Brenda Forton

Springtime Construction Safety

Posted on April 1, 2019April 1, 2019 by Brenda Forton

Winter has passed, and Spring has finally sprung! Spring weather is unpredictable to say the very least, bringing with it equally unpredictable safety hazards. You may walk out your door one morning in a heavy winter coat, and return home wearing a t-shirt. The key is being prepared for whatever mother nature has in store.

Spring's fluctuating temperatures and frequent rain showers pose a different set of problems on the job site. Frosty spring mornings can warm up significantly by early afternoon. Dress in layers that can be removed as the day heats up. Drinking plenty of water will help you remain hydrated.

Be prepared for the variants in weather conditions, cold, snow, rain, wind, and sun. Keep a plastic bin with a variety of clothing options and weather-resistant personal protective equipment (PPE) that is in line with OSHA’s PPE standards in your vehicle. Items such as sunscreen, bottled water, and non-perishable snack items would also make a great addition. Dehydration and low blood sugar can lead to dizziness and instability, especially when working at elevated heights.

Slip and fall hazards quickly become a concern when the rising temperatures turn frozen dirt into mud. Be mindful of wet conditions especially when using ladders or working on roofs or scaffolding. Always wear the right PPE for the job. Falls are a leading cause of injury and death in the construction industry. Osha’s most common citations are directly related to fall protection standards.

Consider taking online safety training with courses such as Construction Health and Safety Compliance, Construction Safety and 29 CFR 1926 Stairways and Ladders. Course selections may vary from state to state as well as state required education standards. Company training discounts on state-approved online safety training for your entire crew is available 24/7 at www.licensetobuild.com.

What You Need to Know About PPE

Posted on March 28, 2019April 1, 2019 by Brenda Forton

WHAT IS PPE?

Personal Protection Equipment, often referred to as "PPE" is equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples of PPE include gloves, foot, and eye protection, protective hearing protection (earplugs, muffs), hard hats and respirators.

Eye and Face Protection
Safety glasses or face shields are worn any time work operations can cause foreign objects to get in the eye. For example, during welding, cutting, grinding, nailing (or when working with concrete and/or harmful chemicals or when exposed to flying particles). Wear when exposed to any electrical hazards, including working on energized electrical systems.
Eye and face protectors
Select based on anticipated hazards.
Foot Protection
Construction workers should wear work shoes or boots with slip-resistant and puncture-resistant soles. Safety-toed footwear is worn to prevent crushed toes when working around heavy equipment or falling objects.
Hand Protection
Gloves should fit snugly. Workers should wear the right gloves for the job (examples: heavy-duty rubber gloves for concrete work; welding gloves for welding; insulated gloves and sleeves when exposed to electrical hazards).
Head Protection
Wear hard hats where there is a potential for objects falling from above, bumps to the head from fixed objects, or of accidental head contact with electrical hazards.
Hard hats
Routinely inspect them for dents, cracks or deterioration; replace after a heavy blow or electrical shock; maintain in good condition.
Hearing Protection
Use earplugs/earmuffs in high noise work areas where chainsaws or heavy equipment are used; clean or replace earplugs regularly.

WHO PAYS FOR PPE?

OSHA requires employers to conduct an assessment of their workplace to determine what PPE is required for their employees, such as specialized clothing, headgear or eyewear. The standards generally require employers to pay for mandated PPE, although some exceptions apply.

CAN EMPLOYERS FORCE WORKERS TO PAY FOR PPE?

Most employers purchase essential PPE for employees to use. When necessary employers can request an employee to pay for lost or damaged equipment, but OSHA guidelines prevent them from charging employees for safety and protective gear like gloves and goggles. They cannot force an employee to pay, only request. There is a difference between forcing and requesting. If an employee is not willing to honor the employers' request to pay for lost or damaged PPE, the employer must decide the consequences, including termination of employment.

If an employee accidentally damages or breaks company-owned equipment, he/she cannot be required to pay for its replacement. Accidents happen and whatever damage should be treated as a business expense.

CAN EMPLOYEES BUY THEIR OWN PPE?

Yes, OSHA rules allow employees to purchase their own protective gear, and the employer is not required to reimburse the employee. The employer is still responsible to ensure that all PPE used on the job meets OSHA requirements as well as ensure that it is worn properly. If the employee-owned PPE becomes damaged or the employee no longer wishes to use his own PPE, the employer must provide it.

EDUCATION IS IMPORTANT

The Builders License Training Institute is a division of Certified Training Institute which offers online licensing and renewal training for industries such as Builders, Architects, Engineering, Pesticide, Plumbing, and Real Estate.

What is OSHA and Why is it Necessary?

Posted on March 27, 2019April 1, 2019 by Brenda Forton

Every workplace has its own set of safety issues and the construction industry is definitely no exception. Each year nearly 6,000 workplace fatalities are reported nationally and 50,000 deaths occur from workplace-related illnesses. OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration and was created within the Department of Labor. OSHA is responsible for worker safety and health protection.

The information below is an actual snippet from the Builders License Training Institute's Construction Safety Standards Course.

Is there a need for OSHA?

Each year there are:

Nearly 6,000 workplace fatalities nationally
50,000 deaths from workplace-related illnesses
7 million non-fatal workplace injuries
Injuries alone cost US businesses over $125 billion

Since 1970 OSHA has:

Helped cut the work-related fatality rate in half
Worked with employers and employees to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses by 40%
Virtually eliminated brown lung disease in the textile industry, and
Reduced trenching and excavation fatalities by 35%

What does OSHA do?

Encourages employers and employees to implement new, or improve existing safety and health programs by providing assistance, training and other support programs
Develops mandatory job safety and health standards
Enforces mandatory job safety and health standards
Maintains a reporting and record keeping system to monitor job-related injuries and illnesses

Who is covered by OSHA?

Most private sector employees
Does not cover the self-employed or immediate members of farm families that do not employ outside workers

OSHA develops and enforces standards that employers must follow. Where OSHA does not have standards, employers are responsible for following the OSHA's General Duty Clause. Employers must furnish a place of employment which is free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees.

SUMMARY

OSHA helps save lives and prevent injuries.
OSHA balances a cooperative approach with traditional enforcement.
OSHA standards are the enforceable requirements for worker safety and health.
Inspections are OSHA's way to ensure compliance.
OSHA offers various means of assistance.

Cold Weather Tips For Michigan Builders

Posted on February 20, 2019February 20, 2019 by Brenda Forton

Contractors are generally considered a rough and rowdy bunch, ready to take on challenges and weather conditions that most professions won’t even consider. Michigan Contractors are no exception. They’re used to long cold winters with gray cloudy days and below-freezing temperatures.

If you’re going to stay in business in the “Great White North” you’re going to need to weather the elements from time to time. Here are a few tips to help you and your crew stay safe and warm on the job site.

Keep track of weather forecasts and adjust your schedule and location accordingly. It’s only common sense to have your guys working indoors during an ice storm instead of the roof.
Make sure your workers are wearing proper protective clothing and equipment. You should require everyone to wear the right clothing, heavy socks, insulated boots and shoes with non-slip soles, gloves, hats, heavy jackets etc. to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Companies such as The Warming Store, Milwaukee and DeWalt offer winter gear with heating elements built right into the garment.
Provide a warm break area with proper heating and ventilation. Encourage your crew to fill their thermos with plenty of hot water. Drinking hot/warm water will help to maintain body temperature.
Educate supervisors and crew members on the signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite. They should be able to spot signs and symptoms of Hypothermia and Frostbite and seek medical attention for themselves and/or crew members.

Following these simple suggestions and more will ensure you and your crew will be warm and safe during Michigan’s harshest winter work days.

On days when the weather is too bad to make it to the job site, you and your crew can still be productive. Check out the online courses offered by The Builders License Training Institute. Courses are available online 24/7 to prepare for taking the Michigan Builders License Exam, as well as Michigan required Continuing Education for license renewal. Need your Michigan Salesperson License? There’s an exam prep course for you too! Code Officials and Manufactured Housing Installers can also take advantage of online anytime required renewal courses!

Best of all, YOU decide when and where to take your course. Come and go as you please. Certificates of completion are available to print when the course is complete.

IT’S THAT EASY!

Now Is The Time To Get Your Michigan Builders or M&A License

Posted on February 20, 2019February 20, 2019 by Brenda Forton

The Construction Industry is experiencing an increase in activity. But, the number of workers needed to accommodate this boom in building are in very short supply. Now is the time to get your Michigan Builders License!

Who needs a Michigan Residential Builder and M&A Contractor License?
Anyone doing residential construction work over $600 must hold a license.

What are the steps in obtaining a Michigan Builder or M&A Contractor license?

Step #1: Complete an approved 60 Hour Prelicensure Program online or in a classroom
Step #2: Send a license application, certificates, and $195 to the state
Step #3: Pass the state exam

Where can I take the 60 Hour Prelicensure Program?

The 60 Hour Prelicensure Program is offered both online and in a classroom setting.
Classroom locations include Grand Rapids, Novi, and Troy. Each classroom course is a 6-day super fast-track program. Click HERE for locations and dates.

Online prelicensure courses are available 24/7 and can be taken from any computer or mobile device with internet access. You choose when and where to study! Printable certificates of completion are available at the end of each class.

The Basic 60-Hour Package costs $369, the Code Book 60-Hour Package is $484. There’s also a Dual Book 60-Hour Package for $555.

Each package includes a complete step-by-step guide to getting licensed, comprehensive exam prep program in video with printable text, a construction math course, hundreds of practice questions, a candidate information bulletin and a free social media marketing for construction trades video course! All the tools you need to complete the 60-hour requirements and PASS THAT EXAM!

Do I need to buy books?

There are two books available to purchase individually or included in a money-saving course and book package. The Michigan Residential Code Book 2015 (the most current version) and Carpentry and Building Construction 2016 Edition. Free shipping is included to all 50 states!

The State of Michigan requires all builders and contractors to own the most current copy of the Michigan Residential Code Book including those taking the state exam to become licensed. You can purchase a copy for $145 or save money by purchasing it with as part of a package.

The Carpentry and Building Construction 2016 Edition is a comprehensive carpentry book is recommended as a helpful text in studying for the trades exam. We highly recommend purchasing this book as a helpful study tool to prepare for your exam. You can purchase a copy for $110 or save money by purchasing it with as part of a package.

What can I expect from the State Exam:

The exam is comprised of two main parts:

Part 1 - Business and Law Exam – There are 50 questions on the exam, and you must answer at least 36 of them correctly in order to pass. The minimum passing score is 72%. You are allowed 75 minutes to complete the exam.

Part 2 - Trades Exam – The Trades Exam is different for the Individual Residential Builder and the Maintenance & Alteration licensing:

Residential Builder Trades Exam – There are 100 questions on the Residential Builder exam, and you must answer at least 73 questions correctly in order to pass. The minimum passing score is 73%. You are allowed 150 minutes to complete the exam.
Maintenance & Alteration Trades Exam – A separate trade exam is required for each trade you wish to be licensed in. Each trade exam ranges from 25 to 50 questions. Please click on the link below for the PSI candidate information bulletin.

A candidate information bulletin is included with the 60-Hour prelicensure course which outlines the topics covered on the exam.

Everything you need to study for the state exam is included in your course. Our exam prep programs will ensure you pass the exam the first time. We even offer a 100% money back guarantee with every online exam prep.

What are you waiting for? Get started TODAY!

Now Is The Time To Get Your Michigan Builders CE

Posted on February 20, 2019February 20, 2019 by Brenda Forton

Now is the time to complete your state required continuing education before the springtime calls you out to work. Take advantage of dreary damp post-winter days by using your downtime to complete that state required continuing education online in HD video before the deadline!

Michigan Builders and M&A Contractors licensed less than 6 years must complete 21 hours of state-approved continuing education. Those licensed more than 6 years are required to complete a 3-hour code, law and safety course.

The Builders License Training Institute makes it easy to meet state continuing education requirements at home in your spare time, in your truck or anywhere there’s internet using your tablet or cell phone! Most lessons are only 15-20-minutes long, so it’s easy to stop and start. Plus, there are NO TESTS! You choose when and where to complete them. Once you’ve completed a course, just print the certificate of completion. It’s THAT easy!

Packages are available to meet both the 3-hour and 21-hour requirements, or you may create your own 21-hour program with a vast selection of interesting and informative a-la-carte courses. State approved courses such as Drones in Construction, Building on Budget By Design, Construction Documents For Successful Projects and Getting Decked: And Choosing How That Happens are among the many interesting subjects to choose from.

Code official and Manufactured Homes continuing education is also available. Check them out HERE.

What are you waiting for? Get started NOW!

The Future Looks Bright For Michigan Builders

Posted on February 20, 2019February 20, 2019 by Brenda Forton

The construction industry nationwide is experiencing an increase in activity and a lack of workers necessary to get the job done. Workers are in high demand and companies are struggling to find the help they need to complete upcoming projects. Michigan is no exception.

According to 2019 Construction Economic Forecast released in December of 2018 the “Total of all (U.S. Construction) spending is forecast to increase 6.0% to 1.321 trillion in 2018 and 1.5% to 1.341 trillion in 2019. Spending in 2020 is forecast to reach $1.426 trillion.”

GET YOUR MICHIGAN BUILDERS LICENSE
Take advantage of the upswing in construction by getting a Michigan Builders License in three easy steps

Complete an approved 60 Hour Program
Send a license application, Certificates, and $195 to the state.
Pass the state exam (Our online & classroom 60-hour programs come with free exam prep)

Online & classroom 60-hour courses are available at the Builders License Training Institute. There’s even a money-saving Course and Code Book Package!

MAINTAIN YOUR MICHIGAN BUILDERS LICENSE
Currently licensed Michigan Builders are required to complete continuing education every three years.

Builders and M&A Contractors licensed less than 6 years must complete 21-hours of continuing education.
Builders and M&A Contractors licensed more than 6 years must complete a 3-hour code, law, and safety course.

The Builders License Training Institute will help you meet those requirements with online courses available anytime 24/7 from any computer or mobile device. You choose when and where to complete your courses.

Choose from a 3-hour code-law-safety course, a 21-hour continuing competency package or create your own package with a variety of interesting courses in our a la carte selections designed to meet state license renewal requirements. They’re all online anytime 24/7, fast, easy and convenient!

If you need a copy of the most current codebook, we’ve got that too! We even offer Code Official CE.

Don’t wait, get started on your state required continuing education today! Start HERE

Cold Weather Safety Tips For Minnesota Contractors

Posted on January 28, 2019February 8, 2019 by Brenda Forton

Contractors are generally considered a rough and rowdy bunch, ready to take on challenges and weather conditions that most professions wouldn’t even consider. Minnesota Contractors are no exception. They’re used to long cold winters with gray cloudy days and below-freezing temperatures.

Keep track of weather forecasts and adjust your schedule and location accordingly.
It’s just common sense to have your guys working indoors during an ice storm instead of the roof.
Make sure your workers are wearing the proper protective clothing and equipment.
You should require everyone to wear the right clothing, heavy socks, insulated boots and shoes with non-slip soles, gloves, hats, heavy jackets etc. to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Companies such as The Warming Store, Milwaukee and DeWalt offer winter gear with heating elements built right into the garment.
Provide a warm break area with proper heating and ventilation.
Encourage your crew to fill their thermos with plenty of hot water. Drinking hot/warm water will help to maintain body temperature.
Educate supervisors and crew members on the signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite.
They should all be able to spot signs and symptoms of Hypothermia and Frostbite and know when to seek medical attention for themselves and/or crew members.

Following these simple suggestions and more will ensure that you and your crew will be warm and safe during Minnesota’s harshest winter work days. Of course, on really bad days, you and your crew can stay on top your licensing requirements by getting and/or maintaining your Minnesota Building Contractor License.

Currently licensed Building Contractors are required to complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years by the anniversary of licensure. The Builders License Training Institute will help you meet those requirements with your choice of 3 Complete 14-hour Renewal Packages. Save money with a package or choose any combination of continuing education courses to meet your state license renewal requirements. They’re all online anytime 24/7, fast, easy and convenient! They even offer Code Official CE.

Online courses are available at the Builders License Training Institute. They offer exam prep courses for anyone wanting their Builders and Re-modelers or Roofers License. There’s even a money-saving Builders and Remodelers License Exam Course & Book Package! Get started today!

Minnesota Building Contractors, Do You Know Your Renewal Requirements?

Posted on January 28, 2019January 29, 2019 by Brenda Forton

It is extremely important to keep up with Minnesota's State license renewal requirements. A lapse in licensure could cost you valuable time and money.

Here’s what you need to know.

Currently licensed Building Contractors are required to complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years by the anniversary of licensure. Builders License Training Institute will help you meet those requirements with your choice of 3 Complete 14-hour Renewal Packages. Save money with a package or choose any combination of state-approved continuing education courses for license renewal. They’re mobile friendly, online anytime, fast, easy and convenient!

Are there penalties for violating license law?

The Minnesota Residential Contractor FAQ’s webpage states - A person whose company is required to be licensed and who performs unlicensed work as a residential building contractor or remodeler is guilty of a misdemeanor. In addition, an unlicensed person who knowingly violates the law has no right to claim a lien and the lien is void. Individuals engaging in unlicensed activity, misrepresentation or fraud are subject to administrative and civil penalties.

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry provides documentation of Residential Building Contractor Enforcement Actions. There are more than 30 pages of contractor consent orders and other enforcement actions dated January 1- through December 21, 2018. Many of which were cited for working without a license and fined thousands of dollars.

Don’t let your license lapse! Check out the Builders License Training Institute and prepare for your license renewal requirements today. You’ll be glad you did!

What Does it Take to Become a Minnesota Building Contractor?

Posted on January 28, 2019January 29, 2019 by Brenda Forton

Who needs a Minnesota Residential Building and Remodelers or Roofers license?

All building contractors and remodelers who contract with a homeowner to construct or improve dwellings by offering more than one special skill must be licensed. Owners working on their own property must also be licensed if they build or remodel for the sole purpose of speculation or resale.

What are the steps in obtaining a Minnesota Builders or Remodelers license?

Step #1: Pass both parts (Business/Law and Trades) of the Minnesota Contractor, Remodeler or Roofers License This is a 110-question test that includes Business and Trades questions.
Step #2: Apply to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for a license.
Step #3: Get the proper insurance.

About the State Exam:

The exam consists of 110 multiple choice questions; 60 questions on construction and 50 questions on business/law. You must get at least 77 answers correct. Applicants are given four hours in which to complete the exam. This exam is divided into two sections; the first deals primarily with construction-related matters and the second covers issues relating to running a construction business. A copy of the State Building Code will be provided for reference during the exam.

When will I find out if I’ve passed the State Exam?

You will be given the results (pass/fail) approximately two weeks after you have taken the State Exam. NOTE: If you receive a failure notice, you must wait 30 days to reschedule. This thirty-day timeline begins from the date you received notification.

This is the reason you should use a pre-license exam prep course! The Builders License Training Institute offers a 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE! Pass the exam on your first try! Don’t waste time and money, use a proven exam prep course. Take your time, study, study, study and take your exam with confidence.

Be your own boss in a time where your career choice is in high demand. Don’t waste time and money, use a proven exam prep course, pass that exam get started on your future career as a Minnesota Contractor, Remodeler or Roofer today!