Safety Spotlight: Employers' Most-cited OSHA Violations Of 2018

Introduction

Welcome to Landed, your one-stop destination for expert insights and information in the Business and Consumer Services - Real Estate industry. In this safety spotlight article, we will explore the most-cited Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) violations reported by employers in 2018. By understanding these common violations, employers can take proactive steps to prioritize workplace safety and compliance.

1. Fall Protection

Fall protection violations consistently rank among the top OSHA citations for employers across various industries. Falls from elevated work areas can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. As an employer, it is crucial to implement fall protection measures such as guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems to safeguard your employees.

2. Hazard Communication

Hazard communication violations encompass inadequate labeling, lack of safety data sheets, and failure to train employees on the handling of hazardous chemicals. Employers must develop comprehensive hazard communication programs, provide proper training, and ensure clear communication of chemical hazards to keep their workers informed and protected.

3. Scaffolding

Scaffolding violations often arise due to insufficient construction, improper assembly, lack of proper platforms, or unsecured scaffolding structures. These violations pose significant risks to workers involved in construction or renovation projects. It is essential for employers to prioritize proper scaffolding inspections, training, and maintenance to prevent accidents and injuries.

4. Respiratory Protection

Respiratory protection violations occur when employers fail to provide adequate protection against harmful airborne substances. Employees working in environments with dust, fumes, or chemicals must have access to appropriate respiratory protective equipment, including respirators, fit testing, and training on their proper usage.

5. Lockout/Tagout

Lockout/tagout violations relate to the inadequate control of hazardous energy during servicing or maintenance of machinery. Employers must implement proper lockout/tagout procedures to prevent unexpected equipment startup, minimizing the risk of employee exposure to hazardous energy sources.

6. Ladders

Ladder violations usually involve using damaged or inadequate ladders, improper ladder positioning, or lack of employee training on ladder safety. Employers should prioritize ladder inspection, maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols, including proper positioning and securing, to mitigate ladder-related accidents and injuries.

7. Powered Industrial Trucks

Powered industrial truck violations occur when employers fail to ensure the safe operation of forklifts, pallet jacks, or other powered industrial vehicles. Employers must provide adequate training for operators, regular equipment maintenance, and enforce safe handling practices to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.

8. Machine Guarding

Machine guarding violations involve the absence or inadequate protection of moving parts, nip points, or other potential hazards present in machinery. Employers must prioritize proper machine guarding to prevent accidental contact with dangerous machine components.

9. Fall Protection - Training Requirements

Another aspect of fall protection violations is related to employers' failure to provide adequate training to employees working in elevated areas. Employers should ensure that workers receive comprehensive training on fall hazards, proper use of fall protection equipment, and the importance of following safety procedures to minimize the risk of falls.

10. Electrical - Wiring Methods

Electrical violations often involve improper wiring methods, including exposed or damaged wiring, insufficient grounding, or inadequate electrical panels. Employers must prioritize electrical safety measures, including utilizing qualified electricians, regular inspections, and compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.

Conclusion

As an employer in the Business and Consumer Services - Real Estate industry, prioritizing workplace safety is essential to protect your employees, avoid penalties, and maintain a positive reputation. By exploring the most common OSHA violations reported among employers in 2018, you have gained valuable insights into potential areas of improvement. It is crucial to implement proactive measures, provide comprehensive training, and ensure compliance with OSHA standards to create a safe and secure working environment.