TOP 10 OSHA VIOLATIONS TO AVOID IN 2021

02/24/2021

A critical part of running a company is keeping your employees safe. One misstep in this area can cost you big time. In fact, it can increase your overall operating expenses dramatically, not to mention impact morale and retention.

As a result, it makes financial sense to invest time and effort into maintaining the safest work environment possible. To ensure you’re doing that, here’s a look at the top 10 OSHA violations employers make and how to avoid them:

#1: FALLS.

Falls are likely the most common accident on the job, leading to a host of injuries and even deaths. They can happen due to anything from unsafe overhead platforms to holes in the floor. To avoid them, make sure you keep floors clean and clear and also provide employees who are working at a height with proper protective gear.

#2: CHEMICAL HAZARDS.

Chemical hazards and toxic substances can pose a wide range of physical and health hazards. It’s why OSHA requires labels and safety data sheets for exposed workers, as well as training on how to handle them properly.

#3: SCAFFOLDING ISSUES.

Workers can get injured on or from scaffolding as a result of falls and lack of protection, instability or overloading on the scaffold, being struck by debris or falling tools, or electrocution from the proximity of the scaffolding to power lines. To avoid these dangerous situations, follow all OSHA guidelines surrounding scaffolding as it relates to your particular industry.

#4: HAZARDOUS ENERGY.

Injuries or even deaths can occur when there is an unexpected startup or release of stored energy while servicing a machine or piece of equipment. It can cause electrocution, burns, crushing, cutting, lacerating, and other injuries. To safeguard your workers, strictly adhere to proper lockout/tag-out (LOTO) practices and procedures.

#5: RESPIRATORY HAZARDS.

There are many respiratory-related hazards in the workplace that can cause cancer, lung impairment, diseases, or death. In these instances, respirators are a must to protect your workers against environments with insufficient oxygen, fog, smoke, mist, gases, and vapors, or any kind of harmful dust or spray.

#6: LADDER HAZARDS.

Falls from ladders often happen yet can be prevented by following safe work practices. This includes using the right ladder for the job, proper footwear, and placing the ladder on stable, even ground. Also, make sure employees who use ladders are thoroughly trained on these and other safety practices.

#7: HAZARDS FROM POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCKS.

Forklifts or lift trucks are used in many industries, primarily to move materials. In the process, they can cause accidents or be prone to workplace hazards. It’s why you must ensure each truck operator is competent, trained, and demonstrates knowledge of safe operations before they’re cleared to drive these vehicles.

#8: MACHINERY MISHAPS.

Machines have moving parts that have the potential to cause severe injuries, from crushed fingers to burns, amputations, and more. It’s essential to safeguard your workers by servicing machines regularly to make sure they are functioning properly, as well as through safety training.

#9: LACK OF EYE OR FACE PROTECTION.

Every year, thousands of workers are injured on their faces or even blinded in the workplace. These situations can be prevented by requiring your employees to wear proper eye and face protection, whether it’s to guard against chemicals, the environment, or another irritant or hazard.

#10: ELECTRICAL HAZARDS.

A mishap with electricity can cause electric shock, electrocution, burns, or even explosions. They can occur when equipment is unsafe or installed improperly, when workplace conditions are unsafe, or when workers don’t follow proper practices. However, by simply adhering to OSHA’s electrical standards, you can greatly reduce the chance of these kinds of issues happening.

Do you need help hiring safety-conscious people for your team?

There’s a lot to know when it comes to keeping your staff safe. One key is to hire safety-conscious people and also train them thoroughly. If you’d like help with the job, turn to A2Z Staffing Solutions. We will work with you to learn about your staffing needs, then source and screen skilled workers who are a fit for you. In the process, you can focus on other priorities, saving time and money while accessing the safety-minded workers you need. Simply contact us today to learn more.