OSHA has quite a long list of standards that have to be enforced at the workplace. Regular reports from OSHA usually indicate some of the rules that are most commonly violated by employers. Some of the most common violations that appear in a majority of the reports from OSHA are highlighted below.
Fall Protection
The fall protection standard is meant to protect workers in construction sites from accidents related to falls. Falls are the most common cause of injuries and death in construction sites. The fall hazards in construction sites are usually many due to the nature of the work. Falling from high places such as ladders and roofs and falling over or into machinery or equipment at ground level are examples of the fall accidents in construction sites.
Employers are required to provide systems for fall protection to any employee working at an elevation of more than six feet. Safety harnesses, guard rails, toe-boards, hole covers, and safety nets are examples of what the employer should provide.
Hazard Communication
The hazard communication standard by OSHA is designed to prevent any injuries that may occur because of chemical exposure. OSHA practices require that all employees get relevant training and education with regards to chemical hazards.
Employers must give all employees a list of all substances in the workplace that may be hazardous. The training should include some guidelines on proper handling of dangerous substances, appropriate protective gear to wear, and how to use safety gear. The employer is responsible for providing protective equipment.
Scaffolding
A scaffold is usually used to help construction workers do their work off the ground. The construction of the scaffolds should always be done appropriately to ensure that it does not tip over or collapse, which can result in serious injuries. In addition to protecting scaffolds from collapsing, the scaffold standard is designed to protect the construction workers from being injured by falling objects, and electrocution as well. Particular requirements have to be met whenever a scaffold is being erected or used. The workers using scaffolds should also be trained accordingly.
Powered Industrial Trucks Standards
Lift trucks, forklifts, and such types of mobile equipment, usually used to move heavy loads, are what OSHA refers to as powered industrial vehicles. Operating them can result in injuries to workers as they maneuver or handle a load. The Industrial trucks standards do not allow the use of various powered industrial vehicles if there are any hazardous materials in the atmosphere. The drivers must also have proper training.
