What does OSHA
constitute as a workplace safety violation? Any identifiable hazard that
prohibits a safe work environment for an employee. Let’s look at a few
violations that should be obvious, but are routinely missed.
Top Violations
- New employees are not properly trained on equipment and/or safety procedures.
- Barricades are not used to warn people of slippery surfaces.
- Guard rails are not used around elevated platforms or floor holes.
- Protective equipment such as glasses and gloves are not used appropriately or at all.
- Fall protection/prevention is inadequate for the employee’s job and/or not used at all when operating equipment such as an aerial lift truck.
- Overhead lifting and rigging equipment is not inspected prior to using it each day/shift.
- Machinery is not adequately locked and tagged out when maintenance is required.
Were you able to check off any of these violations?
OSHA recommends that all companies have a health and safety program
to help eliminate accidents in the workplace. Accidents end up costing the
company loss of day’s work and possible OSHA fines if violations are not
resolved.
“Responsible employers
know that the main goal of a safety and health program is to prevent workplace
injuries, illnesses and deaths, as well as the suffering and financial hardship
these events can cause for workers, their families, and their employers.” OSHA.gov
Make Safety a High
Priority
Developing a new program may seem like an overwhelming task,
however, OSHA provides an informative document called Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs. Once
downloaded, it will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on the key
elements and steps in having an in-house safety program.
Remember, the first and most important step in developing a
safety and health program is making sure that management will commit to it and
set it as a high priority within the company.
