instructor guide, student handouts, videos, and train-the-trainer resources.  

Head Protection: Preventing Head Injuries – This 15-minute recorded presentation addresses why head protection is important, what construction employers and their employees need to consider when selecting head protection, and safe practices for using head protection. 

Construction Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention Training Program — Three out of four construction workers are overexposed to noise on a job site. This comprehensive program includes modules and exercises that can be used on their own or as part of OSHA training programs.  There are 1-hour and 30-minute modules and in-class and hands-on refresher exercises. Each part of the program has an instructor guide, presentation, and related handouts. The program is available in English and Spanish.

Opioids Awareness Training Program — Construction has been hit particularly hard by opioids — state-level studies have found that construction workers are six to seven times more likely to die of an opioid overdose than workers in other professions. CPWR is playing a leading role in helping our industry respond through a range of resources, including an awareness training program. It was updated in August 2020 after extensive field testing.  A second module will be added later this year.

Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation Awareness Program for the Construction Industry — Workers who perform tasks on rooftops, sides of buildings, news gathering trucks, and other structures where cellular antennas and RF-generating devices are present may be at risk of exposure to hazardous levels of RF radiation.  This program was developed to raise construction contractors’ and workers’ awareness of the potential risk, how to identify the hazard, and steps to work safely.  It includes a comprehensive guide, presentation and video, as well as the following items in English and Spanish – a Hazard Alert Card,  Toolbox Talk, and infographic.  

Safety Voice for Ergonomics (SAVE) – This program was developed for apprentices in the brick and block segment of the masonry industry to teach them problem-solving skills and ergonomics, including how and when to speak up and who to go to with a safety concern.  SAVE’s materials include an instructor’s manual and a series of videos. Elements of the program can be adapted for other trades or target audiences.