OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) helps to ensure the health and safety of workers in the United States by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, education, and assistance. OSHA aids in reducing the number of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities, and helps to protect workers' rights to a safe and healthy work environment. Employers who fail to comply with OSHA standards can face penalties and fines.
In 2022 the most common OSHA violations were:
- Fall protection
- Hazard communication
- Scaffolding
- Respiratory protection
- Lockout/Tagout
- Ladders
- Powered industrial trucks
- Fall protection training requirements
- Machine guarding
- Eye and face protection
Implement ten best practices to avoid these common violations:
Fall protection
Ensure that employees working at elevated heights have proper fall protection systems in place, such as guardrails, safety harnesses, and personal fall arrest systems.
Hazard communication
Implement a written hazard communication program and provide training to employees on the dangers of hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
Scaffolding
Use properly constructed scaffolding, ensure that it is inspected before each use, and that employees are trained on how to safely use scaffolding.
Respiratory protection
Implement a written respiratory protection program and provide training to employees on the proper use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.
Lockout/Tagout
Develop and implement a written lockout/tagout program and provide training to employees on the proper procedures for controlling hazardous energy.
Ladders
Use proper ladder type for the job, inspect ladders before each use, and provide training to employees on the safe use of ladders.
Fall Protection Training Requirements
This training should cover topics such as fall hazard recognition, proper use of fall protection equipment, and emergency procedures. The employer must also ensure that the employees understand and are able to use the fall protection equipment properly.
Powered industrial trucks
Provide training to employees on the proper operation and maintenance of powered industrial trucks.
Machine Guarding
Ensure that hazardous parts of machinery are guarded to prevent employees from coming into contact with them.
Eye and Face Protection
Provide appropriate eye and face protection for employees who are exposed to flying objects, molten metal, harmful radiation, and other potential hazards.
Help prevent costly lawsuits and insurance claims due to accidents and injuries that occur on the job. A safe workplace helps to create a healthy and productive environment, which encourages employees to be more productive and engaged in their work.
It is always best to consult OSHA for updated standards and regulations to ensure compliance, as specific requirements may also vary based on industry and the type of hazards involved.
Contact OSHA.com for more guidance and best practices on how to avoid violations.