The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) creates guidelines and regulations to prevent accidents in the workplace. These rules are intended to protect employees from serious injuries or death.
Accidents on the job can lead to medical bills, worker’s compensation claims, and lawsuits. In addition, companies can be fined thousands of dollars for each OSHA violation found during an inspection and may be forced to suspend or halt their operations until problems have been corrected.
Given the many risks involved, it is in an employer’s best interest to comply with OSHA’s mandates, yet every year businesses across the country are cited for violations. These are some of the most common issues.
Fall Risks
Falls are responsible for many serious injuries and deaths. Employees who work on construction sites or in mines, or who perform maintenance or cleaning duties in high places, are at the greatest risk. Many accidents can be prevented by using protective equipment, such as harnesses and hard hats, and by thoroughly training employees.
Breathing Issues
Respiratory hazards are common in some industries, such as manufacturing, mining, and building remodeling and demolition. Workers can breathe in dust, fumes, and contaminants such as asbestos that could cause permanent respiratory illness and even death. If workers might be exposed to these types of hazards, they should be warned of those risks, provided with masks or respirators, and trained in how to use them.
Faulty Equipment
Employees who work with machinery of any kind on the job could be injured by malfunctioning parts. Machines that are out of order should be clearly marked and should be disconnected from sources of electricity to avoid injuries. Lockout/Tagout procedures should be followed consistently.
Failure to Warn of Dangers
Some accidents occur simply because workers are not made aware of dangers around them as OSHA requires. If employees work in areas where they could be exposed to hazardous chemicals, toxic fumes, falling objects, or other conditions, simply posting warning signs can prompt workers to be vigilant and take precautions to protect themselves.
Safeguard Your Employees and Your Business
These are some of the most common violations that OSHA inspectors discover when they visit businesses. When violations are identified, companies are penalized financially and may be unable to continue normal operations for days, weeks, or even months, until problems have been addressed. If a worker is injured or killed on the job because a company failed to comply with OSHA regulations, a lawsuit could financially cripple the business and tarnish its public image. The company might never recover.
Given all of these risks, it makes sense for owners and managers to comply with OSHA’s rules. If your business needs protective equipment, warning signs, or anything else to keep your employees safe, 1st Aid Supplies has what you need. Place your order today!
