The Seawall Project is replacing the city’s aging seawall along the central waterfront, which is a large and complex undertaking. On any given day, large trucks and equipment are continuously entering and exiting the work zone, and lifting, pushing and moving materials and supplies. With the constant action on the site, maintaining a safe working environment for both the project team and the general public is one of our highest priorities.
Starting the day off right
Each morning before the work shift begins, the construction team gathers for a daily ritual: the “stretch n’ bend.” The morning get-together serves as the team’s regular meeting to get limber, outline the day’s objectives, and ensure everyone is wearing the correct personal protection equipment (PPE).
Workers stretch and prepare for a day of seawall construction.
What is PPE?
Each day, about 100 workers enter the half mile long site through multiple gates, and each individual must be wearing the required personal protection equipment. PPE includes a hard hat, gloves, eye protection, ear protection, vest and hard-soled shoes. Ths equipment ensures that everyone on site is easy to see and protected from the elements. Flaggers at each gate inspect people as they enter, and ensure that they meet safety requirements. Because the seawall is located next to Elliott Bay, the project’s proximity to water sometimes requires that workers wear personal flotation devices or harnesses.
Work Crew wearing personal flotation devices and other PPE while performing in-water work.
Safety training is also part of the goal of maintaining a safe working environment. Each person that works on the project must complete a site safety training course and receive and display a sticker on their hard hat indicating they are approved to be inside the construction zone.
Learn more!
For more information about seawall construction, visit the Seawall Project website. If you have questions, email (seawall@waterfrontseattle.org) or call the 24-hour hotline 206-618-8584.