Humans have succeeded in controlling many aspects of their world, steadily moving toward a solid dominion over the land. But they also must learn to work with their environment, and accept that certain natural phenomena cannot be predicted or controlled.

People have to work with nature when building structures if they want them to last, even when they use materials that are capable of easy manipulation to construct homes and other outdoor workspaces. The most durable materials are most often used by carpenters—they know what they are doing, after all.

But the reasons for using these materials are not always well known or understood, and when you craft a structure of your own, it is important to grasp the merits of each, in order to utilize the material that best suits your purpose.

Here’s a list of five commonly used building materials and their relative merits, which are summarized and qualified below.

1. Wood

In terms of its functionality, wood is the ultimate material for building. Easy to manipulate, with a beautiful natural finish, wood is the go-to for most carpenters, particularly when constructing smaller structures like a shed.

Wood is lightweight and attractive, relatively inexpensive, and perfect for small jobs. A few disadvantages include rot and susceptibility to termite damage, as well as fire.

2. Brick

Though not often used in small building construction due to the painstaking process involved in laying brick, clay-based blocks offer many terrific advantages. When treated with high heat, they are water- and fire-resistant, and incredibly long lasting. Many ancient buildings made of brick still stand strong today.

In terms of cost, the labor is high, and you have to consider the expense of mortar and of treated brick when looking at a small construction project.

3. Stone

Stone has been used for homes and large buildings throughout the centuries. It can be stacked without mortar, is naturally occurring, and requires only blasting and placing to create structures that last hundreds, and even hundreds of thousands, of years.

Many stone structures built before the era of Jesus are still standing, having withstood the battering of natural elements for millennia.

Stone does require blasting, in many situations, in order to break it down into stackable chunks. If you’re constructing a small wall, though it may be a challenging and laborious process, no material will serve you better.

4. Concrete

The last two materials tend to be used more for commercial construction projects, because they are expensive and require heavy machinery in order to manage them into functional shapes. Concrete is long-lasting and heavy, and it’s used primarily for foundations and sidewalks because it wears well and can support immense weight.

It also is weather-resistant, in that it keeps the heat out more effectively than almost any other material. Thus, it is often favored in hot climates. Concrete is also popular for modern commercial architecture, because of its clean aesthetic.

5. Steel

Steel is incredibly heavy. Like concrete, it is used primarily as a support structure for large projects of architectural complexity and strength. Skyscrapers are typically made of steel and concrete, with a glass exterior. The steel is relatively flexible, yet it provides a powerful skeleton of support beams.

Difficult to manipulate without heavy machinery, steel is also expensive, but it is incredibly useful for large construction projects. Many modern buildings would not exist without underlying steel support structure.

If you are looking to build your own shed, your best bet is most likely going to be wood or brick, because they are inexpensive and hearty. When building, be sure to consider function as well as the natural environment around your structure. Working with nature ensures longevity more than any hard facts about the durability of the material.

There are many benefits to outdoor sheds. They make great workspaces, and they provide room for all types of storage. But when it comes to colder climates, proper insulation is necessary to protect those temperature-sensitive items and keep a shed workspace warm.

Due to the versatility and ease of installation, there are many inexpensive options for insulating an outdoor shed. The following is a list of six economical and effective ways to insulate any shed or workspace. These techniques will not only keep your shed and its inhabitants warm during the cold winter months, they’ll also keep the interior cool during the most searing summer.

1. Fiberglass

This is the standard for any and all insulation needs. It comes in many different thicknesses, or R-values, which directly relate to temperature ratings. And although fiberglass insulation can be on the expensive side depending on its thickness, there are ways to keep the price down.

Sheds and workspaces tend to be small in size, so it doesn’t take as much to insulate them. Instead of buying the expensive fiberglass insulation rolls with higher R-values, opt for the cheaper, lower-rated kind. Since it’s intended to cover a smaller area, it can easily be doubled up, which increases its effectiveness without increasing the price.

2. Styrofoam

A great and cheap alternative to fiberglass is Styrofoam. Most Styrofoam insulation comes in two forms: sheet and block. Styrofoam sheet insulation tends to be on the cheaper side and usually covers a larger area. It’s easy to cut and, depending on thickness, can be very effective. If the shed in question doen’t have to stand up to the most extreme climates, half-inch Styrofoam sheet is the best way to go.

3. Spray foam

Spray foam insulation is one of the easiest DIY options for an outdoor shed or workspace. It’s important to remember that with spray foam, a little goes a long way. Once it reaches full expansion, spray foam can grow up to ten times its initial size.

This makes the use of it not only effective, but also inexpensive. It adheres to whatever surface you apply it to, and spray insulation will also expand into any crack and opening, virtually eliminating drafts.

4. Foil bubble wrap

Because it’s essentially pocketed air, bubble-wrap insulation is one of the most effective forms of insulation available. Most bubble-wrap insulation comes sandwiched between two layers of aluminum foil, which gives it an added benefit in terms of heat transfer.

Bubble-wrap insulation is extremely lightweight, easy to install, and doesn’t absorb moisture, which eliminates any mildew or mold concerns. And, as with everything else on this list, it’s affordable.

5. Cardboard

It may not be an obvious choice, but corrugated cardboard doesn’t just make a great box—it can serve as excellent insulation too! Cardboard can be used in sheet form or it can be shredded and backfilled behind wall panels.

Not only that, it’s one of the cheaper outdoor shed insulation options. When used in sheets, it’s important to sandwich many pieces together to create multiple layers, which increases its effectiveness.

6. Hay

Hay isn’t just for horses anymore. Although this may seem a bit odd, it has been used to insulate structures for centuries. Many desert adobe style homes use hay in their construction due to its natural ability to keep the heat in and the cold out. The reverse is true, as well, for hot days. Hay is quite inexpensive and a great option for any outdoor shed or workspace.

So when it comes to keeping the climate controlled in that shed, all the above options are economical and effective—no matter how strange they may seem. Just remember that in order to get the full benefit out of insulation, the walls, roof, and floor of the workspace all need to be insulated.

On-site injuries and emergencies require prompt attention, or they may escalate to life-threatening situations. Many employers have emergency kits to respond to injuries that may occur in the work environment.

Whether staff members work in outdoor sheds or inside office spaces, they should always have access to medical essentials. These supplies can be used for minor incidents during a shift, such as a small cut or abrasion, or during major emergencies.

Consider the following five steps to build a safe and effective kit.

1. Safety protocols and training

Depending on the workplace, employees may have access to complex pieces of safety equipment. Public, high-traffic areas like subway stations and airports typically have defibrillators for resuscitation, CPR kits, or allergy medications for quick emergency response. Specialized equipment like this requires special protocols and training that a company must provide for staff.

During training for workplace emergencies, make sure to go over emergency kit locations and exit strategies. Thorough training can minimize damage during natural disasters or accidents. Staff members should be familiar with the inventory of a safety kit, so they know how to respond in the event of an injury. Management should have routine protocols to inspect kits, discard damaged items, and refresh the kit with new supplies.

2. The tools should fit the environment

The contents of a safety kit can vary if a workplace contains specific hazards. Environments where employees may be exposed to chemicals should emphasize eyewash, neutralizers, and safety spill kits. Some companies will even hire designated safety officers to poll employees, identify specific risks, and build an appropriate safety kit.

Another example of environment-influenced kits might include a job that involves exposure to tools that generate high heat, such as soldering irons or kitchen stoves and grills. The safety kits in these areas should emphasize burn treatment, fire blankets, and salves.

3. Clearly label items

Injuries can become more serious if the incorrect supplies are administered. Employers should make sure that all medications and supplies are clearly marked with ingredients, contents, and expiration dates. Expired supplies should be considered unusable and replaced.

Regular safety kit maintenance can go a long way toward preventing further injury. Make sure that employees are trained to examine any medication thoroughly before taking pills or applying ointments, because victims can be allergic to different substances. Any items that are unmarked or have unknown contents should be discarded to avoid confusion or potential accidents.

4. Protect those who come to aid

When a work emergency happens, staff members will usually rush to provide aid. All emergency kits should contain medical-grade gloves to protect people from blood-borne pathogens and other contaminants. Some staff teams may have people certified in performing CPR. Consider including a CPR mouth valve to prevent fluid exchange during an emergency.

If employees do not have medical training, they should refrain from providing assistance and wait for emergency services to respond. Investing in employee protection can prevent the transmission of disease, infection, or hazardous bacteria.

5. Check local guidelines

Businesses interested in building effective safety kits should work with their local and federal government requirements, to make sure they are providing employees with the appropriate resources. Medical companies often need to adhere to OSHA guidelines, which are created to protect both patients and staff teams.

Many government websites have free resources for employers to learn about their local health regulations and requirements. Strategies for safety maintenance, preventive vaccines, and workers’ compensation are just a few of the topics government programs help with.

Health and safety regulations can also depend on what industry a business operates in. Make sure to check in regularly to make sure local guidelines and requirements are being met while you build a workplace safety kit.

You don’t have to live in Tornado Alley to be at potential risk for heavy winds. And most of the biggest floods occur outside of high-risk flood zones.

When it comes to protecting workers, precautions have to be taken. It’s important to have proper insurance coverage in case of any kind of natural disaster. Otherwise, both employees and the business are at risk. Before beginning a new project, make sure you factor in the following four major natural disasters.

1. Flooding

Floods don’t just result from heavy rainfall, though that’s always a possibility. Improperly graded soil, melting snow, and burst pipes can also cause flooding on a work site. This is especially true if the site involves a dig near water pipes or septic tanks.

Flooding usually isn’t covered under “regular” insurance and requires a separate fee. It’s also important to note that only high-risk flood zones designated by FEMA are required to have flood insurance.

To protect the site and employees, you should always have flood insurance. Often, hurricanes or simple heavy rainfall will hit with little prior notice. Water damage easily destroys equipment, which, if damaged by a flood, won’t be covered under other insurance.

2. Earthquakes

There are many fault lines in the US that haven’t been heavily active—yet. However, in some areas (especially on the West Coast) scientists say it’s nearly guaranteed that a “big one” will strike within the next 50 years.

Most people don’t have earthquake insurance unless they live and work in a region where earthquakes are active. This can be a huge mistake for a business owner. Earthquake insurance is another option that’s important to have. You get next to zero warning, so it’s best to be prepared.

A worksite can be especially dangerous, with workers on scaffolding, perched on half-completed buildings and surrounded by heavy equipment.

3. Tornadoes and heavy winds

While only some regions regularly see tornadoes, any part of the country can experience heavy winds. Employers should be prepared for wind storms and tornadoes at all times. For businesses located in tornado country, sturdy outdoor sheds or underground areas are a good idea. This is especially true if the worksite is far from the nearest shelter.

Even outside of tornado country, it’s wise to protect workers from heavy winds, hurricanes, and general inclement weather. Sometimes it’s necessary to ride out the storm since it would be even more dangerous to drive home. Make sure that workers have access to clean, safe, and dry spaces at all times.

4. Blizzards

In snowy regions, it can be difficult to gauge when the weather turns from a gentle snowfall to a blizzard. Under extreme conditions, workers may not be able to drive home safely. Never risk the lives of employees; instead, make sure there’s a warm and dry place to stay in case a heavy storm hits. Blizzards are especially dangerous because they can bury equipment that someone might run into while driving. Avoid these kinds of accidents by having on-site shelters available.

There’s no telling when Mother Nature will throw a tantrum, so preparation is key. Natural disasters often happen with little or no warning, even during summer days that start out calm and sunny. As an employer, it’s key to put precautions in place throughout the year to protect the workers. Work sites are naturally dangerous to a degree, but it’s possible to lower the risks with a little preventive maintenance.

In the long run, employees who feel safe are happier and more productive. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved. While nasty weather can creep up on anyone, it’s still prudent to check the announced weather conditions daily and prepare for the worst. If the weather reports are iffy, consider sending workers home early.

Miners work in some of the most dangerous, harsh and remote conditions on the planet. Protecting them is a science unto itself. Here are six ways to keep miners safe.

1. Proximity detection

There’s nothing that’s safe about a mine, but some places within a mine are more dangerous than others. Proximity detection technology can alert a miner about an area with weak roofing or an unstable floor. The alert can be transmitted to others as well.

In the event that a miner is not quick enough to extricate him- or herself from a dangerous area, the alert will serve to inform rescue teams where, precisely, the miner is trapped. Future developments might lead to more information than simply location. The status of the miner’s health, for example, could give rescuers vital information on resources they can pass along while the extraction operation is underway.

Real-time communication could be used to help the miner do what he or she can to leave the danger zone, as opposed to communication methods that suffer from time delays.

2. Safety procedures

Technology can save lives, but it won’t do much good if miners become sloppy about basic safety practices. Signing in and out to account for their whereabouts, ensuring that oxygen masks and respirators are working properly, and checking to see that flashlights are functional and clothing is intact are one thing; being diligent with these practices could well mean the difference between life and death.

Safety routines do not change depending on a miner’s age, experience, or job function. Management should constantly stress the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, and reiterate the dangers if miners get lax and do not comply with protection protocols.

3. Fines

Maintaining a spotless safety record is the responsibility of mining companies. Penalizing mining companies when their employees die should be the responsibility of government. Accidents inevitably happen, whether through human error, technological malfunctions, or natural disasters, but if an investigation shows that a mining company had some culpability in the loss of life, then fines and other penalties should compel it to address whatever problems it has with ensuring the safety of workers.

4. Inspections

Fining a company after an accident is too late to prevent death or injury, so a governmental oversight body should thoroughly inspect mines—proactively and randomly. This will shed light on the condition of the mine and equipment, and the company’s safety policies and procedures, before something goes wrong.

Warnings can be given for first-time or small offenses, but it may be more effective to impose fines regardless of circumstance, to reinforce the utter importance of the company doing everything it can to keep workers safe.

5. Gas detectors

Gas detectors can play the role of the modern-day canary, warning miners when they are in danger of exposure to toxic gases. Alerts can be transmitted to all members of a mining team, and improvements on the technology will let them know of the presence of dangerous gases before they venture too far.

6. Good record-keeping

In 1968, 78 miners died in what became known as the Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster in West Virginia. Combustible coal dust caused the fatal explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine.

Legislation introduced this year requires mine management and operators to keep records and logs of purchases of rock dust. This should enable the Mine Safety & Health Administration to ascertain that mine operators are doing what they can to ensure that explosive coal dust has not accumulated in their mines.

Mining is a tough occupation. Depending on the material being mind, the miners face harsh and dangerous conditions as well as an array of health risks. Many worksites are remote and located in areas that have little or no infrastructure.

Such being the case, it is important to provide these worksites with a little of the community and comforts found in more conventional work settings. Here are five things every mining site should have to keep morale, health, and safety at top priority.

1. Medical response capabilities

The ability to respond quickly and effectively to urgent medical incidents is perhaps one of the most important elements of every mining worksite. Although these responses typically focus on emergencies and evacuation management, it can be beneficial to have staff or a facility on hand to tend to the more routine health needs of mine workers, aside from catastrophic events. On-site medical support can enhance the mental and physical well-being of employees, especially if the mine is in a remote location.

This level of medical presence may pose a logistical and financial commitment that isn’t possible. At the very least, it is essential to have first-aid kits and staff trained to address workplace injuries that may occur.

2. Work and supply sheds

Like first-aid kits, these should be a no-brainer. Having on-site work sheds is essential for housing smaller equipment along with other supplies that may need to be kept in storage. Remote locations often involve extra supply logistics that may complicate the job of keeping the worksite stocked and provisioned.
Outdoor work sheds that can withstand extreme weather and working conditions will keep smaller equipment safe and functioning properly. If a mining site is located where wild animals are common, work sheds also provide a place to secure food and water supplies that may attract unwanted company. Sheds can be used as work spaces, sturdy offices, and even break or recreation rooms for mining teams.
3. Fitness facilities
Providing areas and equipment for exercise will be important for worksites that are located far from any town or city. Having a place to work out will encourage workers to stay fit and promote a physically healthy lifestyle. It may also be difficult to attract skilled workers to a site located in rough living conditions. Offering facilities that furnish some of the comforts of home can give a mining company a competitive edge.
4. Leisure space

Again, not all sites will have the resources or the need for a total mining camp that creates a make-shift community. However, even if a mining site is located near a town or in a region that doesn’t present particularly harsh living or working conditions, it is important to create the time and space for a break from the grueling work that miners endure. Supplying space or zones for workers to relax allows for much-needed refresher rest and helps prevent boredom at remote locations.

5. Good food

Few things are as comforting as good, solid meals, especially when you’re a long way from home or endure a taxing work day. If a mining site isn’t isolated, access to specialty food trucks or catering for hearty meals will offer respite from the everyday fare. If working conditions make this not feasible, on-site kitchens can be a way to support miner nutrition. It is important for workers to get adequate fuel for the arduous demands of mine-working. Well-fed bodies stay sharp, focused, productive, and safe.

Mines must have the tools essential to ensure worker safety and health, and the facilities to accommodate basic work equipment and supplies. Recruiting and maintaining skilled staff for mines can be a difficult task, since the work is demanding and conditions are tough.

Features at a mining worksite such as areas for leisure and fitness, and good food and facilities to improve the lifestyle of miners, are more likely to attract the skilled workers necessary to the success of a mine.

There are many potential benefits to installing plumbing in a work shed. Running water is convenient in any workspace environment and can add value to the shed. When done correctly, general plumbing can be a fairly easy process, depending on the installation location inside the shed and the purpose of the plumbing.

The following tips should help you with any work-shed plumbing installation in terms of pipe placement difficulty and other outside factors. Just keep in mind that if any of these tips seem beyond the common shed owner’s capability, a professional plumber may be necessary to complete the work.

1. Zoning

The first thing you need to do when installing plumbing in a shed workspace is to research the local zoning laws. There are many issues that come into play with plumbing and outdoor structures. The main one is the fact that once a shed contains plumbing, it’s officially considered a habitable space and therefore has to meet certain building codes.

A common building code that will definitely come into play is the depth at which the main plumbing line that runs from the house to the workspace is buried. Depending on regional location, there may be certain depths required in order to clear the ground frost line. Also, the type of pipe used is important with regard to water pressure (PSI). The best thing you can do when facing compliance issues with zoning laws is to hire a knowledgeable general contractor.

2. Insulation

As stated above, if the workspace lies in colder climates, or the annual local temperatures occasionally drop below freezing, proper pipe insulation is required. We’ve already covered pipe depth outside the shed, but what about the pipes inside? If these aren’t insulated, the chance of bursting a pipe in cold weather is a major possibility.

If the shed is well insulated, the plumbing on the interior side of the insulation is more than likely going to be fine. But the exposed pipes that run out of the ground and into the shed need to be covered in thick foam pipe-insulating tape. And even then, the best tactic would be to install a water-shutoff valve where the shed plumbing line connects to the house. That way, the water line to the work shed can be shut off and the pipes drained on those particularly cold nights.

3. Digging

One unavoidable fact about running a plumbing line to a work shed is the inevitability of having to dig. And, depending on whether it’s just a water line, or a water and sewage line for a toilet, there could be a little digging involved . . . or a lot. A great option that can make the entire plumbing process a lot easier is to rent a ditch digger or trencher. Ditch diggers are fairly cheap to rent and user-friendly, and they’ll easily cut the job time in half.

An important thing to remember when using a trencher or ditch digger, or when doing any kind of digging, is to have a city inspector come out and check for other buried pipe and electrical conduit. Dig tests are usually provided free of charge by the city and are performed fairly quickly. Plus, peace of mind is always a great goal with any project.

So when it comes to plumbing that shed or workspace, use the tips above to avoid unnecessary delays or mistakes. Always keep in mind such things as zoning laws, insulation requirements, and digging factors when it comes to running a pipeline from point A to point B.

And if anything ever comes into question, you can always call a plumbing professional or qualified contractor.

When choosing the best material for building an outdoor shed or other structure, you need to consider many things. Weather conditions, general use, and durability all play major roles in your choice of building material. After considering all factors, you may find that galvanized steel is your best bet.

The following list discusses just a handful of the benefits of building with galvanized steel. In terms of outdoor shed construction, galvanized steel siding will have long-lasting benefits that far surpass many other types of shed siding.

1. Weather-resistant

When it comes to the ultimate in weather protection, galvanized steel can’t be beat. Whether it’s rain, sleet, snow, or the blazing hot sun, an outdoor shed made of galvanized steel can stand up to it all. And because galvanized steel has been dipped in the galvanizing solution (molten zinc), its edges and corners are impervious to the elements as well. You could say that galvanized steel has its own force field.

2. Chemical- and rust-resistant

Even the toughest chemicals can’t penetrate steel that’s galvanized. And when it comes to the uses for an outdoor shed, resistance to different chemicals can definitely be a factor. The number-one cause of steel corrosion is the formation of rust, and that can occur for any number of reasons. But because galvanized steel siding is extremely corrosion-resistant, it’s less likely to break down and rust through. In fact, most galvanized materials have a lifespan of thirty to fifty years, depending on climate and location. That’s usually long enough for almost anyone’s business purposes.

3. Durability

Because steel is one of the hardest metals available, building with galvanized steel materials and siding makes an outdoor shed extremely durable. When weighing the choice between galvanized steel and aluminum siding, for example, you should always take into consideration the fact that steel will stand up much better to the abuse an outdoor shed is likely to take. Although aluminum is virtually rust-proof, it’s also a comparatively soft metal when it comes in the form of siding; therefore, it’s much more likely to rip and puncture as time goes on.

4. Less maintenance

Due to the process that steel undergoes for galvanization, often referred to as hot-dip galvanization, galvanized steel is pretty low-maintenance over the lifespan of the product. This is because all the heavy maintenance is done upfront, during the galvanizing process, in order to make the end product virtually maintenance-free. There are no special chemicals needed to clean galvanized steel, and absolutely no coatings required to enhance its durability during its lifespan. And because galvanized steel is ready for installation upon delivery, there are no special requirements for preparation when it arrives at the job site.

5. Low cost

In terms of overall cost, galvanized steel, especially galvanized siding, is one of the most inexpensive options when it comes to outdoor shed construction. With other siding options, like wood and composite board in particular, long-term costs associated with painting and replacement can eventually double the initial cost of the material. With galvanized steel, replacement costs aren’t a factor and painting isn’t necessary. Not only that, but the word “termite” is conspicuous by its absence from the shed owner’s vocabulary.

Whether it’s the corrosion-resistant benefits or the fact that it’s one of the most tough and durable building materials available, galvanized steel is a great choice for any outdoor shed construction. Because of this, all Workman Sheds are made only with galvanized steel. Additionally, the cost benefits far exceed those of many of the other materials on the market.

So if you want a maintenance-free building material that’s weather-resistant and can also stand the test of time, go with galvanized steel siding.

When building a shed, you have a variety of materials to choose from. The benefits can vary in terms of durability and lifespan. Certain building materials such as galvanized steel are known to stand the test of time and hold up to intense weather conditions. On the other end of the spectrum are building materials that should be avoided.

The following is a list of building materials that can and will be damaged by harsh conditions. These conditions can range from typical weather to severe climates and heavy shed usage, but one thing is true: If these materials are used in shed construction, the its lifespan will certainly be shorter.

1. Wood

Lumber is the most common building material on the market, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable. Over time, anything from moisture to mildew problems, and pests such as termites, can destroy wood. Not only that, but wood structures may not be able to withstand the strong winds associated with inclement weather.

Depending on your region, many wood structures succumb to rot due to moist or wet climate. Most woods are extremely porous and absorb even the smallest amount of ambient moisture. If not properly and continuously protected, the lifespan of a shed constructed of wood is usually less than a decade. Pressure-treated woods and moisture-resistant woods such as cedar can survive longer, but are equally susceptible to outdoor conditions over time.

2. Vinyl

Although it’s an extremely cheap alternative for shed construction, vinyl used in siding, washers, and other hardware will weaken and become brittle over time. The reason has to do with UV (ultra-violet) rays emitted by the sun, and the effect those rays have on plastics such as vinyl.

Maintenance and discoloration aside, vinyl siding doesn’t stand a chance against ultra-violet degradation. The sun’s rays degrade the molecular bonds in plastics and cause them to crack and disintegrate over the course of prolonged or intermittent exposure. Since vinyl is mostly used for siding, this seemingly durable material takes the brunt of exposure.

Not only that, but vinyl siding can warp due to intense heat, which allows moisture to collect behind the siding and cause rot and mildew.

3. Fiberglass

UV sensitivity aside, fiberglass in shed construction drastically weakens the durability of the structure. Although it can be strong in small sections, such as when used in spans that are two feet or less, fiberglass loses its rigidity and can become very weak.

Such is the case with fiberglass siding that comes in long sections. Not only is it susceptible to puncture and cracking, but when these accidents happen, they are extremely difficult to repair successfully. And, as with any compound, the way fiberglass is made makes it vulnerable to deterioration when exposed to harsh conditions.

4. Aluminum

Aluminum is regarded as a highly durable material in terms of shed construction. In most instances, it is. But, in terms of surface strength, aluminum might not be the best choice for shed siding when it comes to stressful working conditions. It can bend easily, and once this happens it’s unlikely that it’ll ever regain its original form. And if aluminum siding tears, it’s virtually irreparable.

When it comes to shed construction, the materials you use can make the difference between a structure that lasts and one that doesn’t. So use this list as a reference and always make an informed decision when considering what types of building materials are likely to hold up in the harsh conditions that may arise in your region.

Image courtesy of Mining Weekly

When it comes to workplaces, a mining site can be one of the most dangerous. Not only do many outside factors come into play with regard to the miner’s well-being, but the tools are large and powerful, and pose unique risks as well.

With coal mining in particular, many different tools are used for underground and surface mining. Below are the most dangerous tools used in coal-mining workspaces. The list includes small, hand-held tools all the way up to huge, earth-moving machinery.

1. Hand-held coal drill

One of the most common tools in any coal-mining workspace is a hand-held coal drill. These drills are usually hydraulically powered and have so much torque that they require two or more miners to operate them safely. Coal drills are used to make pilot holes for coal blasting and can reach great depths in a short amount of time. Because of this, they are extremely powerful and especially dangerous to operate.

2. Longwall mining machine

A longwall mining machine is basically a massive mechanical shear that has the ability to cut through dense bedrock in a single pass. Mainly used underground, longwall machines pose a danger due to their inevitably close proximity to underground miners. Because longwall mining is fully mechanized, if it’s not properly monitored, the machine can become a danger to anyone in the area.

3. Continuous mining machine

With underground mining, one of the most powerful and dangerous tools on a coal-mining job is the continuous mining machine. Composed of a massive tungsten carbide-toothed steel drum, this machine covers an area of up to 30 feet in width and continuously rotates while removing an average of 5 tons of coal per minute. Because of its size and speed, it’s clearly one of the most dangerous coal mining tools in use today.

4. Loading poles

Although it’s seemingly one of the tamest tools in the coal-mining workplace, a blast hole-loading pole can be lethal. After a blast hole is drilled, an explosive charge is loaded deep within the hole with a loading pole. And though the explosive charges used in today’s mining operations are much more stable than in the past, if a blast occurs during the loading process, the hole can act as a gun barrel and fire the loading pole out in less than a second. Need we say anything more about how dangerous this tool can be?

5. Conveyor belts

Coal mining conveyor belts are one of the key ways in which coal is transported, both underground and aboveground. Because coal and loose rocks are placed on these belts by automatic feed machine, the materials can pose a falling hazard to miners in the vicinity. For that matter, anything on the site that has fast-moving parts can be hazardous to miners.

6. Highwall mining machines

In contrast with longwall mining machines, highwall mining machines shear coal away from aboveground surfaces like hillsides and quarry walls. Not only do these machines create falling rock and coal hazards, they climb a series of “benches” in order to reach the height of mining site walls. If the proper bench width isn’t achieved, the entire machine could break away, causing a potentially catastrophic worksite incident.

7. Draglines

Used for aboveground applications, mining draglines are basically oversized cranes used to move massive amounts of dirt across mining sites. Because the bucket on these enormous shovels can be the size of a house, the amount of rock and coal carried above the mining ground can offer an extreme hazard to miners if anything were to fall loose.

Mining remains one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet, and miners put their lives in danger every day. With coal mining in particular, the tools involved can cause sudden injury or death if used incorrectly. But with proper workspace safety precautions, the tools above can be used safely as well.