You might think that amputations in the workplace would be uncommon. However, there are risks associated with the manufacturing industry. In fact, 57 percent of the reported workplace amputations in 2015 occurred in this industry. In fact, OSHA received reports of more than 2,600 amputations nationwide in 2015. Now, we’re taking a closer look at how to avoid these sorts of risks in the workplace.

Safety in the Workplace

An important part of ensuring the safety of your workers is training. If they are not trained to safely operate dangerous machinery in the workplace, there’s a chance that accidents may occur during working hours. In addition, equipment should be guarded from those that do not know how to properly operate the machinery in order to prevent injuries.

In order to ensure the safety of your workers, first identify amputation hazards in the workplace. This can include mechanical power presses, food slicers, and other machinery. After identifying these risks, it’s important to create a set of safety procedures and practices. Investing in guards may be important to block off hazardous areas, or shut off machinery that pose a risk to workers. Employers may also want to familiarize themselves with proper lockout/tagout procedures.

Focus on Amputation Hazards

OSHA has recently announced a “heightened focus” on amputation hazards in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. The goal is to hold employers responsible for enforcing safety regulations.

“Our focus on amputation hazards reminds employers that safety and health should remain a top priority,” said Kelly C. Knighton, regional administrator for OSHA in a statement. “We can only hope that the focus on this issue will reduce the potential for continued worker exposure to unguarded machines and equipment.”

Safety Training

If you’re looking for a way to train your workers when it comes to operating machinery or working around safety hazards, then consider getting OSHA and workplace safety training videos and meeting supplies. This way, you’re fully prepared when it comes to making sure that your workers know how to properly work around safety hazards in their environment.