OSHA Defense
Three Ways to Reduce Injuries in the Workplace
Thousands of American workers are injured at the workplace annually. Although the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets strict safety guidelines to protect American workers, falls, hazard communication, and scaffolding are among the most common violations that occur resulting in preventable accidents. There is nothing more important than workplace safety. Our Alabama OSHA lawyers would like to share three areas that if improved would help to decrease the risk of injury for your employees.
Safety Training Practices
Safety training should be a high priority in every workplace. All too often, safety isn’t a primary concern in some workplaces, which encourages a poor safety culture. Warning signs of a poor safety culture include:
- A refusal to wear personal protective equipment
- Infrequent safety meetings/communication
- Irregular safety audits
- Fear of reporting safety issues
- Slowness in dealing with safety concerns/violations
Employers must provide comprehensive training and effective safety training to all employees as well as reinforcements to prevent injuries.
Regular Housekeeping
Cluttered working conditions are a recipe for illnesses and injuries. Good housekeeping promotes a healthier and safer work environment. Before beginning work and during work, take the time to assess all areas or potential hazards and eliminate them. Ensure that equipment, tools, supplies, and other materials are properly stored and arranged. Clear passageways, entries, and exits of all obstructions. Maintain clean floors, remove debris and waste, and provide adequate lighting. Effective housekeeping will reduce trips, falls, fires, allergic reactions, electrocutions, and other potential injuries.
Read our housekeeping tips article for ways to keep your workplace safe and OSHA compliant.
Post Signage or Labels
Employers are required by OSHA to identify and define potential hazards in the workplace. Safety signs and labels are necessary to effectively communicate warnings to employees. Even the most conscientious worker can forget certain things at times, so posting the proper caution signs, danger signs, and safety instruction signs will be a constant reminder of your safety standards.
If you would like to speak with an Alabama OSHA attorney, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.